Braving the Challenges of Being Small--The Unique Physics Program at Manhattanville College

Abstract

We present the formulation and development of the unique physics program at Manhattanville College. By addressing challenges faced by small physics departments in liberal arts colleges, such as the lack of critical mass, lack of significant funding, and under-staffing, we share our efforts and experiences in revitalization of the program into one that is small but of rigor and vitality, with unique features that take advantage of the resources available, including adoption of computer technology in instructional laboratory, collaborations with nearby institutions, and joint efforts with colleagues of other departments/schools. Also included are some discussions on the balance between service and the major, on the relationship with K-12 physics education, and on the rigor of the curriculum, particularly in view of the opposite but converging trends in US and in China.