Semiconductor Micro-Credential Program

Each microcredential is designed to be completed in approximately 20 hours and includes the following components:

• Lectures: Asynchronous weekly online lectures that you can watch at your own pace.
• Lab: A 2-hour in-person hands-on lab session at the AMLCI cleanroom on Kent State’s Kent Campus (or an alternative cleanroom in Ohio).
• Assessment: Weekly quizzes to track your progress and understanding that you can complete at your own pace.
• Industry Engagement: Two live virtual 60-minute sessions with Intel, TeamNEO, and SEMI Foundation.
• Optional: Virtual meetings with the instructor for additional support and engagement.

Introduction to Semiconductors and Cleanroom Microcredential Program

Students will receive a microcredential for each course completed. 

Microcredential Course 1. Introduction to Semiconductor Devices (Foundational)

In this foundational microcredential, learners will explore the evolution of the semiconductor industry and the processes that enable the development of modern digital and smart electronics.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand the history and evolution of the semiconductor industry.
• Explain the semiconductor fabrication process.
• Demonstrate safety and standard protocols in a cleanroom environment.

Skills Acquired:

• Semiconductor process fundamentals
• Cleanroom safety protocols

Prerequisite: None.

Microcredential Course 2. Sand to Silicon (Intermediate)

This intermediate microcredential builds upon the foundational knowledge from "Introduction to Semiconductor Devices." Learners will understand how sand is transformed into microchips, essential for today’s automated and digital world.

Learning Outcomes:

• Explain the properties and materials of semiconductor devices.
• Understand the silicon ingot and wafer production process.
• Demonstrate wafer cleaning in a cleanroom environment.

Skills Acquired:

• Wafer handling, cutting, and packaging

Prerequisite: Completion of "Introduction to Semiconductor Devices"

Microcredential Course 3. Semiconductor Fabrication Process I (Advanced)

In this advanced microcredential, learners will delve into the semiconductor fabrication process, focusing on creating the internal layers of a microchip.

Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate wafer cleaning and coating using sputtering techniques.
• Explain and demonstrate the photolithography process.
• Perform wet and dry etching techniques.

Skills Acquired:

• Photolithography, sputtering, and etching processes

Prerequisite: Completion of "Introduction to Semiconductor Devices" and "Sand to Silicon."

Microcredential Course 4. Semiconductor Fabrication Process II (Expert)

This is the final microcredential in the "Introduction to Semiconductor and Cleanroom" program. Learners will explore thin-film deposition techniques and multilayer IC processes that form the core of microchips.

Learning Outcomes:

• Explain diffusion and ion implantation processes.
• Demonstrate thin-film deposition techniques.
• Understand the multi-layer IC and backend fabrication process.

Skills Acquired:

• Thin-film deposition and advanced semiconductor fabrication

Prerequisite: Completion of "Introduction to Semiconductor Devices,” "Sand to Silicon," and “Semiconductor Fabrication Process I”

• Traditional and non-traditional students
• Non-students ready to begin their professional journey
• Professionals looking to upskill or reskill
• Veterans and military personnel with relevant experience

Ideal for those pursuing or advancing careers as technicians or engineers in:

• Semiconductor Manufacturing
• Chemistry
• Electrical, Mechanical, or Environmental Engineering Technology
• Electrical, Mechanical, or Environmental Engineering
• Materials Science
• Physics
• Computer Electronic Technology
• Other STEM fields considered

Both micro-credentials Fall 2024 are completely FREE! Since the programs are non-credential courses, there will be no cost added to your student tuition. Guest students also have no cost to attend either of the programs.

• Earn a Micro-Credential: Gain a prestigious micro-credential and digital badge upon successful completion.
• Flexible Learning Format: Perfect for busy schedules, with a blend of asynchronous online content and in-person labs.
• Hands-On Experience: Access state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities and gain practical experience.
• Industry Networking: Learn from respected instructors and connect with industry professionals.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Priority consideration for scholarships of up to $2,000 toward relevant degree and non-degree programs

Apply now using the buttons or explore our website and LinkedIn page to learn more about each option!

Apply for the Introduction to Semiconductor Devices and Cleanroom (option 1)

Apply for the Sand to Silicon (option 2)

_{**The completion of this form does not automatically enroll you on the program, be on the look out for an email from us describing next steps you should take} 

Details coming shortly! Stay tuned for website updates happening frequently. 

Still have questions? contact semiconductoredpath@kent.edu with your questions or to set up an info session for your institution or club.