Online Course
Ever wondered what a semiconductor is and why it is said to be the most critical technology in our modern world?
Follow our free, online Basic Course on semiconductor technology at your own pace. You can learn about the importance of semiconductor technology and the excellent career opportunities available in the industry. We have produced the materials for the general public, especially those considering their future careers.
Our Basic Course contains videos ideally watched in the following order:
1
What are semiconductors?
In Video 1 of this series, semiconductor researchers at the University of Sheffield explain what semiconductors are and why they are essential in modern societies.
2
How are semiconductors made?
In Video 2 of this series, engineers at the University of Sheffield describe the key processes in semiconductor manufacturing. Interested in knowing what semiconductors are? Then watch Video 1 of this series.
3
From Sand to Integrated Circuits
In Video 3 of this series, we showcase the various stages of semiconductor manufacturing, such as silicon wafer production, integrated circuit design, fabrication, photolithography and packaging.
4
How semiconductors have enabled AI
Many applications in our everyday lives incorporate AI.
In Video 4 of this series, we explore how development in semiconductor technology has enabled rapid progress in AI in recent years.
5
How semiconductors power the internet
The Internet is an essential part of all modern societies. In Video 5 of this series, engineers at the University of Sheffield highlight the roles of semiconductor technology in the internet, such as data centres and cloud computing.
6
How semiconductors help achieve Net Zero
Renewable energy sources are essential in the transition to Net Zero. In Video 6 of this series, semiconductor researchers at the University of Sheffield explain the crucial roles played by semiconductors to improve the performance of renewable energy sources.
7
How semiconductors make cars safer and greener
In Video 7 of this series, we explore the increasing use of semiconductor technology in cars, making them a safer and more sustainable mode of transportation.
8
Career options in semiconductor industry
In Video 8, Andrew Robertson (experienced semiconductor engineer and CTO of Bay Photonics) explains the diverse range of jobs and careers within the global semiconductor industry. He also recounted his career in the semiconductor industry specialising in microelectronics and photonics.
Meet the Experts
Interview with a Technology Solution Specialist
Philip explains why he chose a career in the semiconductor industry. To develop his career, and whilst continuing to work in the semiconductor industry, he returned as an industrial student to university more than once.
Interview with a Semiconductor Production Controller
Sarah explains why she changed her career to join the semiconductor industry. She undertook further higher education for career development within the semiconductor industry.
Interview with a CEO of semiconductor company
Ben White shares how he became the CEO of Phlux Technology, following his BEng and PhD degrees in electronic engineering in semiconductor devices. He explains how the semiconductor industry benefits self-driving cars.
Interview with an Electronic Engineer
Jade explains her typical day as an electronic engineer in a semiconductor company and advises on getting into engineering.
Interview with a CTO of semiconductor company
Aravind shares how playing/building wooden items in his childhood sparked his interests in technology and eventually led him to specialise in electronic engineering (semiconductor chip design).
Part 1
Part 2
Interview with a semiconductor PhD student
Ben Sheridan shares how he became a PhD student working on semiconductor sensors, following an Industry Placement Year as part of his BEng degree in Electrical & Electronic engineering.