| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-12-01 | - |
| 2024-04-01 | - |
| 2024-07-01 | - |
| 2025-04-01 | - |
| 2025-07-01 | - |
| 2025-12-01 | - |
| 2026-04-01 | - |
| 2026-07-01 | - |
| 2026-12-01 | - |
| 2027-04-01 | - |
| 2027-07-01 | - |
| 2027-12-01 | - |
| 2028-04-01 | - |
| 2028-07-01 | - |
| 2028-12-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Optics Track in UCF's online Master of Science in Optics and Photonics program prepares students with a STEM background for interdisciplinary careers in optics and engineering. The program features core courses in optical science and wave propagation, and students must pass a comprehensive examination based on these courses to graduate. International students must enroll full-time and meet specific online enrollment requirements.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Optics Track in the Master of Science in Optics and Photonics program is designed for students with a bachelor's degree in optics, electrical engineering, physics, or closely related fields. The program is interdisciplinary, combining optical science and engineering. It can be completed fully online, although not all elective options or program prerequisites may be offered online. Newly admitted students choosing to complete this program exclusively via UCF online classes may enroll with a reduction in campus-based fees.
Assessment:
The program includes a comprehensive examination based on the core courses (OSE 5115 Interference, Diffraction and Coherence, OSE 6111 Optical Wave Propagation, and OSE 5525 Laser Engineering or OSE 6536 Semiconductor Lasers may be used as a substitute for OSE 5525 Laser Engineering). Students must pass this exam within one semester after completing the core courses. The exam can be taken twice. After failing on the second attempt, the student will be required to re-take the courses covering the areas in which the examination committee determined the student to be deficient. The retaken courses must be passed with a minimum grade of B+ in order for the student to graduate. This Comprehensive Examination requirement may be satisfied by passing the Optics and Photonics Ph.D. Qualifying exam.
Other:
International students (F or J visa) are required to enroll in a full-time course load of 9 credit hours during the fall and spring semesters. Only 3 of the 9 credit hours may be taken in a completely online format.
Overview:
University of Central Florida (UCF) is a public research university located in Orlando, Florida. It is recognized as the most innovative university in Florida by U.S. News & World Reports. UCF is known for its commitment to research, industry partnerships, and technology-driven innovation.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Innovation:
UCF is a leader in innovation, with a focus on research and technology.Faculty Expertise:
The university boasts world-renowned faculty who are actively involved in solving global challenges.In-Demand Degrees:
UCF offers a wide range of degree programs that prepare students for successful careers in various fields.Industry Partnerships:
UCF has strong partnerships with industry leaders, providing students with valuable real-world experience.Academic Programs:
UCF offers over 220 degree programs across 13 colleges, including: *
Bachelor's Degrees:
Aerospace Engineering, Digital Media, Data Science, Health Informatics and Information Management *Master's Degrees:
Computer Science, Interactive Entertainment, Nursing, Optics & Photonics *Graduate Certificates:
Applied Photonics, Emergency Management and Homeland Security, Smart Cities, Hospitality and Tourism Technologies *Online Degrees:
FinTech, Health Services Administration, Systems Engineering, Travel Technology and AnalyticsOther:
UCF is committed to positively impacting the world through its research and education. The university is home to a diverse student body and offers a variety of resources and support services to help students succeed.
Entry Requirements:
A bachelor's degree in Optics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or closely related fields. Students with degrees in related fields may be required to take undergraduate articulation courses determined by the program director on a case-by-case basis.
