Compound Semiconductor Electronics (MSc)

How will I be taught?

Modules are delivered through a series of lectures, tutorials, practical’s, workshops as well as problems and research-led activities. These methods vary from module to module, as appropriate depending on subject matter and the method of assessment. Supplementary resources are also provided to both aid student learning and provide stretching activities.

Individual modules provide further information on how to study and guidance on learning resources and further support.

You’ll practice and develop critique, reflective, analytical and presentational skills by participating in diverse learning activities such as research group meetings, seminars and open group discussions. At all times you’ll be encouraged to reflect on what you have learned and how it can be combined with other techniques and concepts to tackle novel problems.

In the practical laboratory sessions, you’ll put the breadth of your knowledge and skills to use, whether that be using your coding skills to automate a laboratory experiment, designing components for a large piece of equipment or troubleshooting research hardware. The emphasis on the MSc in Compound Semiconductor Electronics is squarely on acquiring and demonstrating practical skills which will be of use in a research environment and hence highly sought-after by employers.

How will I be assessed?

Summative assessments are designed to best reflect practical relevance and to be authentic, while evidencing achievement of the learning outcomes. Formative assessments which carry no marks are used to assist students in preparing for summative assessments. 

This gives a measure of performance to inform you, us as staff, and potential employers about your progress and achievement. It can also help the learning process by highlighting areas of success and areas needing more attention. 

Assessment involves a blend of methods that are selected to suit the outcomes of each module and the course as a whole including: 

• Written assignments such as reports, essays and posters 
• Planning, conduct and reporting of project work 
• Problem-based exercises based on real-world challenges 
• Presentations – oral live and recorded 
• Peer review 
• Reflective practices 

How will I be supported?

You will be allocated a personal tutor to assist with both your academic progress and pastoral support in an informal and confidential manner. We take pride in providing a warm and welcoming environment for all. 

Your personal tutor will see you regularly during the programme. For the dissertation stage, you’ll be allocated a supervisor and if appropriate, an industrial mentor in your specialist field, whom you’ll be expected to meet with regularly. 

In addition to the broad range of support services provided centrally by Cardiff University, our Senior Personal Tutor will be available to help and advise on any personal matters. 

You’ll have access to a comprehensive handbook appropriate to your programme, containing details of the School’s procedures and policies. We make extensive use of the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Learning Central) to share information, teaching materials and support your learning. 

Feedback is an essential element of your learning experience and will be provided during the duration of your studies. Each module will have feedback mechanisms to aid in your learning and development. Formative assessments which have no marks will have feedback that assists you in developing your knowledge, understanding and skills. Feedback following summative assessments will outline the evidence used to mark your submission against set criteria and provide constructive comments towards developing your knowledge, understanding and skills for the future. 

Dedicated School Careers Advisers and staff from Student Futures will also support you to achieve your future career goals and develop your skills to be successful in the Graduate recruitment process. 

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you. 

On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Apply advanced knowledge of mathematics, natural science and semiconductor engineering principles to the analysis of complex compound semiconductor devices and systems. 
• Evaluate semiconductor materials, fabrication technologies and device architectures used in compound semiconductor engineering. 
• Evaluate the environmental and societal impacts of semiconductor technologies and manufacturing processes across their lifecycle. 
• Plan and critically evaluate an independent research project in compound semiconductor engineering using appropriate methodologies and analytical techniques, culminating in a coherent and scholarly dissertation.

Intellectual Skills:

• Formulate and analyse complex compound semiconductor engineering problems using first principles and engineering judgement, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. 
• Select and apply analytical and computational techniques to model semiconductor materials, devices and electronic behaviour, discussing the limitations of the techniques employed. 
• Select and critically evaluate technical literature, research publications and industry standards relating to semiconductor engineering. 

Professional Practical Skills:

• Design compound semiconductor devices or systems that address performance, manufacturability and application requirements.
• Apply a systems approach to the integration of semiconductor devices within electronic and photonic systems. 
• Apply project management and regulatory considerations related to the development and manufacture of compound semiconductor devices and technologies.

Transferable/Key Skills:

• Communicate complex semiconductor engineering concepts effectively to technical and non-technical audiences. 
• Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader of a team. Evaluate effectiveness of own and team performance. 
• Adopt an inclusive approach to engineering practice and recognise the responsibilities, benefits and importance of supporting equality, diversity and inclusion.