Program Overview

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Certificate of Graduate Study in Semiconductor Patterning and Processing

Overview

The Certificate of Graduate Study in Semiconductor Patterning and Processing is a part-time program designed for professionals working in the semiconductor industry. The program provides an in-depth understanding of the lithographic, deposition, and etch processes and technologies used in fabricating microelectronics on wafers.

Program of Study

The program consists of 9 credits, covering the following courses:

• Chemical Principles
• Molecular Materials
• Optics
• Fundamentals of Nanolithography
• Nanomaterials Processing

These courses focus on the chemical principles, nanomaterials, processes, and other topics relevant to advancing professionally in the field. Particular attention is paid to determining optimal operating conditions for meeting target design specifications.

Career Outcomes

The need for professionals with the skillset necessary to work within the complex semiconductor manufacturing process flow is projected to increase into 2030 and beyond. With the expertise gained in this program, students will be well-positioned to advance their careers in this field.

Potential employers for a certificate in semiconductor patterning and processing include:

• Micron
• Global Foundries
• IBM
• TEL (Tokyo Electron Ltd.)
• Applied Materials

Admissions Requirements

• Deadlines: Fall (May 15), Spring (October 15)
• Applications received after these dates and at least 2 weeks before the first day of classes will be evaluated as long as space is available in the program.
• There is no assistantship consideration for this program.
• Required Application Materials:
  • Transcripts from all schools attended
  • One Letter of Recommendation
  • Resume
  • Personal Statement

Special Notes

The graduate certificates in semiconductor engineering are designed for professionals working in the semiconductor industry who seek additional credentials to advance their careers. Most classes are available online, with many being offered in the evenings to accommodate working schedules. Three-course sequences are an excellent way to attain additional certifications without the time or financial commitment of a full graduate degree.

Student Learning Objectives

Students completing this program will have an in-depth understanding of the principal thin-film processing technologies used in state-of-the-art microelectronics fabrication, including deposition, etch, and extreme ultraviolet lithography.

International Students

This degree is designated as a STEM program. International students maintaining F-1 status are allowed to apply for up to 12 months of post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) following completion/graduation from their degree program. Currently, this degree program is also designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as an eligible degree for the F-1 STEM OPT work authorization extension; students who secure qualifying employment may be eligible to apply for the STEM OPT extension for a cumulative total of up to 36 months of F-1 OPT work authorization.