Semiconductor Photonics and Electronics MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in Semiconductor Photonics and Electronics equips students with a comprehensive grounding in optoelectronics and photonics engineering. Through research-led teaching and hands-on cleanroom lab work, the program fosters a deep understanding of semiconductor materials, device theory, and device manufacture. Graduates are highly sought after for careers in semiconductor device design and development, photonic device engineering, research and development, and technical consulting.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc program in Semiconductor Photonics and Electronics is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals and cutting-edge research in modern optoelectronics and photonics engineering. The program aims to provide students with a competitive edge in the job market by developing their knowledge of materials and device theory, as well as practical experimental skills in semiconductor cleanroom lab work.

Outline:

The program covers a range of topics, including:

• GaN materials and devices: This includes the solid-state lighting LED revolution.
• Nanoscaled materials and devices: This explores the latest advancements in miniaturization.
• Photonic device manufacture: This covers the practical aspects of creating photonic devices.

Core Modules:

• MSc Investigative Research Project: This module provides a structured individual project for students to carry out practical and/or theoretical work, allowing them to acquire and demonstrate research skills.
• Semiconductor Materials: This module describes the basic physical properties of semiconductor materials used in the electronic and opto-electronic industries.
• Energy Efficient Semiconductor Devices: This module explores the role of semiconductor devices in improving energy efficiency and renewable energy generation.
• Advanced Integrated Electronics: This module delves into advanced topics in analogue and digital VLSI design, including power consumption, interconnect effects, non-CMOS logic, circuit layout, analog amplifiers, data converters, and using Spice.
• Optical Communication Devices and Systems: This module examines the behavior of components in a communications system and how their design and performance are determined by system requirements.
• Packaging and Reliability of Microsystems: This module describes the methods used to fabricate microsystems and introduces the reliability and failure mechanisms in devices and microsystems.

Assessment:

Assessment is conducted through a combination of:

• Examinations: These assess students' theoretical understanding of the subject matter.
• Coursework: This includes assignments, lab reports, and other forms of written work.
• Project Dissertation: This involves a significant research project, culminating in a written dissertation and oral presentation.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Research-led teaching: This ensures that students are exposed to the latest advancements in the field.
• Lectures: These provide a structured overview of key concepts.
• Laboratories: These offer hands-on experience in semiconductor cleanroom lab work.
• Seminars: These provide opportunities for students to engage with experts and discuss current research.
• Tutorials: These offer personalized support and guidance to students.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Semiconductor device design and development: This involves creating new and innovative semiconductor devices.
• Photonic device engineering: This focuses on the design and manufacture of photonic devices.
• Research and development: This involves conducting research in the field of semiconductor photonics and electronics.
• Opportunities exist for dissertation studies to be carried out in collaboration with other university research centers or industrial organizations.
• The department offers postgraduate students a choice of four one-year, full-time masters courses, which combine taught study on a wide range of modules and an exciting individual research project.
• The department has state-of-the-art teaching laboratories that allow students to gain exposure to the world-leading research environment.
• All courses are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology.

| Type | Fees | Currency | | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | | Home (2024 annual fee) | £13,000 | GBP | | Overseas (2024 annual fee) | £31,000 | GBP |