Laser and Optical Engineering
Overview
Laser and optical engineering programs prepare people to design and build laser and optical systems.Laser and optical engineering programs include topics such as:
- Wave theory and mechanics
- Electromagnetic applications
- Liner and non-linear optics
- Photon detecting
- Laser beam properties
Schools
Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in laser and optical engineering. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree, students can transfer to a college or university for further study.
A few colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in laser and optical engineering. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four or five years of full-time study.
A few universities offer graduate degrees in laser and optical engineering. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Chemistry
- Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering
- Engineering Physics
- Engineering Technology, General
- Engineering, General
- Laser and Optical Technology
- Materials Engineering
- Materials Science
- Physics
- Pre-Engineering
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Other Careers Related to this Program of Study
Program Admission
You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- Biology
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- Computer Science and Programming
- English Composition
- Physics
- Trigonometry
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- Dynamics
- Electronic circuits
- Engineering physics
- Linear Algebra
- Linear Differential Equations
- Applied Differential and Integral Calculus
Graduate Program Courses
Graduate study in this field typically includes:
- Required courses
- Master's thesis (which usually takes the form of a significant project)
- Preliminary exams (doctoral degree only)
- Dissertation and dissertation defense (doctoral degree)
Things to Know
Most engineering jobs require a lot of writing and clear communication. Taking writing and other humanities courses will develop your communication skills.
Some bachelor's programs combine work experience with classes and may take five or six years to complete. This work experience teaches skills, helps build job contacts, and you may be paid while you work.
To become licensed by your state to work as an engineer, you must have a degree from an accredited engineering program. You also need several years of work experience and must pass an exam. Many people take the exam at the same time they graduate or soon after.
Schools
No information available.