Master of Science in Photonics Engineering
Brussels, Belgium
MSc
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
31 Jul 2026*
EARLIEST START DATE
21 Sep 2026
TUITION FEES
EUR 5,320 / per year **
STUDY FORMAT
Blended, On-Campus
* for EEA nationals | non EEA nationals : 31 March 2026
** for non EEA nationals| EEA nationals: EUR 1157 per year
Key Summary
Program highlights
- Core and advanced photonics courses complemented with electronics, physics, optics, and engineering
- Strong focus on hands-on training in highly equipped research labs
- International experience and exchange opportunities with 20 partners
- Dynamic link with industry through lectures and internships
- Semi-online track available
During the first year, you can develop your skills in laser engineering, optical communication, optical materials, micro photonics, and optical sensors. The first semester is devoted to the fundamental basics of photonics, while the second focuses on engineering skills and photonics applications. As this master's is organized by two leading universities in Belgium, you can follow courses entirely at VUB or choose specific courses at UGent.
While first-year students can follow courses at both VUB and UGent in Belgium, the second year has a more international character. The mandatory mobility tracks allow students to take courses and/or do a master's thesis abroad, during one or two semesters. In addition, students can also opt for a 5-week industrial internship (4 ECTS) in Belgium or internationally, or go abroad for a 10-12 weeks internship (10 ECTS) in the photonics industry or a research institute.
Next to the residential program, the program also offers a semi-online track:
- Master year 1 (semester 1/2) online
- Master year 2 (semester 3/4) on-campus (Brussels or Ghent)
Professional Perspectives
The MSc. in Photonics Engineering has all the right ingredients to prepare you for a bright future. The valuable internships with industry and research institutes abroad enhance your employability significantly.
As a consultant, engineer, or researcher you might find yourself in the driver's seat working in domains like life sciences, biotechnology, telecommunications, sustainable energy, agrifood, or Industry 4.0.
Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organisation (NVAO)
Accredited
The model learning track of the European Master of Science in Photonics consists of 120 ECTS:
In the first year of the model learning track:
- 52 ECTS of Compulsory General Courses
- 8 ECTS of Advanced Photonics Electives
In the second year of the model learning track:
- 4 ECTS of Compulsory General Courses
- 8 ECTS of Advanced Photonics Electives (or only 4 ECTS if the student is enrolled for the International Internship in Photonics (10 ECTS))
- 18 ECTS of Multidisciplinary Engineering Electives (or only 12 ECTS if the student is enrolled for the International Internship in Photonics (10 ECTS))
- a Master Thesis Project (30 ECTS)
At least 10 ECTS must be dedicated to internationalization as:
- an international internship (10 ECTS)
- a master thesis carried out abroad, possibly combined with the master thesis
- Erasmus+ exchange courses abroad, possibly combined with the master thesis
- Internationalization@home: strong international component in the master thesis (6 ECTS), course Recent Trends in Photonics, possible other UGent/VUB courses with strong international component (4 ECTS)
In total, this academic plan comprises 120 ECTS credits.
We are a public university and thus subsidized by the government. This results in relatively low tuition fees for the bachelor’s, master's, and PhD programs. We have some scholarships available for our master’s programs.
In order to comply with the profile set out for the European Master of Science in Photonics, students are expected:
- To have the ability to understand the main points (rationale, methodology, conclusions) of any research paper in the field of optics and photonics (without necessarily understanding all the details).
- To be able to read, understand and assess the manuals of standard photonic instrumentation.
- To have the ability to design a basic optical system and to assess its performances.
- To have a due understanding of the operation of optical components in various applications (e.g. laser printer, transmitters used in communications) and to be able to identify possible means in order to optimize the performance.
- To have due skills with the standard software tools for optical design and for characterization, to understand their mathematical background, and to be able to transfer these skills to others.
- To have a due understanding of the properties of standard optical materials, the field of their applications, and the present trends in materials research and fabrication technology.
- To be acquainted with standard geometrical optics, quantum- and optoelectronics, physical optics, with the underlying mathematical tools, with the mainstream applications of optics and photonics, and to be able to transfer these skills to others.
- To be able to write a research paper in a proper and professional format.
- To have the ability to give a professional presentation.
- To be able to work in a team and to respect deadlines.
- To be able to do research in a creative way.
- To be able to continue with more advanced studies and to have an attitude of lifelong learning.
- To understand what it means to work in an industrial environment and have acquired basic project management skills.
- To have an understanding of the role of Science and Technology in society.
- Adapt flexibility to diverse European academic cultures
The VUB helps you to make your first step in the job market with workshops, networking events, job fairs, tips 'n tricks for job interviews. All an ambitious student needs!