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EDUCATION PLAN

Explore the SMARTLight Curriculum

The SMARTLight (Smart LightWave technologies for 6G telecom systems) programme is a two-year, 120 ECTS double Master's programme delivered through four European partner universities and six predefined mobility pathways. The programme comprises four semesters, combining foundational academic training, advanced specialisation and research-oriented learning. During the first two semesters, students complete the core curriculum at their initial host university. The third and fourth semesters are undertaken at a second partner university in a different country, where students pursue specialised courses and complete a 30 ECTS Master's thesis. A compulsory SMARTLight Summer School between the two academic years provides additional hands-on learning and exposure to industry challenges.

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The programme brings together expertise in photonics, optical and wireless communications, artificial intelligence and machine learning to prepare students for the development of future 6G telecommunications systems. Its interdisciplinary curriculum covers areas such as fibre-optic networks, photonic components, advanced communication technologies, intelligent optical systems and emerging quantum and sensing technologies. Through interactive lectures, structured laboratory activities and research-oriented projects, students develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills, applying their knowledge to realistic challenges in next-generation communication systems.

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By the end of the programme, graduates are expected to have developed the technical, analytical and research competences needed to contribute to the design, development and advancement of intelligent photonic and communication technologies. The combination of international academic mobility, specialised training and engagement with research and industry is designed to prepare graduates for careers in telecommunications, photonics and related technology sectors, as well as further academic research.

Course Structure at Partner Universities

The SMARTLight curriculum combines foundational knowledge, advanced technical training and practical learning across four European partner universities. Through six predefined mobility pathways, students develop expertise in photonics, optical and wireless communications, artificial intelligence, machine learning and technologies supporting future 6G telecommunications systems.

Explore the courses offered by each partner university, including mandatory modules, elective options where applicable, and their corresponding European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits.

Aston University, United Kingdom 

Year 1/ Year 2

Academic Focus

Aston University's contribution combines photonics, data science, machine learning, software engineering and optical communications. The modules support the development of interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills relevant to intelligent lightwave technologies and future 6G telecommunications systems.

Mandatory Modules
ECTs
Data Structures and Algorithms
7.5
Machine Learning for Optical Communications
7.5
Aston Global Advantage (EPS)
7.5
Applied Machine Learning
7.5
Photonics for Future Digital Technologies: Laboratory Skills
7.5
Photonics 360: From Digital Skills to Emerging Technologies
7.5
Software Engineering
7.5
Fundamentals for AI and Data Science 2
7.5
Total
60

Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel (CAU)

Year 1/ Year 2

Academic Focus

Kiel University's academic contribution focuses on electrical and information engineering, including digital, optical and wireless communications. Students develop knowledge of communication systems, photonic components, numerical simulation and technologies such as visible light communications and fibre-optic communication networks.

Modules
ECTs
Digital Communications
5
Photonic Components
5
Numerical Simulation of Analog and Digital Communication Systems
5
Advanced Digital Communications
5
Optical Communications
5
Wireless Communications
5
Visible Light Communications
5
Fibre-optic Communication Networks
5
MSc Lab Digital Communications
5
Seminar Communications
5
MSc Laboratory Communications
5
German Language Course
5
Total
60

University of Brescia (UNIBS) Italy

Year 1 / Year 2

Academic Focus

The University of Brescia contributes expertise in electronics engineering, communications, artificial intelligence, photonics and network security. The academic offering covers communication technologies and intelligent systems, with subjects ranging from antennas and wireless networks to optical components, machine learning, quantum technologies and optimisation algorithms.

Modules
ECTs
Antennas
6
Artificial Intelligence
6
Statistics for machine learning
6
Photonics
6
Network security
6
Data-driven system modelling
6
Quantum technologies
6
Vehicular Networks and Cooperative Driving
6
Optical communication components
6
RF Foundation
6
Digital modulation and channel coding
6
Data governance and analytics in health information
6
Computer Security
6
Optimisation Algorithms
6
Laboratory of Modern Optics
3
RF design
3
Total
60

Université Marie et Louis Pasteur (UMLP)

Year 1 / Year 2

Academic Focus

Université Marie et Louis Pasteur contributes advanced training in photonics, optics, quantum technologies and experimental physics. The academic offering builds on research expertise associated with FEMTO-ST and includes subjects in nonlinear optics, laser physics, nano-optics, photonic technologies and applications of artificial intelligence.

Mandatory Modules
ECTs
Non-linear Optics
4
Material Physics
4
Lab Skills in Applied Physics EIPHI
4
Signal Processing
2
Laser Physics
4
Quantum Optics and Light-Matter Interaction
4
Guided Optics
4
Noise, Detection, and Control
4
Machine Learning
2
Statistics
2
Artificial intelligence and applications
3
Ultrafast Optics
3
Advanced Nonlinear Optics
4
Advanced Quantum Optics
3
Advanced Numerical Methods in Photonics
4
Advanced Instrumentation
3
Nano-Optics
4
Metamaterials and Multi-Physical Couplings
3
English/French and Soft Skills
3
Elective Modules (Year 1)
ECTs
Solid-State Physics
4
Quantum Physics
4
Project
6
English/French
6
Soft Skills 1
3
Micro Nano Fabrication and Clean Room
4
English/French and Culture Heritage Discovery
3
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