Master of Science in electrical engineering: semiconductor engineering (online)

Semiconductors are fundamental components of modern electronic devices — vehicles, computers, smartphones, video games and more. They're also big business — the global semiconductor market is expected to grow to $1.38 trillion in 2029.

Wayne State University's online master's program in semiconductor engineering is the first of its kind in Michigan and the second online semiconductor engineering program in the U.S. Whether you are here in the Great Lakes State — the automotive leader of the world and a top-10 region in semiconductor job growth — or taking classes from afar, we will help you stand out among the next generation of chip designers and manufacturers.

What you'll learn in WSU's semiconductor engineering program

You will have the opportunity to advance your studies and emerge as a leader in semiconductor engineering through a comprehensive, interdisciplinary curriculum. Working closely with distinguished Wayne State faculty advisors and peers, you will apply engineering principles and theories to tackle semiconductor engineering challenges.

The online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Semiconductor Engineering is offered by Wayne State’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. It provides you with a comprehensive skillset that you can apply immediately in the semiconductor engineering field. Whether you have a background in electrical engineering, computer science, physics, or chemistry, this program is designed to enhance your technical expertise and career prospects.

Through this program, you will gain the training and knowledge to:

• Design, fabricate, and test semiconductor devices, interfaces, and structures
• Apply critical thinking and creativity to solve technological challenges faced by manufacturers and industry leaders
• Contribute to addressing the talent shortage in the semiconductor industry and support U.S. efforts toward self-reliance in chip manufacturing

MS in electrical engineering: semiconductor engineering (online) curriculum

The program must be completed under Master's Degree Plan C, and it requires a minimum of 30 credits in course work. The online program also allows students to obtain 6 internship credits through an optional industrial internship experience. The internship activity should be in an area related to semiconductor engineering including but not limited to, design, validation, manufacturing, system integration, product development or applications.

The coursework-only plan requires a minimum of five courses from the core group (2 courses must be at the 7000-level). The 6-credit internship option requires a minimum of four courses from the core group (1 course must be at the 7000-level).

• Core courses

  Course number	Course title	Credits
  ECE 5550	Solid State Electronics	3
  ECE 5580	Advanced Nanoelectronics	3
  ECE 5575	Introduction to Micro and Nano Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS/NEMS)	3
  ECE 5675	Sensors and Sensor Instrumentation	3
  ECE 5680	Computer-Aided Logical Design and FPGAs	4
  ECE 5960	Introduction to VLSI Systems	4
  ECE 7530	Advanced Digital VLSI Design	4
  ECE 7566	Advanced Mixed Signal Integrated Circuits	3

• Elective Courses

  Course number	Course title	Credits
  ECE 5340	Advanced Energy Storage Systems for Electrification of Vehicles	3
  ECE 5350	Alternative Energy Sources and Conversions	3
  ECE 5410	Power Electronics and Control	4
  ECE 5620	Embedded System Design	4
  ECE 5995	Special Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering I (Topics should be chosen in consultation with program advisor.)	1-4
  ECE 7570	Smart Sensor Technology II: Characterization and Fabrication	4
  Total Credits		30

Real-world experiences and opportunities in semiconductor engineering

Wayne State University stands as a prominent urban research institution with deep connections to Michigan's automotive industry. The demand for semiconductors and microelectronics, crucial components in modern vehicles, particularly EVs, is on the rise. Therefore, acquiring semiconductor engineering expertise is increasingly essential for job prospects in this sector. Our online master's program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to meet this growing demand and thrive in this dynamic field.

Pursuing an online master’s degree in semiconductor engineering opens up numerous real-world experiences and opportunities that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. Through internships and collaborative projects, you’ll have the chance to work on current, industry-relevant challenges. You will also have access to cloud-based design tools, simulation platforms, and remote labs, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in semiconductor design, testing, and fabrication—all from the comfort of your own home.

Career outlook for individuals with an M.S. in electrical engineering: semiconductor engineering

In 2022, the U.S. passed the CHIPS and Science Act to invest more than $52 billion into the country's semiconductor research, manufacturing and workforce development. This initiative translates to as many as 90,000 new semiconductor fabrication jobs. Wayne State will prepare you for careers in roles such as:

• Semiconductor process engineer
• Product development engineer
• System software architect
• Logic design engineer
• Design automation and methodology engineer
• Application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) design engineer
• Engineering management

The College of Engineering's Career Services office offers support for your career growth through workshops, networking events, and job boards.

Apply to Wayne State University's online M.S. in semiconductor engineering program

The online Master’s in Semiconductor Engineering at WSU equips you with the advanced skills and expertise needed to design safer, more efficient devices that power our daily lives. You'll also gain the knowledge to drive innovations in emerging technologies like clean energy, quantum computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). With a strong foundation in both interdisciplinary theory and hands-on practice, you’ll stand out in the semiconductor industry while connecting with a global network of Wayne State alumni who are leaders in their fields.

Contact Assistant Professor, Gozde Tutuncuoglu with any questions.