MS Optics at University of Rochester

Programme overview

The MS in Optics offers coursework, thesis, co-op (one year in industry), part-time and online (HOME) options.

Faculty: Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences | Department: The Institute of Optics | Duration: 2 semesters standard (as little as 9 months); 3 semesters with summer residency; thesis 3-4 semesters; co-op 4 semesters | Intake: Fall; HOME MS also spring | Study mode: full-time | Location: Rochester, NY, United States

What you will study

30 hours of coursework plus a 15-page research essay. Required courses are Optics 443, 463, 423 and 456, plus electives in physical, geometrical and quantum optics and one open elective; specialties such as photonics, optical communications and laser engineering can replace some required courses.

Career pathways

Co-op students are paid the normal salary for employees with similar experience; an Industrial Associates job board connects students with employers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Optics MS and PhD: bachelor's in optics, physics, engineering or a related field; minimum GPA 3.0/4.0 (past incoming averages about 3.7 PhD, 3.4 MS); GRE not required (encouraged for PhD); three letters; statement of purpose of one to three pages; English: IELTS 7.2 or TOEFL 105 internet/620 paper/260 computer minimums; fee $70. MS in-person fall 2027 deadlines December 15, 2026, February 1, April 1 and May 15, 2027; HOME MS spring 2027 due November 15, 2026.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Intake: Fall; HOME MS also spring

Duration: 2 semesters standard (as little as 9 months); 3 semesters with summer residency; thesis 3-4 semester

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