At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€15k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Finland's highest concentration of photonics research expertiseExpertise Concentration
- World-class research with high international recognitionResearch Quality
- Pioneering work in nonlinear optics, metamaterials, and quantum opticsSpecialized Fields
- Strong European position in III/V-semiconductor optoelectronicsOptoelectronics Strength
- Innovative solar energy technologies and spectroscopic solutionsApplication Focus
- Coordination of the Flagship on Photonics Research and Innovation (PREIN)National Leadership
Photonics is the science and technology of light, with applications increasingly impacting all areas of human activity. Tampere University's Photonics Laboratory focuses on advancing fundamental knowledge of light-matter interactions, developing photonic materials, devices, and solutions for scientific and societal challenges. Research areas include high-speed data manipulation, solar energy harvesting, pollutant sensing, process control, and next-generation medical tools. The laboratory brings together complementary expertise, creating Finland's most concentrated hub for photonics research. Photonics is integrated into master's level degree programmes. It forms a core part of the Master's Programme in Photonics Technologies and is one of the study paths within the Master's Programme in Science and Engineering (alongside Aerosol Physics and Computational Physics). Courses within photonics can also be taken as electives in other programmes. The university coordinates the Flagship on Photonics Research and Innovation (PREIN), a national initiative focused on excellent science, collaboration, and future solutions.
Curriculum
Photonics is offered as a study path within the Master's Programme in Photonics Technologies and the Master's Programme in Science and Engineering. Specific modules are available as electives for other programmes.
- Year 1
- Advanced Coherent Sources
- Applied Optics
- Experimental Quantum Optics
- Metaplasmonics
- Nanophotonics
- Nonlinear Optics
- Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC)
- Photonic Glasses
- Surface Science
- Theoretical Optics and Photonics
- Ultrafast Photonics
Careers
Graduates in Photonics are well-prepared for careers in research and development across various high-tech industries. The demand for photonics expertise spans from fundamental research to practical application and innovation.
- Photonics Researcher
- Optical Engineer
- R&D Scientist
- Product Development Engineer
- Laser Systems Engineer
- Optoelectronics Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Photonics Master's programme?
- Applicants typically need a relevant Bachelor's degree in fields such as physics, engineering, or a related discipline. Specific requirements may vary between the Master's Programme in Photonics Technologies and the Master's Programme in Science and Engineering.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements?
- Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, for example, with an IELTS score of 6.0 overall. Other recognized tests may also be accepted.
- How much is the tuition fee for international students?
- For non-EU/EEA citizens, the tuition fee is 15,000 EUR per academic year. EU/EEA citizens are exempt from tuition fees.
- What is the estimated cost of living in Tampere, Finland?
- The estimated living cost is approximately 800 EUR per month, though this can vary based on individual lifestyle.
- When is the application period for the Photonics Master's programme?
- The application period usually opens in December and closes in January for the following academic year. Admission decisions are typically announced in March or April for an autumn intake.
- What career opportunities are available for Photonics graduates?
- Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Photonics Researcher, Optical Engineer, R&D Scientist, and Laser Systems Engineer across various high-tech industries. The programme equips students for research and development in fields from fundamental science to innovation.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeRelevant Bachelor's degree in fields such as physics, engineering, or a related discipline.
IELTS6.0 overall
Specific academic and language requirements may vary depending on the exact Master's programme chosen. Please consult the official study guide for detailed information.
Fees
Tuition (international)15,000 EUR per academic year
Tuition (home)No tuition fees for EU/EEA citizens.
LivingEstimated 800 EUR per month.
Tuition fees are subject to change. Living cost estimates are for guidance and can vary based on individual lifestyle.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsReview the specific academic and language requirements for the Master's Programme you are interested in (e.g., Photonics Technologies or Science and Engineering).
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, proof of English proficiency, and a motivation letter.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form via Studyinfo.fi during the application period.
4. Pay Application Fee (if applicable)Some programmes may require an application fee.
5. Await Admission DecisionAdmission decisions are typically announced by a specific date.
6. Accept Offer and Apply for Residence PermitIf offered a place, accept the offer and begin the process of applying for a Finnish residence permit.
Accreditation
The programmes are part of Tampere University, which is a fully accredited higher education institution in Finland.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the Photonics Master's programme?
+
Applicants typically need a relevant Bachelor's degree in fields such as physics, engineering, or a related discipline. Specific requirements may vary between the Master's Programme in Photonics Technologies and the Master's Programme in Science and Engineering.
What are the English language proficiency requirements?
+
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, for example, with an IELTS score of 6.0 overall. Other recognized tests may also be accepted.
How much is the tuition fee for international students?
+
For non-EU/EEA citizens, the tuition fee is 15,000 EUR per academic year. EU/EEA citizens are exempt from tuition fees.
What is the estimated cost of living in Tampere, Finland?
+
The estimated living cost is approximately 800 EUR per month, though this can vary based on individual lifestyle.
When is the application period for the Photonics Master's programme?
+
The application period usually opens in December and closes in January for the following academic year. Admission decisions are typically announced in March or April for an autumn intake.
What career opportunities are available for Photonics graduates?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for roles such as Photonics Researcher, Optical Engineer, R&D Scientist, and Laser Systems Engineer across various high-tech industries. The programme equips students for research and development in fields from fundamental science to innovation.