This international MSc program in Photonics is taught in English and builds on Jena’s long-standing tradition in optics and photonics education. Students study and conduct research within the Abbe School of Photonics and the Abbe Center of Photonics, gaining substantial hands‑on experience in modern photonics laboratories. The programme is embedded in a larger academic pathway that begins with undergraduate physics training and continues through a structured doctoral programme, so it is designed to prepare students for both advanced research and industry roles.
The course begins with a compulsory adjustment module in the first semester that refreshes fundamental concepts and helps students with diverse backgrounds to start on common ground. As the programme progresses, students gain increasing freedom to choose electives and can already specialise in at least one of five key education areas. Practical training is emphasised: coursework is complemented by laboratory projects carried out in university facilities and in collaboration with major regional research institutes and companies. Research and industry partners named in the programme include the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering, the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, the Helmholtz Institute Jena, and companies such as ASML, JENOPTIK, OSRAM, PHILIPS, SCHOTT, TRUMPF, and ZEISS.
Core and elective subjects span a broad range of photonics fields, including:
For official admission criteria, application documents and deadlines, consult the programme’s webpage or admissions office — they provide the definitive list of entry requirements and application steps for international applicants.
This Master’s curriculum blends rigorous classroom teaching with hands-on practice to develop both theoretical understanding and experimental skills in photonics. Coursework is delivered through lectures, seminars, tutorials and laboratory classes, complemented by internships, research projects and summer workshops. The program uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), so you can shape your study plan within the programme’s guidelines to pursue the topics that best match your interests and career goals.
Across four semesters the progression moves from broad foundations to focused research: initial modules consolidate core physics and optics knowledge and ease the transition into the master’s level; subsequent terms offer deeper specialisation alongside a mandatory internship and intensive lab work; the final semester is dedicated to an independent research project (Master’s thesis). This structure ensures you gain experimental competence, applied problem-solving experience, and the ability to carry out an extended research task.
Key modules and learning outcomes
Programme components and requirements (concise)
Applicants should hold a Bachelor-level degree (BSc, BEng, BTech) or an equivalent or higher qualification with substantial grounding in core physics topics. Degrees from closely related areas that provide significant exposure to physics fundamentals are also acceptable. A particularly strong preparation in classical physics, mathematics and/or electrodynamics will strengthen your application.
If you are still completing your undergraduate studies, you may apply using a preliminary transcript that shows all courses finished to date. In addition to academic qualifications, the admissions committee considers other evidence of your potential, such as awards, references, descriptions of past projects, and verified English language ability.
Winter Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 June 2026
Graduates are prepared for R&D and engineering roles in optics and photonics industries (e.g., optical systems, laser and light-source development, metrology, imaging, optical communications, sensors and optoelectronics). The programme’s close ties to companies such as ZEISS, ASML, Jenoptik and OSRAM, plus research institutes (Fraunhofer, Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, Helmholtz Institute Jena), support direct entry into industrial development, product engineering, and applied research positions.
Alumni can also continue into academic or research careers (structured doctoral programmes) thanks to the strong research environment and opportunities for thesis projects and internships. Typical paths include positions in R&D labs, technical specialist roles, product development, and further postgraduate research (PhD) in photonics-related fields.
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