Is a Ph.D. in Photonics offered by Physics or EEE better for me?

[cks]

I'm a physics students and I'm in my Final Year now. The title of my final year project is phase-locked laser system. I have quite some fun playing around with the mirrors, lens and laser stuff.

I'm interested in doing my phd in photonics related area. I'm not sure whether I should go for phd in EEE or physics. However, I am curious are there any difference between the photonics offered by physics division and those offered by EEE?

 

[will.c]

Why not directly do a photonics Ph.D.? The only ones I'm familiar with are Institute of Optics at Rochester and CREOL at Central Florida. I'm pretty sure there's others, as well.

 

[Mene]

I cannot definitively say which option is better for you as it ultimately depends on your specific interests and career goals. However, I can provide some information that may help you make a decision.

Firstly, it is important to understand that photonics is a multidisciplinary field that combines principles from physics, engineering, and materials science. Therefore, both a Ph.D. in Physics and a Ph.D. in EEE can provide a strong foundation for a career in photonics.

A Ph.D. in Physics may offer a more theoretical and fundamental understanding of photonics, with a focus on topics such as quantum optics, laser physics, and electromagnetic theory. This may be a good option if you are interested in pursuing a career in research or academia.

On the other hand, a Ph.D. in EEE may have a more practical and applied approach, with a focus on topics such as optics and photonics engineering, semiconductor devices, and optical communication systems. This may be a good option if you are interested in a career in industry or technology development.

Ultimately, it is important to research the specific programs and faculty at both the physics and EEE departments at your university to see which aligns more closely with your interests and goals. You may also consider talking to current graduate students or professors in both departments to gain more insight.

Additionally, your final year project on phase-locked laser systems may give you a better understanding of which field you are more interested in and where your strengths lie. This can also be a valuable factor in your decision-making process.

In conclusion, both a Ph.D. in Physics and a Ph.D. in EEE can lead to a successful career in photonics, and it ultimately depends on your individual interests and goals. I encourage you to thoroughly research both options and consider your strengths and interests before making a decision. Good luck!