MS in Photonics

The M.S. in Photonics program at Rowan University prepares students with the necessary knowledge and skills for careers in optics & photonics.

Student in a photonics lab

Why choose Rowan's photonics program?

The M.S. in Photonics program at Rowan University allows students to obtain advanced knowledge in photonics and expand their skill sets in emerging topics of interest.

This interdisciplinary program covers a wide variety of topics such as optical design, laser physics, fiber-optics, and electro-optic devices. The program will prepare students with the necessary knowledge and skills for careers in optics & photonics. Thesis and non-thesis (course-only) tracks are available, both of which require a total of 30 credits. For the thesis track, 6 of the 30 credits come from original research that culminates in a thesis. For the non-thesis option, all 30 credits come from coursework.

Key considerations

Quick Facts

30

Credits

Application Deadlines

7/1

Fall Entry Term

11/1

Spring Entry Term

5/1

Summer Entry Term

Studying photonics at Rowan

What You'll Learn

The M.S. in Photonics program consists of 9-10 courses with the option of a thesis or non-thesis track and a total of 30 graduate semester hours (S.H.). Students may enroll in this program part-time or full-time.

The following courses make up the Master of Science in Photonics program.

  • 9-10 Courses / 30 Semester Hours
  • Foundation Courses: Yes
  • Graduation / Exit / Thesis Requirements: Thesis or two elective courses

Required Courses: 24 S.H.

Course Number Title S.H. (Credits)
PHYS 00540 Light 3
PHYS 00545 Geometric Optical Design 3
ECE 09531 Advanced Optical Fiber Communications 3
PHYS 00547 Lasers 3
PHYS 00544 Fourier Optics 3
PHYS 00548 Electro-Optic Devices 3
PHYS 00549 Applied Nonlinear Optics 3
PHYS 00546 Advanced Optical Design 3

Thesis Track: 6 S.H.

Course Number Title S.H. (Credits)
PHYS 00599 Master's Thesis Research 6

Non-Thesis Track: 6 S.H.

Course Number Title S.H. (Credits)
--- Choose 2 graduate level courses from PHYS, ECE, MSE, or MATH 6

Note: The courses listed above are not official and are subject to change. For an official list of available courses please visit the Rowan University Academic Catalog.

Transfer Credit Evaluation Policy

Transfer credits will be evaluated on a case by case basis.

Admission Requirements

The following is a list of items required to begin the application process for the program. There may be additional actions or materials required for admission to the program. Upon receipt of the materials below, a representative from the Rowan Global Admissions Processing Office will contact you with confirmation or will indicate any missing items.

  • Completed Application Form
  • No application fee required
  • Bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from an accredited institution of higher learning
  • Official transcripts from all colleges attended (regardless of number of credits earned)
  • Current professional resume 
  • Three letters of Recommendation. The official Recommendation Form is required. In 
addition, letters from the recommender may be submitted. 
  • Minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)

Tuition and Aid

At Rowan University, we pride ourselves on being vigilant and frugal about tuition. We work hard to provide quality education while seeking to reduce the barrier that college costs can present students

We know paying for tuition can be a challenge. That is why Rowan provides students with the financial resources needed to put their education first by offering grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.

Explore tuition information, scholarships and financial aid resources to learn how we can support you.

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Upcoming virtual information sessions and events

Rowan University hosts a series of on-campus and virtual events throughout the year to help you get to know us. From general information sessions, to program specific meetings with advisors, to webinars on timely and thought-provoking topics, these gatherings provide an excellent opportunity to ask questions, network with academics and future students, and learn from some of the most innovative and informed faculty in higher education today.
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From helping you find the right program to understanding how to apply, we’re here to make sure you get the information you need. Fill out the form to get started!
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