Photonics Systems (Short Course) Level 5
The Level 5 Photonics Systems short course has been developed through a collaboration between South Devon College and the Torbay Hi-Tech Cluster. The course is accredited by the University Centre South Devon.
Course Aims
At the end of this course you will have developed an understanding of:
The commercialisation and development of photonic technologies, components and systems
International Telecommunication Union requirements for a photonic system and network
Optical fibre as a medium for optical transmission
Theoretical and practical aspects of the modelling and design of photonics components and systems
Course Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course you will be able to:
Analyse the International Telecommunication Union requirements and how this has influenced the commercialisation and development of photonic technologies, components and systems
Evaluate the characteristics of optical fibres and their applications within a photonics system
Apply the theoretical and practical aspects of the modelling and design of a photonics system in a commercial context
Accredited or Non-Accredited
The course can be accessed as an accredited (assessed) or non-accredited (non-assessed – attendance only) course. To achieve the accredited 20 academic credits at Level 5, requires successful completion of the assessed elements:
Presentation on the development of photonics technologies
2500-word report on the application of photonics systems
For the non-accredited course, you are required to attend the teaching sessions at South Devon College or on-line and there is no assessment of learning.
The new and innovative £17 million Hi Tech & Digital Centre provides a visionary facility for higher education, towards ever-expanding hi tech, manufacturing, digital and creative sectors across Torbay, South Devon and wider regions. Some of your teaching may take place in the Hi Tech and Digital Centre which has specialist facilities including:
Manufacturing, 3D printing and precision machining workshops
Materials testing suite
Programming logical controls (PLC) and electrical suite
Computer-aided design (CAD) suite
Kao/Hockham Electronic and Photonics Training Suite
Course Details
- Evidence of successful study at Level 4 in Electrical Engineering or similar. Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications will be considered on the basis of relevant work experience and attainment of skills.
This is not a module, it is a short course that is worth 20 academic credits at Level 5. However, it can be completed as a non-assessed, non-accredited course.
Indicative Course Content
The above course outcomes are fixed but the course content can be adjusted to meet your needs and specialisms.
Introduction and history of fibre optic communication
Telecommunication standards and concepts of transmission
Optical fibre types and applications
Overview of modulation schemes
Lasers as optical transmitters
Discrete optical modulators for enhanced transmission
Presentations
Bit error rate
Direct detect optical receivers
Advanced photonic coherent transmitter structures
Digital signal processing for coherent transmission
Optical amplifiers
Optical add/drop multiplexers
Estimate link budgets
Photonic integrated circuits
I have been really happy with the Level 4 Learning and Skills Mentor apprenticeship. The monthly lessons, led by Leigh, are well thought out and engaging. We receive excellent resources and have ample opportunities to practice our techniques during the lessons. Allowing for group collaboration and sharing of experiences. The feedback and one-on-one sessions I have received are informative, knowledgeable, and helpful, enabling me to develop my skills further. Since starting this apprenticeship, I have gained valuable knowledge in questioning and listening techniques, which I have already begun to apply in my role as an Assessor Coach. Throughout the program, I have felt fully supported. I cannot recommend this course enough for anyone either new to mentoring or looking to develop their communication and support skills. This apprenticeship has provided me with the tools and confidence needed to excel in mentoring and support roles, making a real difference in my professional capabilities.Jenny Goodman
