SCHOOL

Precision Optics Certificate Program ​at KSC

PRECISION OPTICS OPEN HOUSE

Wednesday, April 9, and Saturday, May 3, 2025. Join us for a Precision Optics Open House and 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.

Curious about what optics is? You’ve come to the right place! Come experience hands-on activities, meet our faculty, and tour our cutting-edge equipment in a fun and friendly environment. Optics technicians are in high demand, and we’re excited to show you why.

Join us for our Open House. Click to register.

Want to know more optics program details? Select the Keene State logo above.

 

REACH OUT Why Optics

About optics

What are Optics?

Optics are everywhere. Optics Technicians create precise components — primarily lenses fashioned out of blocks of glass — that are used in a wide array of devices, from scopes used in medical devices, to night-vision goggles worn by soldiers, to the mirrors used in NASA’s James Webb telescope transmitting images from outer space. There are many opportunities to make an impact in the Optics industry.

Real People, Real Stories

“It’s interesting to see how light works with itself. It’s visually appealing.”

— Felicity, Optics Technician

Felicity first fell in love with the Optics program in high school. She’s a young mother, who appreciated the program’s flexibility and used her art background, and experience in ceramics and jewelry making, to strengthen her creativity and hand-eye coordination.

“I wish I had known about Optics sooner. I would have gone into it right away.”

— Alex, Optics Student

Alex previously studied astrophysics at a community college, and got into Optics by working as an assembler at a consumer electronics company. His boss encouraged him to go back to school because he was good at problem-solving.

“Fiber optics instantly grabbed me.”

— Candace, Optics Apprentice

Candace came into the industry with a background in jewelry making and befriended a woman working in Optics, who encouraged her to join the field. She currently works in polishing, where she smooths lenses, mirrors, windows, and the ends of Optical fibers to optimize their shape and surface quality.

“This is not something I imagined I would be doing. It’s not only rewarding but interesting and fun.”

— John, Optical Engineer

John didn’t know anything about Optics until he started working in a lab at his high school. After graduating in 2019, he entered the workforce full-time at a company that makes custom Optics components. He especially loves the bonuses and perks as he was able to purchase his dream car recently!

Program

Keene State Program Overview

As part of Keene State’s one-year certificate, you will develop practical skills on state-of-the-art precision optics equipment. Upon completion, students can complete an optional paid internship, seek full-time employment in optics, or continue their education by transitioning their certificate into a bachelor’s degree at Keene State.

How you benefit from taking the KSC 1-year program:

Keene, NH is the heart of the precision optics manufacturing industry. KSC students interact with industry representatives throughout the program.

Small by design – only 10 spaces available – the program maximizes the quality of the instruction. Graduates are job-ready on Day 1.

The one-year Precision Optics Certificate Program is taught in-person and is designed for curious individuals eager to dive into cutting-edge technology but may not have considered college due to time or financial constraints.

Thinking about changing careers? The KSC certificate provides a streamlined, focused pathway into fast-growing, exciting industry.

For students with good academic standing who complete the program, plus served in a paid summer internship, there is the strong potential for a career in optics with a starting salary range of $50k+ and benefits, along with opportunities for rapid advancement.

Contact Keene State College

Contact Keene State College

Find out what the program has to offer.
Get in touch with an advisor today.