Basics of Microelectronics E-Learning Course
Course developed by: Alicja Michalowska-Forsyth, Institute of Electronics, TU Graz
Contact: alicja.michalowska@tugraz.at
Course Description
Discover the fascinating world of microelectronics — the foundation of all modern electronic devices. This introductory course offers an accessible and practical overview of how semiconductors, transistors, and integrated circuits power our digital world. You’ll explore topics ranging from semiconductor physics and CMOS technologies to the fabrication and scaling of integrated circuits. The course also looks back at the history of microelectronics and forward to emerging technologies such as FinFETs, SOI, and 3D integration.
As part of the GreenChips-EDU project, this course integrates a special focus on sustainable and circular design in microelectronics. You’ll gain awareness of the environmental footprint of electronic components and learn how sustainability principles can be embedded directly into chip design.
Whether you’re a student curious about how microchips work or a professional seeking to deepen your technical understanding, this course offers a solid foundation in both classical and modern microelectronics.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students are able to …
- Explain the basic principles of semiconductor physics and operation of active devices such as diodes, MOSFETs, and bipolar transistors.
- Describe key fabrication steps of integrated circuits and identify challenges in scaled CMOS processes.
- Evaluate scaling issues and technological limits, especially in lithography and device miniaturization.
- Understand parasitic effects, safe biasing, and device selection for specific applications.
- Differentiate operating modes of MOSFETs and choose suitable devices for given conditions.
- Recognize advanced technologies (FinFETs, SOI, 3D integration) and their benefits.
- Outline the historical milestones of the semiconductor industry, including Moore’s Law.
- Reflect on how sustainability and circular economy principles can shape the future of microelectronics.
Course access (via TU Graz)
Open access provided? Yes
Course duration: ~ 15 hours
Course type: e-learning (online)
Target audience: Students at Bachelor/Masters level; Professionals
Course language: English
Is this course free? Yes
Self-paced course? Yes
Is the certificate / are the credentials free? No
Assessment type: Self-assessment (for enrolled students at TU Graz only)