WCU is a University of North Carolina Campus
Optoelectronics is a field that combines optical and electronic devices for applications such as communications (like fiberoptics), sensing (like optical scanners), and displays (like handheld, touch sensitive computers).
Photonics is a broader term that encompasses optoelectronics, communications, imaging and materials involving optical technology.
Carolinas Photonics Consortium
The Carolinas Photonics Consortium is a major new collaboration involving Clemson, NC State, UNC Charlotte, Duke, and Western Carolina University. Launched in May 2006, its unique mission is to translate intellectual property developed at our outstanding institutions into investment-ready packages (viable prototypes, marketing and business plans) for new products in the booming area of photonics. The CPC began seeking an annual line item of $2.3 million in the state budget to fund projects that translate laboratory results into engagement opportunities.