Why Study at the Institute of Optics?

Optics is Interdisciplinary

Optics is an interdisciplinary program that allows students with a variety of backgrounds to explore optics through a variety of lenses.

Optics and Physics

There are a wide range of courses in optical physics in subjects like statistical mechanics, relativistic quantum theory, and condensed matter physics.

Optics and Electrical Engineering

Many exciting topics involve an interaction between electrical engineering and optics: subpicosecond electro-optic sampling, image recognition and processing, remote sensing, hybrid electrical-optical computing, and optical communication.

Optics and Engineering

Optical system design and instrumental optics overlaps with many engineering and scientific disciplines. This area of engineering is now rapidly expanding into virtually all segments of industrial research and product development. It includes the development of new optical materials such as gradient index glasses, and the development of methods for using these new materials in optical system design. Also being studied are new techniques for analyzing aberrations and optical system performance.

Ideal for Undecided Students

Because of its interdisciplinary nature, optics allows students to experience a wide range of disciplines through class work, special seminars presented by the faculty, and individual meetings in which students and faculty members can discuss their interests. Students can then specialize in one of several of these disciplines while still in the optics program.

Job Opportunities and Career Possibilities

Optics is playing an increasing role in industrial research and development, providing a wealth of opportunities for recent graduates and experienced professionals. As many academic physics and electrical engineering departments are placing more emphasis on research and teaching in optics, demand is growing for faculty who are well educated in this area as well.

Recent graduates have joined the faculties of major universities, taken research positions at industrial and governmental laboratories, or either started or joined innovative start-up companies.