Laser- and Optotechnologies

Demographic developments have led to a significant decline in graduates in recent years. The German Industry Association for Optical, Medical and Mechatronic Technologies (SPECTARIS) explains and forecasts: "The German precision mechanics and optical industry includes high-tech areas such as laser and laboratory technology, the entire range of phototechnologies, ophthalmic optics or medical technology. Their products can be found in almost all areas of life and will permanently change the industrial future in Germany in the coming years. The industry's biggest problem at present is the acute shortage of skilled workers. If all areas of application are included, there is currently a shortage of more than 10,000 qualified employees in the optical technologies sector alone. In this context, the association primarily calls for an improvement of the specialist training and further education paths. Thus, the prerequisites for an interesting and well-paid job are extremely favourable for graduates, especially of the "Laser and Optotechnologies" degree programme.

Master's graduates have the opportunity to work in the following professional fields, for example:

• Optics industry
• Laser technology, laser development and application
• Information and communication technology
• Optoelectronics and electronics
• Computer technology
• Medical and environmental technology
• Biotechnology

As in other areas of engineering, there is an acute shortage of skilled workers in the laser and optics industry. The demand for well-trained graduates with appropriate practical experience is therefore high. Thanks to the practice-oriented education at the Ernst Abbe University of Applied Sciences Jena, you will usually manage the transition into everyday working life effortlessly. Typical fields of application for engineers with a Master's degree can be found in these corporate areas, among others:

• Research and development
• Design and production
• Technical consulting
• Marketing and sales
• Quality management
• Project management

Students with a Master's degree also find employment opportunities in the public sector and can also pursue a career as a civil servant. The degree also provides a good basis for later doctoral studies at a university.