THE OPTICAL SOCIETY (OSA)

OSA

Advancing the Science and Technology of Light

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Start A Chapter

Student Services

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Start a Student Chapter

Starting a Student Chapter is easy! Follow these three steps and your college or university can begin to take advantage of the many benefits and services OSA offers its Chapters.

Once your application is approved, your chapter may also request $250 in start-up funding. More information »


Step 1: Recruit five members.
All chapter members are required to join OSA's national organization. Students may join online or use the enrollment forms.

Not sure who is an OSA member at your school? E-mail chaptersandsections@osa.org and we may be able to provide you with a list.

Step 2: Elect officers.
We also strongly recommend that the chapter have a faculty advisor.

Step 3: Submit the OSA Student Chapter Application.
Submit your application to chaptersandsections@osa.org or mail it to:

OSA Member Services
C/O Chapters and Sections
2010 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20036 USA

If you have questions or difficulty with the application form, please e-mail chaptersandsections@osa.org.

The OSA Student Chapter Application takes only a few minutes to complete. OSA asks for basic information, such as:

  • A roster of members (must have at least five), including a list of designated officers and their contact information.
  • The name and contact information of the faculty advisor.
  • A description of your optics program.
  • A letter of intent, describing the purpose of your chapter. There is a sample letter included in the form.
  • A copy of your bylaws. There are sample bylaws in the form.