Career Outlook for BS Degree Graduates

What Kind of Work do Optical Engineers and Scientists Do?

The field of optics is extremely broad and includes information technology and telecommunications, health care and life sciences, sensing, lighting and energy, national defense, industrial manufacturing, manufacturing optical components and systems and (our favorite because it's what we do here) optics research and education.  Opportunities in each of these areas are nearly unlimited and some engineers and scientists cross boundaries and work in several areas.

What are the Career Opportunities in Optics?

Most of the jobs graduates with a BS degree will qualify for are entry-level or junior engineering positions.  With the education and experience our students receive, the transition to senior engineering positions can happen quite soon.

What is it Like Working in the Optics Field?

You get to contribute to projects that advance the level of technical knowledge and also serve mankind.  You will work with other engineers and technicians, usually as part of a team, that have skills that complement yours.  As a result, you learn their skills and expand and share your own.

What is the Current Job Picture and How Much Can you Earn?

At the present time, the job picture looks favorable.  Nearly all of our graduates receive  employment offers, and often have a choice of several challenging jobs.  Starting salaries are comparable to, or a little higher than other engineering disciplines.  2005 starting salaries ranged from $58,000 to $70,000.

How Can BS Degree Graduates Get Additional Training?

Some of the larger employers provide additional specific in-house training.  There are also numerous professional short courses available on specific topics that are offered by OSA, SPIE and several universities and private organizations.  Some of these courses are taught at national conventions, some are taught at corporations for their employees, and some are available on video, DVD or are web-streamed from the University of Arizona or the National Technological University who offer an extensive range of courses.