Overview

The master’s program Photonics and Quantum Materials aims to train young professionals capable to face the challenges of modern science and technology. The educational program is designed to guide the student from the foundations of photonics and quantum physics to cutting edge scientific concepts that will form the basis of tomorrow's technologies. All the courses are taught by recognized scientists and cover a broad range of topics at the intersection of photonics, solid state physics and modern technologies.

Students perform research in modern world-class laboratories. Skoltech provides opportunities for students to collaborate on real-world problems with industrial partners and offers support for the creation of technological startups. The graduates can choose an academic career or become a part of technological community that advances a rapidly growing photonic industry.

Joint programs

Track Skoltech/MIPT

MIPT students in selected scientific fields can take advantage of a joint degree program with Skoltech featuring collaborative research projects, access to both universities’ experimental infrastructure, mutual course credit, and academic support.

Joint track with VPG LaserOne

A joint track with a leading industrial laser manufacturer offers opportunities to work on industrial oriented projects under the guidance of both industry and academia representatives. The projects covers a wide range of topics related to laser technologies, including high-power laser design, novel optical materials, and application of lasers in biomedicine.

The key features of the program

broad education program in contemporary photonics and condensed matter physics
access to state-of-the art research laboratories
'project-driven education', with students expected to carry out innovative research and to publish in renowned journals
innovation-driven program, with strong support for student-led startups
international and Russian faculty with strong international ties, offering opportunities

optional industrial track providing training in applied optical engineering for a more industry-oriented career

Future career

Our graduates shape their own futures by choosing from a variety of career opportunities in industry, science and business

Industry: successful career in R&D intensive companies within Russia and abroad, for instance in Tinkoff, Megafon, IPG Photonics, A* Singapore
Science: PhD, either at Skoltech or at other leading academic institutions such as the Weizmann Institute of Science, MIPT, EPFL, MSU, University of Berlin, etc.
Startup: launching a startup based on student research and ideas, or to joining the teams of existing startups, such as the Skolkovo residents PICsTech, NovaPrint 3D, and TetraQuant

Programme Structure

Research areas

optical computation and neuromorphic systems
photonic integrated circuits and optoelectronic devices
metamaterials, plasmonics and wave structures
functional and quantum materials
biophotonics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-26 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

100

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TOEFL^® IBT

72

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Credits

120 ECTS

The 2-year program comprises compulsory and recommended elective courses on the most important topics, a wide range of elective courses (depending on the student's research and professional needs), components of entrepreneurship and innovation, research activity and 8 weeks of industrial immersion.

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Moscow, Russia

Disciplines

Materials Science Physics Applied Mathematics View 8 other Masters in Applied Mathematics in Russia

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

72

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Bachelor's degree in physics, material science, or engineering (optical, electric or mechanical).

An online application via the form on our website and payment of the application fee.
A motivation letter (Statement of Purpose).
A resume (CV) detailing your education, work experience, and research activities.

Two letters of recommendation from professors or employers relevant to your chosen program. Letters must be in English and include the recommender’s contact details (phone and/or email). Please attach copies of the originals along with the English translation if needed. Notarization is not required.
If available: Official English test scores (e.g., TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, “Lingvotest” testing system) — unless English is the only official language of your country of citizenship.

Technological requirements

General Physics (mechanics, electro-magnetism, thermodynamics), Analysis, Linear algebra, Basic probability, Basic quantum mechanics, Programming.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech) and/or in Russia, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

875000 RUB / year

≈ 875000 RUB / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

Free

Additional Details

Russian citizens: Tuition costs covered by Skoltech
International students: 875,000 rubles/year (≈$11,000)
Tuition waivers and scholarships available

Living costs

Moscow

Russia

41640 - 81437 RUB / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Photonics and Quantum Materials.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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