We’ve developed an experimental AI-powered tool to help students quickly find answers about courses, policies, and resources in the College of Optical Sciences. It uses information from the student handbook and class details so you can ask questions and get instant guidance.
This is a prototype tool and is not intended to replace an academic advisor. Always verify information before making decisions.
As the largest optical sciences program in the United States, we educate more students in optical sciences than any other institution. Our graduates become professors, scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. They work in academia, in government, in industry, and in defense at both national and international levels. Most of our programs are available on-campus or online to best fit the needs of our students. Prospective and current graduate students can find more about admission details and program requirements below.
Ph.D. in Optical Sciences
The Doctor of Philosophy in Optical Sciences program prepares students for extraordinary careers and unlimited opportunities in a fast-changing, high-tech world. The program prepares graduates to serve as scientists or engineers in leadership positions in academia, research and industry.
M.S. in Optical Sciences
The Master of Science in Optical Sciences program prepares students to enter exciting and challenging careers in industry or to continue their educations in the Ph.D. program. Graduates become engineers, designers and technical managers.
M.S. in Optical Sciences: Online
The distance learning program brings OSC’s greatest strengths — its outstanding teaching faculty and its leading-edge video technology — to post-baccalaureate students worldwide.
M.S. in Optical Sciences: Optomechanical Engineering
The M.S. in Optical Sciences with emphasis in Optomechanical Engineering is a multi-disciplinary program designed to provide students with advanced training at the intersection of Optical and Mechanical Engineering, and interfaces with disciplines like design, manufacturing, metrology, and instrumentation.
M.S. in Optical Sciences: Quantum Information Science & Engineering
The M.S. in Optical Sciences with emphasis in Quantum Information Science & Engineering provides students with education and training to enter a transdisciplinary quantum workforce that spans Optics, Engineering, Computer Science, Physics and Math.
M.S. in Optical Sciences + MBA Dual Degree
The M.S. in Optical Sciences + MBA Dual Degree program prepares students to create and lead technology-based enterprises and to expertly manage the technology transfer process. The MBA portion of the dual degree emphasizes the areas of business foundation, advanced business, specialized entrepreneurship and the business of science.
Certificate in Optical Sciences
The Professional Graduate Certificate in Optical Sciences is designed for working professionals would like to supplement their practical knowledge with formal coursework. The program’s rich variety of classes allows students the opportunity to explore the broad fundamentals of optical sciences or to choose courses of particular relevance to their immediate needs.
Minor in Optical Sciences
Ph.D. Students in Other Majors: Requires 12 units of coursework to complete the degree.
Ph.D. in Students in Optical Sciences: Requires 9 units of coursework to complete the degree.
Nondegree Seeking Graduate Coursework
Non-degree admission allows individuals to take graduate-level coursework without committing to a graduate degree.