Undergraduate Studies

The undergraduate program is not accepting new students.

Optical Science and Engineering

Optical Science and Engineering encompasses the physical phenomena and technologies associated with the generation, transmission, manipulation, detection, and applications of light. The Optical Science and Engineering curriculum prepares students to design, analyze, and fabricate effective optical systems. Much of the nation's high-technology infrastructure is based upon optics and its applications, the most prominent being optical digital information transmission. Optical systems play a central role in nearly all aspects of modern life including health care and the life sciences, remote optical sensing, lighting, cameras, space, and national defense.

Students who complete the Optical Science and Engineering curriculum will receive a Bachelor of Science degree in Optical Science and Engineering.

Objectives

To prepare graduates for employment in a professional field related to optical sciences and engineering, or another area of their choosing that utilizes their skills as identified in the Optical Science and Engineering program outcomes, and/or admission into graduate or professional programs of study.
To graduate optical scientists and engineers who will contribute to their profession and society through engineering practice, research and development, teaching and/or education, or in governmental, regulatory or legal aspects.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates have a good understanding of the basic physics and mathematics underlying optical phenomena and optical systems
Graduates are able to apply their understanding of physics and mathematics to solve technical and engineering problems.
Graduates are able to effectively use optical components, optical and electronic instruments, and computers to perform experiments and do testing in an optics laboratory.
Graduates are able to work effectively in solving engineering and design problems.
Graduates are able to design optical systems and components as needed in their professional careers.
Graduates are able to utilize software relevant to the optical engineering field (I.e. OLSO, CODE V)
Graduates are able to effectively communicate with others both orally and in writing
Graduates understand their professional and ethical responsibilities as engineering or scientific professionals

Advantages of Our Undergraduate Program

Individual Attention

As one of the smallest programs in the College of Engineering and a departmental student to faculty ratio of 13:1, our students are afforded many opportunities to engage with faculty in meaningful interactions, become involved with undergraduate research, and competitive internships at top companies. This helps to bring a small university feel to one of the most prominent research institutions in the country.

Access to Cutting Edge Laboratories and Facilities

UC Davis is a premier research institution. Our students have access to the cutting edge laboratories and facilities. This allows students to stay competitive with rapid advancements in the technological world.

Excellent Preparation for Employment and Post Graduate Studies

Another resource available to UC Davis students is the university's Internship and Career Center. Additionally, the ICC offers students assistance with their résumé and interviewing skills as they near graduation. Additionally, we encourage you to participate in professional societies in your field.

Undergraduate Optics Societies

Students majoring in Optical Science and Engineering will have the opportunity to become student members of The International Society for Optical Engineers (SPIE) and/or The Optics Society of America (OSA). As a member of one or both of these UC Davis student chapters, students will have the opportunity to attend events and conferences, hear dynamic speakers from the optics industry, network with some of the major optics employers in California, volunteer time at local junior and senior high schools, and work on a variety of student driven optical projects. Additionally, through a program called MentorNet, SPIE connects women in engineering and the sciences with women from industry.

Department of Applied Science