Taught course
Optical Engineering
Entry requirements
A UK or internationally recognised equivalent upper second-class honours degree or higher in a related subject such as physics, electronics, engineering, materials science or mathematics.
Months of entry
September
Course content
This optical engineering course covers the fundamental concepts of modern optical and photonic engineering. This includes 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.
You'll work in photonics with access to professional level equipment, software, and fabrication methodologies. This involves studying the principles of lasers, optical technology and the practical aspects of their design, fabrication, and applications. The opportunity to specialise in different areas of optoelectronics will also be available.
Our range of optional modules covers topics such as:
optical communications
silicon photonics
optical sensors
advanced laser techniques
If you wish to follow a particular theme, you may choose modules from other subject areas to match your interests, such as physics or computer science.
You'll also perform an experimental or theoretical research project, making use of the extensive facilities in our research laboratories. This includes the Mountbatten Clean Room complex.
You’ll be taught by leading experts in the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). Our inventions can be found on the Moon, on Mars and on the International Space Station. We built the foundations of the internet and our research is powering changes in medicine, telecommunications, defence, renewable energy and manufacturing. 97% of our Engineering research is rated as world leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
If you've got a passion for physics and engineering materials, but want to keep your job opportunities open, this course will allow you to explore both. Many of our students go on to study for a PhD, but many also go into industry, or set up their own business.
You'll gain practical insights into how to run a modern photonics business through our Industrial Showcase Week. During the week you’ll visit several businesses and learn from experienced photonics business leaders how to apply research and engineering skills to real-world problems. 11 spin-out companies have so far been developed from the Optoelectronics Research Centre.
Information for international students
English language: Band C, IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in all components.
Fees and funding
UK students
£9,250
International students
£29,512
We offer a range of scholarships both based on merit and on a competitive basis through University of Southampton and external funding bodies. Learn more on our website.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- MSc
- full time12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Postgraduate Admissions Enquiries
- enquiries@soton.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44 (0)23 8059 9699