Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology

Program Description

Semiconductor technology is one of the most important and fastest-growing fields in the world. Every device that contains a computer chip will, by necessity, contain semiconductors. Being able to manufacture semiconductor chips is one of the issues at the forefront of technology, and Idaho State University is taking the initiative to equip students with the skills and background to enter this exciting field!

Currently, an overwhelming majority of semiconductor chips are manufactured overseas. With the passing of the CHIPs and Scient Act of 2022, the U.S. is investing heavily in bringing that manufacturing home, both for economic and national security reasons. The CHIPs Act allocated $52.7 billion to fund semiconductor research and development, and to expand domestic manufacturing. 

In the Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology (SMT) program, students will learn the skills required to work in many facets of the semiconductor manufacturing industry as technicians. Students will gain the competencies to calibrate and maintain production equipment, run the chip production processes, work in quality assurance and quality control, and test chips to ensure their capabilities meet specifications. Additionally, they will gain an understanding of the underlying scientific and engineering principles that support the manufacturing process, giving them robust employment opportunities after graduation.

ISU’s program places a heavy emphasis on connecting students with potential employers throughout the industry. This ensures that students are learning skills that are being used in industry at this moment, and assists in job placement for graduates. Graduates will be equipped to work in numerous industries that manufacture or directly support this exponentially growing industry!

Program Overview

• SMT Program accepts up to 20 students per cohort
• This is an asynchronous program: take classes at your own pace
• Physical demands may include lifting, standing, bending, and close vision
• Program is located in the Eames Complex, Building #96, 1999 Alven Ricken Drive

Degree Options

Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology Intermediate Technical Certificate (1 year)

• Course Sequence: [Link to SMT ITC Course sequence]

Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology Associate of Applied Science (2 years)

• Course sequence: [Link to SMT AAS Course sequence]

Career Opportunities

Students can enter industry and will be equipped work in semiconductor manufacturing with job titles such as:

• Manufacturing Technician: Operate semiconductor manufacturing tools, monitor production processes, and ensure high-quality output in a cleanroom environment.
• Plant Operations Technician: Maintain and operate facility equipment like HVAC, chemical distribution, and waste systems to ensure smooth plant operations.
• Equipment Technician: Perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on semiconductor manufacturing equipment to maximize production uptime.
• Process Technician: Support semiconductor fabrication processes, monitor equipment performance, and assist in optimizing yields and efficiency.
• Metrology Technician: Measure and analyze critical dimensions and materials using precision tools to ensure accuracy and quality in semiconductor production.
• Quality Control Technician: Inspect and test semiconductor products to ensure they meet quality and performance standards, identifying and resolving defects.
• Test Technician: Conduct electrical and mechanical tests on semiconductor products to verify functionality and ensure reliability.
• Cleanroom Technician: Work in ultra-clean environments to maintain contamination control during semiconductor manufacturing processes.
• PVD/CVD Technician: Operate and maintain physical and chemical vapor deposition systems to apply thin films to wafers in semiconductor production.
• Wafer Fabrication Operator: Manage the processing of silicon wafers through various stages of semiconductor fabrication, including etching, deposition, and cleaning.
• Photolithography Technician: Apply photoresist and use UV light to transfer circuit patterns onto wafers during semiconductor fabrication.
• Assembly Operator: Assemble, bond, and package semiconductor chips, preparing them for integration into larger electronic systems.
• Pneumatics Technician: Maintain and repair pneumatic systems used in semiconductor manufacturing equipment to ensure smooth operations.
• Electrical Technician: Install, maintain, and troubleshoot electrical systems in semiconductor manufacturing tools, ensuring consistent production performance.