Course Descriptions

The Optical Engineering bachelor’s degree program is one of the few in the country. This program provides a firm foundation for those interested in continuing thier studies in optics at the graduate level, as well as for those going into industry. The curriculum was developed by the faculty with input from industrial representatives as well as from renowned national and international optics educators. Because of the diverse applications of optics, the curriculum contains a mix of courses in physics and mathematics as well as humanities and social sciences. The Optical Engineering program at Rose‑Hulman stresses laboratory instruction. We also encourage students to look at options for a double major, especially Optical Engineering with electrical, computer or mechanical engineering.

OE 360 - Optical Materials

Credit Hours: 4R-0L-4C
Term Available: W (every other year)
Prerequisites: PH 255 - Foundations of Modern Physics, and PH 316 - Electric & Magnetic Fields
Corequisites: None

Electromagnetic waves in dielectrics/metals and complex refractive index. Optical, thermal, and mechanical properties of materials. Thin film interference, optical coatings, and design of multilayer films. Optical characterization of materials. Electromagnetic waves in anisotropic materials, double refraction, optical activity, and polarization devices.

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