Launch Your Optics Career in One Year
Ready for a hands-on, high-tech career? The booming optics field is powered by light and cutting-edge technology, and Keene State's one-year Precision Optics Certificate gets you job-ready fast. Unlock high-growth opportunities and start a rewarding career with real-world impact.
Join us at the Precision Optics Open House
Explore how you can launch your optics career in just one year. From smartphones to life-saving medical imaging and deep space telescopes, optics are everywhere.
- April 9, 4:00 – 7:00 PM
- May 3, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Be Part of the Optics Revolution
Optics are everywhere – from the smartphones in our hands to life-saving medical imaging and deep-space telescopes. And optics are definitely part of Keene, NH. Within 100 miles of Keene State, more than 30 industries are involved in single-point diamond turning, thin films, specialty glass, and advanced optics.
Explore the Optics Program
Our certificate program gives you a shorter, focused education and equips you to chart your path in Optics. No prior experience is needed! You’ll use state-of-the-art equipment and learn in-demand skills:
- Operate precision machinery for optics production.
- Master shaping, coating, and verifying optical components.
- Apply measurement and quality control skills.
- Safely operate and maintain lasers and photonic devices.
- Develop essential business skills for a successful career.
The Precision Optics Certificate Program is just two semesters (31 credits) long and includes an optional paid summer internship.
Fall 2025 (15 credits)
- INOPTC 101 (Intro to Optics) - 4 credits
- INOPTC 110 (Laser Optics) - 2 credits
- SPDI 121 (Design Visualization) or SPDI 221 (Three Dimensional CADD) - 4 credits)
- Math 111 (Applied College Algebra) or Math 112 (Precalculus) or Math 141 (Intro Stats) or Math 211 (Calculus) - 4 credits
- First Year Seminar - 1 credit
Spring 2026 (16 credits)
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INOPTC 120 (Thin Films) - 2 credits
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INSPDI 183 (Ultra -Precision Manufacturing) - 4 credits
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SPDI 330 (Metrology and CMM) - 2 credits
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SPDI 380 (CAD/CAM/CNC Using MasterCAM) - 4 credits
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Elective (4 credits)
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Summer Internship – Recommended
Internship & Career Pathways
Get real-world experience through a paid internship (with a stipend covering summer tuition) at one of our 30+ partner businesses in the Monadnock region. This leads directly to job opportunities after graduation.
Want a 4-year degree later? You can seamlessly transition into a bachelor's program at Keene State if you choose. But this certificate gets you working now.
For industry professionals interested in workshops, click here.
Your Future in Focus – Get Hired Fast
Optics technicians are in high demand. Our Precision Optics Certificate gives you the practical skills employers are looking for – in just one year. Learn by doing in our dedicated optics lab and intern with our robust network of 30+ local optics businesses.
Invest in Your Future – Affordable and Fast
The Precision Optics Certificate offers an affordable pathway to a fulfilling career in a field with excellent earning potential.
Get Cost Details
Keene State is committed to making this opportunity accessible.
- Explore flexible financial aid options: 100% of our students receive financial aid, and many have their tuition fully covered.
- Gain valuable experience: A paid summer internship provides hands-on experience and a stipend to offset costs.
- High earning potential: Optics technicians are in high demand, with competitive starting salaries.
- Focus on your future: Launch a rewarding career in a growing field with a program designed to get you job-ready fast.
Plus:
- Financial aid opportunities (up to 100% coverage)
- Paid summer internship ($3,000 stipend/scholarship covering 4-credit tuition)
- Convenient campus living near downtown Keene
- Competitive starting salary: Positions starting at $50,000
- Strong job market: 30+ local optics businesses hiring
Optics is more than a job – it's a career with limitless potential. Ready to start earning?
Space is limited! Apply today!
Request Information
The Future Is Optics
The American Center for Optics Manufacturing, Inc. (AmeriCOM) selected Keene State for this program, recognizing the expanding opportunities in this rapidly growing industry. Learn more about our partnership:
“Most major technological advancements of the future are either directly related to the use of optics or optical systems, or indirectly related to optics technology.”
– Physics Chair and Optics Professor Dr. Sarah McGregor
