Objectives

  

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Learning Outcomes

Programme jointly offered by Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University.
For this study programme students enrol at Vrije Universiteit Brussel or at Ghent University.
 
Competence field 1: Competences in one/more scientific discipline(s) 
1.  Master and apply advanced knowledge in the own engineering discipline in solving complex problems. 
2.  Apply Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) tools and advanced communication instruments in a creative and  purposeful way. 
3.  Specify, design and test complex photonic components and systems. 
4.  Understand and apply the properties of the most important optical materials. 
5.  Thoroughly understand and apply several areas of specialisation (to be chosen by the student) in the field of photonics. 
6.  Be familiar with the basic elements of another master discipline which is relevant in combination with photonics. 
7.  Be acquainted with the recent innovation trends in the domain of photonics. 
8.  Have knowledge of the most important application areas of photonic materials, components and systems. 
9.  Understand non-optical aspects of photonic systems, in particular electronic, mechanical and thermal aspects. 
 
Competence field 2: Scientific competences 
1.  Analyse complex problems and formulate them into concrete research questions. 
2.  Consult the scientific literature as part of the own research. 
3.  Select and apply the appropriate models, methods and techniques. 
4.  Develop and validate mathematical models and methods. 
5.  Interpret research findings in an objective and critical manner. 
6.  Perform scientific research in the field of photonics at a starters level. 
7.  Have an insight in the main evolutions of fundamental research in the field of photonics. 
8.  Understand the context of technical or scientific papers in the field of photonics and further investigate unclear parts independently. 
 
Competence field 3: Intellectual competences 
1.  Independently form an opinion complex situations and problems and defend this point of view. 
2.  Apply knowledge in a creative, purposeful and innovative way to research, conceptual design and production. 
3.  Critically reflect on one’s own way of thinking and acting and understand the limits of one’s competences. 
4.  Stay up‐to‐date with the evolutions in the discipline to elevate the own competences to expert level. 
5.  Readily adapt to changing professional circumstances. 
6.  Exhibit eagerness to learn about fundamental scientific and technical fields which are closely related to photonics. 
 
Competence field 4: Competences in cooperation and communication 
1.  Have the ability to communicate in English about the own field of specialisation. 
2.  Project management: have the ability to formulate objectives, report efficiently, keep track of targets, progress of the project,... 
3.  Have the ability to work as a member of a team in a multi‐disciplinary working‐environment, as well as being capable of taking on supervisory responsibilities. 
4.  Report on technical or scientific subjects verbally, in writing and using graphics. 
5.  Function as a member of an international team. 
6.  Master technical and scientific terminology in English. 
7.  Establish an international network in the field of photonics. 
 
Competence field 5: Societal competences 
1.  Act in an ethical, professional and social way. 
2.  Recognize the most important business and legal aspects of the own engineering discipline. 
3.  Understand the historical evolution of the own engineering discipline and its social relevance. 
4.  Have an insight in the photonics industry and in the role of photonics in the scientific and technological evolution of society. 
5.  Understand the safety standards specific for photonics engineering. 
 
Competence field 6: Profession-specific competences 
1.  Master the complexity of technical systems by using system and process models. 
2.  Reconcile conflicting specifications and prior conditions in a high‐quality and innovative concept or process. 
3.  Synthesize incomplete, contradictory or redundant data into useful information. 
4.  Possess sufficient ready knowledge and understanding to evaluate the results of complex calculations or make approximate estimates. 
5.  Pay attention to entire life cycles of systems, machines, and processes. 
6.  Pay attention to energy‐efficiency, environmental cost, use of raw materials and labour costs. 
7.  Pay attention to all aspects of reliability, safety, and ergonomics. 
8.  Have insight into and understanding of the importance of entrepreneurship. 
9.  Show perseverance, innovativeness, and an aptitude for creating added value. 
10.  Use photonic components and systems accurately. 
11.  Choose the most appropriate design and test methods, including CAD methods, for photonic components and systems, understand their theoretical background and apply them accurately. 
12.  Interpret the manuals of standard photonic instrumentation and work with this instrumentation. 
13.  Submit and elaborate creative proposals to optimize the performance of photonic components and systems. 
14.  Find original and innovative solutions for problems in photonics.

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Academic plans

In the context of this programme, the following academic plans are offered:

On campus traject
Online/Digital traject

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