B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics: Admission 2025, Syllabus, Eligibility, Colleges & Careers

• Updated on  Aug 14, 2025, by Sachin Jaiswal

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics is a four-year undergraduate engineering program that explores the interaction of light and electronics, focusing on the design and development of advanced photonic devices. Since the course is organized into eight semesters and connected to emerging innovations such as fiber optics, lasers, and quantum electronics, it is now very popular with engineering aspirants. The industry is driving new changes in telecommunications, healthcare, and consumer electronics.

 

Eligibility for B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics generally requires completion of 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), with a minimum of 45%–60% aggregate marks, depending on the institution. Generally, students are admitted to the course if they meet the school’s entrance examinations, for example, the WBJEE for the University College of Science & Technology, University of Calcutta.

 

The fee structure for B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics is highly affordable compared to other engineering branches. At the University of Calcutta, you are charged INR 2,79,000 for the full course, and extra charges are required for admission and staying in the hostel. As a result, students from many different backgrounds can pursue engineering on a specialized track.

 

Those with a degree in Optical Science and Technology can join teams as Optical Design Engineers, Process Engineers, or Electro-Optics Engineers with search firms suggesting OSI Optoelectronics, BARC, SFO Technologies, Samsung, and Philips. Most graduates earn around INR 6-7 LPA on average, and there are lots of openings for additional learning, government jobs, and employment at private companies.

 

Table of Contents
  1. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Course Highlights
  2. What is B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics?
  3. Why Study B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics?
  4. Who Should Study B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics?
  5. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Eligibility Criteria
  6. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Entrance Exams 2025
  7. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Colleges in India
  8. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Admission Process 2025
  9. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Syllabus and Duration
  10. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics VS B.Tech Electronics Engineering
  11. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Job Opportunities in India
  12. B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics FAQs

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Course Highlights

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics is an emerging undergraduate engineering course that focuses on the study of light-based technologies and their applications. This course combines principles of physics, electronics, and photonics to prepare students for innovative roles in research and industry. Below is a detailed table highlighting the key aspects of this program.

Parameter

Details

Course Name

B.Tech in Optics and Optoelectronics

Course Level

Undergraduate

Duration

4 Years (8 Semesters)

Course Type

Full-time

Admission Process

Entrance-based (JEE Main, WBJEE, IPU CET, GUJCET)

Eligibility Criteria

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics; Minimum 70–80% aggregate

Course Fees

INR 2,79,000

Core Subjects

Semiconductor Devices, Laser Instrumentation, Quantum Wells, Photonics, Optical Detectors

Top College

University College of Science & Technology (Calcutta University)

Job Profiles

Optical Design Engineer, Process Engineer, Network Quality Engineer, Research Scientist

Top Recruiters

BARC, OSI Optoelectronics, Samsung, Philips, SFO Technologies

Average Salary

INR 6-7 LPA

 

What is B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics?

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics is a specialized four-year undergraduate engineering program that integrates the study of optics with electronics, focusing on the interaction between light and electronic systems. It explores the design, investigation and manufacture of devices called Electro Optic Effects Transducers, which make it possible to build lasers, optical fibers and photonic devices. Students learn the essentials of semiconductor devices, laser instrumentation, photonics, optical communication, and optoelectronic materials through structured lessons in both theory and practice.

 

Why Study B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics?

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics is an advanced engineering program that merges the study of light with electronics, focusing on cutting-edge photonic technologies. The course introduces you to new and innovative fields and guides your entry into both technical and research roles. Here’s why choosing B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics can be a smart decision:

  • The increased demand for optoelectronics professionals is caused by the rapid rise in these sectors: telecommunications, healthcare, defence and energy.
  • After completing their studies, graduates might become Optical Design Engineers, Process Engineers, Network Quality Engineers or Electro-Optics Engineers.
  • Most companies provide starting salaries from INR 5–6 LPA and as an expert, you could earn more.
  • Much research is done in this area, providing clear paths to M.Tech, Ph.D. and management in R&D organizations.

 

Who Should Study B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics?

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics is ideal for students passionate about the science of light, electronics, and cutting-edge technology. Anyone who wants to invent and participate in telecommunications, healthcare and research can take this course. Those who are suitable for this program and its advantages have been outlined below.

  • Anyone curious about the link between light and electronics and interested in developing lasers, fiber optics and photonic devices.
  • Graduates looking for employment in innovation, R&D or advanced engineering fields in the telecommunications, nuclear power, healthcare and electronics industries.
  • People interested in engineering are seeking out areas that offer advanced technology and bright prospects.
  • Those interested in skill development for designing, analyzing and making optoelectronic devices can find various job openings for Optical Design Engineer, Process Engineer and Electro-Optics Engineer.

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Eligibility Criteria

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics eligibility criteria ensure that candidates have a strong academic foundation in science and mathematics. Meeting these requirements is essential for admission to top institutes offering this program. The basic eligibility criteria for B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics are as follows:

  • Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examinations from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as compulsory subjects.
  • A minimum aggregate of 60% is generally required; for some institutes, the minimum may be 70-80%.
  • Admission is typically based on entrance exams such as JEE Main, WBJEE, or other state/national-level engineering entrance tests.

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Entrance Exams 2025

Admission to B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics in India is primarily through competitive entrance exams at both national and state levels. Candidates must check application dates, exam schedules, and fees before applying. Below are the major entrance exams for 2025 relevant to this course.

Exam Name

Application Dates

 

(Tentative)

Exam Date

 

(Tentative)

Application Fee (INR)

Cut offs

JEE Main 2026

S1: Oct-Nov, 2025

 

S2: Jan – Feb, 2026

Jan-Apr, 2026

INR 1,000 (Gen),

 

INR 500 (SC/ST)

General: 93.1 percentile;

 

OBC: 79.4 percentile;

 

SC: 61.15 percentile;

 

ST: 47.9 percentile

WBJEE 2026

Jan – Feb, 2026

Apr 2026

INR 500

Rank under 2000

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Colleges in India

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics is a highly specialized course offered by only a few institutes in India, focusing on the study and application of light-based technologies. Prospective students should carefully review college details, fees, and rankings before applying. Below is a table of the top colleges in India currently offering this program.

College Name

Location

Fees Approx (INR)

University College of Science & Technology, University of Calcutta

Kolkata, West Bengal

INR 2,79,000

Currently, the University College of Science & Technology under the University of Calcutta is the only known institution in India offering the B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics program. Students interested in this field should consider this college for specialized education and strong career prospects.

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Admission Process 2025

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics at the University College of Science & Technology, University of Calcutta, is open to those who succeed based on their scores. To apply, interested candidates must provide the required documents and pass the state-level entrance test. The following information explains how to apply for admission to the University of Calcutta.

 

Step 1- For B.Tech admission, the students have to enroll online on the official site of the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations Board (WBJEEB).

 

Step 2- The candidates should give the WBJEE (West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination), the entrance exam required to enroll in B.Tech courses in West Bengal and the University of Calcutta.

 

Step 3 - Once the results are announced by WBJEEB, the student will have to verify his/her WBJEE scores and ranks. On this basis, these scores will be used to decide who will be admitted to the subsequent stages.

 

Step 4 - When the candidate scores the cut-off mark or rank, he/she become eligible for the counseling process by participating in the WBJEE counseling process to get admission in B.Tech degree programs of the University of Calcutta.

 

Step 5- Depending on the rank of the candidate, his/her preferences, and the availability of seats and a category A seat could have been assigned in the B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics course. The student should submit the seat acceptance fee so as to guarantee the allotment.

 

Step 6 - The student will then be required to upload all his/her required documents (i.e., marksheets, admit card, category certificate, etc.) so that they can be verified by the university. The admission process will be completed when it has been effectively checked.

 

Required Documents:

  • 10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates
  • WBJEE admit card and rank card
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Caste certificate (if applicable)
  • Domicile certificate
  • Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
  • Admission fee payment receipt

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Syllabus and Duration

The B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics program at the University of Calcutta is a four-year, eight-semester undergraduate course. It combines theoretical foundations with practical training in optics, photonics, electronics, and related technologies. The curriculum is designed to equip students with specialized skills for advanced roles in industry and research.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Communicative English

Sociology

Physics-I

Physics-II

Chemistry-I

Chemistry-II

Engineering Mathematics-I

Engineering Mathematics-II

Computer Programming and Data Structures

Basic Electronics

Physics & Chemistry -I Lab

Engineering Mechanics

Language Lab

Physics & Chemistry-II Lab

Electrical Technology Lab

Engineering Drawing

Semester 3

Semester 4

Engineering Mathematics-III

Wave Optics

Foundation of Applied Optics & Photonics

Image Science

Photonic Materials

Optical Metrology & Testing

Network Theory

Communication systems

Analog and Digital Electronic Circuits

Electromagnetics I

Radiometry & Photometry Lab

Microprocessor & Microcontroller

Computer Applications Lab

Electronics Circuits Lab

 

Optics I Lab

Semester 5

Semester 6

Signals & Systems

Fiber Optics & Components

Electromagnetics II

Gaussian Beam Optics

Photonics sources, detectors and displays

Fourier Optics and Holography

Lighting Science and Illumination Engineering

Optical & Optomechanical Systems

Laser Physics

Elective (e.g., Integrated Optics, Nanophotonics, Biomedical Optics)

Microprocessor & Microcontroller Lab

Illumination Engineering Lab

Optics II Lab

Optics III Lab

Computer Application-based mini project & Seminar

Signal Processing Lab

 

Optical Simulation and Design Lab

Semester 7

Semester 8

Optical materials and thin films

Industrial Training/Internship

Instrumentation & Control

Seminar 2

Fundamentals of Optical Fiber Communication and Networking

Grand Viva

Crystal Optics and Nonlinear Optics

Project

Elective Paper II

-

Preliminary Project Work

-

Communications Lab

-

Thin Film and Photolithography Lab

-

Photonic Devices & Systems Lab

-

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics VS B.Tech Electronics Engineering

Mentioned below is the comparison between B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics and B.Tech Electronics Engineering:

Feature

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics

B.Tech Electronics Engineering

Duration

4 years

4 years

Focus Area

Optical systems, lasers, photonics, fiber optics

Electronic circuits, signal processing, semiconductors

Core Subjects

Optoelectronics, Optical Communication, Laser Technology

Analog/Digital Electronics, Embedded Systems, VLSI

Eligibility

10+2 with PCM, min 50–60%

10+2 with PCM, min 50–60%

Entrance Exams

WBJEE, JEE Main (depending on institute)

JEE Main, state CETs, institute-level exams

Career Options

Optical Engineer, Laser Engineer, Photonics Specialist

Electronics Engineer, System Designer, Embedded Engineer

Industries

Telecom, Defense, Aerospace, Medical Devices

Consumer Electronics, Telecom, IT, R&D

Higher Studies

M.Tech in Photonics, Optical Engineering, Applied Physics

M.Tech in ECE, VLSI, Embedded Systems

Average Starting Salary

INR 3 – 5 LPA

INR 3.5 – 6.5 LPA

Colleges Offering

University of Calcutta, IISc, IITs

IITs, NITs

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics Job Opportunities in India

Graduates of B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics have access to a range of emerging job opportunities in India’s technology, research, and manufacturing sectors. The field offers roles in optical engineering, process optimization, and electro-optics, with competitive salaries and prospects for growth. Below is a table summarizing key job profiles, experience requirements, recruiters, average salaries, and industry sectors.

Job Profile

Experience

Top Recruiters

Average Salary (INR)

Optical Design Engineer

0–3 years

OSI Optoelectronics, BARC, Samsung, Philips

INR 6.0 LPA

Process Engineer

0–3 years

SFO Technologies, Sony Corporation

INR 5.9 LPA

Electro-Optics Engineer

0–3 years

OSI Optoelectronics, BARC

INR 6.8 LPA

Photonics Research Scientist

0–5 years

Research Labs, Academic Institutions

INR 4–8 LPA

Fiber Optics Specialist

0–3 years

Telecom Companies, Network Providers

INR 5–7 LPA

Lighting Designer

0–3 years

Lighting Firms, Architecture Companies

INR 4–6 LPA

Biomedical Optics Engineer

0–3 years

Healthcare Tech Firms, Hospitals

INR 5–7 LPA

 

B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics FAQs

Is there any provision for scholarships or financial aid for B.Tech Optics and Optoelectronics students?

Programs such as the University of Calcutta’s scholarships are available for students selected by merit, category or financial need. Students should check what is needed for the scholarship and submit their application on the college website.

What is the scope of optoelectronics in India?

Optoelectronics in India has a vast market, and it is expanding due to its potential to expand to about 30,000 crore by 2025. This growth provides good scope in the career of an engineer in terms of research, manufacturing, and system designing engineering, and salaries offered to those professionals.

What are the usual cutoff marks needed for admission with WBJEE?

Generally, students who rank lower overall for B.Tech programs can get into Calcutta University through WBJEE, except in very targeted fields like Optics and Optoelectronics. Checking the latest cutoff trends is important for every candidate annually.

What do optoelectronics engineers do?

Optoelectronics engineers design, develop, and test light (photons) and electronics systems, including lasers, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), light sensors, and detectors and optical sensors. They study the working of devices, diagnose problems and work with multidisciplinary teams to be innovative and enhance optoelectronic technologies.

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