University of Pittsburgh students may sign up for the program at any time. They may have any major, but the program fits most naturally with majors in Physics, Chemistry, or Electrical Engineering. As part of the certificate program, they will take courses in the other departments which will fulfill requirements in their own departments. In their junior year, they take the Photonics seminar each semester, and in their senior year, they take two newly created courses in photonics taught by faculty experts. Students completing the program will be awarded the Certificate in Photonics in addition to the Bachelor of Science degree.
Students majoring in Physics will learn more of the underlying quantum mechanics and relativity which describe light waves.
Students majoring in Chemistry will learn more of spectroscopic techniques and advanced analytical methods. Students taking the suggested course sequence will also qualify for ACS certification.
Students majoring in Electrical Engineering will learn more about electronics design and communications.
There is no formal grade requirement for entrance into the program. Because it is an advanced program, however, students should have at least a B average before committing to this program. Students should keep at least a C average in the core courses of the program to remain in good standing.
Students who are not formally registered in the Certificate program may still take any of the courses if they have fulfilled the prerequisites.
All students in the program will have opportunities to work in the laboratories of participating faculty.
In their
senior
year, students will be offered special job placement services for jobs
in the photonics industry. Participants in the program will also
find themselves well prepared for graduate school in Solid State
Physics,
Physical Chemistry, or Electrical Engineering. Students are also
encouraged to pursue research opportunities with participating faculty.
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