Purdue Launches Semiconductor Degrees Program

Purdue University has launched a comprehensive program to address the growing need for experts in the fields of semiconductors and microelectronics. The university says the nation’s economic security depends on developing a talent pipeline in the field.

In response, Purdue announced the creation of its Semiconductor Degrees Program, a suite of degrees and credentials for both graduate and undergraduate students.

Purdue says the program, a first of its kind in the U.S., intends for a “quick ramp-up” of skilled talent and create the next-generation of a semiconductor workforce.

“The need to restore self-reliance in the semiconductor industry is both an economic priority and a national security imperative,” said Purdue President Mitch Daniels.

Purdue says students will learn the manufacturing and design of chips as well as the entire supply chain.
The undergraduate path will begin with a freshman introductory course that features a guarantee of internships or co-op experiences for students who perform well.

Graduate students also will have a “project-based” option for the MS degree, or stackable certificates at MS level, that will prepare them to be workforce-ready upon graduation.

Students will design, fabricate, and test their own semiconductor chips through innovative partnerships with industry.