Meeting the Urgent Demand for Semiconductor Talent with a High-Intensity, Industry-Focused Program
Ƶ is launching an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices, an industry-driven program designed for students ready to lead in the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry. Built for those who thrive in demanding, hands-on environments, this program maintains Kettering’s high academic standards while delivering an efficient, immersive path to industry leadership.
A Future-Focused Degree
The semiconductor industry is at a turning point. Every modern technology — from smartphones to medical devices, electric vehicles to national defense systems — relies on semiconductors. Yet, the U.S. faces a critical shortage of engineers and scientists with the expertise to power the industry’s next chapter.
With global semiconductor supply chains under strain and the CHIPS and Science Act injecting billions into reshoring semiconductor manufacturing, the demand for highly skilled semiconductor professionals is skyrocketing. Industry leaders predict tens of thousands of new, high-paying jobs will emerge in the coming years, yet there aren’t enough trained experts to fill them.
That’s where Ƶ comes in.
“Ƶ’s educational model was built for industry, and the design of our new bachelor’s degree in semiconductors is a natural extension of that legacy,” said Ƶ President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “This is the first accelerated STEM degree of its kind and a high-intensity path designed to prepare students to lead in the semiconductor revolution. It provides students an opportunity to master the science and engineering of semiconductors faster while also preserving the deep industry engagement that defines a Kettering education.”
A Workforce Solution for a Critical Industry
Semiconductors are often called the “brains” of modern technology. They are at the heart of advancements in AI, automotive automation, telecommunications, aerospace, and renewable energy. Without a robust semiconductor workforce, innovation stalls.
Kettering’s new program directly addresses this challenge, preparing students to:
● Engineer the future of microelectronics – Mastering materials synthesis, quantum physics, photonics, and semiconductor fabrication.
● Drive U.S. semiconductor manufacturing forward – Learning from industry-aligned faculty with expertise in materials science, optoelectronics, and solid-state physics.
● Enter the workforce faster – Completing an intensive 115-credit curriculum in less than four years with built-in Co-op industry experience at leading semiconductor and advanced manufacturing companies.
Key Program Features: Built for Impact
● Fast track without shortcuts – A full-scale curriculum covering semiconductor materials, devices, and fabrication delivered in a high-intensity, industry-focused format.
● Industry-integrated learning – Four required Co-op work terms provide hands-on, paid experience with semiconductor, materials, and advanced manufacturing companies.
● Cutting-edge technology – Students will gain hands-on experience with environmental scanning electron microscopes (ESEM), X-ray diffractometers (XRD), photonics labs, Synopsys semiconductor software, and electronic design automation (EDA) tools—the same technologies driving innovation worldwide.
● Interdisciplinary foundation – A rigorous blend of physics, chemistry, and engineering prepares students for leadership in one of the world’s most critical industries.
● Accreditation-driven design – The program is structured to meet ABET accreditation standards and align with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
A Program Rooted in Kettering’s Legacy of Industry Leadership
For over a century, Ƶ has shaped the future of engineering, technology, and manufacturing — producing top talent for automotive, mobility, and advanced technology industries. As the U.S. semiconductor industry undergoes rapid expansion, Kettering is once again stepping up to engineer the workforce of the future.
“This program is a direct response to national and industry needs,” said Dr. James Zhang, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “Kettering has a long history of adapting education to align with industry demands, and this degree exemplifies that commitment. By combining an accelerated curriculum with deep Co-op engagement, we are preparing students for high-impact careers in a field that is critical to national security and technological innovation.”
Engineering the Leaders of the Semiconductor Revolution
Semiconductor technology is advancing faster than ever. From the development of next-generation chips that power AI to new materials driving quantum computing and photonics, the future depends on experts who can bridge science and industry.
“This program is designed for those ready to push boundaries and take on industry challenges,” said Dr. Daniel Ludwigsen, Head of the Department of Natural Sciences. “Semiconductor technology requires expertise across physics, chemistry, and engineering. Our faculty have deep expertise in materials science, optoelectronics, and quantum physics, and this program leverages that strength to ensure students graduate ready to solve real-world semiconductor challenges from day one.”
Are You Ready to Build the Future?
This is not a program for students looking for shortcuts. It’s built for those ready to step up, take on industry-defining challenges, and lead in the next generation of semiconductor technology.
Applications are now open for October 2025. *An application for this new program has been submitted to the accreditor and is pending HLC approval.
