Program structure

The Master's Degree Programme in Photonics at the University of Eastern Finland is a two-year, full-time study program comprising 120 ECTS credits. The curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of photonics, combining theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience.

1. Core Courses:

• Fundamentals of Photonics: Introduction to the basic principles and concepts in photonics.
• Optical System Design: Techniques and tools for designing optical systems.
• Laser Physics: Study of laser operation, types, and applications.
• Nonlinear Optics: Exploration of nonlinear optical phenomena and their applications.

2. Advanced Topics:

• Quantum Optics: Examination of quantum mechanical aspects of light.
• Nanophotonics: Study of light behavior on the nanometer scale and its applications.
• Optical Communication Technologies: Principles and technologies behind optical communication systems.

3. Laboratory Work:

• Hands-on experiments and projects conducted in state-of-the-art laboratories to reinforce theoretical knowledge.

4. Elective Courses:

• Students can choose from a range of electives to tailor their studies to specific interests within photonics.

5. Master's Thesis:

• An independent research project culminating in a written thesis, demonstrating the student's ability to conduct scientific research in photonics.

This structured approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in various fields, including information and communication technology, manufacturing, image analysis, security, defense, space, life sciences, and medical technology.

University of Eastern Finland

Fees and Funding

The Master's Degree Programme in Photonics at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) has specific tuition fees and offers various funding opportunities to support students.

Tuition Fees:

• EU/EEA Nationals: No tuition fee.

• Non-EU/EEA Nationals: €10,000 per academic year.

Funding Opportunities:

UEF provides several scholarships and tuition waivers to assist students with their educational expenses:

1. UEF Scholarship: A 100% tuition waiver awarded to the highest-ranked tuition fee-liable student based on admission results. This scholarship covers the entire duration of the studies (two years for Master's programmes).

2. Tuition Waiver: Up to 50% of the tuition fee, granted to a limited number of applicants. This waiver is also applicable for the full two-year duration of the Master's programme.

3. Finnish Language Scholarship: Available during studies at UEF, this scholarship encourages students to learn the Finnish language.

Application Process for Scholarships:

• When to Apply: Scholarships and tuition waivers are applied for through the application form when applying to UEF.

• Selection Criteria: Scholarships are awarded based on merit, primarily considering the best scores in the application process.

Important Considerations:

• Limited Availability: The number of scholarships offered by UEF is limited.

• Financial Planning: Prospective students are advised to finalize their financial plans well in advance, as scholarships and waivers do not cover living expenses or travel costs to Finland.

• Early Bird Discount: A one-time deduction of €500 for the autumn semester is available to students who accept their study place and pay the tuition fee within three weeks of the result publication.

For detailed information and specific inquiries, it's recommended to contact the programme coordinator or visit the official UEF website.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) offers several scholarships and tuition waivers to support students enrolled in the Master's Degree Programme in Photonics.

University of Eastern Finland

Types of Scholarships and Waivers:

1. UEF Scholarship:

   • Coverage: 100% tuition waiver for the entire duration of the studies (2 years for Master's programmes).
   • Eligibility: Awarded to the highest-ranked tuition fee-liable student based on admission results.
   • Application: Applicants subject to tuition fees can apply for this scholarship during the university application process by completing the relevant section on the application form.

2. Tuition Waiver:

   • Coverage: Up to 50% of the tuition fee.
   • Eligibility: Granted to a limited number of applicants based on academic merit.
   • Application: Applicants can apply for this waiver during the university application process by completing the relevant section on the application form.

3. Finnish Language Scholarship:

   • Coverage: Specific details are provided during the studies.
   • Eligibility: Available to students who demonstrate progress in learning the Finnish language during their studies at UEF.
   • Application: Information on applying for this scholarship is provided after enrollment.

Application Process:

• When to Apply: Scholarships and tuition waivers are applied for through the application form when applying to UEF.
• Selection Criteria: Scholarships are awarded based on merit, primarily considering the best scores in the application process.

Important Considerations:

• Limited Availability: The number of scholarships offered by UEF is limited.
• Financial Planning: Prospective students are advised to finalize their financial plans well in advance, as scholarships and waivers do not cover living expenses or travel costs to Finland.
• Early Bird Discount: A one-time deduction of €500 for the autumn semester is available to students who accept their study place and pay the tuition fee within three weeks of the result publication.

For detailed information and specific inquiries, it's recommended to contact the programme coordinator or visit the official UEF website.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Master's Degree Programme in Photonics at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Background:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in physics, optics, photonics, physical and engineering sciences with an extensive physics basic education, or another discipline related to the programme, entailing proficiency in physics and mathematics.

2. Language Proficiency:

• English Language Skills: Proficiency in English is mandatory. Applicants can demonstrate this by:
  • Language Tests: Achieving the minimum required scores in recognized English language tests, such as:
    • TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 92, with a minimum of 22 in writing.
    • IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in writing.
    • PTE Academic: Overall score of 62, with a minimum of 54 in writing.
  • Previous Education: Completing a bachelor's, master's, or higher degree in English in EU/EEA countries, or in countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States. The degree must be taught and assessed entirely in English.

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3. Application Documents:

• Degree Certificate and Transcript: Officially certified copies of the bachelor's degree certificate and transcript of records, along with English translations if the originals are not in English, Finnish, or Swedish.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Valid language test results or documentation of exemption.
• Motivation Letter: A letter outlining the applicant's reasons for applying to the programme and how it aligns with their career goals.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting educational background, work experience, and other relevant information.
• Copy of Passport: A copy of the information page of the applicant's passport.

4. Application Process:

• Application Period: The application window is from January 8 to January 22, 2025.
• Submission: Applications are submitted online through the Studyinfo.fi portal.
• Document Submission Deadline: All required documents must be uploaded by January 29, 2025, at 15:00 (Helsinki time, GMT+3).

For detailed information and specific inquiries, please visit the official UEF website or contact the programme coordinator.

Application Procedure

Applicants must apply via the national Studyinfo portal (studyinfo.fi) during the application period from January 8, 2025, to January 22, 2025. The application form will only be accessible during this period.

Steps to Apply:

1. Prepare in Advance:

   • Review the admission requirements and gather necessary documents.
   • Schedule a language test if required.

2. Complete the Online Application:

   • Fill out the application form on studyinfo.fi with accurate details.
   • Upload all required documents in electronic format (PDF or JPEG, max file size 1.0 GB).
   • Ensure each document is uploaded to the correct section of the application form.

3. Document Submission:

   • Only scanned copies of original degree certificates, transcripts, and translations (if applicable) are accepted. Scanned photocopies must be certified by the awarding institution.
   • Scans must be clear, in color, and of high quality. Blurry or discolored scans will not be processed.
   • The use of the PDF format is highly recommended.
   • Submit all required documents and language test results by January 29, 2025, at 15:00 (EET). Late submissions will not be processed.

4. Electronic Transcripts:

   • The University of Eastern Finland accepts electronic transcripts submitted via recognized sources. For details, refer to the Electronic Transcripts section on their website.

Additional Support: For assistance with the application or document uploads, contact the UEF Admissions Office at admissions@uef.fi.