Optical Engineering

Optical Engineering at the University of Rochester offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the development, analysis, and application of optical systems. This program focuses on the fundamental principles of optics, photonics, and laser technology, preparing graduates for careers in industry, research, and academia. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory courses, research projects, and collaborations with leading experts in the field. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including geometric and physical optics, optical design, fiber optics, imaging systems, laser physics, and optoelectronic devices. Emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical application, the program also provides training in the use of modern simulation software and optical instrumentation. Interdisciplinary opportunities are available through collaborations with departments such as electrical engineering, physics, and computer science. The program aims to develop graduates who are capable of innovative problem-solving and who possess the technical expertise required to design advanced optical systems for telecommunications, medical devices, defense, and manufacturing. Students are encouraged to participate in research initiatives at the university’s renowned laboratories and research centers, often working alongside faculty members on cutting-edge projects. The degree prepares students for professional employment in industry, government, or further academic study. Graduates of the Optical Engineering program are well-positioned to contribute to the rapidly evolving fields of photonics and optical science, supporting technological advancements and societal progress worldwide.

Required Optics Classes

• OPT 201: Geometrical Optics Lab (2 cr.)
• OPT 202: Physical Optics Lab (2 cr.)
• OPT 203: Instrumentation Lab (2 cr.)
• OPT 204: Sources and Detectors Lab (2 cr.)
• OPT 211: MATLAB for Optics Majors I (2 cr.)
• OPT 212: MATLAB for Optics Majors II (2 cr.)
• OPT 223: Quantum Theory of Optics
• OPT 225: Optical Sources and Detectors
• OPT 241: Geometrical Optics
• OPT 242: Aberrations and Testing
• OPT 261: Interference & Diffraction
• OPT 262: Electromagnetic Theory
• OPT 287: Math Methods for Optics & Physics
• 3 technical electives - Consult optics advisor to choose courses

Required Classes for Optical Engineering Majors Only

• OPT 310 Senior Design I
• OPT 311 Senior Design II

Required Classes for Optical Majors Only

• OPT 320: Senior Thesis I
• OPT 321: Senior Thesis II

Required Foundational Courses for both Optical and Optical Engineering Majors

Computing course(s)
   Class of 2019 and beyond: Matlab for Optics Majors (OPT 211 and OPT XXX, 4 credits total)
   Class of 2016, 2017, 2018: One HSEAS common computing course - CSC 160
Chemistry course
   Class of 2019 and beyond: CHM 137 Chemical Principles for Engineers
   Class of 2016, 2017, 2018: CHM 131 Concepts, Systems, Practice I (AP score of 4 or 5 also satisfies)

• MTH 161: Calculus IA and MTH 162: Calculus IIA (AP scores may give credit &/or placement)
• MTH 164: Multidimensional Calculus
• MTH 165: Linear Algebra with Differential Equations
• PHY 121 – 123, or Honors Physics PHY 141– 143*
• ECE 210: Circuits & Microcontrollers for Engineers or equivalent (Consult optics advisor to choose method for meeting this requirement)

Three technical electives required

• WRT 105 or WRT 105E

One cluster in humanities or social sciences plus one course in the remaining academic division

*Honors physics does not follow the same semester sequencing plan as PHY 12X series. Consult with faculty advisor if you’re planning to take honors physics.

Note: This sheet is intended to serve as a suggested road map to an optics degree. Consult with your faculty advisor for guidance if your intended individual academic path differs from the suggested model.

Requirements

You must submit the following materials. You will either submit through MyROC or your respective application portal (or mail when applicable). Rochester accepts the Common Application (CA), the Universal College Application (UCA), and the Coalition Application (CoA). The materials listed under Official Documents must be submitted to us directly by your school, testing site, or family member, depending on the document.

MyROC

• Part I Application
• International Financial Support Form (IFSF)
• Interview sign-up (highly recommended)
• Links to electronic media (music, websites, photos, videos, etc.) (optional)
• Writing sample (optional)

Official Documents

• High school transcript
• Financial documentation
• Official test scores
• Teacher recommendation
• School report
• Mid-year report
• College transcript
• English language exam results
• Family/Community Recommendation Form (optional)

Application Portal

• Application (CA, UCA, or CoA)
• Application fee
• Freshman Supplement (UCA)
• Writing Supplement (CA)
• Early Decision Agreement (optional)
• Professional Degree Programs essay (optional)
• Arts Supplement (UCA) (optional)
• Athletic Supplement (UCA) (optional)

If your native language is not English and you completed your secondary or higher education in a non-native English speaking country, you must take a test of English language proficiency. In some instances, admission to the University will be contingent upon participation in the University’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Program.

• IELTS 7.0
• TOEFL (paper-based) 600
• TOEFL (internet-based) 100 
• PTE Academic 66

Scholarships

Need-based financial aid

If you are unable to meet the full cost of attendance for Rochester without need-based aid or sponsorship from the University, you must submit the CSS PROFILE. The CSS PROFILE is used to determine your potential eligibility for need-based University of Rochester grant funding and must be completed each year of attendance. Due to limited resources, only a small number of international applicants will qualify for need-based financial aid from the University. Applicants unable to secure the needed funding to cover the cost of attendance either through private funds or sponsorship cannot be admitted to the University.

Merit Scholarships

All applicants, regardless of citizenship, are considered for merit scholarships. No additional documentation is required to compete for a merit scholarship. Since merit scholarships are awarded independent of a student’s need, you must still submit the appropriate documents with your application as described above to complete your application for admission.

Optical Engineering at the University of Rochester offers students a comprehensive education in the design, analysis, and application of optical systems and devices. The program combines fundamentals in physics, electrical engineering, and materials science to equip graduates with the skills needed to innovate in fields such as telecommunications, laser technology, imaging, and biomedical instrumentation. Students engage in rigorous coursework covering optics, photonics, optical design, and systems integration. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on laboratory experiences and project-based learning, enabling students to develop practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

The program is often designed to cater to both undergraduate and graduate students, with opportunities for research and collaboration with leading faculty in the field. The university’s facilities include state-of-the-art laboratories equipped for advanced optical experimentation, laser development, and photonic device fabrication. Students may participate in research projects that contribute to cutting-edge developments in areas such as quantum optics, optical sensors, and fiber-optic communications.

Graduates of the Optical Engineering program are prepared to pursue careers in industries including defense, telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing. They may also continue their education through doctoral studies or engage in innovative startups and technological entrepreneurship. The university’s location in Rochester, New York, provides proximity to a vibrant tech industry and numerous research institutions, fostering strong industry-academic partnerships.

The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, often partnering with departments such as Electrical and Computer Engineering, Physics, and Mechanical Engineering to solve complex engineering challenges. Faculty members are recognized experts in their fields, actively contributing to research and development efforts that influence current and future optical technologies. Overall, the Optical Engineering program at the University of Rochester aims to develop highly skilled professionals capable of advancing optical science and engineering in a variety of impactful ways.