Introduction to Etching for Semiconductor Manufacturing

L3 Level 3
Part Time
4 March 2025 — 5 March 2025
Community Location

About this course

This course will provide or enhance knowledge of etching for semiconductor manufacturing.
It will focus on understanding the theory of how etching works and provide course participants with a broad knowledge of etching in the semiconductor manufacturing process.   
This training has been developed by Cardiff University in collaboration with industry partners from the CSconnected cluster, the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster based in and around South Wales in the United Kingdom.

The course will be delivered in-person at CSA Newport.

What you will study

By the end of this 2-day course, learners will be able to:

  • Explain what etching is and its function in the semiconductor manufacturing process
  • Describe lithography and where it fits into the etching process
  • Explain how wet and dry etching works, their similarities, differences, and pros and cons
  • Describe the different etch processes and know in which instances each type of etching process would be used for device fabrication
  • Understand the key etch process terminologies and parameters and grasp how changing the parameters affects the etching process, influencing the semiconductor devices' performances
  • Grasp the importance of safe handling of chemicals used in the etching process
  • Appreciate the current and future marketplace applications for etching and explain how this practice contributes to developing new semiconductor technologies, which are helping to address the challenges of the modern world.

This is a 2-day in-person course that will be delivered via a series of presentations and discussions/engagement activities. Those who complete the training will receive a CPD Certificate. 

Entry requirements

Applicants must be 18+ and live or work in the Cardiff Capital Region, which includes Bridgend, Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen, and the Vale of Glamorgan. Please note you may only attend one training programme through CDGP funding. This course is designed for:

  • Employees of the CSconnected cluster and their supply chain partners
  • Those working in the semiconductor sector worldwide who wish to up-skill their knowledge of etching
  • Those looking to re-train into the semiconductor industry
  • Recent graduates aiming to enter the sector equipped with relevant skills
  • Anyone else interested in an overview of etching relevant to semiconductor manufacturing

This course has no formal entry requirements. However, please note that the science element is pitched at around A-level standard, so to get the best experience from the course we advise that participants have some background knowledge and understanding of physics/science or engineering.

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

4 March 2025

End date

5 March 2025

Time of day

Day Time

Part Time

14 hours per week

Location

Community Location
Maps & directions

Course code

GPEXESMP01
L3

Qualification

Introduction to Etching for Semiconductor Manufacturing

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