University of Arizona College of Optical Sciences


The University of Arizona College of Optical Sciences, considered the largest institute for optics education in the United States, is dedicated to research and education in optics with an emphasis on engineering. The college focuses on providing solutions for the optics industry worldwide by initiating internationally recognized research programs and offering more than 90 courses in optical sciences. The college offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Optical Sciences and Engineering, Masters and Doctoral degree programs in Optical Sciences, as well as a dual master's degree in Optical Sciences and Business Administration. The college also offers comprehensive distance learning courses leading to a Professional Graduate Certificate or a master's degree and markets non-credit short courses on DVD to optics professionals.

History

The creation of the Optical Sciences Center, as the College was formerly known, was proposed by the Air Force Institute of Technology, together with the needs in Optics Committee of the Optical Society of America and Dr. Aden Meinel, Director of Steward Observatory at the University of Arizona in the early 1960s. The Center was established in 1964 thanks to the financial support of the University of Arizona Foundation with Dr. Aden Meinel as its first Director. The first research contracts given to the College came from the United States Air Force. Today, the College has partnerships with more than 40 corporations.

Notable faculty

The College of Optical Sciences faculty include many of the leaders in optics, photonics, and applied physics.
The College offers research opportunities in many areas including