Optics Technology
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Optics technology jobs are in high demand, and FRCC is the only place in Colorado to start your training.
Our Associate of Applied Sciences (AAS) degree and certificate programs teach you the skills you need to become a sought-after laser, electro-optics or optics technician. At FRCC, our faculty are passionate about optical technology and are deeply committed to your success. Find out how FRCC can help you on the path to an exciting career in a fast-growing field.
Why Study Optics Technology at Front Range Community College?
Precision optics and lasers are everywhere you look: in cameras, virtual reality systems, 3D projectors, laser scanners, microscopes, satellite systems and telescopes.
Northern Colorado is a national center for optics and photonics, which means there is a huge demand for skilled optics technicians. Our program is the only optics technology program in Colorado.
In two years or less, you can be on your way to a new career — or a new career path in your current job.
Become a Metallica Scholar
With a scholarship up to $3000 plus the supports you need to succeed, the Metallica Scholars program can help you start a rewarding career in the trades.
Learn About the ProgramDegree Details
Optics Technology AAS
Program Location: Boulder County
Total Credits: 60 credits
This program prepares you to start a career in the growing field of optics technology. It focuses on laboratory safety, quality assurance and manual fabrication.
You'll explore the precision optics production processes used in cameras, projectors, eyewear, microscopes, telescopes, appliances and binoculars. Focusing on unique practices and toolsets, you'll study a variety of topics, including:
- Optics engineering drawings/prints
- Lean manufacturing
- Statistical process control
- Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing for optics
- Understanding of thin film optical coatings and fiber optics
- System-level skill development
- Writing and mathematics
You'll also complete a work-based internship and capstone project.
Upon completion of the program, you’ll be ready to enter the workforce in optics fabrication and assembly, laboratory and cleanroom environments, and laser and photonics.
View Program DetailsCertificate Details
Foundations of Optics Technology Certificate
Program Location: Boulder County
Total Credits: 13 credits (1 semester)
This certificate will prepare you for an entry-level position in optics fabrication and assembly. You'll learn the foundations of laboratory safety, quality assurance and manual fabrication and applied technical mathematics.
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Optics Technology Certificate
Program Location: Boulder County
Total Credits: 26 credits (2 semesters)
In this program you’ll receive an overview of the fundamentals of optical systems, equipment and electronic instruments.
Classes delve into topics such as optics fabrication, lab operations, electronic instrumentation, manufacturing technology, quality assurance, photonics and more.
You'll also learn about lasers, metrology and fiber optics. Upon completion of the program, you’ll be ready for a rewarding career in the optical technology field.
View Program DetailsCareers & Outcomes
Join an industry that has grown 1000-fold in the last 50 years. The annual compounded growth rate is 14%, or about 10% when adjusted for inflation.
Source: Laser Focus World (2021)
Optics technicians play a key role in this growth, fabricating, assembling or installing optical instruments, such as telescopes, microscopes, aerial cameras and eyeglasses. With these specialized skills, you will be in demand in a variety of fields.
| Job Title | Entry Salary | Average Salary | Experienced Salary |
| Non-Destructive Testing Specialists | $39,010/year | $63,320/year | $89,690/year |
| Photonics Technician | $49,140/year | $65,520/year | $85,930/year |
US Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022)
Training for Advanced Manufacturing Technology
Our Optics Technology program is offered at our state-of-the-art Center for Integrated Manufacturing (CIM). Located in Longmont, Colorado, near our Boulder County Campus, the center offers you the latest education and hands-on training.
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