Study Programme

Discover a programme that enriches your photonics‑related Master’s specialisation with practical experience, industry connection, and national collaboration. MasterPlus offers a curated mix of specialised learning, real-world projects, and exposure to the Dutch optics & photonics ecosystem.

 

An extra layer alongside your Master’s

MasterPlus is designed as an additional programme on top of your regular Master’s. It is open to students enrolled in photonics‑related specialisations such as optics & photonics, physics for instrumentation, photonics, integrated optical systems, or semiconductor devices & technology.

Each participating university shapes its own version of the MasterPlus experience, offering a distinct academic perspective. In addition, we organise shared activities, workshops, and inter‑university courses, giving students the chance to learn across different institutions.

A national learning environment

MasterPlus gives you the chance to explore different campuses, learn in varied academic settings, and connect with experts across the Netherlands. You become part of a national community working at the forefront of photonics innovation. This broader environment helps you expand your perspective, grow your network, and strengthen your professional development.

Upon completion, you receive an industry‑endorsed statement confirming your participation in the MasterPlus Programme.

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Which master tracks can be combined with MasterPlus?

Delft University of Technology

MSc Applied Physics – Physics for Instrumentation track

Embark on your Optics & Photonics journey at Delft University of Technology through the Physics for Instrumentation track within the MSc Applied Physics programme. This track strengthens your foundation in optical system design, precision instrumentation and advanced measurement techniques, preparing you to work at the intersection of physics and high‑tech engineering.

Situated in a dynamic regional ecosystem—close to the Space Campus, major industrial hubs and leading research institutes—you gain unparalleled exposure to real‑world applications. Through research‑oriented coursework and collaboration with industry partners such as ASML, Signify, Demcon and TNO, you develop expertise relevant to instrumentation for healthcare, quantum technologies, aerospace, robotics and digital systems. Read more > 

Eindhoven University of Technology

MSc Applied Physics – Optics & Photonics track

The Optics & Photonics track immerses you in the physics behind advanced optical systems, photonic materials, nanophotonics and light–matter interaction. You will work within Eindhoven’s strong research community, engaging with cutting‑edge projects in integrated photonics, quantum photonics and optical sensing.

Located in the Brainport region—Europe’s leading high‑tech innovation hub—you benefit from close connections with industry partners, research institutes and start‑ups. You’ll participate in industrial lectures, company visits and challenge‑based projects that introduce you to real‑world photonics applications. Read more >

MSc Electrical Engineering – Photonics‑related electives

Electrical Engineering students can join the MasterPlus Programme by pursuing a photonics‑oriented study path. Through your elective choices, you explore photonic integrated circuits, device physics, fabrication technologies, and applications in communication, sensing and computing systems.

This elective‑based pathway allows you to tailor your studies to your interests while staying closely embedded in Eindhoven’s photonics ecosystem. With access to leading labs and collaborations with major companies, you gain hands‑on experience that prepares you for roles in R&D, system design or emerging photonic technologies. Read more >

University of Twente

MSc Applied Physics – Photonics specialisation

The Photonics specialisation offers an in‑depth exploration of quantum optics, laser physics, nonlinear optics and integrated photonics. Directly connected to world‑class research groups, this specialisation places you at the heart of innovation in silicon nitride and silicon‑on‑insulator photonic chip technology—areas in which the University of Twente is internationally renowned.

With the flexibility to tailor your course plan, you can shape your expertise around your personal interests, whether you focus on experimental optics, chip‑level integration or theoretical modelling. Once admitted, you can register for the national MasterPlus Programme to strengthen your industry connections and gain additional hands‑on experience. Read more >

MSc Electrical Engineering – Integrated Optical Systems specialisation

The Integrated Optical Systems specialisation focuses on the design and development of next‑generation photonic integrated circuits and optical systems. You combine courses in device physics, fabrication, modelling and systems engineering with electives spanning nanotechnology, signals and systems or advanced device design.

As part of a vibrant research environment with strong industrial ties, you gain experience relevant to both academic and industrial R&D. Once admitted to this specialisation, you can register for the national MasterPlus Programme to connect with industry partners and take part in paid internships and national activities. Read more >

Testimonials

''Through the social events, you get to know your fellow students and professors. Forming these networks is a very important component of the photonics field, because it facilitates collaborations between scientists across disciplines and specializations. This can accelerate innovation. Networking can also lead to job opportunities and research collaborations. It is inspiring to learn more about the projects that others have been involved in."

Elizabeth WrightAlumni MPOP

“Optics and photonics technologies have so many applications! They are used in almost all high-tech products nowadays. During your studies, you will be able to work with all kinds of high-tech equipment in a very practical way. That’s really exciting! You get a lot of benefits such as suiting internships, fun events and help to build a professional network. You only have to participate!"

Jan van den Bos2nd year student MPOP

"I am curious about the physics behind beautiful optics phenomenons such as sunrise and sunset, rainbows and for instance laser shows. The process of trying to explain the physics behind all these should be, and is, a lot of fun! MPOP programme connects me with students, engineers and scientists from other subfields of optics. It's interesting to see their perspectives on a problem. Knowing that there are still many challenges in the industry makes me very passionate and excited to work on solutions, solutions that are important for society."

Jiajun Zhou2nd year student MPOP

“I have worked at ASML in the system integration department. To me, the illumination, projection, and optical sensing systems are most fascinating. The technology is so incredibly complex it’s almost like magic. I want to understand this “magic”. And see where it can be used further to help make the world a better place!”

Derya Kalafat2nd year student MPOP

"MPOP-programme offers me exactly what I need: a way to connect with companies and people in the field during my studies. You cannot really get this from university courses alone. Career opportunities are a big reason why I chose to study in the Netherlands. The country is doing a lot in the fields of Optics and Photonics. You meet like-minded people, and it’s not all work: it’s also a good way to hang out with them. It’s a big help that MPOP-programme can -under certain conditions- provide a relocation contribution up to euro 2,000,- for international students."

Anushka Mishra2nd year student MPOP

"The MPOP programme stands out because of its emphasis on connecting students with professionals and researchers in the field. It also offers a multidisciplinary approach, combining optics and photonics with related fields, which enhances both learning and career opportunities. The opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and collaborate with talented individuals convinced me that this programme was the right choice. I really enjoy the friendly and open atmosphere. It’s easy to meet new people and form connections. The cultural diversity in the campus community has been especially enriching for me."

Jackson (Duan-Hsin) Huang2nd year student MPOP

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