Photonics Engineering

Photonics Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark is a comprehensive and innovative program designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the field of photonics, which encompasses the generation, manipulation, and application of light. This multidisciplinary program integrates principles from physics, engineering, and materials science to prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving industry driven by advancements in lasers, optical fibers, sensors, and imaging technologies. Throughout the program, students engage in a rigorous curriculum that covers fundamental topics such as optics, laser technology, optical communications, nanophotonics, and photonic devices, alongside specialized courses in photonic system design, signal processing, and manufacturing techniques. Emphasis is placed on the development of hands-on experience through laboratory work, projects, and collaboration with industry partners, enabling students to translate theoretical knowledge into practical solutions for real-world challenges. Students also gain insights into the latest innovations in photonics, including applications in telecommunications, medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and defense. The program fosters a strong foundation in research methodologies and encourages innovative thinking, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, and leading technology companies. Opportunities for internships, study abroad, and participation in cutting-edge research projects are integral components of the educational experience. Graduates of the Photonics Engineering program at DTU are highly sought after in the global job market, equipped to contribute to the development of photonic technologies that are shaping the future of communication, healthcare, and sustainable energy solutions.

To obtain the degree MSc in Photonics Engineering the student must obtain

• at least 30 ECTS credits within general competence courses
• at least 30 ECTS credits within tecnological specialization courses
• 30 ECTS credits from master thesis work within a technical topic relevant to Photonics Engineering
• The number of ECTS credits neede so that the chosen MSc programme together with elective courses adds up to 60 ECTS credits.

Only applicants holding either a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, a Bachelor in Engineering or a Bachelor of Natural Science degree can be admitted to a Master of Science in Engineering programme. From September 2017 the bachelor degree must be less than 10 years old.

The individual MSc Eng programme states in detail which bachelor programmes qualify and whether applicants have to complete supplementary educational activities.

Requirements for supplementary educational activities can equate to up to 30 ECTS credits and are specified in the form of a list of courses under the individual MSc Eng programmes.

The specific requirements must be met before graduating from the bachelor programme or in connection with conditional admission to a particular MSc Eng programme. The courses must be passed prior to the commencement of studies within one year from the conditional admission.

Supplementary educational activities in connection with conditional admission to an MSc Eng programme do not form part of the MSc Eng programme, and partial tuition fees are charged. If the supplementary courses have not been passed within the deadlines specified, the conditional admission to the programme is withdrawn.

The Master of Science in Engineering programmes are offered in English. Therefore applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English (B-level, IELTS, TOEFL- or Pearson test).

Academic requirements for this programme

Students from DTU

The following bachelor programme at DTU entitles students to admission to the MSc Eng programme in Photonics Engineering:.

• Physics and Nanotechnology

Students from other bachelor programmes at DTU for example

• Mathematics and Technology
• Electrical Engineering
• Medicine and Technology
• Earth and Space Physics and Engineering
• Network Technology and IT

have access to be admitted to the programme subject to having completed one of the following courses:

Bachelors students from other universities

Bachelor students from other universities in Denmark or abroad with a relevant background for example within

• Physics
• Physics and Nanotechnology
• Applied mathematics
• Electromagnetism

may have access to the MSc Eng programme in Photonics Engineering. However, the student must be able to document basic knowledge within optics and photonics corresponding to having completed the curriculum within one of the following DTU courses:

The Photonics Engineering Master's programme at the Technical University of Denmark is primarily financed through a combination of tuition fees paid by international students and funding provided by the Danish government for students from within the European Union/EEA. For non-EU/EEA students, tuition fees are applicable; these fees help support the university's educational infrastructure, research initiatives, and student services. Funding opportunities for students may also include scholarships offered directly by the university based on academic excellence or demographic criteria, as well as external scholarships and grants from Danish government programs, European Union funds, and private foundations.

Danish residents and students from the EU/EEA benefit from the Danish study grant system (SU), which provides financial support to enrolled students who meet specific eligibility criteria. This support aims to ensure equal access to higher education across the country and to promote research and innovation in cutting-edge fields like photonics. Furthermore, the university actively encourages students to seek industry sponsorships and participate in research projects that may include stipends for research assistants or internships with partnering companies.

The programme also offers potential funding through European Union initiatives such as Erasmus+ exchanges, which can cover travel costs and living expenses during mobility periods. Students are advised to explore various external funding sources, including national and international research grants, to support their academic and research activities during their studies. Overall, the financing of the Photonics Engineering Master's programme relies on a blend of tuition fees, government grants, university scholarships, industry partnerships, and international funding opportunities, making it a financially viable option for talented students worldwide committed to advancing their careers in photonics technology.

Photonics Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark is an innovative and highly specialized program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of photonics, which encompasses the generation, manipulation, and application of light. This program emphasizes a combination of theoretical fundamentals and practical laboratory skills, preparing graduates for careers in industries related to telecommunications, medical devices, manufacturing, and research institutions.

The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including optical components and systems, laser technology, optical communication, fiber optics, and integrated photonics. Students engage in coursework that explores the physics of light-matter interactions, optoelectronic devices, signal processing, and digital communication systems. Alongside these core subjects, the program often includes modules on manufacturing techniques, nanophotonics, and the design of photonic integrated circuits, enabling students to work at the forefront of technological innovation.

The program typically involves project work and collaborations with industry partners, providing real-world experience and fostering innovation. Laboratory sessions are integral to the learning process, giving students hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment such as wafer fabs, laser systems, and optical measurement devices. Students are encouraged to develop their problem-solving skills and to undertake experimental investigations that complement their theoretical studies.

Throughout the program, there is an emphasis on research and development, preparing students for careers in academia or industry R&D departments. The program is often delivered by distinguished faculty members with expertise in optics, photonics, and laser technology, ensuring a high-quality educational experience. Students may also have opportunities to participate in international projects and exchange programs, broadening their perspectives and professional network.

Graduates of the Photonics Engineering program at DTU are well-positioned to find employment in a rapidly growing field, working on cutting-edge technologies such as high-speed fiber-optic communication networks, quantum photonics, biomedical imaging, and laser-based manufacturing processes. The combination of technical skills, research experience, and industry connections ensures that students are prepared to contribute to technological advancement and innovation across various sectors.

In summary, the Photonics Engineering program at DTU is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, combining physics, engineering, and applied research. The program nurtures a thorough understanding of light-based technologies and prepares students for dynamic careers in industry, research, and innovation, making it a highly relevant and forward-looking educational choice for aspiring engineers and scientists in the field of photonics.