Microelectronics and System-on-Chip Engineering: MSc/PGDip

Overview

In recent times we have seen our lives transformed by the rapid growth of the internet and communication technologies, and the availability and invisibility of complex electronics in our daily tasks. As consumers we are accustomed to seeing each new generation of electronic devices – be that personal computers, MP3 players or mobile phones – offer significant improvement in performance and functionality.

This trend has been made possible by the continuous miniaturisation of transistors and has led to entire functioning systems that previously occupied a board being integrated on a single chip, the System-on-Chip or SoC. The engineer that designs such a complex system need to be conversant with many different technologies involving the design of hardware, software and the sensing technology to interface to the rest of the world.

Some of the application fields include:

  • Mobile and wireless communications where miniaturisation and low power consumption are key issues
  • Embedded computing applications such as PDAs, MP3 players, digital TVs, games consoles, network processors and many other instances with requirements which range from very high performance to ultra low power
  • Medical implants where silicon chip technology needs to be combined with a range of miniaturised sensing and actuation functions
  • Transportation applications where sensing and actuation is combined with silicon chip technology to automate a range of control functions such as electronic braking, steering, and ride and safety control

More than ever, the operative term in being able to master the heterogeneous elements of tomorrow’s complex systems is interdisciplinary – the knowledge of and ability to combine different fields such as electronics engineering, computer science and physics.

Most aspects of VLSI and SoC are covered in this course, including an in-depth look at key high level design technologies for implementing application specific systems using common industry-standard tools and design platforms. It also gives an introduction to the design and integration of MEMS with electronic devices (microsystem design).

Course Structure

The MSc in Microelectronics and System-on-Chip Engineering can be taken as a full-time course lasting 12 months, or a part-time course lasting 24 months.

To achieve the award of MSc, students will have studied 6 modules in total; and must undertake an individual research project, based upon which they must produce a dissertation. Each module includes one week of full-time intensive lectures and group work, interleaved with practical exercises to reinforce understanding of the subject matter.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Microelectronics and System-on-Chip Engineering can be taken as a full-time course lasting 9 months, or a part-time course lasting 18 months.

To achieve the award of PGDip, students will have studied 6 modules in total. Each module includes one week of full-time intensive lectures and group work, interleaved with practical exercises to reinforce understanding of the subject matter.

Modules

Part-time students do not take ENGR530: Linking Project, but can choose from one of our other MSc modules.

The course begins with an introductory week, not formally assessed, during which initial skills and guidance are given to enable students to obtain maximum benefit from the course.

Dissertation

Following the taught material, MSc students will undertake a research project within the university. The project will be associated with an industrial company. The third term (April onwards) and summer vacation are totally dedicated to the project, which is assessed by a dissertation submitted in September.

Assessment

The first five modules are assessed by a combination of exam (75%) and practical work (25%). ENGR530: Linking Project is assessed on the basis of a group report. Each module is equally weighted.

Examinations take place in April/May of each year.

Assessment for the MSc course is split evenly between the taught modules and individual dissertation; with each accounting for 50% of the final mark.

How to Apply

The minimum requirement for acceptance onto this course is an Honours degree, class 2:2 in a related technological subject. In exceptional circumstances, applicants with substantial industrial experience in a senior position may be accepted without these requirements.

Students who do not have a first degree can be admitted onto the PGDip course and transfer to the MSc after a successful first year.

Please visit our online application portal to apply. Please note, you will need to supply certificates and transcripts from your previous qualifications, academic and/or professional references from two referees and a copy of your CV.

For the latest course fees please see Lancaster University’s website.

Please contact Michelle Atkins if you have any queries.