Module manager: Dr Thomas Raistrick
Email: T.J.Raistrick@Leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Level 2 physics or equivalent
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces students to advanced topics in optics and photonics as well as their application in physics and beyond, including imaging systems and the optical manipulation of matter.
This module aims to develop the students understanding of classical and modern optics, building on knowledge obtained from prior study of waves and electromagnetism. By the end of the module student will be comfortable with problems in physical optics and photonics.
The module is designed by introducing the wave-like nature of light and superposition of waves which leads naturally into problems such as interference and diffraction. Once these are outlined in a standard way, they are revisited using a modern Fourier optics approach. Once these core ideas are cemented, the module then applies said understanding to applications and devices such as interferometry and holography. Later, the interaction of light with matter is introduced which leads smoothly into the photonics section of the module.
Learning activities combine lectures and problem-based learning to develop conceptual understanding and analytical skills. Emphasis is placed on applying theory to real optical systems and devices, supporting students’ preparation for advanced project work, postgraduate study, or careers involving optical and photonic technologies.
By the end of the module students should be able to:
1. Use wave optics to understand polarisation conditions, the superposition of waves and diffraction.
2. Describe the underlying behaviour of interferometry and holography.
3. Describe the operation of various electrooptic modulators.
4. Describe some non-linear optical effects in materials and their applications.
5. Understand the importance of fluorescence and Raman spectroscopy for bio‐molecular detection and characterization.
6. Describe the manipulation of materials using optical beams.
7. Describe the creation and annihilation of photons in semiconductor and metal and the principles of photon detection.
8. Describe various display devices and imaging systems.
Skills Learning Outcomes
1. Advanced understanding of optical physics, including wave optics, diffraction, interferometry, spectroscopy, and light–matter interaction.
2. Analytical problem solving skills, applying physical models to complex and unfamiliar optical problems.
3. Ability to relate theory to application, linking optical principles to optical devices and technologies such as sensors, displays and lasers.
- Wave equations and polarisation
- Fourier optics
- Diffraction
- Interferometry
- Holography
- Display devices and birefringence
- Lasers and coherence
- Non-linear optics
- Spectroscopy
- Molecular sensing
- Optical manipulation of matter
- The future of optical displays
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workshop | 11 | 1 | 11 |
| Lecture | 33 | 1 | 33 |
| Private study hours | 156 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 44 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Private Study Time is 156 hours.
Formative feedback will be provided through weekly workshops.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team