Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology

Program Narrative
The manufacturing technologies developed in the semiconductor industry are used for a wide variety of applications. These include miniature sensor arrays for biology and medicine, miniature valves, turbines for fluidics, flat panel displays for computers, and integrated circuit "microchips." As the use of nanofabrication manufacturing technologies by high-tech industries increases, so will the need for trained individuals.

Program Features
The Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology degree is a cooperative program established between Northampton Community College and Pennsylvania State University. Three semesters at NCC prepare you for an intensive "capstone" experience taught at Penn State University's Nanofabrication facility at the University Park campus. Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be recommended by NCC for the capstone semester. NCC awards the associate in applied science degree which helps graduates prepare for careers in a variety of areas.

In the fourth semester at Penn State, students work in a clean room environment and gain experience in operating and troubleshooting nanofabrication processing equipment. The "capstone" courses are taught by Penn State faculty using state-of-the-art equipment. The Nanofabrication facility at University Park is part of the National Science Foundation's National Nanofabrication Infrastructure Network (NNIN).

NOTE: Students completing this program may also complete their Bachelor of Science degree in Technical Management through Franklin University by completing approximately 24 additional course credits at NCC and an additional 40 course credits through Franklin University's online courses.

Check with your advisor for more information and options in course selection.

Program Outcomes
Graduates of the program will:

• Describe the operation and application of commonly used electronic components and circuits.
• Prototype, test, troubleshoot, and repair electronic circuits.
• Demonstrate the proper use of test equipment including oscilloscopes, DC power supplies, function generators, and multi-meters.
• Collect, record, interpret, and analyze data.
• Interpret technical information in the form of schematics, specifications, graphs, and procedure.
• Record relevant and necessary project information in a working lab notebook.
• Apply the terminology, procedures, equipment to manufacture micro and nanoscale products, and processes used in nanofabrication.
• Apply quality control methodology typical of the industry.
• Demonstrate safe and effective use of nanofabrication processing equipment.
• Demonstrate safe and appropriate maintenance techniques for basic processing equipment used in nanofabrication.
• Identify material and physical hazards associated with basic processing equipment used in nanofabrication.
• Respond appropriately to safety hazards and environmental disposal issues.
• Work both independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrate written and oral communication skills.
• Use the computer in reporting, analyzing, and researching technical information.
• Be prepared to adapt to changes in the field of nanofabrication.
• Identify industries using nanofab such as opto-electronics, biomedical, sensors, flat panel displays, information storage, micro-electromechanical devices (MEMs), micro-fluidics, solar cells, and microelectronics.