What are the best colleges for photonic engineering?

I'm really interested in photonic engineering and want to make sure I'm looking at the top programs. Which colleges are known for being strong in this field, and what should I consider when choosing?

Photonic engineering is a pretty specialized field, so it's great that you have a clear direction for your studies! Here are some of the universities that are recognized for their strong programs in photonic engineering or related fields like optical engineering or electrical engineering with a concentration in photonics:

1. University of Arizona: Known for its top-ranked College of Optical Sciences, offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees in areas like optical engineering and photonics.

2. University of Central Florida: UCF's College of Optics & Photonics is highly regarded and offers various photonic engineering programs.

3. MIT: MIT doesn't have a specific photonic engineering degree but offers strong photonics-focused research through their Research Laboratory of Electronics.

4. University of California, San Diego: UCSD's Jacobs School of Engineering offers a robust Photonics program within their Electrical and Computer Engineering department.

When choosing a program, consider the overall reputation of the engineering department and the specific strengths of the photonics curriculum. Since this is a specialized area, research opportunities are crucial - so do review the type and quantity of research work the department is involved in.

Also, it's beneficial to look at the faculty's expertise and see if they align with your interests. And finally, consider your post-graduation goals. If you're interested in a specific industry or geographic region, see if the program has strong ties or recruiting pathways into that field or area.

I hope this helps you in your search for the right photonic engineering program!