Engineering Science (Microelectronics)

Program Overview

The Engineering Science (Microelectronics) - BS program at ASU equips students with a deep understanding of microelectronic circuits and chip devices. Through a structured curriculum, students master fundamental concepts in mathematics, coding, digital design, and physics, while developing a strong design process approach and incorporating societal and business aspects into engineering solutions. The program culminates in a year-long capstone project, where students apply their knowledge to a real-world microelectronics challenge. Graduates are highly sought after in various industries, including academia, data analysis, manufacturing, and research and development.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This Bachelor of Science program in Engineering Science with a concentration in Microelectronics equips students for successful careers in the microelectronics industry and related fields. The program emphasizes:

• Mastering fundamental concepts in mathematics, coding, digital design, and physics.
• Developing a strong design process approach.
• Deeply understanding the intricacies of microelectronic circuits and chip devices.
• Learning cutting-edge tools and technologies used in the design and fabrication of microelectronic circuits.
• Mastering the methods of testing, developing, and manufacturing semiconductors.
• Engaging in a year-long capstone project to apply theoretical knowledge to a real-world challenge while collaborating with peers and a faculty mentor.

Program Outline:

The BS in Engineering Science program follows a structured curriculum that progresses over four years.

First Year:

• Students acquire a strong foundation in mathematics through courses like Precalculus and Calculus.
• They learn essential programming skills and explore the world of digital design.
• Physics courses provide a solid understanding of the fundamental principles governing microelectronics.

Second Year:

• Students delve deeper into the field of microelectronics, learning about integrated circuits, semiconductor devices, and analog and digital circuit design principles.
• They refine their computational skills through advanced programming courses.
• Engineering courses focus on problem-solving techniques, analysis methods, and project management approaches.

Third Year:

• Students master advanced topics in microelectronics, including VLSI design, semiconductor processing, and electronic packaging.
• Courses related to signal processing and control systems broaden their understanding of complex systems.
• Engineering courses delve into design methodology, ethics, and professional development.

Fourth Year:

• This year focuses on real-world application of acquired knowledge through a year-long capstone project.
• Students work collaboratively on a challenging microelectronics-related project under the guidance of a faculty mentor, showcasing their design, fabrication, and testing skills.
• They learn advanced topics in microelectronics manufacturing, testing, and reliability.
• Engineering courses cover topics such as engineering economics, sustainability, and ethics.

Assessment:

The BS in Engineering Science program employs a comprehensive assessment approach to ensure student mastery of the curriculum:

• Coursework: Performance in midterms, quizzes, assignments, labs, and exams contributes significantly to the assessment.
• Projects: Students demonstrate their understanding and application of concepts through individual and group projects.
• Presentations: Effective communication skills are honed through oral presentations of project findings and research.
• Exams: Comprehensive exams at the end of each semester evaluate the student's overall understanding of the course material.
• Capstone Project: The year-long capstone project serves as a culminating assessment, requiring students to showcase their ability to apply theoretical knowledge, design principles, and problem-solving skills to a real-world microelectronics challenge.

Teaching:

The program boasts a dedicated faculty with deep expertise in microelectronics and related fields. The teaching methods prioritize a student-centered approach, fostering active learning and engagement.

• Interactive lectures provide a foundation of theoretical knowledge.
• Hands-on labs and design projects allow students to apply their learnings and gain practical experience using sophisticated equipment and software tools.
• Group projects and collaborative assignments encourage teamwork and communication skills.

Careers:

Graduates of the BS in Engineering Science program are highly sought after in a diverse range of industries, including:

• Academia and education
• Data analysis and modeling
• Energy and environmental engineering
• Engineering consulting
• Manufacturing and quality control
• Product design and development
• Project management
• Research and development
• Technical sales and marketing
The program's comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for various job titles, including:
• Computer Hardware Engineer
• Data Analyst
• Electrical Engineering Technologist
• Engineering Manager
• Field Researcher
• Project Manager
• Quality Control Manager
• Technical Sales Engineer
• The first required math course for the program is Precalculus.
• The curriculum includes a moderate level of math intensity, involving courses such as MAT 117, MAT 119, MAT 170, and MAT 210.