Photonics

Photonics at the University of Jena offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary study program dedicated to the science and technology of light. This advanced degree program combines principles from physics, engineering, and applied sciences to prepare students for a dynamic career in a rapidly evolving field that underpins technologies such as optical communications, laser systems, medical devices, sensor technology, and quantum information processing. Throughout the program, students gain a solid foundation in the fundamental physical concepts of light and optics, including wave and particle behaviors, as well as technical skills in the design, development, and application of photonic devices and systems.

The curriculum covers a wide array of topics, including laser physics, optical fibers, nanophotonics, optoelectronics, and photonic materials. Courses also emphasize experimental techniques, simulation methods, and system integration to ensure future graduates are well-equipped to address real-world challenges. Practical laboratory work, project-based learning, and internships are integral components of the program, fostering hands-on experience and industry readiness. The University of Jena leverages its strong research environment, providing students with access to state-of-the-art laboratories and close collaboration with leading researchers and industry partners.

Students will develop expertise in designing and optimizing photonic devices, understanding their applications in telecommunications, medical technology, environmental monitoring, and security. The program also promotes interdisciplinary thinking, encouraging students to explore areas such as quantum optics, nonlinear optics, and integrated photonics, which are at the forefront of scientific innovation. Graduates will be prepared for diverse career paths including research and development, quality assurance, technical consulting, and academia.

The University of Jena’s Photonics program emphasizes innovation, practical skills, and scientific knowledge, equipping students to contribute to technological advancements in the photonics industry. By fostering an environment of academic excellence and close industry engagement, the program ensures that graduates are versatile, highly skilled, and ready to meet the demands of the global photonics market. Whether your interest lies in developing cutting-edge optical technologies or exploring new scientific questions, the Photonics program at the University of Jena offers a rich educational experience designed to shape the pioneers of tomorrow’s light-based technologies.

Educational organisation

The curriculum includes a combination of lectures, seminars, labs, tutorials, internships, research projects, and summer workshops. The ECTS system allows students to make individual choices according to the programme guidelines. The programme combines in-class learning with practical learning elements.

• First semester: Fundamentals and Adjustment
• Second semester: Fundamentals and Specialisation, Internship
• Third semester: Specialisation and Research
• Fourth semester: Research (Master's Thesis)

Internships

Three internships at scientific partner institutes or at optical companies (Jenoptik, Osram, Philips, Schott, Trumpf, Zeiss, etc.) are a vital part of the curriculum.

Forms of assessment

• Written and oral exams
• Project reports
• Master's thesis

Course objectives

Students are trained for technical or scientific positions in an academic or industrial environment using optics or specialising in optics. PhD studies are a natural extension of the course.

Language requirements

We accept TOEFL, TOEIC, or IELTS as proof of language proficiency. A German "Abitur" in English is also accepted.
Native speakers and those who have completed their former academic degree in English are not required to provide additional proof of English language competency.

Academic requirements

Applicants should have a BSc or BEng comprising significant exposure to physics and optics fundamentals. Other criteria that are taken into account include awards, external references, details of earlier projects, and proof of English proficiency.

Enrolment fees

The semester fee covers the cost of student services and the student self-government in Jena. It amounts to approx. 200 EUR per semester.
The fee also includes a semester ticket for free public transportation.

Costs of living

We recommend that you budget at least 600 EUR per month for accommodation and food. For books, we recommend that you budget a further 50 EUR per semester.

Job opportunities

Job opportunities as student assistants are available.

Funding opportunities within the university

At the Abbe School of Photonics, about 10 Master's degree programme scholarships per year are available for highly qualified foreign applicants. Scholarships include a stipend of 800 EUR per month.
http://www.asp.uni-jena.de/Master_s+Degree+Program/M_Sc_+Photonics/Scholarships.html

Arrival support

The ASP Coordination Team offers personal support at any stage of the application, before and upon arrival as well as during the course of study.

• Student mentors assist incoming students
• Pre-session intensive German language course (four weeks)
• Orientation week and pre-session courses (Maths and Physics)

Services and support for international students

At the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, the International Office assists all international students and can direct them to the department responsible for answering any questions they may have. The University of Jena has ERASMUS agreements with more than 200 European partners and 30 bilateral agreements with partners in Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, the USA, Canada, and Japan. The university has 2,200 international students from 85 countries.
There is a comprehensive programme of counselling, administrative support, language courses, and tutoring for incoming students. The International Office also arranges accommodation for students who come to Jena on exchange or scholarship programmes.
Student mentors assist incoming students by meeting them at the train station, showing them to their rooms, introducing them to the university and its facilities, familiarising them with the city of Jena, introducing them to student life, and helping them with their paperwork. Student associations and groups offer a wide variety of joint activities and events, tandem language courses, concerts, excursions, etc., to help the international students to feel welcome and integrated. The Language Centre offers German language courses at several different levels.

Accommodation

Accommodation in student residences is available. Please apply at the "Studentenwerk Thüringen" (http://www.stw-thueringen.de).
For further information, please visit our website at: http://www.stw-thueringen.de/english/housing/wohnen.html.

You can also look for single or shared private accommodation on your own. There are numerous information boards with accommodation offers in the buildings of the university. However, please note that the availability of private accommodation in Jena is rather limited.