Integrating Ray-Tracing and Other Simulations Into Undergraduate Optics Courses

Optics courses taught for in physics departments often emphasize (appropriately) wave optics and lasers, as these are areas of strength for physicists. However, many careers in optics require familiarity with optical design software, including in-depth familiarity with geometrical optics. On the other hand, teaching geometrical optics at a practical and sophisticated level can be challenging for physicists who are not trained as optical engineers, and it is easy for an inexperienced person to make misstatements about optical instrument design. In this presentation I will outline very simple ray-tracing projects that do not require the instructor to have a deep background in geometrical optics but do develop practical skills, including familiarity with professional ray-tracing software (e.g. ZEMAX, OSLO) and a confident and scientific mindset about using simulations to explore optical designs. The purpose is not so much to teach optical engineering as to prepare students to learn optical engineering in their subsequent careers.