Auguest 10-14

9:00 am to 4:00pm EDT

Galbraith Building, Room 303, 35 St George St,

Toronto, ON M5S 1A4

Tuition

$700/wk – Domestic

$1100/wk – International

Grades 11, 12

Photonics is the science and technology of generating, controlling, and detecting light. Light is one of the most fundamental ways we observe and understand the universe. It enables us to see the world around us and serves as a powerful tool for exploring phenomena beyond the limits of human vision, from distant galaxies and exoplanets to microscopic cells and molecules.

The study of photonics has led to many of the technologies that underpin modern society. Optical fibers carry vast amounts of information across the globe, lasers enable precision manufacturing and medical procedures, and advanced imaging systems help scientists and engineers make new discoveries. As photonic technologies continue to advance, they are expected to play an increasingly important role in communications, sensing, quantum technologies, and next-generation computing systems.

By studying photonics, students gain insight into a field that lies at the intersection of physics, engineering, materials science, and technology, with applications spanning healthcare, telecommunications, energy, and scientific research.

Photonics is at the forefront of modern science and engineering, a highly multidisciplinary field encompassing:

Modern Optics
Electromagnetism
Materials Science
Quantum Mechanics
Condensed Matter Physics
Quantum Electrodynamics
Electrical Engineering
Computer Science & Engineering

This course introduces students to the fundamental
principles of optics and photonics through a combination of
theory, demonstrations, and hands-on laboratory activities.
Beginning with the nature and properties of light, students
will explore lenses, focal length, and optical systems before
investigating polarization. The course will then examine
interference and diffraction, revealing how the wave nature
of light produces phenomena ranging from colorful natural
patterns to holography and precision measurement
techniques. Students will also study reflection, refraction,
and total internal reflection, discovering how these principles enable fiber-optic communication. The program concludes with an introduction to lasers and their widespread applications in medicine, manufacturing, communications, and scientific research.
Throughout the week, students will perform experiments, make optical measurements, and gain practical experience with equipment and techniques used in modern optics laboratories.

Mentorship Opportunities

Learn about photonics from expert faculty, graduate researchers, and senior undergraduate students at the forefront of science and engineering.

Multidisciplinary STEM Education

Photonics is a collaboration between several disciplines, from material science engineers to physics.
You will learn something relevant for
any career in STEM.

Emphasis on Hands-On Learning

This course combines rigorous STEM education with exciting demonstrations, hands-on experiments, and interactive activities, giving you the opportunity to learn by doing and experience science and engineering in action.

Meet Like-Minded and Driven Individuals

Students will have the opportunity to connect with other curious and motivated peers who share their passion for science and technology. Together, you will explore exciting topics in physics and engineering.

Eligibility

Any Ontario High high school student in Grades 11 or 12 are eligible to apply. Ambitious students in grade 10 can apply but must answer additional questions. There is no minimum grade requirement, and no mandatory prerequisites, however, having a strong background and interest in physics, chemistry, and mathematics is highly relevant.

Applying

There is no fee to apply to the program. As part of the application process, applicants will be asked to complete a short application form that includes several brief questions about their interest in the program and why they would be a strong participant. Applicants will also be asked to provide information such as their age, educational background, dietary restrictions or allergies, and any accessibility requirements. While students are required to bring their own lunch and refreshments, water and healthy snacks will be available.

All applicants are required to sign a participation waiver.

Applications submitted after the deadline will still be considered, subject to space availability, but will not receive priority during the selection process.

We intend to notify all applicants of their application status no later than one week after the application deadline.

APPLY HERE

Cancellation and Refunds

No Refunds for cancellations.

In the unlikely event the program does not run, all participants will be rewarded a full refund.

Questions, Comments, or Concerns?

nazir.kherani@utoronto.ca