In addition to coursework in mathematics, optics, and optical engineering, students in the Optical Sciences and Engineering major gain experience working with lasers, optical detectors, optical instrumentation, optic fiber communications, optical design, and optical fabrication and testing. Graduates are well prepared to work as engineers, researchers, testers, project managers, and salespeople in industries such as aerospace, computer technology, and medical instruments manufacturing.
Potential Career Areas:
- Design
- Fabrication
- Research
- Testing
- Telecommunications
- Computer technology
- Project management
- Aerospace technology
- Sales
Sample Employers:
- Observatories
- Colleges and universities
- Optical products manufacturers and testers
- Medical supply companies
- Computer manufacturers
- Consumer electronics firms
- U.S. Military
- Research institutes
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Optical Engineer
|
$49,270 - $88,570
|
|
Photonics Engineer
|
$49,500 - $90,300
|
|
Sales Engineer
|
$61,500 - $83,000
|
|
Photonics Technician
|
$30,410 - $56,850
|
|
Engineering Instructor, Postsecondary
|
$45,800 - $89,700
|
|
Optical Manufacturing Engineer
|
$44,000 - $113,000
|
|
Engineering Manager
|
$64,000 - $146,000
|
|
NASA Engineer
|
$31,209 - $118,957
|
|
Design Engineer
|
$58,760 - $90,000
|
|
Aerospace Technologist
|
$29,821 - $57,375
|
|
Nondestructive Tester
|
$38,000 - $46,500
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).