Laser, Optics, and Photonics Series

Laser, Optics and Photonics Series

Course 1, Fundamentals of Light and Lasers, is a comprehensive study of photonics that was specifically written for AAS students enrolled in enabling technology programs or for employed technicians working in these same areas.  Course 2 deals with specific photonics systems and applies the principles presented in Course 1. 

  • Course 1:  Fundamentals of Light and Lasers

    • Includes modules on:

  • Course 2:  Elements of Photonics

    • Includes modules on:

    • Operational Characteristics of Lasers
    • Specific Laser Types
    • Optical Detectors & Human Vision
    • Principles of Optical Fiber Communications
    • Photonics Devices for Imaging, Storage & Display
    • Basic Principles & Applications of Holography

      • The last three modules in Course 2 can be replaced with those in the Photonics Enabled Technology (PET) Series listed below to customize this course.  To request an evaluation copy email op-tec@op-tec.org.


  • Modules in Photonics Enabled Technologies (PET)

    • The following 16 stand-alone modules to prepare students for careers in specifics photonics enabled technologies. 

    • Modules in Manufacturing: 
      • Laser Welding & Surface Treatment
      • Laser Material Removal:  Drilling, Cutting & Marking
      • Lasers in Testing & Measurement:  Alignment, Profiling and Position Sensing
      • Lasers in Testing: Interferometric Methods and Nondestructive Testing
    • Modules in Forensic Science and Homeland Security:
      • Lasers in Forensic Science & Homeland Security
      • Infrared Systems for Homeland Security
      • Imaging System Performance for Homeland SecurityApplications
    • Modules in Biomedicine:
      • Lasers in Medicine & Surgery
      • Therapeutic Applications of Lasers
      • Diagnostic Applications of Lasers
    • Modules in Environmental Monitoring:
      • Basics of Spectroscopy
      • Spectroscopy & Remote Sensing
      • Spectroscopy & Pollution Monitoring
    • Modules in Optoelectronics:
      • Photonics in Nanotechnology
      • Photonic Principles in Photovoltaic Cell Technology
      • Photonics in Nanotechnology Measurements:  A Study of Atomic Force Microscopy

To request evaluation copies of any of the PET modules, please email op-tec@op-tec.org.


  • Mathematics for Photonics Education

    • Includes:

    • Scientific Notification & Unit Conversion
    • Introductory Algebra/Geometry/Trig
    • Powers & Roots/Ratio & Proportion
    • Exponents & Logarithms
    • Graphing
    • Angle Measures in Two & Three Dimensions

    Click here to access the updated information for page 78 of the Mathematics for Photonics Education supplemental text.


    OP-TEC Photonics Curriculum Materials Catalog
    Click here to download a PDF file of the current OP-TEC Photonics Curriculum Materials catalog containing information on all program planning and classroom materials.


    Ordering OP-TEC Publications
    To order OP-TEC curriculum materials and publications for the classroom, please contact CORD COMMUNICATIONS at 800-231-3015 (ext 328), email skroll@cordcommunications.com or visit their website at www.cordcommunications.com.