This certificate is currently known as "Optics Technology". It has been requested to be retitled as "Optics, Quantum & Laser Technology Certificate". This award will undergo review by the Colorado Community College System (CCCS), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the U.S. Department of Education (ED) for the title change requested. Upon final ED approval, this statement will be removed and a note placed in our Catalog Addendum noting the date of the approved title change.
Program Description
This certificate is currently known as "Optics Technology". It has been requested to be retitled as "Optics, Quantum & Laser Technology". This award will undergo review by the Colorado Community College System (CCCS), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and the U.S. Department of Education (ED) for the title change requested. Upon final ED approval, this statement will be removed and a note placed in our Catalog Addendum noting the date of the approved title change.
This program is designed for students wanting to complete a one-year (two semester) Certificate in Optics, Quantum & Laser Technology and enter the workforce. Students explore the production processes of precision optics used in cameras, projectors, eye wear, microscopes, telescopes, appliances and binoculars. This certificate prepares students for entry-level technician positions in the optics manufacturing industry that includes metrology equipment and advanced CNC fabrication, optics fabrication and assembly. Students will learn about optical engineering drawings/prints, lean manufacturing, statistical process control, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing for optics, focusing on the unique practices and toolsets within each. Students will prepare for working in laboratory and cleanroom environments. They will also acquire an understanding of thin film optical coatings and fiber optics.
Learn more about this program.
What You Will Learn
Upon completion of the program you will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and properties of light and lasers using basic geometric and physical optics
2. Demonstrate safe and proper handling and operation of optical components and test equipment
3. Use tools and techniques to measure optical system parameters; collect, organize, and interpret data to draw proper conclusions
4. Define and document the design intent using prints and the interpretation of tolerancing symbols
5. Understand, build and learn about electronics and electronic instrumentation as they apply to optics and photonics systems
6. Define and demonstrate optics manufacturing, fabrication, quality testing, and troubleshooting techniques with and without thin film coatings
7. Explain how efficient manufacturing processes affect optics manufacturing
8. Apply written and verbal communication skills to effectively execute work instructions and report information
9. Demonstrate optical alignment, build, and test of optical systems
10. Understand and practice safe use of light sources, including lasers
My Academic Plan: Full-Time
Courses are displayed in a full-time sequence showing the fastest path to your certificate. Follow the pathway below to complete your certificate in 2 semesters (9 months). For more information, please see your Academic Advisor.
First Semester
| OTE 1010 | Intro to Optics & Laser Technology | 3 |
| MAT 1150 or MAT 1340 or Higher | Technical Mathematics (MAT 1150) or College Algebra (MAT 1340) or Higher | 3 |
| OTE 1020 | Quality Assurance & Lab Operations in Optics | 3 |
| OTE 1005 | Fabrication Methods for Precision Optics | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 13 |
Second Semester
| OTE 1002 | Intro to Manufacturing Technology | 3 |
| OTE 1030 | Metrology of Optical Systems | 3 |
| OTE 2005 or OTE 1000 | Advanced Fabrication Precision Optics (OTE 2005) or Fundamentals of Light & Lasers (OTE 1000) | 4 |
| OTE 1040 or OTE 1050 | Optics Electronic Instrumentation & Fiber Optics (OTE 1040) or Thin Films & Vacuum Systems (OTE 1050) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 13 |
My Academic Plan: Part-Time
Courses are displayed in a part-time sequence providing flexibility for the working professional. Follow the pathway below to complete your certificate within 3 semesters (1.5 years). This pathway may be accelerated by applying transfer credit, credit for prior learning, and/or completing one or more additional courses each semester. For more information, please see your Academic Advisor.
Fall Semester 1
Spring Semester 2
| OTE 1005 | Fabrication Methods for Precision Optics | 4 |
| OTE 1002 | Intro to Manufacturing Technology | 3 |
| OTE 1030 | Metrology of Optical Systems | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 10 |
Fall Semester 3
| OTE 2005 or OTE 1000 | Advanced Fabrication Precision Optics (OTE 2005) or Fundamentals of Light & Lasers (OTE 1000) | 4 |
| OTE 1040 or OTE 1050 | Optics Electronic Instrumentation & Fiber Optics (OTE 1040) or Thin Films & Vacuum Systems (OTE 1050) | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 7 |