Electro-Optics is one of the fastest growing industries in the world today! It is at the heart of our communications systems, from the laser that generates the digital information transported along a fiber-optic cable to the detector that decodes the information. Electro-Optics permits physicians to perform minimally-invasive surgery, using fiber-optic endoscopes and lasers. It also allows firefighters to see through smoke, helping them to save more lives in today’s deadly fires. This high-tech industry includes energy generation, detection, communications, and information processing, to name a few. Some lasers are so powerful that they can burn a hole in steel and yet can be controlled in such a precise manner that they can repair a damaged eye without the use of anesthesia.
Our unique two-year programs combine technical training along with courses in liberal arts, science, computers, electronics, statistical quality control, and workplace safety. The hands-on approach of these programs is emphasized by the fact that all the technical and science courses have three-hour labs. You will have the opportunity to use some of the most modern equipment available today in laser and electro-optics technology.
Curriculums
You will take courses that deal with the nature and properties of light, light sources, lasers, laser safety, basic optics, optical detectors, fiber-optics, basics of fiber-optics telecommunications, high vacuum technology, thin film deposition units, computer interfacing, etc. There are three different degree options available for students entering this degree program. They are:
- Associate in Applied Science in Electro-Optics
Created for the student who desires a thorough technical education and plans to seek entry into the electro-optics workforce as soon as the degree is completed. Graduates with this degree enter the workforce as technicians in the E-O industry.
- Associate in Science in Electro-Optics
Created for the student who enjoys technical challenges as well as theoretical applications. This degree replaces a few of the technical courses with liberal studies classes to better prepare the student to go on for further academic work. Students earning this degree can either enter the workforce or remain on pace to complete the bachelor's degree in only two more years.
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics/Electro-Optics Track
Created for the student who wants both a technical education and a large amount of theoretical applications. Graduates with this degree are employed to do engineering-level work for companies utilizing electro-optics technologies.
SPIE
IUP sponsors a student chapter of SPIE (The International Society of Photonics Engineers). SPIE has created a video to help introduce people to this exciting new technology and career choice.
View the "Optics: Light at Work" webcast:
QuickTime: Small (35 MB) | Large (90 MB)
Windows Media: Medium (41 MB)
If you are unable to download and view one of these files, contact the Northpointe Campus and we will send you a DVD.
2+2+2
The Northpointe Campus also has an office for 2+2+2 Integrated Workforce Leadership Program in Electro-Optics. This office helps students at all levels (including high school) to choose a career in electro-optics. You can learn more about this office by visiting the office's page on this website.
