Program Overview

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Optical Engineering (MSc)

Overview

This optical engineering course covers the fundamental concepts of modern optical and photonic engineering. It is based at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), which specialises in lasers, optical fibres, optical waveguides, and their applications in real world engineering. We focus on physical optics in settings such as communications, computing and sensors.

Aims of the course

The aims of the programme are to:

• provide you with advanced knowledge of optical fibre and photonic technologies
• give you the opportunity to work in a research-led environment using state of the art facilities
• develop your research skills applicable to a career in research and development
• stimulate your interest in the subject using a variety of teaching and learning methods

Entry requirements

You'll need a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a related subject such as:

• electronic engineering
• information engineering
• materials science
• optical engineering
• physics
• telecommunications

Course structure

Your studies will run for a full 12 months, from September to the following September. The first 8 months cover taught modules and the completion of your coursework and examinations. For the final part of your studies you'll work on a research project, which will result in your dissertation. There are 2 sets of exams, in January and in May.

Modules

• Lasers
• Optical Fibres and Waveguides
• Photonic Materials and Device Platforms
• Photonics Laboratory and Study Skills
• Project
• Signal Processing and Machine Learning in Photonics
• Advanced Fibre Telecommunication
• Advanced Lasers
• Nanoscience: technology and advanced materials
• Optical Sensors
• Quantum Information
• Silicon Photonics
• Wireless and Mobile Networks

Learning and assessment

You'll learn through a variety of methods, including:

• classes and tutorials
• delivering presentations
• coursework
• individual and group projects
• independent learning (studying on your own)

We'll assess you through:

• exams
• coursework assignments
• presentations
• reports and portfolios
• projects

Dissertation

This course requires a final project dissertation with a maximum of 15,000 words, and a conference style final project presentation to all the students on the programme.

Careers and employability

Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:

• Information and Communication
• Manufacturing
• Education
• Public Administration and Defence
• Scientific and Technical
• Administration and support

Careers directly related to this course:

• Optical engineer
• Optical design engineer
• Photonics development engineer
• Laboratory manager
• Clinical scientist
• Optical communications engineer

Fees, costs and funding

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £9,250.
• EU and international students pay £32,800.

How to apply

1. Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
2. Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal.
3. Search for the course you want to apply for.
4. Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
5. Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions).
6. Submit your application.

Application deadlines:

• International students who require an ATAS: Tuesday 29 July 2025, midday UK time
• International students who do not require an ATAS: Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time
• UK students: Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.

You’ll need to include information about:

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

References are not required for this programme.

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

You may also be asked to provide:

• a degree transcript
• evidence of professional qualifications

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application.

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email:
Tel:+44(0)