Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
This program equips students with the technical expertise and engineering fundamentals needed to excel in the high-precision field of semiconductor fabrication. Focused on the production of microchips from silicon wafers, it prepares learners to manage, monitor, and maintain advanced manufacturing systems while ensuring operational efficiency and product quality.
- AC and DC Circuits: Study of alternating and direct current systems, including analysis, design, and application in electronic manufacturing environments.
- Digital Fundamentals: Core concepts in binary logic, logic gates, digital systems, and data representation essential for semiconductor device operation.
- Solid State Devices: In-depth exploration of semiconductor materials, junctions, and components such as diodes, transistors, and integrated circuits.
- Manufacturing Processes: Hands-on understanding of photolithography, etching, deposition, doping, and wafer processing techniques used in chip fabrication.
- Vacuum Principles and Technology: Application of vacuum systems and cleanroom protocols critical to contamination control in semiconductor production.
- Industrial Electronics: Practical knowledge of control systems, sensors, power electronics, and automation used in manufacturing equipment.
- Quality Assurance: Methods and standards for monitoring, testing, and ensuring reliability and consistency in semiconductor output.
- Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology: Comprehensive study of the entire fabrication lifecycle, from raw material preparation to final device testing and packaging.
Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology degrees, including Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians and Semiconductor Processing Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 124,860 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians 17-3023 | $77,180 | $48,250 - $111,790 | 92,710 | $37.11 |
| Semiconductor Processing Technicians 51-9141 | $51,180 | $35,980 - $87,190 | 32,150 | $24.60 |
Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $52,460 in Utah to $102,500 in District of Columbia—a 95% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Rhode Island, and Alaska. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 124,860 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 4 institutions offering Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology is found at North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) (10 graduates), Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) (3 graduates), Arizona State University Campus Immersion (ASU) (2 graduates), and Arizona State University, Digital Immersion (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 16 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) |
Associate's
|
10 | Wahpeton, North Dakota | Public | ndscs.edu |
| Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) |
Associate's
|
3 | Troy, New York | Public | hvcc.edu |
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion (ASU) |
Postbac Cert.
|
2 | Tempe, Arizona | Public | asu.edu |
| Arizona State University |
Postbac Cert.
|
1 | Scottsdale, Arizona | Public | asu.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology degree?
Salaries for Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology graduates vary by role and location. Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $77,180 annually, while Semiconductor Processing Technicians earn around $51,180. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $102,500 compared to $52,460 in Utah. Approximately 124,860 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology programs?
Currently 4 accredited institutions offer Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) (10 graduates), Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) (3 graduates), and Arizona State University Campus Immersion (ASU) (2 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Semiconductor Processing Technicians, . Related occupations employ approximately 124,860 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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