A three‐year general physics major has been in operation for five years. It uses a single text from which a sequence of three one‐year courses has been constructed by using a modified spiral approach. Laboratory work is required in each course, culminating in an experimental project during the sixth semester. The advantages gained are unity of presentation and economy of time. This economy benefits the physics staff; it also benefits the students by permitting a wider election of courses. The three‐year sequence can be entered directly by well‐prepared freshmen or preceded by a college‐level introductory course. A special program during the opening of the fall semester helps freshmen to choose between the two options.