Laser and Optical Technology
Overview
Laser and optical technology programs prepare people to help engineers who work with lasers and optical systems.Laser and optical technology programs teach people to apply engineering principles to help professionals and engineers who work with lasers. Students learn to design and operate laser systems. They also learn to make and test optical fibers.
Laser and optical technology programs include topics such as:
- Laser and optical principles
- Electric circuits
- Digital circuits
- Testing and maintenance procedures
- Safety precautions
- Report writing
Schools
Several community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in laser and optical technology. A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.
Very few colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees in laser and optical technology. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Applied Mathematics
- Computational Mathematics
- Computer Engineering Technology
- Drafting and Design Technology
- Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technology
- Engineering Technology, General
- Laser and Optical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Materials Science
- Mathematics
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
- Chemistry
- Computer Science and Programming
- English Composition
- Physics
- Trigonometry
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
An associate degree program in this field typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Digital Electronics
- Electric Circuits
- Electro-Optical Devices and Systems
- English Composition
- Geometric Optics
- Introduction to Fiber Optics
- Laser Safety
- Pre-Calculus
- Technical Physics
- Telecommunications
- Wave Optics
Things to Know
Many jobs in this field require a lot of writing and clear communication. Taking writing and speaking courses will develop your communication skills.
Certifications are available from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.
As a laser technician, you can play a part in the research and development that leads to new laser devices. You can work with engineers as they test new materials and processes.
Plan to continue taking classes throughout your career to keep your skills up to date.
Schools
King-Snohomish Area
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
- Electronics Technology--Photonics Technology