Master of Science in Applied Photonics Aalen University

Photonics, also known as optical technology, deals with the technologies for generating, using, shaping or transmitting light. This diverse and interdisciplinary industry is considered a key technology and innovation driver of the 21st century. Optical processes, image and data transmission, optical information and communication technology, laser technology and much more are components of the study programme.

Strictly, the term “Photonics” stands for the science of photons. Today the term incorporates many novel disciplines. In essence, it is related to four application areas, where “Photonics” is used to combine applied research and development. These are:

• laser and light material interaction,
• industrial manufacturing,
• illumination and displays,
• biophotonics in the domain of Life Science.

Specifically, “Photonics” not only denotes the particle properties of light, the term incorporates all practical applications of optics, and the potential to create, transport and process optical signals. Photonic techniques are used in various fields, e.g. the combination of medical problems and photonic technologies exhibit a high economical potential.

This course is for students who want to achieve special knowledge of innovative technologies in photonics. Additionally, this course addresses professionals with a Bachelor‘s degree who seek a higher occupational qualification by completing a Master’s degree. These people study while continuing in their jobs.

The course prepares students with ambitions for a PhD position afterwards. Thereby students can be accepted into the photonic research centre (Center for Optical Technologies) of Aalen University as well. As a graduate with a Master of Science in Applied Photonics from Aalen University, you will be well educated for a leading position in research and development in the industry as well as for a scientific career.

The course has a duration of three semesters, comprising two semesters of lectures and laboratories and one semester for the Master's thesis.

The students work in the first semester on research projects in our research centre "Zentrum für Optische Technologien" (ZOT).

A high quality Bachelor's degree in physics or engineering, e.g. in electronics, optoelectronics, etc.

Currently 170 EUR per semester (including a contribution to the student association)

Approx. 992 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

We offer the opportunity to study in a Applied Photonics "job-integrated" profile where you work part-time in one of our cooperating companies during your studies, as well as a "research-integrated" profile, where you work part time in our research centre Zentrum für Optische Technologien during your studies.

Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship): a scholarship programme for excellent students, German and international
Recipients receive 300 EUR per month. More information to be found here: https://www.hs-aalen.de/en/application-studying/scholarships/.

Research-integrated studies: you are an employee of Aalen University, working in the Zentrum für Optische Technologien. You can work up to 20 hours per week.

Intercultural trainings, additional German (or other) language courses, job application trainings, soft skills, leadership, (relocation) counselling, etc.