Distance Learning (Current Students Menu Item)

The distance learning program brings OSC’s greatest strengths — its outstanding teaching faculty and its leading-edge video technology — to post-baccalaureate students worldwide.  

Distance Learning Degree Programs

Degree programs that are available entirely online include:  

Master of Science in Optical Sciences

Professional Graduate Certificate in Optical Sciences

Distance students can also apply for nondegree status. Up to six units completed in nondegree status may apply toward the Graduate Certificate; up to 12 units may apply to an M.S. or Ph.D. degree. 

Prerequisites 

Prospective distance students need a bachelor's degree in optics, engineering, physics, mathematics or a related field. They must have successfully completed four semesters of calculus, including vector calculus and differential equations; two or more semesters of college physics including an electromagnetism course is strongly recommended.

Registration  

The distance learning program is administered via Arizona Online. Students are required to register for online courses through the UAccess Student Center. 

Note for new distance students: email messages will be sent to your official UA email address once you have a UA email address.  You must check your UA email for instructions on accessing course content.    

How to Register 

To enroll in an optics distance class, register through the UAccess Student Center using the following steps: 

1. Select the “Student Center” and log in using your NetId.
2. In the Academics section, click on “Enroll,” where you’ll be able to add classes using the search function at the top of the page.   
3. Use the search function to enter criteria for your course search.
4. For TERM, select the semester you will be taking the class.
5. In SUBJECT, type in or select OPTI.
6. For CAMPUS, confirm the campus is Arizona Online.
7. Click the green SEARCH button. You should see all the OPTI courses on the screen.
8. Select your class and click “Enroll” at the bottom of the screen to register for the course. 

Distance Course List  

Peruse the Wyant College of Optical Science's distance learning course list including class information, semester offered, course type and instructor.  

Tuition

For information about distance tuition and funding, visit the Tuition & Fees page.

We are here to help!

• Jini Kandyil, Graduate Student Advisor:  primary contact to assist all on campus and online students navigate all of the steps to attaining a graduate degree/certificate -- from applying for admission, to enrollment and completion of degree requirements, to graduation.
• Gretchen Wirges, Distance Learning Program Coordinator: available to assist graduate students enrolled in a distance learning program with access of online courses materials and video lectures in D2L/Brightspace, exam and assignment proctoring and submission.
• John Koshel, Associate Dean of Academic Programs: available to assist with technical research and academic related inquiries, or other general questions.
• Mark Rodriguez, Manager of Academic Programs: available to assist with graduate assistant (RA/TA), financial aid, and scholarship related inquiries.