Optical Engineering

Optical Engineering, M.Eng.

  • Anytime
    Application Deadline
  • 24 months
    Duration
University College Dublin
The Optical Engineering programme at University College Dublin is based on optical technologies which play key roles in many areas including biomedical imaging, astronomy, quality control, security, sensing and telecommunications (most obviously with the introduction of multi-camera mobile phones).

Overview

At the Optical Engineering programme at University College Dublin you will learn about very exciting innovative technologies that are rapidly emerging, driven by the ability to display and capture large amounts of real time optical data. Optical engineers are involved in identifying and designing these systems, with the aim of improving people’s lives, generating employment and creating new business opportunities.

  • Delivered by a highly research intensive School holding 151-200 in the QS world subject rankings, this two-year programme provides 6-8 months professional work experience as an embedded element of the programme.
  • You will gain an advanced understanding of a broad range of areas within optical engineering, such as biomedical signal processing, optoelectronics and biomedical imaging.
  • Research project topics are spread across a wide range, but related to and drawing on the topics covered in the taught modules. Similarly, your work placement can involve a variety of roles in a range of different companies in the electronic and computer engineering field.

Career opportunities

Graduates of ME Optical Engineering programme at University College Dublin get excellent job opportunities for optical engineers in the display, lighting, virtual reality, robotic and drone areas. It is a large and expanding area.

Established employers in Ireland include both multinationals and indigenous companies, e.g. Andor, Carl Zeiss, Huawei, Intel/Movidius, Qualcomm, and Sensl, to name but a few.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

  • Numerical Algorithms
  • Optical Sensing Technology
  • Nanomaterials Chemistry
  • Software Engineering
  • Data Science in Python
  • Electromagnetic Waves

Detailed Programme Facts

English Language Requirements

You need the following IELTS score:

  • Minimum required score:

    6.5

    The IELTS – or the International English Language Test System – tests your English-language abilities (writing, listening, speaking, and reading) on a scale of 1.00–9.00. The minimum IELTS score requirement refers to which Overall Band Score you received, which is your combined average score. Read more about IELTS.

    Get a free IELTS practice test

Academic Requirements

You need the following GPA score:

Required score: Upper Second Class

Applicants for graduate programs must have the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA equivalent to Upper Second Class on the UK Honour scale. Admitted applicants typically have an undergraduate GPA of or better on the UK Honour scale. No exam grade should be lower than 4.5 (European grade scale) or D (American grade scale).

Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated using the grades that you received in each course, and is determined by the points assigned to each grade (e.g. for the US grading scale from A-F).

General Requirements

  • An honours undergraduate degree (NFQ level 8) in Electrical, Electronic, Computer or Optical Engineering with minimum 2:1 award  or international equivalent 
  •  English language proficiency 
  •  Students meeting the programme’s academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements, may enter the programme upon successful completion of UCD’s International Pre-Master’s Pathway programmes.

Tuition Fee

  • International

    24800 EUR/year
    Tuition Fee
    Based on the original amount of 24800 EUR per year and a duration of 24 months.

  • EU/EEA

    7830 EUR/year
    Tuition Fee
    Based on the original amount of 7830 EUR per year and a duration of 24 months.
We've labeled the tuition fee that applies to you because we think you are from and prefer over other currencies.
  • EU: Year 2 - € 7830 
  • nonEU: Year 2 - € 24200 

Living costs for Dublin

  • 1100 - 1800 EUR/month
    Living Costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Please note that UCD offers a number of graduate scholarships for full-time, self-funding international students, holding an offer of a place on a UCD graduate degree programme. 

The College of Engineering & Architecture also offer scholarships for non-EU students.

Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.

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Optical Engineering
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