Compound Semiconductor Electronics (MSc)

This course has been designed to deliver thorough training and practical experience in compound semiconductor theory, fabrication and applications, and integration with silicon technology.

This course is delivered by the School of Engineering in collaboration with the School of Physics and Astronomy and the Institute for Compound Semiconductors (ICS) and benefits from the knowledge and expertise of all of these areas.

The ICS is a unique facility in the UK,which aims to create a global hub for compound semiconductor technology research, development and innovation. The Institute includes companies such as IQE plc and SPTS and aims to capitalise on the existing expertise at Cardiff University, moving academic research to a point where it can be introduced reliably and quickly into the production environment.

Our flexible curriculum includes the latest results and innovations and is designed to incorporate the most effective teaching and learning techniques. There course includes a robust and diverse set of modules including a range of cutting-edge optional modules for you to choose from.

As part of the course you will undertake a three month summer project, which can be based either in the School of Engineering, within the ICS, or as part of a placement with one of our industrial partners. We have strong, long-established industrial links with leading companies and are able to offer a portfolio of theoretical, practical, fabrication and applications-centred projects in both academic and industrial environments.

As a graduate of this course, you will have the training, skills and hands-on experience you need to succeed in the dynamic and highly competitive field of compound semiconductors.

Accreditations

• Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)

Careers

An MSc in Compound Semiconductor Electronics will open up opportunities in the following areas:

• Technical, research, development and engineering positions in industrial compound semiconductors, silicon semiconductors and advanced communication systems;
• Theoretical, experimental and instrumentational doctoral research;
• Numerate, technical, research, development and engineering positions in related scientific fields;
• Physics, mathematics and general science education.

Cardiff University’s unique position at the forefront of compound semiconductor technology will provide you with the opportunity to develop experience and build contacts with a range of leading companies and organisations.

Placements

There will be a number of industrial placements each year for the summer research project module, which will either be hosted at the Institute for Compound Semiconductors or at the industrial partner’s facilities. The number and nature of these projects will vary from year to year and will be assigned based on performance in formal assessments.