Develop advanced skills in photonics, AI-enabled vision systems, optical communications, sensing, and automation technologies used in telecommunications, healthcare, aerospace, autonomous, and defense applications.

Enjoy a more personalized learning environment with our small classes
Benefit from supportive and experienced faculty who are active in their industry
Gain the latest and best industry-specific knowledge and skills to be career-ready upon graduation

Program Availability and Schedule

Availability

Click here to view availability for this program.

Schedule

Coming soon - a schedule that will show when each Level of the program will be delivered. See the Courses tab for further details on the Levels within this program.

Program Summary

Credential

Ontario College Advanced Diploma (3 Years)

Program Delivery

View delivery information

Program Code

6422X01FWO

Area of Interest

Advanced Technology

School

School of Advanced Technology

Campus

Ottawa

Work Integrated Learning

Other

Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?

Yes
CIP Code(s): 15.0304

The three-year Photonics Engineering Technology Ontario College Advanced Diploma prepares you to design and build technologies powered by light. Photonics drives today's fastest-growing industries including telecommunications, healthcare, autonomous systems, and advanced manufacturing. You combine optics, electronics, and programming to develop versatile, future-ready skills. Learn using advanced equipment including optical communication systems inspired by industry leaders. Build practical experience that adapts across multiple sectors and aligns with evolving industry needs.

Explore exciting and fast-growing fields at the heart of modern innovation. Work with lasers, optical fibers, and intelligent sensors while discovering how technologies like LiDAR, machine vision, and artificial intelligence transform industries. Work with optical telecommunication networks and high-speed data systems in hands-on lab environments. Learn by doing in labs, simulations, and real-world projects. Design optical systems, analyze data, and build smart sensing and communication solutions. Work in teams, solve complex problems, and bring ideas to life using industry-relevant equipment and techniques....(read more)

Overview

Develop advanced skills in photonics, AI-enabled vision systems, optical communications, sensing, and automation technologies used in telecommunications, healthcare, aerospace, autonomous, and defense applications.

Graduates find opportunities in a wide range of industries and environments, including:

telecommunications and optical network infrastructure
autonomous systems, robotics, and smart mobility
healthcare technologies and biomedical imaging
advanced manufacturing and laser-based processing
environmental monitoring and remote sensing systems
defence, surveillance, and advanced sensing technologies
aerospace and airborne optical systems
digital media, immersive imaging, and entertainment technologies

Additional program advantages include hands-on applied learning, exposure to industry-standard technologies, and opportunities to work on real-world projects. The program supports career readiness in high-demand sectors, helping you contribute to innovative technologies that shape how the world connects, sees, and communicates.

Courses

Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.

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Level 01

Code

Course Name & Description

Hours

Code:

DAT8921

Course Name:

Introduction to Programming

Course Description:

Programming provides opportunities to solve problems and innovate solutions in the engineering field. Students are introduced to structured... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

ENL1004

Course Name:

Professional Communication Essentials

Course Description:

Communication remains a fundamental skill regardless of discipline or field of study. Using an applied approach, students focus on writing, ... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

MAT8100P

Course Name:

Essential Mathematics

Course Description:

The study of algebraic and transcendental functions is an essential prerequisite to Calculus. Students manipulate algebraic expressions, sol... + Read More

Hours:

70.0

Code:

PHY0003

Course Name:

Applied Physics

Course Description:

Fundamental physics principles drive the analysis and design of photonics subsystems. Students discuss and analyze Newton's laws of motion, ... + Read More

Hours:

70.0

Code:

PLT0002

Course Name:

Trends in Photonics Technology

Course Description:

To understand the role of photonics in modern industry, knowledge of current technologies and applications is essential. Students examine ap... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Level 02

Code

Course Name & Description

Hours

Code:

MAT8101

Course Name:

Differential Calculus

Course Description:

Differential Calculus is the mathematical study of rates of change. Students study derivative, its definition and interpretation and its app... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

PLT0003

Course Name:

Introduction to Optics

Course Description:

A strong foundation in the behaviour of light supports the application of optics in optical systems. Students examine reflection, refraction... + Read More

Hours:

70.0

Code:

PLT0004

Course Name:

Circuits and Signals

Course Description:

Understanding how electrical circuits and signals support photonic and electronic systems is essential in engineering technology. Students a... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Code:

PLT0005

Course Name:

Systems Modeling and Simulation

Course Description:

Understanding how modelling and simulation support engineering systems helps students build foundational analysis and problem-solving skills... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Choose one from equivalencies

Code:

GED6422

Course Name:

General Education Elective

Course Description:

Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More

Hours:

45.0

Level 03

Code

Course Name & Description

Hours

Code:

CST0012

Course Name:

Scientific Programming and Data Processing

Course Description:

Analyzing engineering data requires a strong foundation in scientific programming. Students develop skills in data processing, visualization... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Code:

ENL2019T

Course Name:

Communicating Technical Information

Course Description:

The ability to communicate effectively in a technically-oriented interdisciplinary workplace is a foundational skill in an innovation-driven... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

MAT8102

Course Name:

Integral Calculus

Course Description:

Integral calculus is the study of the definitions, properties and applications of two related concepts, the indefinite integral and the defi... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

PLT0006

Course Name:

Light Sources and Laser Fundamentals

Course Description:

A strong foundation in light generation supports the development and application of photonics systems. Students examine emission mechanisms ... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Code:

PLT0014

Course Name:

Integrated Circuits

Course Description:

Semiconductor devices and digital circuits are fundamental components of modern electronic systems. Students investigate diodes, transistors... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Choose one from equivalencies

Code:

GED6422

Course Name:

General Education Elective

Course Description:

Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More

Hours:

45.0

Level 04

Code

Course Name & Description

Hours

Code:

PLT0007

Course Name:

Design of Optical Components and Systems

Course Description:

Optical system design is foundational to the development of photonics technologies. Students model and simulate optical systems, analyze abe... + Read More

Hours:

70.0

Code:

PLT0008

Course Name:

Photonics Component Fabrication

Course Description:

Fabrication, assembly, and packaging processes are key stages in the production of photonics systems. Students develop the knowledge and ski... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Code:

PLT0015

Course Name:

Microcontrollers for Sensing Applications

Course Description:

Microcontrollers and sensing technologies are key building blocks in the development of automated smart systems. Students interface sensors ... + Read More

Hours:

70.0

Code:

PLT0016

Course Name:

Laser Systems and Applications

Course Description:

Laser systems have broad applications in modern technologies. Students examine laser safety procedures, laser theory, system design, and pow... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Choose one from equivalencies

Code:

GED6422

Course Name:

General Education Elective

Course Description:

Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More

Hours:

45.0

Level 05

Code

Course Name & Description

Hours

Code:

PLT0009

Course Name:

Optical Fibres and Waveguides

Course Description:

Analysis of guided-wave propagation in optical fibres and waveguides is used to develop modern photonic systems. Students examine Maxwell's ... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Code:

PLT0010

Course Name:

Photonics Project 1

Course Description:

Experience with practical projects provides students with learning opportunities to gain insight and experience, thereby making connections ... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

PLT0011

Course Name:

Lidar and Advanced Optical Sensing Systems

Course Description:

Remote sensing and optical sensing systems are key components of modern sensing technologies. Students examine the fundamentals of remote se... + Read More

Hours:

70.0

Code:

PLT0017

Course Name:

Medical Imaging and Biosensors

Course Description:

Optical imaging and biosensing are key photonics tools in healthcare technologies. Students examine how light interacts with biological tiss... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Code:

PLT0026

Course Name:

Optoelectronic Devices and Sensor Systems

Course Description:

The rapid evolution of modern technologies relies fundamentally on advances in optoelectronic devices and integrated sensing systems. Studen... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Level 06

Code

Course Name & Description

Hours

Code:

ENL0200

Course Name:

Engineering Report and Presentation

Course Description:

Engineering technology projects leverage communication strategies to support project execution as well as accurate translation of the proces... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

PLT0012

Course Name:

Computer VIsion and Artificial Intelligence

Course Description:

Computer vision and artificial intelligence are used to analyze images to build intelligent vision systems. Students examine image formation... + Read More

Hours:

56.0

Code:

PLT0013

Course Name:

Machine VIsion and Optical Imaging

Course Description:

Modern automated inspection systems rely on machine vision and optical imaging technologies to capture, process, and interpret visual data. ... + Read More

Hours:

42.0

Code:

PLT0019

Course Name:

Fibre Communications

Course Description:

Optical fibre networks and transmission technologies are key components of modern communication systems. Students examine optical communicat... + Read More

Hours:

70.0

Code:

PLT0020

Course Name:

Photonics Project 2

Course Description:

The ability to identify and satisfy stakeholder expectations is essential for the successful completion of photonics engineering projects. B... + Read More

Hours:

84.0

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Careers & Pathways

Careers

Graduates may find employment as Optical Communications Technologists, Fibre Optic Network Technologists, Optical Network Operations Specialists, Optical Transmission Technologists, Photonics Systems Technologists, Optical Systems Integration Technologists, Optoelectronics Technologists, Optical Testing and Characterization Technologists, Optical Assembly and Packaging Technologists, Laser Systems Technologists, Electro-Optical Systems Technologists, LiDAR and Remote Sensing Technologists, Optical Sensor Systems Technologists, Machine Vision Technologists, Computer Vision and Imaging Technologists, Intelligent Sensing Systems Technologists, Embedded Sensing Systems Technologists, Photonics Manufacturing Technologists, Silicon Photonics Technologists, Integrated Photonics Technologists, Optical Design Technologists, Photonics Simulation and Modeling Technologists, Optical Metrology Technologists, Imaging Systems Technologists, Biomedical Imaging Technologists, Automation and Smart Systems Technologists, Photonics Applications Specialists, Technical Support Specialists - Optical Systems, Optical Network Testing Specialists, Field Service Technologists - Photonics Systems, Photonics Software and Data Systems Technologists, or Optical Security and Sensing Technologists.

Pathways

Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.

View all Algonquin College pathways

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

Analyze and solve technical problems related to photonics, optoelectronics and intelligent sensing systems to improve photonics system performance and operational efficiency.
Develop and evaluate photonics, optoelectronics, and intelligent sensing systems to ensure functionality, performance and compliance with industry standards.
Build, assemble, align and integrate photonics, optoelectronics, and embedded sensing systems to support product development and operational performance.
Support continuous improvement initiatives in photonics to meet client requirements.
Perform work related to photonics systems in compliance with applicable legislation, codes, standards, safety regulations, and ethical practices.
Develop and interpret tests and measurements to contribute to quality control and assurance programs in photonics and optoelectronics.
Collect, process and analyze experimental data to support photonics system evaluation, diagnostics, and applied research activities.
Coordinate tasks and resources to support the completion and evaluation of photonics engineering technology projects within established timelines.
Diagnose, maintain, and troubleshoot photonics-based systems and optoelectronic devices to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Develop strategies to enhance professional growth and lifelong learning in the photonics engineering field.
Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Tuition & Fees

Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.

Textbook and course material costs are available on the Algonquin College bookstore website.

2026/2027 Academic Year

Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator

Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro

Fees are subject to change.

Books and supplies total approximately $1200 in the first year, $750 in the second year and $400 in the third year.

Admissions Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

Select the Academic Year:

Admissions Next Steps

College Eligibility

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Mathematics, (Grade 12 MCT4C) or (Grade 11 MCR3U) or equivalent; or (Grade 12 MAP4C with a grade of 65% or higher) or (Grade 11 MCF3M with a grade of 65% or higher).
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken prior to January 21, 2026 overall 80, with a minimum in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken after January 21, 2026 overall 4, with a minimum in each component: Reading 4; Listening 4; Speaking 4; Writing 4; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.

Application Information