In the Master degree program in Optoelectronics and Photonics the students acquire a profound knowledge base and skillset in the field of optoelectronics and photonics. The program is set up as an interdisciplinary course program with about equal parts of advanced level (Master level) courses from physics and electrical engineering and information technology.
Restricted admission means that there is a limited number of places available in the degree programme (NC = numerus clausus = closed number). As a rule, there are more applicants than places, therefore a selection procedure is used.
Free admission means that there are sufficient places available in the degree program. All applicants therefore receive an acceptance letter and are guaranteed enrollment if all enrollment requirements are met (e.g. aptitude tests, language tests or internships).
Academic Prerequisites
The Examinations Board shall determine compliance with these requirements.
Language Prerequisites
Accepted certificates include: a. A bachelor’s degree from an English-speaking country or on an English-language accredited domestic program, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) “internet-based” Test (iBT) with a result of at least 80 points, TOEFL “paper-based” test (PBT) with a result of at least 550 points, IELTS test with a result of at least 6.0 or e. Cambridge Test – First Certificate in English (FCE), tests of an equivalent level, appropriate previous qualification from school.
German proficiency is not needed for this course, it can only be studied in English.
Please note: for international applicants, a GRE Revised General Test (at least 157 points in „Quantitative Reasoning“ and at least 4.0 points in „Analytical Writing“) or a very good or good CGPA in the Bachelor program are required for admission. The Examinations Board may accept a lower points score, depending on the qualification, if the final grade of the Bachelor's degree is very good.
You can find all details about deadlines and your next steps on the general Paderborn University Application Information websites.
Please check the admission requirements in advance and also consult our departmental website.
Please note: As an international applicant you have to apply via the uni-assist online portal, which allows you to submit your application electronically. Before registering, please check whether you meet the admission requirements and it is essential that you contact the International Office.
The interplay between optics and electronics is of both fundamental scientific interest and the foundation of a broad range of modern technology. Remarkable progress has been made in recent years combining techniques from areas as diverse as nanophotonics, semiconductor physics and even quantum optics. Learning how to bring fundamental principles of optoelectronic interaction out of the laboratory and engineer them into workable devices is a key skillset to drive this field forward. Our two-year Masters course in Optoelectronics and Photonics places students squarely at the intersection of modern physics, precision engineering and state-of-the-art technology. Students will develop a broad, technical skillset, as well as rigorous understanding of the underlying concepts. On completion, successful students will be ideally suited to a future academic or industrial career in this exciting and fast-moving field. We offer:
The Master’s program is taught in English. All examinations are in English.
The course comprises lecture courses, practical laboratory courses and an extended Masters thesis project. Key concepts are covered in core lectures, followed by specialist options in physics and electrical engineering. Laboratory work develops the practical skills required for a successful Masters thesis, which focusses on developing specialist research methods and independent project management. Language courses and professional training complete the curriculum. Examples of specialized skills acquired:
The study plan offers you a good orientation about your required and optional modules. However, the chronological order shown here is only an example and may change due to individual focus areas.
Die Prüfungsordnung klärt über Rechte und Pflichten auf!
The University of Paderborn has various partnerships with universities all over the world in each area of studies. Different exchange programmes are available for stays abroad. Our partner university portal provides information about our various partnerships in each area of studies.
Being more practical than a purely scientific masters course, yet retaining much of the academic rigour, successful graduates of the programme will be well prepared, and highly sought-after, in the job market. As well as existing technical industrial sectors, such as R&D, process engineering, technical computing and many others, the programme opens up perspectives in emerging sectors such as quantum technology, which is already attracting bright, well-trained graduates for the next generation of tech start-ups.
Graduates who wish to continue their studies after the Masters programme are perfectly placed to do so. Paderborn University is well-established as a centre of optoelectronics and photonics research, and progression to study for a PhD within one of the many exciting and internationally active research groups is extremely smooth.
Throughout the course of your degree, you may have some questions regarding vocational guidance and goal-setting. As the gateway between university and working life, the Career Service is on hand to answer all your career planning questions. Want to find out about potential careers, forge contacts with employers, identify your personal strengths and interests or clarify specific questions about starting out in a given career? Then make sure that you take advantage of the university’s comprehensive range of talks and workshops, practical projects, job and career portal and vocational preparation certificate upb+.
Interested in the start-up scene? Then visit us at TecUP! We promote start-ups in Paderborn and will support you on your path to self-employment. We’ll be by your side throughout every stage of the start-up process – completely free of charge and with no obligation! garage33 is our dedicated space for creativity and exchange, networking and working. In addition to tailored coaching, we also offer workshops and events for you to learn the theory and practice of setting up a business in an innovative and creative environment, and to help you formulate, develop and validate your idea.
Want to start a business, but lack the seed capital to do so? We can help you apply for grants and put you in touch with our network of business angels and investors. Or merely looking to get an insight into start-ups, for some inspiration or to network with business founders? Then visit our courses or events, such as CALL FOR IDEAS, apply for a start-up job or simply visit us at garage33 – we look forward to meeting you!
On completion of your degree, you can also choose to continue your studies with a PhD programme, thereby gaining the experience and qualifications you’ll need to subsequently take up a research position at a university or non-university research institution.
Our “Einblick!” (insights) peer mentoring programme gives female students in the final stages of their degree the chance to discuss doing a PhD and to prepare for a PhD. Participants are teamed up with a female PhD student, who, based on her own experience, gives them tips and strategies to assist them with their decision to pursue a PhD. The aim of the programme is to give participants insights into the kind of academic and research work involved in a PhD and for them to talk to their mentor about her experience in order to build on their personal and professional skills and broaden their development opportunities.
The Faculty of Science provides students pursuing postgraduate qualifications with support. The team at the Postgraduate Centre will be more than happy to provide you with information and advice.
Not quite right for you? One of our other study programs might be a better fit!
Campus life
There’s far more to studying at Paderborn University than just your degree course. Those thirsty for knowledge, those seeking discussion and debate and all those looking for something new can, for example, benefit from the opportunity to learn a new language or build on their existing language skills at the university’s Centre for Language Studies or brush up their software skills on a doIT course. IMT:Media offers dedicated media workstations on which you can give your creativity free reign, while the university’s wide and varied sports programme ranges from Aikido to Zumba. Or why not get involved with the university’s radio station L’UniCo or its “universal” magazine or join one of our multitude of project groups or initiatives.
Culture
A regular programme of plays and shows performed by our University Drama Group, poetry slams and readings, our big band and university choir are just a few examples of the diverse cultural activities and events on offer at Paderborn University. One particular highlight is our AStA (German General Students’ Committee) summer festival: Up to 15,000 people each year attend what is probably Germany’s largest outdoor campus festival, to enjoy the summer party vibes to the beats of a host of local student bands, plus well-known headliners on a number of stages.
Campus
Almost all of Paderborn University’s buildings are located on campus, with ample green spaces for relaxing and plenty of places to eat: “Mensa Academica”, “Mensa Forum”, “Grill | Café” and “Caféte”, as well as “Lädchen”, our small campus kiosk. Everything is within easy reach, within just a short walking distance. Our library is also centrally located, and a great place to study, thanks to its handy opening hours.
Accommodation
If you’d like to live on or close to campus, you can apply to Paderborn University’s Student Union for a place in university accommodation. You can also find private accommodation to rent, both near the university and city centre and in Paderborn’s various residential areas though the usual housing portals.
Finance
Students who need or wish to work alongside their degree should easily be able to fit a part-time job around their studies. A scholarship or BAföG federal student grant or loan are further options to help you fund your course and living expenses.
Advisory services
We have the right contact point for every question and concern. Our advice and service centres, for example, are on hand to answer any questions you may have about your academic or research work, applying for your dream job, funding options and much more.
Our university is a cosmopolitan university, with a clear gender and diversity policy. We have been actively promoting equal opportunities and a gender and family-friendly work and study culture for a number of years now. This includes helping students achieve a better study-life balance and supporting students with health issues.
The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
E-Mail: zsb@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-2007
We support prospective students in their choice of studies and in their decision to study. In addition, we advise students in all phases of their studies, especially in phases of reorientation.
International Office
E-Mail: io-info@zv.uni-paderborn.de
Student Council Electrical Engineering
Student Council Physics
Uni-Assist
Please apply for this program, regardless of your nationality, via the Uni-Assist Online Portal, if you don't have a German University Entrance Qualification.
Bildungsinländer*innen
If you don't have the German citizenship, but have received your university entrance qualification from a German school inside or outside of Germany (= Bildungsinländer*innen), apply for the program directly at the online portal PAUL of the admissions office. (Please initially supply a grade of 4,0; follow further instructions by email after registration in the online system.)
International Office
E-Mail: io-info@zv.uni-paderborn.de
Registrar’s Office
Examination Office
Service Centre for Studying with Disabilities
E-Mail: s-m-b@upb.de
Phone:05251/60-5498
FamilienServiceBüro
We support you in balancing your studies and family life.