MSc Advanced Optical Technologies (MAOT)

Overview

This programme is built around four interconnected themes that reflect Erlangen’s strong photonics ecosystem. The Materials & Devices and Photonic Fibres strand covers everything from photovoltaics and semiconductors to microstructured devices, glasses and molecular assemblies. Research in Erlangen includes fabrication, detailed characterisation and transfer of innovative photonic structures into both prototypes and large-scale applications. Around 30 research groups work on designing light-absorbing and light-emitting materials, laser-treated glasses, microresonators and molecular machines, using techniques such as advanced spectroscopy, electron microscopy and X‑ray tomography. Erlangen is also recognised as a world-leading centre for photonic crystal fibres.

The Photonics in Production and Process Technology area addresses how photonics enables and advances modern manufacturing and analytical methods. Nearly 20 research groups contribute to developments in laser processing across many material systems, experimental and theoretical lithography, and modelling of complex systems. They also drive progress in metrology—interferometry, various spectroscopic methods, fluid and gas sensing, and measurement of surface and particle properties—making Erlangen a hotspot for next‑generation production and process technologies based on photonics research.

Biomedical Photonics and Data Processing explores optical methods to visualise and influence biological systems, from fluorescence spectroscopy of human tissue and in‑vivo endo‑microscopy to opto‑biomechatronics and optogenetics. Machine learning and deep learning are increasingly applied for data processing, pattern recognition and classification in medical imaging (for example, MRT diagnostics). More than 30 research groups in Erlangen are active in translating photonic technologies into healthcare applications that speed up and improve diagnosis and therapy. The programme also strengthens core optics knowledge across geometrical, wave, technical, quantum and Fourier optics.

Key facts and notes

• Language of instruction: English
• Academic field: Physics
• Admission requirements: None were specified in the provided description.

This MSc builds a broad, interdisciplinary foundation in optical science by combining content from electrical and chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, computer science, medicine and physics. In the first semester all students complete intensive core training in the fundamentals of optics and lasers, ensuring everyone has the theoretical and conceptual baseline needed for advanced work. Courses emphasize both theory and the mathematical/physical principles that underpin modern optical technologies.

During the second and third semesters students deepen their expertise by selecting courses and labs across the discipline areas. The curriculum requires passing nine taught courses plus two laboratory courses, and each student designates two topics as their major specializations. Teaching is deliberately practical: lectures are paired with hands-on lab work, and the programme includes a 300-hour mini-project in one of the chosen major topics to develop project planning, experimental technique and scientific reporting skills. An internship in a research institute or company is also integrated to expand applied experience and industry or research contacts.

The fourth semester is devoted entirely to an independent Master’s thesis focused on one of the chosen majors, with opportunities to extend specialization by attending academies and workshops offered through the SAOT doctoral programme. All instruction is in English and delivered in small groups (commonly 10–15 students), which allows for close supervision and adaptation of lectures to student needs. Administrative support (visa, health insurance, housing, etc.) is provided by the MAOT office to help international students settle in and focus on their studies.

Key learning outcomes include mastery of optics and laser fundamentals, practical laboratory skills, the ability to carry out medium-scale research projects (mini-project and internship), and the experience to complete an independent research thesis in a chosen optical specialization.

Program requirements and core components

• First-semester core education in optics and laser fundamentals (compulsory)
• Pass nine taught courses and two laboratory courses drawn from the interdisciplinary topics
• Choose two major topics/specializations to focus your coursework and projects
• Complete a 300-hour mini-project in one of the major topics (report required)
• Undertake an internship in a research institution or company to gain practical experience
• Fourth semester dedicated to the Master’s thesis in one of the selected majors
• Optional: attend SAOT doctoral academies/workshops to deepen specialist knowledge
• All courses taught in English; classes typically small (≈10–15 students)
• MAOT office provides support with visa, health insurance, accommodation, and other administrative matters

Graduates are prepared for careers in photonics R&D within industry (e.g. fibre optics, laser and sensor manufacturers, medical device companies), research institutes and university laboratories. The mix of theoretical foundations and practical laboratory experience also supports roles in process engineering, metrology and quality assurance for high‑tech manufacturing.

The programme additionally equips students for doctoral study (including participation in SAOT doctoral academies) and for interdisciplinary roles that combine optics, materials science and data processing, such as biomedical imaging, computational optics and photonics‑enabled production technologies.