Optics Innovation Starts Here
Research and learn with world-renowned faculty.
Degree Programs
The institute prides itself on providing a personalized program, with thoughtful attention to the success of individual students.
MS Programs
The MS program in optics can be completed between two or four semesters of full-time study, or over a longer period of part-time study. Students can also complete their MS coursework virtually through the HOME program.
PhD Program
The PhD program in optics prepares students for high-level research in academia, industry, or national laboratories. Students are exposed to a broad range of areas within this field through class work, seminars, and one-on-one meetings with faculty.
Optics Faculty
Whether it’s through academic research, visits during office hours, or interacting at various social activities, the Institute of Optics professors are highly approachable and accessible, providing leadership and personal guidance to help shape your graduate school experience.
Our smaller size means you will often work one-on-one with some of the world’s most recognized thought leaders in optical sciences and engineering. Our faculty members are independent thinkers who each bring unmatched knowledge, experience, and passion to approaching and solving real-world problems.
Further Quantum Technologies
Professor Pablo Postigo developed a method using regenerative coupling in phononic crystals to create stable quantum states closer to room temperate than previously viable, allowing for more applications of quantum technologies.
More About Postigo’s Research on Room Temperature Quantum Optomechanics
Creating the Next Generation of Image Processing
Professor Michele Cotrufo invented a reconfigurable image processing metasurfaces with phase-change materials, which will pave the way to a new generation of ultra-compact, tunable and passive devices for all-optical computation, with potential applications in augmented reality, remote sensing and bio-medical imaging.
More About Cotrufo’s Reconfigurable Image Processing
Funding New Technologies by Pairing Light and Sound Waves
Professor William Renninger worked with an interdisciplinary team to develop surface acoustic waves technology, which not only has applications in sensing, material science, and hybrid quantum systems, but could eventually lead to the creation of a quantum internet.
More About Surface Acoustic Wave Techniques
Connecting to Your Career
What are Industrial Associates?
The Industrial Associates (IA) program is a professional association for optics professionals run by the Institute of Optics. In addition to supporting continuing education for optics professionals, it also connects optics students with industry professionals, very often leading to job opportunities. Our students are welcome to attend IA presentations, and participate in student poster sessions and networking events.
For years, graduate optics students have enjoyed virtually 100 percent job placement rate upon graduation with a starting average salary over 100K a year.
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