Undergrad Degree in Optics: B.S. in Physics or Optical Engineering?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Galgenstrick
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the educational pathways for pursuing a career in optics, specifically comparing a B.S. in Physics followed by an M.S. in Optics versus a B.S. in Optical Engineering followed by the same master's degree. The consensus is that both routes are viable, but a B.S. in Physics offers broader foundational knowledge, which may be beneficial for those uncertain about their specialization. The University of Central Florida is highlighted as an excellent institution for graduate studies in optics, particularly through its College of Optics and Photonics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of optics principles and applications
  • Familiarity with laser technology and thin-film optics
  • Knowledge of optical engineering concepts
  • Basic physics coursework, particularly in optics and photonics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the curriculum for the B.S. in Physics with a specialization in Optics and Photonics
  • Explore graduate programs in Optics at the University of Central Florida
  • Investigate career opportunities in laser engineering and spectroscopy
  • Learn about advanced topics in geometrical optics and imaging systems
USEFUL FOR

Students considering a career in optics, current technicians in optical fields, and professionals seeking to enhance their qualifications in optical engineering and related disciplines.

Galgenstrick
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Would it be better to get a B.S. in physics then a M.S. in Optics? or would it be better to get a B.S. in Optical Engineering and then a M.S. in Optics?

Either way I want to get a Masters in Optics, I just want to know if it would be a disadvantage to have a B.S. and M.S. both in optics.
 
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What do you want to do with your degrees?
 
Right now I am a technician working with thin-film optics. I plan on doing something along these lines, other options would be laser engineering or spectroscopy or imaging technology. I love working on optical tables, I have experience with laser cooling, interferometry etc.
 
I also plan to specialize in optics (for the PhD at least), but I opted to do a physics undergrad just in case I changed my mind. The more I learn about physics and such, the more I become interested in different things.
 
QuarkCharmer said:
I also plan to specialize in optics (for the PhD at least), but I opted to do a physics undergrad just in case I changed my mind. The more I learn about physics and such, the more I become interested in different things.

This is definitely true. There are so many cool things with physics. I am going to ask a couple of the optics PhDs at my work, and see what they think, they all did physics as undergraduate, however, 20 years ago there weren't as many specialization degrees available.
 
My university has a physics degree with a specialization in Optics and Photonics. Perhaps you have something similar.

It's basically this:
4.3. Optics and Lasers Specialization 18 hrs
PHY 4424 Optics 3 hrs
Select 2: 6 hrs
EEL 4440 Optical Engineering or 3 hrs
OSE 5203 Geometrical Optics and Imaging Systems or 3 hrs
OSE 5312 Light Matter Interaction or 3 hrs
OSE 5414 Fundamentals of Optoelectronic Devices or 3 hrs
PHY 4445 Lasers 3 hrs
 
Last edited:
QuarkCharmer said:
My university has a physics degree with a specialization in Optics and Photonics. Perhaps you have something similar.

It's basically this:
4.3. Optics and Lasers Specialization 18 hrs
PHY 4424 Optics 3 hrs
Select 2: 6 hrs
EEL 4440 Optical Engineering or 3 hrs
OSE 5203 Geometrical Optics and Imaging Systems or 3 hrs
OSE 5312 Light Matter Interaction or 3 hrs
OSE 5414 Fundamentals of Optoelectronic Devices or 3 hrs
PHY 4445 Lasers 3 hrs

Which university is this? I am willing to transfer out of state / country
 
The University of Central Florida. They have a mediocre "big state school" undergrad program, but their (grad) College of Optics and Photonics (which this specialization is catered to) is one of the best.

http://www.creol.ucf.edu/

The listing of optics based grad courses (you can take as an undergrad) is astounding.
 

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