This entry-level online course offers a brief overview of silicon-based semiconductor fabrication, geared toward engineering undergraduates, graduate students, and pre-college learners exploring career paths in the semiconductor field. No prior experience is required. Students receive an introduction to cleanroom facilities and the environment in which microfabrication takes place. They will then apply their knowledge in a hands-on virtual lab that walks you through University at Buffalo's Davis Hall Cleanroom (among the most advanced in the region) that demonstrates the core processes of Photolithography and Etching.
Cleanroom Fundamentals & Semiconductor Technologies
Gain next-level skills with Coursera Plus for $199 (regularly $399). Save now.
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
Recommended experience
9 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
In a semiconductor cleanroom, you learn how to work in a highly controlled environment where cleanliness and safety are essential.
Learn how devices are fabricated on silicon wafers via techniques like Photolithography, Etching, Deposition, and more.
Skills you'll gain
- Electrical Engineering
- Laboratory Procedures
- Problem Solving
- Materials science
- Semiconductors
- Cleanliness
- Mechanical Engineering
- Laboratory Equipment
- Manufacturing Processes
- Engineering
- Critical Thinking
- Electronic Components
- Time Management
- Higher Education
- Self-Starter
- Emerging Technologies
- Goal Setting
- Virtual Reality
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Recently updated!
January 2026
Assessments
1 assignment
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
There are 4 modules in this course
What's included
3 videos3 readings
This section of the course covers essential topics related to cleanroom operations and semiconductor fabrication. Key areas include an Introduction to Transistors, the Fundamentals of Cleanroom Environments, Semiconductor Materials, an Overview of Vacuum Science, and the Principles and Processes of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD).
What's included
5 videos10 readings1 discussion prompt
An Overview of Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), Semiconductor Doping, Thermal Oxidation of Silicon, Wet and Dry Processing, and Photolithography.
What's included
6 videos12 readings1 discussion prompt
This two-part lab experience provides students with an immersive, hands-on introduction to fundamental semiconductor fabrication processes, specifically within the Photolithography Bay (Yellow Light) and the Etching Bay (White Light). Through direct work with silicon wafers, students will learn how intricate patterns are transferred and developed in microfabrication.
What's included
6 videos2 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Instructor
Offered by
Explore more from Electrical Engineering
Status: Free TrialUniversity of Minnesota
Status: Preview
Status: PreviewKorea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Status: PreviewKorea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
More questions
Financial aid available,