Lidar systems are revolutionizing the mobility of the future; NIR measurement technology is optimizing the agricultural and food industries; microscopy and spectroscopy form the basis of modern medical diagnostics; lasers efficiently process every conceivable material; and fiber-optic technology forms the basis of modern data communication and many laser processing machines. Smart factories, the IoT, and even quantum computers are based on photonic technologies.
Factsheet
- Degree
Master of Science FHNW in Engineering MSE- Study mode
- Full-time and Part-time
- Next start
- 14.9.2026
- Teaching language
- Englisch
- Semester fee
- CHF 750
At a glance
- Develop photonic systems: Harness light and lasers for applications in sensing, communication, manufacturing and medical technology.
- Master complex technologies: Analyse, model and integrate photonic processes into interdisciplinary systems.
- Specialise individually: Build your own focus in areas such as laser systems, optical measurement or thin-film technologies.
Future prospects
With a Master’s degree in Photonics and Laser Engineering, you work on key technologies that drive multiple industries – from medical technology and telecommunications to manufacturing, sensing and life sciences. You develop applications based on light and laser technologies used in diagnostics, data transmission and industrial production.
After graduating, you take on demanding roles in research, development or industrial applications. You analyse photonic systems, develop new technologies and integrate them into complex applications – from concept to implementation.
The job market offers a wide range of opportunities in high-tech industries. You work on innovative solutions, lead interdisciplinary projects and take on responsibility in technical and strategic roles – both nationally and internationally.
Structure and programme contents
Content
In the Photonics and Laser Engineering profile, you deepen your knowledge in key technologies of photonics and define your individual areas of focus:
- Laser systems and laser applications
- Optical engineering and optical measurement technologies
- Thin-film technology
- Photonic sensing and measurement systems
- Simulation and analysis of light-based processes
- Integration of photonic technologies into mechanical, electrical and micromechanical systems
Structure
The MSE programme comprises 90 ECTS credits and is clearly structured: you combine solid theoretical foundations with hands-on project work while continuously developing your individual profile. The modular structure allows you to tailor your studies to your professional goals – in close collaboration with experts from academia, industry and research.
Throughout the programme, you learn to think abstractly while acting in an application- and solution-oriented way. You build strong methodological expertise, understand complex interrelationships and solve problems independently. In practice-oriented projects, you deepen your skills and gain valuable professional experience. You develop products and processes using the latest technologies, acquire solid project management skills and understand business contexts. When tackling complex challenges, you make significant analytical, conceptual and technical contributions to innovative solutions – and, thanks to strong communication skills, operate confidently in international environments.
The MSE programme comprises 90 ECTS credits:
- 30 ECTS by completing the central theoretical modules
- 24 ECTS through your area of specialisation (project work and complementary courses)
- 30 ECTS upon successful completion of the Master’s thesis.
- 6 ECTS - Supplementary courses (EVA) – specialised courses outside the core theory modules, tailored to your individual profile
The core element of the programme is the individual specialisation within a chosen profile. You develop this specialisation through theoretical and practical work at one of the institutes of the FHNW School of Computer Science, supported throughout your studies by a personal advisor.
Through selected theoretical modules as well as practice-oriented research and development projects, you acquire unique, high-level competencies. Carefully chosen theoretical modules further deepen and broaden your expertise.
Tailor your Master’s studies to your needs
- You contact the profile coordinator and/or a potential advisor to explore your specialisation options.
- You apply for a place in the programme.
- The MSE Admissions Committee decides on your admission.
- Once admitted, you select theoretical modules from the available offerings together with your advisor.
- Your module selection and the content of your specialisation are defined in the Individual Study Agreement (ISA).
How to proceed:
The MSE profile Photonics and Laser Engineering is offered at the following institutes
The School of Engineering and Environment FHNW offers the following MSE profiles
Further MSE profiles at FHNW
School of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geomatics FHNW
School of Computer Science FHNW
Overview MSE
Admission Requirements and Application
The Master’s programme is designed for Bachelor’s graduates who have achieved very good academic performance during their studies (ECTS grades A or B).
The completed field of study must be related to the competence area of the chosen profile. Holders of an equivalent qualification (e.g. an HTL or University of Applied Sciences diploma) may also be admitted to the programme.
After the application deadline, the documents you submitted with your application will be reviewed, and our Admissions Committee will decide on your acceptance or rejection.
If necessary, an additional admission interview may be arranged.
The MSE programme generally follows directly after completion of a Bachelor’s degree. If you have several years of professional experience after graduation, a more detailed assessment is required.
Organisational matters
How to get started in your studies
Language
Study full-time or part-time
Fees
Dates
Downloads / further Informationen
Contact us
Contact
Prof. Dr. Ronald Holtz
- Phone
- +41 56 202 83 58 (Direct)
- ronald.holtz@fhnw.ch
Info-Anlässe
Aktuell sind keine Info-Anlässe geplant. Schau gerne zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt wieder vorbei oder kontaktiere uns direkt bei Fragen zum Studium – wir helfen dir gerne weiter.
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Application
MSE Profile Photonics and Laser EngineeringMaster of Science in Engineering MSE
- Date
- 14.9.2026
- Place
- FHNW Campus Brugg-Windisch
- Final application date
- 30.4.2026