Fundamentals of Modern Optics

Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena
Online
8 ECTS
Phortify Self-standing Modules

Fundamentals of Modern Optics

This is a full-scale lecture, a compulsory 8 EC-module in the local M.Sc. Photonics course by Prof. Thomas Pertsch. In Jena, this is offered every winter term with a lecture of 4h per week and a seminar of 2h per week. The module is self-standing in the sense that there is an online platform where students can independently assess all lecture material, all recorded lectures (recorded in the winter term 2025/26), all task sheets etc.

Content:

  • Basic concepts of wave optics
  • Dielectric function to describe light-matter interaction
  • Propagation of beams and pulses
  • Diffraction theory- Elements of Fourier optics
  • Polarization of light
  • Light in structured media
  • Optics in crystals

The access to this self-standing module can be individually given to students not enrolled in Jena, all online.

Organisers

Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena

Delivery mode

Online

Location

Online

Timing

On Demand

Target audience

MSc students

Language

English

Learning outcomes

The course covers the fundamentals of modern optics which are necessary for the understanding of optical phenomena in modern science and technology. The students will acquire a thorough knowledge of the most important concepts of modern optics. At the same time, the importance and beauty of optics in nature and in technology will be taught. This will enable students to follow more specialized courses in photonics.

Topical Area(s) covered in this module

Integrated photonics

Duration or workload

8 ECTS

Competence level

Advanced

Temporal mode

Flexible self-paced

Timing and availability

On Demand

Learning formats

Lecture
Exercises
Independent study
Exam

Pricing

Free

Target audience

MSc students

Entry requirements

Knowledge in Calculus and Electromagnetic Theory, as taught e.g. in a B.Sc. Physics, is expected in advance of this course. However, this is the first and fundamental Introductory lecture of our M.Sc. Photonics course, to bring also BSc graduates with heterogeneous backgrounds to the same level.

Assessment method(s)

Exam

Exam format

Online (scheduled)

Organisers

UniJena logo
Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena

Contact

Prof. 

Thomas 

Pertsch

Dr. 

Christian 

Helgert

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