It provides a basis for graduate education in physics, engineering, astronomy, and related fields; for careers in which analytical and problem-solving skills are important; and for immediate employment in physics and related fields of science, engineering, and technology. For all students, the Physics Department seeks to provide a foundation that can sustain a lifelong interest in science and allow them to make informed, responsible choices as citizens of an increasingly science- and technology-driven society. The college also offers dual degree programs in engineering with Dartmouth College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Clarkson College.

Sigma Pi Sigma is a national honor society founded in 1921 to honor outstanding achievement in physics and to encourage interest in physics among students at all levels.? For nomination to the Skidmore chapter, students must, at a minimum, be in the upper one-third of their class in general scholarship and have completed at least three semester courses in physics that can be credited toward a physics major.