Master of Science in Integrated Circuits and Microelectronics

Master (Coursework)

Programme Type

Full-time, Part-time

Programme Announcement: Master of Science (MSc) in Electronics will be renamed to Master of Science (MSc) in Integrated Circuits and Microelectronics

(Update in Programme Name and Curriculum)

Starting from the August 2026 intake, the Master of Science (MSc) in Electronics programme will be renamed Master of Science (MSc) in Integrated Circuits and Microelectronics. 

The updated programme name and curriculum reflect an enhanced focus on developing customized and integrated skill sets, with in-depth training in integrated circuit (IC) design and semiconductor manufacturing in microelectronics. The programme offers a flexible and updated curriculum spanning both established and emerging topics in the field. It combines strong theoretical foundations with hands-on learning through industry-linked projects, internships, and laboratory work. Graduates are well prepared for careers in the semiconductor and IC design industries, as well as for further research and advanced study. 

Admission criteria and overall programme structure remain unchanged.

The MSc (Integrated Circuits and Microelectronics) programme is offered on a part-time and full-time basis for engineers in the microelectronics industry who would like to have graduate training in various topics.

Programme Director: Associate Professor Chan Pak Kwong
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +65 6790 6324 (General Enquiries)
integrated circuit design, microelectronics fabrication and manufacture of electronic and photonic products

The following are minimum admission requirements. Meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission, as selection is competitive.

Have a good relevant bachelor's degree

Relevant working experience is an advantage

For applicants whose native language is not English, TOEFL/IELTS score is to be submitted with the application for admission:

         TOEFL Score (Test dates must be within 2 years or less from the date of application):

          ≥ 563 (paper-based)

          ≥ 223 (computer-based)

          ≥ 85 (internet-based, for exams taken before January 21, 2026)

          ≥ 4.5 (internet-based, for exams taken on or after January 21, 2026)

         IELTS Score (Test date must be within 2 years or less from the date of application):

          ≥ 6.0

Applicants without TOEFL/IELTS would still be eligible to apply, but they may be subjected to an interview/test if deemed necessary by the School.

Programme Structure

There are two options of study, one with coursework only, and the other with coursework and dissertation. Each course is of 3 Academic Units (AUs), and consists of 39 hours of lectures. Candidates undertaking a 6 AU project are required to submit a dissertation and are advised to select this option only if they have a strong interest in pursuing further research studies.

Option 1
Coursework Only

Option 2
Coursework + Dissertation

10 courses
(30 AUs in total)
8 courses + dissertation project
(30 AUs in total)
4 specialized electives (≥ 12 AUs) 4 specialized electives (≥ 12 AUs)
6 general electives (≤ 18 AUs) 4 general electives (≤ 12 AUs)

Dissertation (6 AUs)

 

 Note:  The programme structure will be subject to change without prior notice.

 

Duration

Both full-time and part-time programmes are offered (unless stated). Part-time candidates are expected to obtain permission from their employer before admission to the programme. Most classes are conducted in the evenings, while examinations are conducted during office hours.

 

Type of Coursework Programme

Minimum Candidature

Maximum Candidature

Master of Science
(Full-Time)
1 year 3 year
Master of Science
(Part-Time)
2 year 4 year

 

Programme Calendar

Semester 1 August to December
Semester 2 January to May
Week 1 to 14 Lecture (Inclusive of 1-week recess)
Week 15 to 17 Examinations
Other Vacation

 

Graduate courses offered by Master of Science (MSc) Integrated Circuits and Microelectronics:

Specialized Elective Courses (Students are required to take a min of 4 out of all the 6 specialized elective courses)

Course CodeCourse TitleCourse ContentAUs
EE6306 DIGITAL INTEGRATED CIRCUIT DESIGN Review of Integrated Circuit Fundamentals. Layout and Design Issues. CMOS Digital Circuits. BiCMOS Digital Circuits. Sub System Design in Digital Circuits. Design Methodologies.3
EE6307 ANALOG INTEGRATED CIRCUIT DESIGN Review of Fundamentals. Analog Building Blocks. Switched Capacitor Circuits. Current Mode Circuits. Continuous-Time Filters. Data Converters.3
EE6309VLSI SYSTEMS
1. Data security, system noise considerations, and high-speed synchronization. 2. Memory organization and performance analysis, and concepts and techniques for parallel processing and pipeline processing.
3. VLSI system design verification and testability.
3
EE6601 ADVANCED WAFER PROCESSING Dielectrics for CMOS technology. Chemical and mechanical polishing. Lithography and resist technology. Etching process and technology. Backend interconnect technology. Cleaning technology. Process integration. Metrology and analytical techniques.3
EE6604 ADVANCED TOPICS IN SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES Bipolar transistor operating principles. Bipolar device modeling. State-of-the-art bipolar structures. MOS device operation. MOSFET modeling. MOS device scaling effects. Semiconductor memories. Semiconductor heterojunctions and devices. New devices and future trends.3
EE6610 INTEGRATED CIRCUIT (IC) PACKAGING Overview of IC & microsystems package. Design of IC Package. Thermal Management of IC Package. Fabrication of Single Chip and Multichip
Package. IC Assembly, Sealing and Encapsulation. Failure Analysis and Reliability. Microsystems Package and Fabrication. System Level Package and Fabrication.
3

 

 

General Elective Courses

Course CodeCourse TitleCourse ContentAUs
EE6008COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT PROJECT Project Charter, Design and prototype development, Project implementation, Testing and instrumentation, Project report, Oral presentation, Demonstration3
EE6009GRADUATE PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIPThe purpose of the local internship course is to fill a critical gap in the MSc EEE curriculum by enabling students to translate advanced classroom knowledge such as communications engineering, signal processing, machine learning, power systems, electronics, and automation into real-world applications.  It responds directly to industry demand for graduates who are not only technically proficient but also industry-ready, adaptable, and innovative problem-solvers.  All full-time MSc students with study option, “Course work only,” and have completed at least 1 semester of study, may take the course.  However, students who are under AW (TPGPA or CGPA < 2.50) will not be allowed to take up this course.3
EE6010 PROJECT MANAGEMENT & TECHNOPRENEURSHIP Project Initiation and Planning. Project Scheduling and Implementation. Project Monitoring, Control and Evaluation. Innovation and Entrepreneurship.3
EE6102 CYBER SECURITY & BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY Cyber Security Threat Landscape, Industry 4.0 and Cyber Security, Cyber Security Education, Awareness and Compliance, Cyber Security Planning, Policies and Compliance, Cyber Security Risk Assessments and Biometric-based Security approaches, Public key Infrastructure (PKI), Web Security and role of firewalls and Intrusion Detection, Online Payment, and Cryptocurrencies. Basics of Blockchain technology, Types of blockchain Technology, Blockchain Technology Applications for Industry 4.0, use cases and real-world case studies3
EE6128 RF CIRCUITS FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS Microstrip Line and Network Parameters. Microwave Power Dividers and couplers. Microwave Filters. Amplifiers. Oscillators and Synthesizers. Detectors and Mixers. Frequency Multipliers and Control Circuits. RF Receiver Design.3
EE6156COMPUTER ARCHITECTUREFundamentals of Computer Design, CPU Design, Instruction Set Architecture, Performance, Buses, I/O and Storage Devices, Memory-System Architecture, Pipelining3
EE6285 COMPUTATIONAL INTELLIGENCE Introduction to Fuzzy Logic, Introduction to Fuzzy Sets, Introduction to Fuzzy Inference Systems, Fuzzy Logic Applications, Introduction to Genetic Algorithm, Fundamental Concepts of Artificial Neural Networks and Neural Network Architectures, Neural Network Applications3
EE6301 SMART BIOSENSORS & SYSTEMS FOR HEALTHCARE Introduction to biosensors and healthcare; Optical biosensors-fundamentals; Optical biosensors-applications; Biomedical imaging with optical technologies; Introduction to electrical biosensors- fundamentals; Introduction to electrical biosensors- fabrications; Applications of electrical biosensor; Introduction to bio-intelligent systems; Artificial intelligence in medical sensing and imaging3
EE6302DIGITAL IC DESIGN FOR TESTABILITYBasics of VLSI testing, IC device failure mechanisms and accelerated tests, Fault models and testability concept, Test vector generation and fault simulation algorithms, Functional testing and IDDQ testing, Design for testability (DFT) and built-in-self-test (BIST), Random access memory test, IEEE test standards 
EE6303 ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY DESIGN EMC Regulatory Requirements. Non-Ideal Behaviors of Passive Components. Conducted EMI and Filter Design. Electromagnetic Shielding. Basic Grounding Concept. Crosstalk. Printed Circuit Board Layout and Radiated EMI. Electrostatic Discharge. Radio Frequency Interference. Emission and Susceptibility Measurement Methods.3
EE6311 INTEGRATED NANOPHOTONIC DEVICESThis course aims to equip students with broad foundational knowledge of current research and technology trends in the photonics. The student will learn basic physical concepts and the working principles of various cornerstone nanophotonic devices, in addition to methods to describe and analyse their operation. The course is intended for those wishing to pursue careers in research, development, or engineering roles in nanophotonics fields such as integrated optics, optoelectronics, and photonics-based industries.

3

 

EE6312 INTEGRATED PHOTONIC CHIPS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SENSING & BIOTECHNOLOGYPhotonic sensors are electronic detectors that function by the conversion of light into electrical or biological signals. Such sensors have been fully integrated and widely used across industries for both simple and complex purposes including security, environmental sensing, and biotechnology. The heart of the chip hence plays a critical role in modern sensor technologies. This course aims to provide postgraduate students the key knowledge of integrated chips based on photonics and optoelectronics, from fundamental physics, material design, to device integration. This course will emphasize on the structures of nanoscale to quantum scale sensors in order to provide students with a fundamental background of optical/electrical interactions in biological systems and medical technology. Different active and passive nanophotonic and nanoelectronic devices and fabrication technologies will be covered followed by their applications in environmental monitoring, global sensing, and human machine biochips for health and bioindustry. Students will learn how to design and integrate a nanochip photonic sensing system to tackle human health and global challenges from an engineering perspective.

3

 

EE6313MASS PRODUCTION & INTEGRATION OF NANOMATERIALSThe course aims to address the key challenges of transitioning nanomaterial innovations from the laboratory to large-scale industrial production. It provides in-depth knowledge of advanced manufacturing processes, material characterization techniques, integration methodologies, and the economic factors driving the widespread adoption of nanomaterials. Through hands-on laboratory sessions, students will develop practical skills in nanomaterial synthesis and advanced characterization methods. Additionally, facility tours and talks from industry leaders will offer valuable perspectives on bridging the gap between research, development, mass manufacturing, and commercialization.

3

 

EE6314NANOTECHNOLOGY FOR ENERGY STORAGE & HARVESTINGThis course will cover application of nanomaterials and nanotechnology for energy storage and harvesting applications. For the energy storage, students will learn the fundamentals of batteries including electrochemistry and recent advances of batteries using nanomaterials. For the energy harvesting, various type of energy harvesting methods will be covered. You will learn the fundamentals and practical application of kinetic and thermal energy harvesting systems using nanomaterials. Laboratory session will provide your direct experience of fabrication and characterization of battery to help immediate adaptation to industry and higher degree study in energy storage field. 

3

 

EE6315PRINCIPLES & DEVICES OF NANOELECTRONICS
This course offers the foundations and latest advances in nanoelectronics for graduate students. It covers a broad range of fundamentals from low dimensional electronic materials to nano/microelectronic electronic device applications, including low-dimensional carbon, silicon and  metal oxide nanoelectronic devices, organic semiconductor devices and spintronic devices. 
This course fills the gap between electronic industry and research and captures recent developments in micro/nanoelectronics.
Students are expected to have not only an overall understanding of current micro/nanoelectronics, but also a wide range of fundamental and device level knowledge to design and study the devices. 

3

 

EE6316INTEGRATED CIRCUITS FOR AIThis course provides an introduction to Integrated Circuit Design for Artificial Intelligence Applications, equipping students with the essential knowledge and skills to design AI circuits. It covers a wide range of foundational concepts, including basic AI models, artificial neural networks, computing-in-memory circuit design, and subthreshold IC design for neuromorphic hardware.  By bridging the gap between AI theory and practical circuit implementation, this course lays a foundation for designing cutting-edge AI circuits, preparing students to innovate in this rapidly evolving field.

3

 

EE6342RF INTEGRATED CIRCUIT DESIGN FOR SMART SYSTEMThe course aims to equip students with a solid foundation in the principles, architectures, and key building blocks of RF integrated circuits used in modern smart systems.

3

 

EE6406
ANALYTIC & ENSEMBLE MACHINE LEARNING
This course aims to equip students with a foundational understanding of machine learning from both analytic and ensemble perspectives. The curriculum is designed to offer an overview of the key technologies underpinning modern machine learning and deep learning. Initially, the course will recap the basic components of machine learning. It will then delve into fundamental learning techniques, including linear methods for regression, linear methods for classification, and polynomial plus kernel methods—all grounded in linear algebra. Subsequently, students will explore applied ensemble methods based on bagging and boosting. The course will cover classical ensemble methods such as Random Forest, AdaBoost, and standard Gradient Boosting, as well as more advanced boosting techniques, including XGBoost and LightGBM, which find practical applications in the industry. In addition, the course will also introduce reinforcement learning and its connection with ensemble learning. To highlight the practical relevance, the course will include examples from industrial contexts.

3
EE6407GENETIC ALGORITHMS & MACHINE LEARNING Review of Combinatorics and Probability. Introduction of Genetic Algorithms. Differential Evolution. Particle Swarm Optimization. Advanced Techniques. Principles of Machine Learning. Paradigms of Machine Learning. Kernel Methods.3
EE6483ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & DATA MININGStructures and Strategies for State Space Representation & Search. Heuristic Search. Data Mining Concepts and Algorithms. Classification and Prediction methods. Unsupervised Learning and Clustering Analysis3
EE6488QUANTUM ALGORITHM & QUANTUM MACHINE LEARNINGThis course aims to focus on one most important application of quantum technologies: quantum algorithm and quantum machine learning. These will be critical for future quantum computation and quantum chip development. We will cover both the theoretical concepts of quantum qubit, quantum gates, quantum circuits to the full implementation of quantum algorithm and quantum machine learning. In addition, we will describe how quantum circuits can be used to solve problems faster than “classical” quantum computers and its real-world implementations. 3
EE6497 PATTERN RECOGNITION & DEEP LEARNING This course introduces the fundamental concepts and methods in pattern recognition and machine learning. Topics covered include Introduction, Bayesian Inference, Mixture Models and EM Algorithm, Markov Models and Hidden Markov Models, Sampling, Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC), Neural Networks, Deep Learning, Training Deep Networks, Deep Network Architectures, and Applications. 3
EE6506 POWER SEMICONDUCTOR BASED CONVERTER IN RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS Module 1: Overview of power electronic circuits and semiconductor devices, Module 2: Power diodes and thyristors as switching devices, Module 3: Power transistors as switching devices 2, Module 4: Protection of devices from overheating di/dt, dv/dt, Module 5: Passive components and magnetics, Module 6: Renewable energy systems 3
EE6516ADVANCED AI APPLICATIONS IN SMART POWER & ENERGY SYSTEMSThis course uniquely bridges artificial intelligence and power engineering, addressing a critical gap in current curricula. It equips students with cutting-edge AI tools tailored for smart grid applications—ranging from stability assessment, optimal control, optimal power flow to home energy management, energy markets. By combining strong theoretical foundations with industry collaboration and practical case studies, the course prepares graduates to lead the digital and sustainable transformation of power systems. Its interdisciplinary nature not only supports NTU’s strategic goals but also positions students at the forefront of the global energy transition. 
EE6618 QUANTUM INFORMATION & ENGINEERING Fundamental quantum information. Quantum qubit and algorithm. Silicon photonics and fabrication. Passive and active photonic device. Quantum key distribution and communication. Quantum computing and application.3
EE6808 LED LIGHTING & DISPLAY TECHNOLOGIES Review of optoelectronic processes and optics. Review of solid state lighting and display technologies. Light-emitting diodes. Plasma display panels. Field emission displays. Liquid crystal displays. Organic light-emitting
device. Thin film transistors and active-matrix backplane circuits. AC thin film
electroluminescent displays and printed electrochromic displays.
3
EE7207NEURAL NETWORKS & DEEP LEARNINGArtificial intelligence has made significant progress in recent years, with neural networks and deep learning emerging as the predominant approaches in this expansive field. This course is redesigned to offer a comprehensive introduction to fundamental theories, learning methods, and advanced topics within neural networks and deep learning, specifically tailored for PhD and MEng students. By the end of this course, students will have acquired a profound understanding of these concepts and will be well-equipped to apply their newfound knowledge to address complex challenges within their respective research domains.

3

 

EE7602 INTEGRATED CIRCUIT TECHNOLOGY Overview of Electronic Devices. Electronic Device Fabrication. Small Geometry Effects, Device Scaling and Advanced Nanoscale CMOS Devices. Latchup and ESD Protection in CMOS Technology. Failure Mechanisms of Integrated Circuits3
EE7603 SEMICONDUCTOR PHYSICS & APPLICATIONS Review of Fundamentals; Energy Bands of Semiconductors; Doping and Carrier Concentrations; Physics of Low Dimensional Systems; Electrical Transport Phenomena and Working principles and designs of nanoelectronic devices; Excess Carriers; Optical Properties and Photonic Devices.3
EE7604 LASER TECHNOLOGY Laser Fundamentals. Laser Resonators. Laser Oscillation. Laser System Design.
Laser Techniques. Semiconductor Lasers. Laser Applications.
3
EE7608 OPTOELECTRONICS ENGINEERING: DESIGNING THE FUTURE WITH LIGHT Fundamental concepts, Electron spectrometrics, Phonon and photon spectrometrics, Applications, 2D materials and interfaces, Metamaterials and plasmonics

3

 


Special Term - General Elective Courses

EE6131SPECIAL TOPICS IN COMMUNICATION NETWORKS: DESIGN & ANALYSIS OF ALGORITHMSThe course provides a foundation in algorithm design and analysis, focusing on problem-solving and computational efficiency. It prepares students to optimize solutions and implement effective algorithms, with rich discussions, examples and hands-on experiments on design and application of optimization algorithms in communication networks, smart grid, and IoT etc. 
EE6230MULTI-ROBOT SYSTEMSThis course aims to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the models, principles, methodologies, and technologies for multi-robot systems, focusing on their models, dynamics, control, information exchange, coordination, and optimization. This course is designed for graduate students with backgrounds in robotics, automation, control, computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields. By exploring real-world applications such as autonomous vehicles, swarm robotics, and collaborative industrial robots, students will gain both theoretical insights and practical skills essential for careers in robotics R&D, AI-driven automation, and emerging fields like human-robot interaction and autonomous systems. Whether preparing for cutting-edge research or tackling complex challenges in robotics-related industries, this course offers you a vital foundation for future innovation and impact.
EE6231SPECIAL TOPICS ON REINFORCEMENT LEARNINGReinforcement learning is inherently interdisciplinary, combining principles from machine learning and control theory. The course aims to equip you with expertise in a cutting-edge AI field, empowering students with the skills needed for innovation, research, and impactful applications in academia and industry. After completing this course, you should understand core concepts and theories in reinforcement learning and implement and evaluate key reinforcement learning algorithms. You can apply the algorithms to real-world problems, especially in autonomous systems, robotics, financial technology, and healthcare.
EE6304DIGITAL IC FRONTEND DESIGNThis course aims to bridge the gap between theoretical digital IC design concepts and real-world implementations, through hands-on lab training on frontend design of digital ICs. The lab sessions will cover a wide range of digital IC frontend design skills with EDA tools including Verilog code, Behaviour and RTL designs and simulations, logic and circuit synthesis, timing analysis, formal verification, netlist generation, design optimizations and debugging. After completion of this course, students should be able to apply digital IC frontend design principles into practical implementation using Synopsys EDA tools and understand the integration of design methodologies within the broader VLSI design flow.
EE6305DIGITAL IC BACKEND DESIGNThis course aims to bridge the gap between theoretical digital IC design concepts and real-world implementations, through hands-on lab training on backend design of digital ICs. This course will cover a wide range of digital IC backend design skills with EDA tools including full-custom library cell design, floor planning, power planning, placement, clock tree synthesis, routing, timing analysis, design rule checking, layout and stick diagram, routing, layout versus schematic verification, pre- and post-layout power and delay simulations, critical path analysis and GDSII generation. After completion of this course, students should be able to apply digital IC backend design principles into practical implementation using CADENCE EDA tools, and demonstrate proficiency in manual and automatic layout, routing, and physical verification.
EE6317CHIP SECURITY WITH MACHINE LEARNINGThe objective of this course is to provide graduate students with an understanding of security challenges in chip design and manufacturing, and how machine learning can be used to address them. Students will learn to identify and mitigate hardware vulnerabilities such as hardware trojans, counterfeit ICs, and side-channel attacks. The course covers the chip development cycle, basic and advanced machine learning models, and their application in chip security analysis. Additionally, students will explore design-for-trust practices to ensure security from design to production. By the end, they will be able to analyze threats and apply secure design principles using machine learning.
EE6318POWER MANAGEMENT IC DESIGN: POWERING AI & BEYONDThe Power Management  Integrated Circuit (IC) Design course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, analysis, and design of power management integrated circuits and systems.  The course is an IC Design course focusing on DC-DC converter architectures, steady-state and AC modeling, control methodologies, and advanced power management IC designs.  Students will develop the skills to analyze, model, and optimize power management circuits with an emphasis on efficiency, stability, and reliability. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical design techniques, the course prepares students to tackle real-world challenges in modern power management IC applications.
EE6514SPECIAL TOPICS IN CLEAN ENERGY SYSTEM DESIGNThis course aims to equip you with hands-on, practical skills to design, simulate, and analyse clean energy systems such as solar photovoltaic, wind power, and energy storage systems using professional circuit simulation software. By bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications, the course provides essential skills and expertise demanded by the industry. If you are pursuing a career in renewable energy, power systems, or power electronics, this course will offer valuable experience in applying theoretical concepts to practical challenges, preparing you for advanced roles in clean energy system design and enabling you to contribute to sustainable energy solutions.
EE6515ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS & APPLICATIONS IN POWER SYSTEMSThis course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of energy storage systems (ESS) and their critical role in modern power systems. By bridging technical, economic, and sustainability aspects, the course provides in-depth knowledge of ESS technologies, economic evaluation, market participation, and lifecycle management. It prepares students to tackle real-world challenges such as grid stability, renewable energy integration, and sustainable battery use. With a multidisciplinary approach and opportunities for industry collaboration, the course empowers students with advanced skills to innovate, lead, and contribute effectively to the evolving energy landscape and the global energy transition.

Note: the above curriculum is subject to change.

FlexiMasters in Integrated Circuit Design

This FlexiMasters in Integrated Circuit Design is conceived and developed by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and fabless semiconductor companies in Singapore in collaboration with the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA) to train and develop more integrated circuit (IC) design talent with industry-ready skill sets. The FlexiMasters aims to provide graduates, practising engineers, R&D managers and technical staff technical knowledge as well as practical hands-on experience in the area of digital IC design. Digital IC design is an important foundation for professionals to create cutting-edge semiconductor innovations and power the next generation of smart, high-performance technologies.

The FlexiMasters in Integrated Circuit Design is mapped to the Master of Science (MSc) in Integrated Circuits and Microelectronics from NTU School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE). Credits earned from FlexiMasters in Integrated Circuit Design may be recognised in the MSc Integrated Circuits and Microelectronics programme, subject to prevailing University’s guidelines and approval. In addition, learners who wish to transfer their course credits into its relevant Master’s programme must ensure their credits meet the current University’s credit transfer policy as follows:

The grade obtained for the course must be at least a C+, unless otherwise stated.
The validity period for exemption/ credit transfer of a course is 5 years from the date of award of AUs as reflected in the official result slip/transcript.

The course must not have been used for exemption/ credit transfer into another programme.

Click here for more information.

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