<p>Be aware that physics is not that popular a major, so if you are looking at LACs, other small schools, or less selective larger schools (including research universities), check the departmental course offerings and the schedules to make sure that the usually expected junior/senior level physics courses are offered at reasonable frequency (preferably at least once per year – some physics departments offer courses only once every two years or even less frequently).</p>
<p>In addition to Harvey Mudd, Oberlin and Reed appear to have better physics offerings than most LACs.</p>
<p>Do not rely on “STEM” reputations, since “STEM” is a hodgepodge of majors that may vary significantly in a college’s departmental strength (note that the most popular “STEM” major by far is biology).</p>