Responding to requests from local industry, The University of Texas at Dallas is offering a graduate certificate in infrared technology starting this fall.

“The Richardson area is home to one of the greatest concentrations of infrared imaging companies in the United States, but more than half of the engineering work force in infrared technology in North Texas is expected to reach retirement age within the next decade,” according to Dr. Cy Cantrell, associate dean for academic affairs in the UT Dallas Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science.

“Few universities in the nation, and none in North Texas, provide the combination of education and practical skills necessary for engineers to contribute to infrared imaging projects.”

The infrared band of the electromagnetic spectrum is located just below the visible band, and infrared imaging is a staple of night vision technology, remote temperature sensing, short-range wireless communication (such as your TV’s remote control), weather forecasting, industrial analysis and astronomical research.

The certificate will require 15 hours of graduate-level coursework, including classes in physical optics, engineering optics and the engineering of infrared imaging systems. Those courses may be used in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a master’s degree in electrical engineering, but master’s enrollment isn’t necessary. The certificate may also be of interest to those who already have their master’s and want to broaden their knowledge.