Graduate Program

Fall Term Schedule

Fall 2025

Number	Title	Instructor	Time
OPT 401-1 HOME First Laboratory Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This laboratory is for HOME students only, and is the first of three, in-person sections necessary for the MS HOME program. This lab includes individual training [bootcamp] on the use of an oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, laser power meters, aligning a laser, aligning a spatial filter, splicing an optical fiber, and aligning an optical assembly. An online, laser safety training course is also required. The course will end with a 12-hour laboratory, and written formal laboratory report. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 402-1 HOME Second Laboratory Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This laboratory is the second of three, in-person sections necessary for the MS HOME program. This lab includes a 12- and 6-hour lab, and a formal 20 minute presentation. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 410-01 Introduction to Augmented and Virtual Reality Mujdat Cetin MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM
This course provides a broad introduction to augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) systems. The course involves lectures and workshops covering an overview of all aspects of the AR/VR domain, as well as an individual class project developing an AR/VR demonstration of an application chosen by each student. Topics covered in the lectures and class workshops include history, conceptual origins, and design/evaluation principles of AR/VR technologies; optical architectures; audio and visual perception; graphics and computation; data processing and machine intelligence; introduction to AR/VR developer tools; societal implications and ethical aspects. At the end of the course, students will have gained familiarity with the techniques, languages, and cultures of fields integral to the convergent research theme of AR/VR. This course includes workshops and project demonstrations in Studio X, as well as several guest lectures. Location (MW 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 411-1 Math Methods for Optics William Renninger TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations. Location (TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 411-2 Math Methods for Optics William Renninger F 11:05AM - 12:20PM
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations. Location (F 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 413-01 Intro to Random Processes Gonzalo Mateos Buckstein MW 4:50PM - 6:05PM
The goal of this course is to learn how to model, analyze and simulate stochastic systems, found at the core of a number of disciplines in engineering, for example communication systems, stock options pricing and machine learning. This course is divided into five thematic blocks: Introduction, Probability review, Markov chains, Continuous-time Markov chains, and Gaussian, Markov and stationary random processes. Location (MW 4:50PM - 6:05PM)
OPT 425-1 Radiation & Detectors Gary Wicks TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
The course covers the following topics: emission of thermal radiation, modeling of optical propagation (radiometry), quantifying the human perception of brightness (photometry) and of color (colorimetry), fundamentals of noise in detection systems, parameters for specifying the performance of optical detectors, and a survey of several specific types of lasers.References: Boyd, Radiometry and the Detection of Optical Radiation; Kingston, Detection of Optical and Infrared Radiation. Location (TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 430-99 Mechanics for Optical Engineers Jonathan Ellis TR 6:15PM - 7:30PM
This course focuses on establishing a foundation for optical engineers to interface with mechanical engineers as part of the optical system design process. Students will learn the basics of CAD using SolidWorks to perform simple design tasks such as making lens barrels simple mounted components. Students will then learn basic optical and metal fabrication techniques, including the manner in which standard components are manufactured. After, students will focus on standard mechanical tolerancing and the difference with optical tolerancing to understand the limitations between the two. Included in this discussion are aspects of GD&T and resources for understanding different datums and mechanical drawing features. Lastly, students will learn basic concepts from mechanics, including free-body diagrams, kinematic constraints, stress, strain, and combined stress. Location (TR 6:15PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 440-01 Freeform Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson R 11:05AM - 12:20PM
In the same way that the ability to generate and manipulate electrons leads to electronic devices, the ability to generate and manipulate photons leads to optics & photonics devices – the technology of the 21st century. Freeform optics is an emerging optics & photonics technology. The course will first reveal the history of freeform optics. We will next mathematically define freeform optics. Then, building on prior knowledge of optical aberration theory for rotationally symmetric systems, we will introduce Nodal Aberration Theory (NAT) – the aberration theory of asymmetric systems, where originally, asymmetry due to misalignment was considered, but in this course, we will look at asymmetry due to freeform surfaces. With this foundation on the aberration theory of freeform systems, learning about freeform optics includes learning about designing freeform optical systems with the intention to successfully build them, fabricating them, testing them, and completing the full assembly and system-level test The goal of this class is for students to learn how to design freeform optical systems that can be built. Location (R 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 440-99 Freeform Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson R 11:05AM - 12:20PM
In the same way that the ability to generate and manipulate electrons leads to electronic devices, the ability to generate and manipulate photons leads to optics & photonics devices – the technology of the 21st century. Freeform optics is an emerging optics & photonics technology. The course will first reveal the history of freeform optics. We will next mathematically define freeform optics. Then, building on prior knowledge of optical aberration theory for rotationally symmetric systems, we will introduce Nodal Aberration Theory (NAT) – the aberration theory of asymmetric systems, where originally, asymmetry due to misalignment was considered, but in this course, we will look at asymmetry due to freeform surfaces. With this foundation on the aberration theory of freeform systems, learning about freeform optics includes learning about designing freeform optical systems with the intention to successfully build them, fabricating them, testing them, and completing the full assembly and system-level test The goal of this class is for students to learn how to design freeform optical systems that can be built. Location (R 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 441-1 Geometrical Optics Dale Buralli MW 12:30PM - 1:45PM
This course is designed to give the student a basic working knowledge of image-forming optical systems. The course is oriented towards problem solving. Material covered includes: image formation, raytracing and first-order properties of systems; magnification, F/number, and numerical aperture; stops and pupils, telecentricity vignetting; telescopes, microscopes, magnifiers, and projection systems; the Delano diagram; the eye and visual systems, field lenses; optical glasses, the chromatic aberrations, and their correction; derivation of the monochromatic wavefront aberrations and study of their effects upon the image; third order properties of systems of thin lenses; effects of stop position and lens bending; aplanatic, image centered, and pupil centered surfaces; and field flatteners.References: Smith, Modern Optical Engineering, McGraw-Hill; Lecture notes. Location (MW 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 443-1 Foundations of Modern Optical Systems Georg Nadorff TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM
This course covers fundamental ray optics that are necessary to understand todays simple to advanced optical systems. Included will be paraxial optics, first-order optical system design, illumination, optical glasses, chromatic effects, and an introduction to aberrations.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Smith, Modern Optical Engineering; Lecture notes. Location (TR 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 446-1 Optical Interference Coating Jennifer Kruschwitz TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM
This course addresses the design, manufacture and quality control of optical interference coatings. Topics covered include: reflection and transmission at an interface; the vector diagram; the Smith Chart; properties of periodic media; design of high reflectors, bandpass filters and edge filter; use of computer programs for design analysis; production techniques; thickness monitoring; and thickness uniformity calculations. Location (TR 3:25PM - 4:40PM)
OPT 449-1 Introduction to Illumination Joshua Cobb TR 4:50PM - 7:30PM
This course is intended as an overview to the design and analysis of illumination systems along with an introduction to the use of Light Tools software. The classes alternate between lectures on an illumination topic, which includes many examples, and a working lab learning skills in Light Tools. The Lecture/Labs would be complimentary so that the skills developed in using the software reinforce the topics covered in the Lectures. Location (TR 4:50PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 453-1 Quantum & Nano Opt Lab (Advanced) Svetlana Lukishova W 8:00AM - 9:15AM
NOTE: the schedule for this course will be set by the instructor after polling ALL registered students for availability (One 1 hour per week lectures and ONE 1.5 hours per week lab) This ADVANCED laboratory course is based both on quantum information and new advances in nanotechnology. As much as wireless communication has impacted daily life already, the abstract theory of quantum mechanics promises solutions to a series of problems with similar impact on the twenty-first century. Students will experimentally learn cutting-edge photon counting instrumentation and methods with applications ranging from quantum information to nanotechnology, biotechnology and medicine. Major lab topics include quantum entanglement and Bells inequalities, single-photon interference, single-emitter confocal fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy, photonic bandgap materials, Hanbury Brown and Twiss interferometer/photon antibunching. Photonic based quantum computing and quantum cryptography will be outlined in the course materials as possible applications of these concepts and tools. Other important quantum and nano-optics experiments and methods [for instance, Hong-Ou-Mandel interferometer and its applications as well as super-resolution optical fluorescent microscopies (nanoscopy)] will be discussed on the lectures. ALL students assignments are individual. For grading students should submit an essay, deliver a 20-mins talk about all labs with submission of their PowerPoint slides, 3 lab reports, maintain their lab journals and pass through MidTerm and Final (Big) Quizzes. Location (W 8:00AM - 9:15AM)
OPT 456-1 Optics Laboratory Greg Schmidt 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This is an intensive laboratory course with experiments that likely included the following: 1. Transverse and axial mode structure of a gas laser.2. Detector calibration using a blackbody.3. Production of a white light viewable transmission hologram.4. Acousto-optic modulation.5. Twyman-Green interferometry.6. Optical Fibers Laser.7. The Pockels cell as an optical modulator.8. Optical beats (heterodyning) and CATV.9. The YAG laser and second harmonic generation.10. Fourier optics and optical filtering.11. Lens Evaluation.12. Modulation Transfer Function.13. Applications and properties of pulsed dye laser.14. Holographic optical elements.15. Properties of Gaussian beams. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 461-1 Fourier Optics James Fienup MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes Location (MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM)
OPT 461-2 Fourier Optics – F 12:30PM - 1:45PM
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes Location (F 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 463-1 Wave Optics & Imaging Jennifer Kruschwitz TR 8:00AM - 9:30AM
This course provides the practicing optical engineer with the basic concepts of interference, diffraction, and imaging. Each topic will be reinforced with real-world examples. The interference section will include interferometry, Fabry-Perot etalons, and multilayer thin films. The diffraction and imaging sections will include, but are not limited to, diffractive optics, continuous and discrete Fourier transforms, convolution theory, and Linear Systems.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics; Lecture notes. Location (TR 8:00AM - 9:30AM)
OPT 464-1 Nanophotonic Devices Qiang Lin TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM
This course aims to provide students with the understanding of fundamental principles governing optical and mechanical phenomena at micro/nanoscopic scale, with focus on current research advances on device level. The following topics will be covered: Fundamental concepts of micro-/nanoscopic optical cavities and mechanical resonators; various types of typical nanophotonic and nanomechanical structures; fabrication techniques; theoretical modeling methods and tools; typical experimental configurations; physics and application of optomechanical, quantum optical, and nonlinear optical phenomena at mesoscopic scale; state-of-the-art devices and current research advances. References: primarily based on recent literature Location (TR 11:05AM - 12:20PM)
OPT 467-1 Nonlinear Optics Robert Boyd T 2:00PM - 4:40PM
Fundamentals and applications of optical systems based on the nonlinear interaction of light with matter. Topics to be treated include mechanisms of optical nonlinearity, second-harmonic and sum- and difference-frequency generation, photonics and optical logic, optical self-action effects including self-focusing and optical soliton formation, optical phase conjugation, stimulated Brillouin and stimulated Raman scattering, and selection criteria of nonlinear optical materials.References: Robert W. Boyd, Nonlinear Optics, Second Edition. Location (T 2:00PM - 4:40PM)
OPT 469-1 Introduction to Modeling in Photonics Pablo Postigo Resa TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM
This course provides up-to-date introduction to computer modeling in photonics. Topics covered include the basics of finite difference time domain (FDTD) and finite domain (FD) simulation for photonics. Special emphasis will be given to modeling in the micro and nanoscales. Location (TR 12:30PM - 1:45PM)
OPT 473-01 Laser Engineering ; Leon Waxer MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of lasers, laser performance, and applications. Topics include the physics of laser operation, laser cavities, laser types and applications, performance metrics, polarization optics in lasers, and laser amplifiers. Location (MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM)
OPT 473-99 Laser Engineering Leon Waxer MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of lasers, laser performance, and applications. Topics include the physics of laser operation, laser cavities, laser types and applications, performance metrics, polarization optics in lasers, and laser amplifiers. Location (MW 10:25AM - 11:40AM)
OPT 479-1 THz Phenomena and Technology Xi-Cheng Zhang F 9:00AM - 11:40AM
Terahertz (THz) technology and applications provides the fundamentals of free-space THz photonics for sensing, imaging and spectroscopy applications. A free-space THz-ray optoelectronic system, with diffraction-limited spatial resolution, femtosecond temporal resolution, DC-THz spectral bandwidth, and mV/cm field sensitivity, will be central to the course. We will cover the basic concepts of generation, detection and propagation of T-rays, and their applications. Students will learn most advanced THz technology. Modern methods include THz time-domain spectroscopy, optical rectification, electro-optic sampling, THz gas laser, Gunn diodes and Schottky diodes, and FTIR. Many newly developed THz systems at Rochester will be the examples used in this course. Ultrafast THz Phenomena session also covers the methods for optical measurement with short laser pulses. Short laser pulse generation, amplification, detection, and characterization will be discussed. Location (F 9:00AM - 11:40AM)
OPT 486-01 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey R 4:50PM - 7:30PM
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success. Location (R 4:50PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 486-99 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey R 4:50PM - 7:30PM
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success. Location (R 4:50PM - 7:30PM)
OPT 491-01 Master's Reading Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course is for master's students that have made arrangements with a faculty member to complete readings and discussion in a particular subject in their field of study. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 491-02 Master's Reading Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course is for master's students that have made arrangements with a faculty member to complete readings and discussion in a particular subject in their field of study. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-1 Master's Research Govind Agrawal 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-11 Master's Research Wayne Knox 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-12 Master's Research Todd Krauss 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-13 Master's Research Greg Schmidt 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-14 Master's Research Qiang Lin 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-17 Master's Research William Renninger 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-18 Master's Research Jannick Rolland-Thompson 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-19 Master's Research Nick Vamivakas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-2 Master's Research Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-20 Master's Research Gary Wicks 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-21 Master's Research David Williams 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-22 Master's Research Brian Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-23 Master's Research Xi-Cheng Zhang 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-24 Master's Research Jake Bromage 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-25 Master's Research Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-4 Master's Research Robert Boyd 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-5 Master's Research Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-6 Master's Research Jaime Cardenas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-8 Master's Research Susana Marcos 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 495-9 Master's Research Chunlei Guo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students with the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 544-1 Advanced Lens Design Julie Bentley R 6:15PM - 8:55PM
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects. Location (R 6:15PM - 8:55PM)
OPT 544-2 Advanced Lens Design Julie Bentley F 2:00PM - 3:15PM
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects. Location (F 2:00PM - 3:15PM)
OPT 591-01 PhD Readings Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course is for PhD students that have made arrangements with a faculty member to complete readings and discussion in a particular subject in their field of study. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-01 PhD Research Govind Agrawal 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-02 PhD Research Miguel Alonso 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-03 PhD Research Julie Bentley 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-04 PhD Research James Fienup 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-05 PhD Research Robert Boyd 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-06 PhD Research Thomas Brown 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-07 PhD Research Jaime Cardenas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-08 PhD Research P Scott Carney 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-09 PhD Research Michele Cotrufo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-10 PhD Research Chunlei Guo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-11 PhD Research Andrea Pickel 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-12 PhD Research Wayne Knox 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-13 PhD Research Todd Krauss 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-14 PhD Research Andrew Berger 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-15 PhD Research Qiang Lin 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-16 PhD Research John Marciante 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-17 PhD Research Susana Marcos 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-18 PhD Research William Renninger 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-19 PhD Research Jannick Rolland-Thompson 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-20 PhD Research Nick Vamivakas 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-21 PhD Research Gary Wicks 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-22 PhD Research David Williams 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-23 PhD Research Ben Miller 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-24 PhD Research Xi-Cheng Zhang 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-25 PhD Research Kevin Parker 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-26 PhD Research Jake Bromage 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-27 PhD Research Michele Rucci 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-28 PhD Research Jim Zavislan; P Scott Carney 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-29 PhD Research Pablo Postigo Resa 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-30 PhD Research Brian Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-31 PhD Research Pengfei Huo 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-33 PhD Research Greg Schmidt 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 595-34 PhD Research Michael Giacomelli 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students with fewer than 90 credits the opportunity to conduct, develop, and refine their doctoral research projects. Students will engage in research relevant to their field of study and make progress toward completing their dissertations. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 596-1 Optics Colloquium Michele Cotrufo M 3:25PM - 4:40PM
The Institute of Optics Colloquium series presents invited speakers in Optics. PhD students who began their program in 2019 or later are required to complete 4 credits of OPT 596 as part of their program. It is recommended that PhD students complete their 4 credits of OPT 596 in the first 4 semesters of their program. Grades for OPT 596 are Pass/Fail. Students must attend 75% of offered Colloquia to receive a Pass grade. This course is for Optics PhD students only. Location (M 3:25PM - 4:40PM)
OPT 894-1 Co-Op Program in Optics Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
No description Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 895-1 Continuation of Master’s Enrollment – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course is designed for master's degree students who have completed all required coursework but still need to finalize specific degree requirements under less than half-time enrollment. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 897-01 Masters Dissertation Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master's students who are currently completing their final required coursework, or with special circumstances like an approved reduced courseload, with the opportunity to work full-time on their degrees. Students will make significant progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 899-01 Masters Dissertation Jennifer Kruschwitz 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides master’s students who have completed or are currently completing all course requirements with the opportunity to work full-time on their thesis. Students will make significant progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 986V-1 Full Time Visiting Student – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course affords graduate students visiting the University of Rochester full-time student status. Visiting students will engage in research, discussion, and/or professional training in partnership with an academic department or faculty member. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 987V-1 Part Time Visiting Student – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course affords graduate students visiting the University of Rochester part-time student status. Visiting students will engage in research, discussion, and/or professional training in partnership with an academic department or faculty member. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 995-1 Continuation of Doctoral Enrollment – 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course is designed for PhD students who have completed all required coursework but still need to finalize specific degree requirements under less than half-time enrollment. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)
OPT 999-01 Doctoral Dissertation Gary Wicks 7:00PM - 7:00PM
This course provides PhD students who have completed or are currently completing 90 credits of coursework and have fulfilled all degree requirements (except for the dissertation) with the opportunity to work full-time on their dissertation. Students will make significant progress toward completing their degrees. Location ( 7:00PM - 7:00PM)

Number	Title	Instructor	Time
Monday
OPT 596-1 Optics Colloquium Michele Cotrufo
The Institute of Optics Colloquium series presents invited speakers in Optics. PhD students who began their program in 2019 or later are required to complete 4 credits of OPT 596 as part of their program. It is recommended that PhD students complete their 4 credits of OPT 596 in the first 4 semesters of their program. Grades for OPT 596 are Pass/Fail. Students must attend 75% of offered Colloquia to receive a Pass grade. This course is for Optics PhD students only.
Monday and Wednesday
OPT 461-1 Fourier Optics James Fienup
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes
OPT 473-01 Laser Engineering ; Leon Waxer
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of lasers, laser performance, and applications. Topics include the physics of laser operation, laser cavities, laser types and applications, performance metrics, polarization optics in lasers, and laser amplifiers.
OPT 473-99 Laser Engineering Leon Waxer
This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of lasers, laser performance, and applications. Topics include the physics of laser operation, laser cavities, laser types and applications, performance metrics, polarization optics in lasers, and laser amplifiers.
OPT 441-1 Geometrical Optics Dale Buralli
This course is designed to give the student a basic working knowledge of image-forming optical systems. The course is oriented towards problem solving. Material covered includes: image formation, raytracing and first-order properties of systems; magnification, F/number, and numerical aperture; stops and pupils, telecentricity vignetting; telescopes, microscopes, magnifiers, and projection systems; the Delano diagram; the eye and visual systems, field lenses; optical glasses, the chromatic aberrations, and their correction; derivation of the monochromatic wavefront aberrations and study of their effects upon the image; third order properties of systems of thin lenses; effects of stop position and lens bending; aplanatic, image centered, and pupil centered surfaces; and field flatteners.References: Smith, Modern Optical Engineering, McGraw-Hill; Lecture notes.
OPT 410-01 Introduction to Augmented and Virtual Reality Mujdat Cetin
This course provides a broad introduction to augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) systems. The course involves lectures and workshops covering an overview of all aspects of the AR/VR domain, as well as an individual class project developing an AR/VR demonstration of an application chosen by each student. Topics covered in the lectures and class workshops include history, conceptual origins, and design/evaluation principles of AR/VR technologies; optical architectures; audio and visual perception; graphics and computation; data processing and machine intelligence; introduction to AR/VR developer tools; societal implications and ethical aspects. At the end of the course, students will have gained familiarity with the techniques, languages, and cultures of fields integral to the convergent research theme of AR/VR. This course includes workshops and project demonstrations in Studio X, as well as several guest lectures.
OPT 413-01 Intro to Random Processes Gonzalo Mateos Buckstein
The goal of this course is to learn how to model, analyze and simulate stochastic systems, found at the core of a number of disciplines in engineering, for example communication systems, stock options pricing and machine learning. This course is divided into five thematic blocks: Introduction, Probability review, Markov chains, Continuous-time Markov chains, and Gaussian, Markov and stationary random processes.
Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Tuesday
OPT 467-1 Nonlinear Optics Robert Boyd
Fundamentals and applications of optical systems based on the nonlinear interaction of light with matter. Topics to be treated include mechanisms of optical nonlinearity, second-harmonic and sum- and difference-frequency generation, photonics and optical logic, optical self-action effects including self-focusing and optical soliton formation, optical phase conjugation, stimulated Brillouin and stimulated Raman scattering, and selection criteria of nonlinear optical materials.References: Robert W. Boyd, Nonlinear Optics, Second Edition.
Tuesday and Thursday
OPT 463-1 Wave Optics & Imaging Jennifer Kruschwitz
This course provides the practicing optical engineer with the basic concepts of interference, diffraction, and imaging. Each topic will be reinforced with real-world examples. The interference section will include interferometry, Fabry-Perot etalons, and multilayer thin films. The diffraction and imaging sections will include, but are not limited to, diffractive optics, continuous and discrete Fourier transforms, convolution theory, and Linear Systems.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics; Lecture notes.
OPT 411-1 Math Methods for Optics William Renninger
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations.
OPT 464-1 Nanophotonic Devices Qiang Lin
This course aims to provide students with the understanding of fundamental principles governing optical and mechanical phenomena at micro/nanoscopic scale, with focus on current research advances on device level. The following topics will be covered: Fundamental concepts of micro-/nanoscopic optical cavities and mechanical resonators; various types of typical nanophotonic and nanomechanical structures; fabrication techniques; theoretical modeling methods and tools; typical experimental configurations; physics and application of optomechanical, quantum optical, and nonlinear optical phenomena at mesoscopic scale; state-of-the-art devices and current research advances. References: primarily based on recent literature
OPT 425-1 Radiation & Detectors Gary Wicks
The course covers the following topics: emission of thermal radiation, modeling of optical propagation (radiometry), quantifying the human perception of brightness (photometry) and of color (colorimetry), fundamentals of noise in detection systems, parameters for specifying the performance of optical detectors, and a survey of several specific types of lasers.References: Boyd, Radiometry and the Detection of Optical Radiation; Kingston, Detection of Optical and Infrared Radiation.
OPT 469-1 Introduction to Modeling in Photonics Pablo Postigo Resa
This course provides up-to-date introduction to computer modeling in photonics. Topics covered include the basics of finite difference time domain (FDTD) and finite domain (FD) simulation for photonics. Special emphasis will be given to modeling in the micro and nanoscales.
OPT 443-1 Foundations of Modern Optical Systems Georg Nadorff
This course covers fundamental ray optics that are necessary to understand todays simple to advanced optical systems. Included will be paraxial optics, first-order optical system design, illumination, optical glasses, chromatic effects, and an introduction to aberrations.References: Hecht, Optics (4th edition); Smith, Modern Optical Engineering; Lecture notes.
OPT 446-1 Optical Interference Coating Jennifer Kruschwitz
This course addresses the design, manufacture and quality control of optical interference coatings. Topics covered include: reflection and transmission at an interface; the vector diagram; the Smith Chart; properties of periodic media; design of high reflectors, bandpass filters and edge filter; use of computer programs for design analysis; production techniques; thickness monitoring; and thickness uniformity calculations.
OPT 449-1 Introduction to Illumination Joshua Cobb
This course is intended as an overview to the design and analysis of illumination systems along with an introduction to the use of Light Tools software. The classes alternate between lectures on an illumination topic, which includes many examples, and a working lab learning skills in Light Tools. The Lecture/Labs would be complimentary so that the skills developed in using the software reinforce the topics covered in the Lectures.
OPT 430-99 Mechanics for Optical Engineers Jonathan Ellis
This course focuses on establishing a foundation for optical engineers to interface with mechanical engineers as part of the optical system design process. Students will learn the basics of CAD using SolidWorks to perform simple design tasks such as making lens barrels simple mounted components. Students will then learn basic optical and metal fabrication techniques, including the manner in which standard components are manufactured. After, students will focus on standard mechanical tolerancing and the difference with optical tolerancing to understand the limitations between the two. Included in this discussion are aspects of GD&T and resources for understanding different datums and mechanical drawing features. Lastly, students will learn basic concepts from mechanics, including free-body diagrams, kinematic constraints, stress, strain, and combined stress.
Wednesday
OPT 453-1 Quantum & Nano Opt Lab (Advanced) Svetlana Lukishova
NOTE: the schedule for this course will be set by the instructor after polling ALL registered students for availability (One 1 hour per week lectures and ONE 1.5 hours per week lab) This ADVANCED laboratory course is based both on quantum information and new advances in nanotechnology. As much as wireless communication has impacted daily life already, the abstract theory of quantum mechanics promises solutions to a series of problems with similar impact on the twenty-first century. Students will experimentally learn cutting-edge photon counting instrumentation and methods with applications ranging from quantum information to nanotechnology, biotechnology and medicine. Major lab topics include quantum entanglement and Bells inequalities, single-photon interference, single-emitter confocal fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy, photonic bandgap materials, Hanbury Brown and Twiss interferometer/photon antibunching. Photonic based quantum computing and quantum cryptography will be outlined in the course materials as possible applications of these concepts and tools. Other important quantum and nano-optics experiments and methods [for instance, Hong-Ou-Mandel interferometer and its applications as well as super-resolution optical fluorescent microscopies (nanoscopy)] will be discussed on the lectures. ALL students assignments are individual. For grading students should submit an essay, deliver a 20-mins talk about all labs with submission of their PowerPoint slides, 3 lab reports, maintain their lab journals and pass through MidTerm and Final (Big) Quizzes.
Wednesday and Friday
Thursday
OPT 440-01 Freeform Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson
In the same way that the ability to generate and manipulate electrons leads to electronic devices, the ability to generate and manipulate photons leads to optics & photonics devices – the technology of the 21st century. Freeform optics is an emerging optics & photonics technology. The course will first reveal the history of freeform optics. We will next mathematically define freeform optics. Then, building on prior knowledge of optical aberration theory for rotationally symmetric systems, we will introduce Nodal Aberration Theory (NAT) – the aberration theory of asymmetric systems, where originally, asymmetry due to misalignment was considered, but in this course, we will look at asymmetry due to freeform surfaces. With this foundation on the aberration theory of freeform systems, learning about freeform optics includes learning about designing freeform optical systems with the intention to successfully build them, fabricating them, testing them, and completing the full assembly and system-level test The goal of this class is for students to learn how to design freeform optical systems that can be built.
OPT 440-99 Freeform Optics Jannick Rolland-Thompson
In the same way that the ability to generate and manipulate electrons leads to electronic devices, the ability to generate and manipulate photons leads to optics & photonics devices – the technology of the 21st century. Freeform optics is an emerging optics & photonics technology. The course will first reveal the history of freeform optics. We will next mathematically define freeform optics. Then, building on prior knowledge of optical aberration theory for rotationally symmetric systems, we will introduce Nodal Aberration Theory (NAT) – the aberration theory of asymmetric systems, where originally, asymmetry due to misalignment was considered, but in this course, we will look at asymmetry due to freeform surfaces. With this foundation on the aberration theory of freeform systems, learning about freeform optics includes learning about designing freeform optical systems with the intention to successfully build them, fabricating them, testing them, and completing the full assembly and system-level test The goal of this class is for students to learn how to design freeform optical systems that can be built.
OPT 486-01 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success.
OPT 486-99 Innovation: IP Strategy Norris Sankey
In this course, the student will learn the basic frameworks and tools for developing an IP strategy for an early stage technology company that is operating in extremely uncertain and dynamic marketplaces. Early stage technology companies usually have products that are sold into new and emerging markets. Understanding the landscape of competing technologies, who owns them, and how to build an effective offensive and defensive strategy to deal with them is key to success.
OPT 544-1 Advanced Lens Design Julie Bentley
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects.
Friday
OPT 479-1 THz Phenomena and Technology Xi-Cheng Zhang
Terahertz (THz) technology and applications provides the fundamentals of free-space THz photonics for sensing, imaging and spectroscopy applications. A free-space THz-ray optoelectronic system, with diffraction-limited spatial resolution, femtosecond temporal resolution, DC-THz spectral bandwidth, and mV/cm field sensitivity, will be central to the course. We will cover the basic concepts of generation, detection and propagation of T-rays, and their applications. Students will learn most advanced THz technology. Modern methods include THz time-domain spectroscopy, optical rectification, electro-optic sampling, THz gas laser, Gunn diodes and Schottky diodes, and FTIR. Many newly developed THz systems at Rochester will be the examples used in this course. Ultrafast THz Phenomena session also covers the methods for optical measurement with short laser pulses. Short laser pulse generation, amplification, detection, and characterization will be discussed.
OPT 411-2 Math Methods for Optics William Renninger
Advanced techniques utilizing vector calculus, series expansions, contour integration, integral transforms (Fourier, Laplace and Hilbert) asymptotic estimates, and second order differential equations.
OPT 461-2 Fourier Optics –
The principles of physical optics including diffraction and propagation based on Fourier transform theory; integral formulation of electromagnetic propagation; diffraction from apertures and scattering objects; applications to optics of Fourier transform theory, sampling expansions, impulse response, propagation through optical systems, imaging and transforming, optical transfer function, optical filtering; and selected topics of current research interest. Text: Goodman, Introduction to Fourier Optics, 4th Ed.; class notes
OPT 544-2 Advanced Lens Design Julie Bentley
Complex zoom lenses and multi-mirror reflective systems are discussed detail starting with first principles. Other topics include materials for other wavelength bands, tolerancing, sensitivity analysis, monte carlo analysis, ghost and stray light analysis. Students required to complete two complex group design projects.