MSc Microelectronics: Systems and Devices

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Newcastle University

Program Overview

This one-year MSc equips students with advanced skills in microelectronics, blending device physics, fabrication techniques, and system-level design. It’s ideal for graduates in electrical, electronic, or computer engineering who want hands-on experience and expertise in designing next-generation microelectronic systems.

Curriculum Structure:

Taught Modules (Autumn & Spring terms): Students start with core modules such as Advanced Electronic Devices and Low-Power VLSI Design, developing a deep understanding of semiconductor devices and efficient circuit design. Microelectronics Design Tools introduces CAD-based design and simulation, while Research Skills and Development for Engineers prepares students for independent project work.
Individual Project (Summer term): The program culminates in a substantial Individual Project, where students apply theoretical knowledge and practical skills to a real-world microelectronics problem, such as advanced device fabrication or embedded system implementation. This project allows students to demonstrate mastery in device physics, system-level design, and professional engineering practice.

Focus areas: semiconductor device physics and fabrication; VLSI and low-power systems; microelectronics design tools; embedded systems; cleanroom techniques and device characterization.

Learning outcomes: Students will analyze electronic devices, apply VLSI design methods, use industry-standard CAD tools, and independently design, implement, and evaluate a microelectronic system or device.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), aligning with Engineering Council standards and supporting progression toward Chartered Engineer status.

Reputation (employability rankings): Newcastle University’s School of Engineering is ranked among the top 140 worldwide for Engineering and Technology (QS rankings). Graduates have secured roles at companies like Arm, Intel, Huawei, Infineon, Cadence, and Synopsys.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From the moment students join this MSc programme, they dive straight into real‑world engineering practice. They’ll spend time in the university’s state‑of‑the‑art fabrication and characterisation labs, working with clean‑room environments, advanced test equipment and industry‑standard design tools. Alongside lectures and seminars, the programme emphasises hands‑on laboratory work, team‑based design, simulation and project‑based research.
Students benefit from access to specialist facilities — such as CAD and micro‑electronic characterisation labs — and are encouraged to work on design problems, prototype systems, and collaborate in groups on complex projects. The degree’s strong ties with industry also mean guest lectures, site visits and applied projects play a key role.

Here’s how that translates into your experience:

Use of industry‑standard CAD/design software (for example Cadence, Synopsys) for simulation, layout and verification of microelectronic circuits.
Hands‑on work in the Clean‑Room Microfabrication Lab, enabling you to experience fabrication, deposition, lithography and device‑characterisation processes.
Projects involving real chips, sensors and embedded systems, including FPGA boards and system‑on‑chip work, allowing you to move from design into implementation.
Group work, laboratory sessions and design tasks embedded in modules such as Microelectronics Design Tools, Low‑Power VLSI Design and Advanced Device Fabrication.
A major Individual Project (60 credits) that links theory to practice — you may investigate areas such as asynchronous circuit design, energy‑harvesting electronics, neuro‑prosthesis circuits or AI‑hardware.
Access to broad‑ranging specialist facilities across campus: teaching labs (Computing, Electronics), research labs (µSystems Lab, Neuro‑Prosthesis Lab, Microelectronic Characterisation Lab) and collaboration spaces within the £110 million Stephenson Building.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates leave equipped to join roles like Microelectronics Design Engineer, VLSI/ASIC Engineer, Device Fabrication Engineer or Embedded Systems Architect. With its industry‑focused curriculum and research‑strong environment, this programme positions you for cutting‑edge careers in chip design, semiconductor fabrication and smart hardware systems.
Furthermore:

University support & services – The University’s dedicated Careers Service offers one‑to‑one advice, CV clinics, networking events and employer connections.
Employment stats – Across Newcastle, 94% of 2020/21 graduates entered employment or further study within 15 months. While specific salary data for the MSc is not separately published, that strong employability context signals good prospects.
University–industry partnerships – The School of Engineering engages with leading technology firms: graduates of this MSc have moved to companies such as Arm, Intel, Huawei, Infineon, Cadence and Synopsys. The programme also offers guest lectures from industry experts and site visits.
Accreditation & long‑term value – While specific professional accreditation for the MSc isn’t highlighted, the course is taught by a research‑led School in a globally respected institution, and offers a route into PhD‑level study. This gives long‑term strength for careers in research, industry or academic paths.
Graduation outcomes – On completion you will:
- Have practical skills in clean‑room based device fabrication, VLSI circuit/system design, and low‑power design methods.
- Be equipped to analyse and design microelectronic devices, work with CAD tools for semiconductor design, and engage with systems‑level embedded AI/hardware.
- Be ready for roles in design, test, fabrication, and systems engineering of integrated circuits, sensors and micro‑systems.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, you could choose to deepen your expertise by pursuing a PhD in microelectronics, semiconductor device physics, or VLSI/embedded systems. Alternatively you could undertake additional professional certifications (for example in ASIC design, FPGA systems or semiconductor manufacturing) to sharpen your industry readiness and open senior‑engineering or specialist roles.