9351726 Xiao Recent advances in the field of optics should be reflected in undergraduate science and engineering programs. This is presently accomplished at the University of Arkansas by offering to students in science and engineering a series of three courses: "Optics", "Laser Physics", and "Applied Non- Linear Optics". In "Optics" students develop a foundation of both physical and wave optics, in "Laser Physics" students develop specific skills in design, construction, and analysis of different laser systems, while in "Applied Non-Linear Optics" they utilize their skills to investigate concepts and techniques that are finding widespread applications in science and engineering. The present program at Arkansas supports the "Optics", "Laser Physics" and "Applied Non-Linear Optics" courses by providing a strong laboratory experience. The basic project plan reinforces the interest and enthusiasm which is piqued in the lecture and to give students the opportunity to continue to develop their talents and their interests into specific skills. The new laboratory program uses non-linear optical materials as a vehicle to develop skills in (i) Electro-, Magneto-, and Acousto-Optics; (ii) Optical Wave Mixing; (iii) Photorefractive Phenomena; and (iv) Guided Waves and Integrated Optics. In every case the equipment requested is of the type which students encounter in research and development laboratories engaged in optics related work.
