Chip Fabrication and Nano Characterization Certificate Program
The semiconductor chip fabrication and nano characterization certificate program prepares students for semiconductor, nanotechnology, and microelectronics industry careers.
This happens through extensive hands-on training on state-of-the-art techniques used to develop today’s most advanced semiconductor chips.
Cohort 1 is underway from July 15 - September 21, 2024.
Lab training for this cohort is at:
Old Domion University,
Norfolk
University of Virginia,
Charlottesville
Virginia Commonwealth University,
Richmond
Registration is now open for cohort 2:
October 7 - December 20, 2024.
Lab training for this cohort will be available at:
Norfolk State University,
Norfolk
Old Domion University,
Norfolk
Virginia Commonwealth University,
Richmond
University of Virginia,
Charlottesville
Virginia Tech,
Blacksburg
Agenda
The chip fabrication and nano-characterization certificate program will be 10 weeks and will include 40 hours of asynchronous online lectures and up to 60 hours of hands-on, in-person lab training.
The course consists of the following modules:
- Semiconductor fabrication cleanroom orientation and safety
- Vacuum technology
- Mask design
- Lithography
- Thin film deposition
- Etching techniques
- Thin film metrology
- Electron microscopy
Outcomes
Students will learn how to design, fabricate, and test advanced semiconductor chips through extensive hands-on training. Students will learn the principles and processes used by large semiconductor manufacturers and startups.
Having completed this program, students will be able to:
- Safely work in semiconductor fabrication cleanrooms.
- Understand and operate vacuum systems.
- Design masks and transfer patterns using advanced lithography techniques.
- Deposit thin films using physical and chemical vapor deposition processes.
- Analyze the semiconductor product through advanced characterization tools.
Roles You’ll Be Ready For
Participants will be ready for entry-level engineering and technician positions in the semiconductor, nanotechnology and microelectronics industry after the program is completed.