MSc Optics and Photonics

Optics is of key importance to many industrial sectors including medicine, ICT and high-tech manufacturing, and Imperial is one of the largest centres for optics-based research and application in the UK. Imperial has offered an advanced course in optics for over 80 years and the current MSc in Optics and Photonics draws on our experience as one of the largest centres for optics-based research and application in the UK. The programme includes substantial laboratory and project work, often based within industry. There is also a chance to undertake a self-study project in an area of your choice. You finish with a four-month, full-time project, which may be in industry, an academic research group, or abroad.

Graduates of this course are well qualified to apply their knowledge in a wide range of industrial contexts, as well as in a research environment. They find employment with a variety of careers in industry and many move on to doctoral studies at leading universities in the UK and abroad. The course lasts one year full-time and begins in October. A part-time course lasting two years is also available for students working for an appropriate organisation in the optics field. We offer a wide range of core and optional modules, taught by experts in the field, allowing you to develop specialist knowledge across a wide range of optics.

The main coursework (i.e. lectures and laboratory work) takes place in the first two terms. The first term consists of foundation modules and laboratory work. In the second term, you choose further lectures from the optional modules available, and there is a laboratory project to design and build a working optical system. Laboratory skills are recognised as an important element of the course and you will be required to undertake a total of approximately 160 hours of labwork. Throughout the course, seminars will provide examples of both technical/scientific innovation and of entrepreneurship in research and industry.

A self-study activity in the second term is an introduction to project work (over approximately 50 hours) and is designed to encourage initiative and self-sufficiency in the learning process. It is assessed by a written report and oral presentation. This is one of several activities focused on developing your transferable skills. You will spend the months of May to September on a major project, which is often carried out in industry.