Overview on the nature of light using both the classical and the modern approach. Light generation, propagation and interaction with matter. Optical waveguides and optical cavities. Lasers: Basic structure and operation. Examples of solid state lasers. Semiconductor device fundamentals, the PN junction. Light emitting diodes: Basic structure, materials, characteristics, circuits and applications. Semiconductor lasers: Basic structure, materials, characteristics, circuits and applications. Photodiodes: Basic structure, materials, characteristics, circuits and applications. Photovoltaic devices.