Integrated circuits (IC) and electronic systems serve as the backbone of modern society, driving innovations across industries such as communication, healthcare, transportation, and energy. As the demand for more efficient and high-performance electronics continues to grow, the field of IC design and advanced electronic systems presents tremendous opportunities for future engineers and researchers. The development of cutting-edge semiconductor devices, ICs, and embedded systems requires expertise in high-precision manufacturing, sophisticated circuit design, and multidisciplinary knowledge spanning electronics, physics, computer science, and material science. The goal of MSc(Eng)(ICES) is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of IC design and electronic systems, combining theoretical foundations with hands-on training to meet the strong industry demand for highly skilled professionals.
The curriculum provided by this programme covers key areas of circuit and electronic system design, including Advanced Semiconductor Devices, Integrated Circuit System Design, Analog IC Design, Computing & Memories, Digital System Design Techniques, Mixed-Signal Integrated Circuits, and Computer System Architecture, providing a solid foundation in IC design principles. Courses such as Integrated Memory Device Technology, Advanced Power Electronics Technology, and Power Management Integrated Circuits focus on the latest advancements in memory devices, power electronics, and energy-efficient circuit design. Additionally, Wide-Bandgap Device Technologies for Power and Radio Frequency Electronics, Advanced Electronic Packaging and Integration, and Integrated Silicon Photonics introduce emerging technologies that are shaping the future of high-performance electronics.
Students are required to complete 8 courses and a dissertation to fulfil the graduation requirement. Students may choose at least 3 from a list of six core courses across the areas of analogue IC design, digital system design, mixed-signal IC design, advanced semiconductor device, and computer system architecture. Besides, students may choose at least 4 courses from a list of ten courses across the areas of integrated memories, power electronics, power management IC design, wide-bandgap devices, electronic packaging, integrated photonics, AI hardware, neural networks, and distributed systems. Finally, students are allowed to select one free elective within Engineering Faculty to provide depth knowledge in different engineering fields.
In the dissertation project, students will gain valuable ‘Experiential Learning’ through hands-on projects and laboratory work, where they will apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world challenges in IC and system design. We will offer students the option to complete the dissertation through either research or industrial internship under the guidance of experienced faculty members and industry experts. This dissertation project will prepare students for practical applications in semiconductor technology, mixed-signal IC design, power electronics, and system integration. This dissertation project will train students to meet the growing market needs and excel in their career development and advancement.
Students with engineering or science backgrounds are the most suitable candidates for this programme, as the well-structured core and elective courses are designed to complement their existing knowledge. By equipping students with both fundamental expertise and specialized skills, this programme aims to cultivate the next generation of semiconductor and electronic system engineers, preparing them for leadership roles in academia, research, and industry.