What to expect from a career as a Photonics Engineer and more
Photonics is an ever-changing industry, with ongoing research and new and exciting developments happening all the time. Photonics programs at Ontario colleges prepare students to be on the cutting edge in the world of photonics, with skills that will put them in high demand in the job market.
If you’re interested in learning more about photonics technology, here’s what you need to know.
Photonics Courses
Photonics programs focus on laser, optical and vacuum technologies, and will consist of theory and practical skills training to give students a full understanding of the industry and the tasks that will be expected of them on the job. Course subject matter may include (but isn't limited to):
- Wiring strategies, electrical principles and mathematics for photonics technicians
- Digital technology and fiber optic principles
- Laser and photonics theory and the principles of light sources and lasers
- Computer programming and image processing
Additional courses will cover more general topics, such as mathematics and communications for photonics professionals.
General Photonics Program Requirements
Ontario college photonics programs typically require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, which includes a grade 12 English credit. Math and physics credits may also be required, depending on the particular program.
Note: Related laser programs that may be offered as graduate certificate programs, in which case a diploma or degree in photonics will be required for admission.
Photonics Jobs and Salaries
Photonics career opportunities exist in a number of industries, from space technology to medical diagnosis to entertainment. Areas graduates may specialize in include optical imaging, laser sensing, surface coating, fibre optics and much more. Research is another common career path for grads of photonics programs.
Because of the advanced knowledge and training required, as well as the need to stay current on new developments and technologies, annual salaries in the photonics field are very competitive, often starting between $50,000 and $60,000 and increasing with experience.
Ontario Colleges Offering Photonics Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of photonics programs at Ontario colleges.
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