Photonics student at a lab training within the EU Phortify project.
Image: Vrije Universiteit BrusselsPhotonics enables technologies from high-speed communications and medical imaging to advanced manufacturing and AI. With a global market projected to reach €1.4 trillion by 2032, the EU-funded project PHORTIFY - Photonics education network for next-gen innovation and digital skills excellence for industry and society ensures Europe remains competitive by equipping the next generation with cutting-edge skills.
PHORTIFY is a Digital Europe Programme action delivered by a consortium of 12 partners coordinated by Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB). The initiative harmonises learning outcomes and quality assurance, enables cross-border mobility, and awards certifications to accelerate Europe’s photonics talent pipeline. The programme places strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, offering scholarships, mobility support, and mentorship opportunities for underrepresented groups. A digital library, hybrid learning model with remote and XR-enabled labs, and industry-supervised projects will make top-quality training accessible across borders.
From 2025 until 2029, PHORTIFY will create a shared photonics curriculum across seven Universities complemented by industry-co-designed self-standing modules for professionals. Students and researchers will gain access to Europe’s leading laboratories, digital resources, and instructors, while companies benefit from graduates trained on real tools, workflows, and challenges.
Each of the seven academic Phortify partner offers its own Photonics or Quantum Master programme. Within this structure, a dedicated 30 ECTS elective package gives access to Phortify-labelled courses across the network.
The Phortify track is embedded as an elective package: Students select Phortify-labelled courses (minimum 30 ECTS) as part of their elective choices, ensuring full compatibility with programme and graduation requirements. This structure provides access to the full Phortify curriculum, while allowing students to tailor their learning pathway within the framework of their home institution.
Phortify partners and program overview.
Picture: VUB and Phortify consortiumThe Phortify Certificate is awarded to students who complete the Phortify track (minimum 30 ECTS) within their Master’s programme and recognises advanced, internationally oriented and industry-aligned training. Follow these four steps to join the Phortify Master Track and access specialised courses, mobility, and student support.
Select one of the Phortify partner universities and apply for their existing Photonics Master's programme.
Complete the admission process at your chosen university and enroll in its Photonics or Quantum Master's programme. This is your formal entry point into the Phortify Master Track.
In consultation with your programme coordinator, select Phortify-labelled courses and activities. This includes specialised modules that support advanced photonics and digital skills. You can register your personal Phortify account here: https://phortify.eu/myphortify/registerExternal link
Benefit from Phortify's added value: flexible modules, international mobility windows, internships with industry and research partners, and targeted student support and mentoring. Upon successful completion, you receive an official Phortify Certificate on top of your Master's degree.
More information on PHORTIFY is available hereExternal link. PHORTIFY is funded by the European Union under the Grant Agreement No. 101226191 (Digital Europe Programme).
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