Overview

The MSOP thesis route requires completion of an acceptable research-based thesis describing independent research performed by the student with guidance from the advisor and graduate supervisory committee. The thesis involves considerable effort and must generate results of sufficient quality and significance to be reported in a national or international conference paper or presentation. 

Duration

30 credits total or 2-3 years on average. 

Degree

Master of Science in Optics and Photonics

Career Outcome

Photonics Engineers - U.S.median salary of about $117,750 and $87,130 in Montana. Source: O*NET, 17-2199.07 - Photonics Engineers.

 

Something to note: O*NET data gives median salaries but does not differentiate salary amounts between degree types.

What You'll Be Learning

Below are some of the learning outcomes of this program, though more can be found on the course catalog.

  • Wave optics
  • Quantum optics
  • Laser principles and design
  • Overview of electro optic systems and their function
  • Optical design using geometric optics and ray-tracing software
  • Fourier optics/imaging theory
  • Quantum mechanics
  • Photovalic systems

What Graduates Are Prepared to Do

  • Analyze operational data to evaluate operations, processes or products
  • Prepare research or technical reports
  • Prepare proposal documents
  • Identify new applications for existing technologies
  • Prepare detailed work plans
  • Design industrial processing systems
  • Design energy production or management equipment or systems

How to Apply 

Applicants are encouraged to contact faculty to discuss research and funding opportunities prior to submitting their application. For information on research opportunities in optics and photonics, visit the Optical Technology Center faculty webpage and the following research web pages for participating departments:

 

  • Statement of Purpose: In an essay approximately one page in length, describe your primary research interests, specific faculty members you are interested in working with at Montana State University, and career goals.
  • Conferred bachelor’s degree: Unofficial transcripts can be uploaded by the student during this online process; however, MSU must receive official transcripts directly from all universities previously attended. Have official transcripts sent to the Graduate School. Applicants who are undergraduate alumni of MSU-Bozeman do not need to submit their official MSU transcripts but should instead upload unofficial transcripts during the application process.
  • Contact information for three (3) reference letters: The electronic process will prompt each reference to submit a signed reference letter. Letters should be written by people who are able to judge your ability to succeed in graduate school, such as under-graduate professors, research advisors, and internship supervisors. Please do not ask for letters of recommendation from family members, friends, roommates, etc.

International Applicant Information: In addition to the above, international applicants will be required to submit a variety of additional documentation including English proficiency scores (at or above) the following: TOEFL [iBT: 100, PBT: 600], IELTS [level 7.0], or PTE [68]. Please see International application process for further information.

The Master of Science in Optics and Photonics follows the Electrical and Computer Engineering application deadlines. The dates can be found on the ECE Graduate Programs webpage:  

 

Apply Now

 

Last updated 6/18/2026