Optoelectronics and Photonics
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Optoelectronics and Photonics
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Overview
In a Nutshell
In the Master degree program in Optoelectronics and Photonics the students acquire a profound knowledge base and skillset in the field of optoelectronics and photonics. The program is set up as an interdisciplinary course program with about equal parts of advanced level (Master level) courses from physics and electrical engineering and information technology.
Academic Prerequisites
- Bachelors’ Degree in Physics or Engineering Physics (or an equivalent Natural Science or Engineering degree that includes physical and mathematical fundamentals and a quantum theory course)
The Examinations Board shall determine compliance with these requirements.
Language Prerequisites
- Proficiency of English language at level B2 of the European Reference Framework for Languages (CEFR).
Accepted certificates include: a. A bachelor’s degree from an English-speaking country or on an English-language accredited domestic program, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) “internet-based” Test (iBT) with a result of at least 80 points, TOEFL “paper-based” test (PBT) with a result of at least 550 points, IELTS test with a result of at least 6.0 or e. Cambridge Test – First Certificate in English (FCE), tests of an equivalent level, appropriate previous qualification from school.
German proficiency is not needed for this course, it can only be studied in English.
Please note: for international applicants, a GRE Revised General Test (at least 157 points in „Quantitative Reasoning“ and at least 4.0 points in „Analytical Writing“) or a very good or good CGPA in the Bachelor program are required for admission. The Examinations Board may accept a lower points score, depending on the qualification, if the final grade of the Bachelor's degree is very good.
You can find all details about deadlines and your next steps on the general Paderborn University Application Information websites.
Please check the admission requirements in advance and also consult our departmental website.
Please note: As an international applicant you have to apply via the uni-assist online portal, which allows you to submit your application electronically. Before registering, please check whether you meet the admission requirements and it is essential that you contact the International Office.
Course of Study
What’s this Course about?
The interplay between optics and electronics is of both fundamental scientific interest and the foundation of a broad range of modern technology. Remarkable progress has been made in recent years combining techniques from areas as diverse as nanophotonics, semiconductor physics and even quantum optics. Learning how to bring fundamental principles of optoelectronic interaction out of the laboratory and engineer them into workable devices is a key skillset to drive this field forward. Our two-year Masters course in Optoelectronics and Photonics places students squarely at the intersection of modern physics, precision engineering and state-of-the-art technology. Students will develop a broad, technical skillset, as well as rigorous understanding of the underlying concepts. On completion, successful students will be ideally suited to a future academic or industrial career in this exciting and fast-moving field. We offer:
- A broad range of targeted interdisciplinary courses, taught exclusively in English
- Masters projects in internationally active research groups
- Smooth progression towards PhD study in Germany and beyond
- Career perspectives in existing and emerging industries
- A gateway to European academic and industrial networks
The Master’s program is taught in English. All examinations are in English.
Study Contents
What is the structure of the course?
The course comprises lecture courses, practical laboratory courses and an extended Masters thesis project. Key concepts are covered in core lectures, followed by specialist options in physics and electrical engineering. Laboratory work develops the practical skills required for a successful Masters thesis, which focusses on developing specialist research methods and independent project management. Language courses and professional training complete the curriculum. Examples of specialized skills acquired:
- Characterising nanostructures
- Developing concepts and devices in quantum information technology
- Designing optoelectronic structures
- Simulating light in complex optical systems
- Training in commercial simulation packages
- Fabricating atomically flat semiconductor structures
- Circuit and system design
Exemplary Study Plan
The study plan offers you a good orientation about your required and optional modules. However, the chronological order shown here is only an example and may change due to individual focus areas.
Please note that this plan is only valid for students who were enrolles in or after the winter semester 2024/25.
Rights and Obligations
Die Prüfungsordnung klärt über Rechte und Pflichten auf!
Links & Downloads
Possibilities
Study Abroad
The University of Paderborn has various partnerships with universities all over the world in each area of studies. Different exchange programmes are available for stays abroad. Our partner university portal provides information about our various partnerships in each area of studies.
Future Perspectives
After graduation Master ?
Career Opportunities
Being more practical than a purely scientific masters course, yet retaining much of the academic rigour, successful graduates of the programme will be well prepared, and highly sought-after, in the job market. As well as existing technical industrial sectors, such as R&D, process engineering, technical computing and many others, the programme opens up perspectives in emerging sectors such as quantum technology, which is already attracting bright, well-trained graduates for the next generation of tech start-ups.
Graduates who wish to continue their studies after the Masters programme are perfectly placed to do so. Paderborn University is well-established as a centre of optoelectronics and photonics research, and progression to study for a PhD within one of the many exciting and internationally active research groups is extremely smooth.
During the course of your studies, questions about career orientation arise from time to time. In events, practical projects and company visits as well as in the job and career portal, you can get to know possible professions and fields of activity and work out your personal interests and strengths.
Interested in the start-up scene? Then visit us at TecUP! We promote start-ups in Paderborn and will support you on your path to self-employment. We’ll be by your side throughout every stage of the start-up process – completely free of charge and with no obligation! garage33 is our dedicated space for creativity and exchange, networking and working. In addition to tailored coaching, we also offer workshops and events for you to learn the theory and practice of setting up a business in an innovative and creative environment, and to help you formulate, develop and validate your idea.
Want to start a business, but lack the seed capital to do so? We can help you apply for grants and put you in touch with our network of business angels and investors. Or merely looking to get an insight into start-ups, for some inspiration or to network with business founders? Then visit our courses or events, such as CALL FOR IDEAS, apply for a start-up job or simply visit us at garage33 – we look forward to meeting you!
PhD
On completion of your degree, you can also choose to continue your studies with a PhD programme, thereby gaining the experience and qualifications you’ll need to subsequently take up a research position at a university or non-university research institution. The Jenny Aloni Center for Early Career Researchers will provide you with all the information you need.
Our “Einblick!” (insights) peer mentoring programme gives female students in the final stages of their degree the chance to discuss doing a PhD and to prepare for a PhD. Participants are teamed up with a female PhD student, who, based on her own experience, gives them tips and strategies to assist them with their decision to pursue a PhD. The aim of the programme is to give participants insights into the kind of academic and research work involved in a PhD and for them to talk to their mentor about her experience in order to build on their personal and professional skills and broaden their development opportunities.
The Faculty of Science provides students pursuing postgraduate qualifications with support. The team at the Postgraduate Centre will be more than happy to provide you with information and advice.
Related Studies
Not quite right for you? One of our other study programs might be a better fit!
Campus life
In addition to study-related content, Paderborn University offers you a lot more: for those eager to learn, for those seeking exchange and for all those who want to think outside the box. Learn and improve your language skills at the Center for Language Studies and brush up on your software skills with the courses offered by doIT. The servicecenter-medien offers special media workstations where you can let off steam creatively, and the university sports program ranges from American football to Zumba. Get involved with the university radio station L'UniCo or the university newspaper universal and become part of one of the many project groups or initiatives.
Culture
A regular theater program at our Studionbühne, slams and readings, Big Band and university choir are just a few examples of our diverse cultural offerings. A special highlight is our AStA summer festival: up to 15,000 people make the pilgrimage every year to what is probably Germany's largest outdoor campus festival and enjoy the summer party atmosphere with numerous local student bands as well as well-known headliners on various stages.
Campus
Almost all of Uni Paderborn's buildings are located on campus. There are green meadows to relax in and plenty of places to eat and drink: Mensa Academica and Mensa Forum, the Grill|Café and Café Bona Vista. Everything is within easy walking distance. Our library is also centrally located and is a great place to study thanks to its good opening hours.
Accommodation
Living in accomodations close to campus is possible: The Studierendenwerk Paderborn offers you places in halls of residence directly on campus or in the immediate vicinity. But you will also find what you are looking for on the usual accommodation portals: Both in the immediate vicinity of the university and city center, as well as in the individual Paderborn districts.
Costs and financing
Everyday student life offers you plenty of opportunities to work alongside your studies. However, BAföG or a scholarship are also options that you can use to cover your costs.
Advisory services
We have the right contact point for every concern. For example, our advisory and service facilities are available to answer your questions about academic work, career orientation and goal setting, funding opportunities and many other concerns.
Our university is an open-minded university that also takes a clear stance on gender and diversity. We have been actively promoting equal opportunities and a gender- and family-friendly work and study culture for many years. This includes support for a better balance between studying and family life as well as support for students with health impairments.
Any questions?
Chat with us
The right contact for every concern
The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
E-Mail: zsb@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-2007
You are in the right place with the following concerns
We support prospective students in their choice of studies and in their decision to study. In addition, we advise students in all phases of their studies, especially in phases of reorientation.
International Office
E-Mail: io-info@zv.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- How do I apply as an international student? Which prerequisites do I have to bring?
- What opportunities do I have to go abroad during my studies?
- Where can I get information about studying abroad (application deadlines and procedures, internships, scholarships)?
Student Council Electrical Engineering
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- What's this course of studies about?
- What does the "student-life" look like? What does a week at uni look like?
- How much do students like what they do at uni?
- What social activities and possibilities are there next to the formal university studies?
- What fields of specialisation do other students recommend?
- What happens in the first weeks at university? (Orientation week)
Student Council Physics
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- What's this course of studies about?
- What does the "student-life" look like? What does a week at uni look like?
- How much do students like what they do at uni?
- What social activities and possibilities are there next to the formal university studies?
- What fields of specialisation do other students recommend?
- What happens in the first weeks at university? (Orientation week)
Uni-Assist
You are in the right place with the following concerns
Please apply for this program, regardless of your nationality, via the Uni-Assist Online Portal, if you don't have a German University Entrance Qualification.
Bildungsinländer*innen
You are in the right place with the following concerns
If you don't have the German citizenship, but have received your university entrance qualification from a German school inside or outside of Germany (= Bildungsinländer*innen), apply for the program directly at the online portal PAUL of the admissions office. (Please initially supply a grade of 4,0; follow further instructions by email after registration in the online system.)
International Office
E-Mail: io-info@zv.uni-paderborn.de
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- How do I apply as an international student? Which prerequisites do I have to bring?
- What opportunities do I have to go abroad during my studies?
- Where can I get information about studying abroad (application deadlines and procedures, internships, scholarships)?
Registrar’s Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Information and advice on application, admission and enrolment matters
- Processing of applications for change of degree programme, change of subject, leave of absence, exmatriculation, secondary enrolment
- Registration for the qualifying examination
- Health insurance matters
- Re-registration matters
Examination Office
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Counselling on examination-related questions of the study programme
- Processing of admissions and registrations for examinations with limited repeatability
- Processing withdrawals from examinations due to illness
- Recording examination results
- Administration of study performance accounts, certificates of grades and module assignments
- Transfers to the current version of the examination regulations
- Issuing certificates, diplomas, diploma supplements and transcripts of records
- Issuing duplicates and certificates to internal and external university administrative offices
- Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
Service Centre for Studying with Disabilities
E-Mail: s-m-b@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-5498
You are in the right place with the following concerns
- Advice on all questions related to studying
- Procurement and rental of aids
- Barrier-free campus tours
- Provision of information on the barrier-free campus
- Advice on compensating for disadvantages
FamilienServiceBüro
You are in the right place with the following concerns
We support you in balancing your studies and family life.