INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF PHOTONICS COCHIN UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Kerala
Fees: Integrated M.Sc.: ₹1.19 Lakh; M.Tech.: ₹69,300
Average Package: 6.00 LPA
Highest Package: 10.50 LPA

About INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF PHOTONICS COCHIN UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The International School of Photonics (ISP) at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) was established in 1995 through the restructuring of the laser laboratories from the Department of Physics. It serves as a premier center of excellence in the field of light-based technologies, specifically focusing on lasers, fiber optics, and nonlinear optics. In 2002, the University Grants Commission (UGC) identified it as a 'Centre of Excellence in Lasers and Optoelectronics Sciences.' ISP is globally recognized for its unique 5-year Integrated M.Sc. in Photonics, a program specifically designed to groom students for research and industrial careers in optical engineering and photonics from the undergraduate level. The curriculum is meticulously structured to cover fundamental physics alongside advanced topics like biophotonics, quantum optics, and laser technology. The school maintains active international collaborations with institutions such as the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, and ENSSAT, France, often facilitating student exchange programs where final-year projects are conducted abroad. With funding from DST-FIST and other national agencies, the infrastructure includes some of the most advanced laser laboratories in the country. The academic environment at ISP is research-driven, encouraging students to participate in the National Photonics Symposium held annually. While the department is relatively small and focused, its output in terms of high-impact research publications and alumni placement in prestigious global research organizations is substantial. It continues to be the only institution in India offering the Integrated M.Sc. Photonics program, making it a pivotal hub for the nation's optical science manpower development.

Admission Process

Admission to the Integrated M.Sc. is strictly through the CUSAT Common Admission Test (CAT) followed by university counseling. M.Tech. admission requires a valid GATE score or qualifying the Departmental Admission Test (DAT). Ph.D. admissions are based on DAT and interview.

Cutoffs

CUSAT CAT rank within 150 (General All India) for early rounds for Integrated M.Sc.

Rankings & Recognition

CUSAT ranked 1st in Kerala (KIRF 2025) and top 50 in NIRF University Rankings.

Top Recruiters & Placements

TCS,Cognizant,Infosys,Wipro,Sterlite Technologies,Laser and Research Labs (Global),ISRO,DRDO

Scholarships

DST-INSPIRE (for Integrated M.Sc. toppers), KSCSTE Fellowships, and University Merit Scholarships.

Student Life & Campus

Life at ISP is academically intensive but vibrant, with students participating in campus-wide fests like Sargam and university sports meets. The small student body fosters a close-knit community focused on research and innovation.

Facilities

Advanced Laser Laboratories,Fiber Optic Sensors Lab,Computer Center,Department Library,CUSAT University Hostel,Seminar Hall,Research Facilities (Nonlinear Optics, Biophotonics)

Faculty Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the entrance exam for the Integrated M.Sc. Photonics?

Admission is based on the CUSAT Common Admission Test (CAT) rank.

Is the M.Tech. program AICTE approved?

Yes, the M.Tech. in Opto-Electronics and Laser Technology is approved by AICTE.

Courses & Fees

  • Photonics - 1,19,000 (Total for 5 years)
  • Opto-Electronics and Laser Technology - 69,300 (Total)
  • Photonics and Related Areas - Variable

Reviews & Ratings

Overall Rating: 0 out of 5 (0 reviews)

Pros

  • Unique 5-year Integrated M.Sc. Photonics program
  • High quality research facilities and faculty
  • Strong international collaborations (Sweden, France)
  • Excellent academic reputation in optics

Cons

  • Limited social activities in the department compared to main campus
  • Strict academic schedule
  • Niche field with specific placement opportunities

Photo & Video Gallery

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Notifications & Updates

  • CUSAT CAT 2026 Registration Open (2026-01-25)
  • Departmental Admission Test (DAT) 2026 for Ph.D. Physics/Photonics (2026-02-15)

Location

Cochin University of Science and Technology, University Road, South Kalamassery, Kochi, Kerala 682022

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Contact Details

Phone: +91-484-2575848

Email: officeisp@cusat.ac.in

Medical Details & Hospital Load

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