What is my passion? What are my future ambitions? On this page we will tell you what we are looking for, and if you fit that profile, why our photonics programme should be at the top of your list.

1. You like a challenge
As a photonics master student, you will be submerged in a tradition of academic excellence and you will be challenged to take your education into your own hands and learn how to work without constant supervision and direction. You are an open-minded but critical thinker, you enjoy problem-solving and your natural curiosity drives you to find a deeper understanding of things. Putting in some hard work does not scare you.

2. Creativity is key
Do you know what is the most important asset you will need in your future career? According to recent global studies successfully navigating an increasingly complex world will require, more than management theory, technical background or even vision, a high level of creativity and flexibility. You need to think independently and with a creative mind. You question the status quo by assessing available information, you look for new perspectives and you are not afraid to think out-of-the-box.

3. Future skills for future engineers
Our approach to teaching and learning means that as a student, you will not only perfect your theoretical and technical skills. You will also be exposed to all the important 21st-century skills: communication and presentation skills, interpersonal skills, business training, real-world work experience through international internships, business networking, etc.

4. Thinking must never submit itself: equality, diversity, inclusiveness
Equality, diversity, inclusiveness, free-thinking: this is what our programme stands for and as a university community we are committed to protecting and promoting these guiding values at all cost. We aim at recognising and eliminating practices and structures that create and sustain inequality and discrimination based on race, gender, religion or culture.

5. The beating heart of Europe
Our programme is being taught in Ghent and Brussels, two of the main cities in Belgium, the beating heart of Europe. Both are at the centre of the country, so no matter which city you choose, you’re always nearby!

Brussels is not just the capital of Belgium, it is the political and economic capital of Europe. With its European Union and NATO headquarters, a wide range of international trade and finance organisations and hundreds of multinationals it is one of the most international places in the world.

Today, Ghent it a vibrant university town and cultural hub. Its pedestrianized centre is known for medieval architecture such as 12th-century Gravensteen castle and the Graslei, a row of guildhalls beside the Leie river harbour; and with plenty of leisure possibilities, museums, exhibitions, bars & clubs and cosy restaurants.

Both are in fact international places with a mosaic of languages and cultures where you will discover a wealth of history and culture, art and architecture, food, music and of course, there’s chocolate everywhere! Oh, did we mention yet we are also pretty good at brewing our own beer!?

As an MSPE student, you’ll be living and studying in the middle of this decision-making epicentre: a head start for launching your career. Ready to get started? We thought so!