Master of Science in Wide Bandgap Semiconductors

New graduate program launching fall 2026

Turning High Impact Semiconductors into High Impact Innovation

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Why research wide bandgap semiconductors?

Wide bandgap (WBG) materials such as SiC (silicon carbide) and GaN (gallium nitride) offer higher efficiency, faster switching and higher-temperature operation. These properties enable smaller and lighter power systems.

They are transforming electric vehicles, fast-charging energy inverters, aerospace and defense applications and data center power systems. Wide bandgap semiconductors are essential for advancing clean energy, transportation and high-performance systems.

Why study wide bandgap at NC State?

Semiconductor and power hub

Advance your knowledge within one of the nation’s leading ecosystems for wide bandgap semiconductors for applications in power electronics, RF, and photonics applications.

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World-class facilities

Access cleanrooms, nanofabrication labs, power electronics testbeds and characterization tools.

Strong industry connections

Connect with companies in EVs, aerospace, communication, clean energy and chip manufacturing.

Curriculum

Program at a Glance

  • Degree: MS in Wide Bandgap Semiconductors
  • Length: 1-2 years (full-time)
  • Format: Hybrid, online coursework plus practicum
  • First cohort: Fall 2026

What you’ll study

Core focus areas

  • Semiconductor physics and foundations of SiC/GaN emerging WBGS technologies.
  • WBG device structures, fabrication techniques and performance testing.
  • Microelectronic materials science, thin films and semiconductor processing.
  • Power electronics systems using SiC/GaN: converters, inverters, EV drivetrains, RF amplifiers and renewable energy systems.
  • Semiconductor manufacturing workflows, automation, yield analysis and smart manufacturing.
  • Advanced characterization, simulation and modeling of WBG materials and devices.
  • Applied learning through intensive two-week practicums in manufacturing and applications engineering.

Sample courses and experiences

Core courses

  • ECE 502 – Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Devices and Applications

  • ECE 530 – Physics of Semiconductors

  • MSE 560 – Microelectronic Materials Science and Technology  — or

  • ECE 538 – Integrated Circuits Technology and Fabrication

  • ECE 740 – Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Device Fabrication and Technology

  • ECE 640 – Practicum 1: Semiconductor Manufacturing

  • ECE 641 – Practicum 2: Applications Engineering Using Wide Bandgap Semiconductors

Device track electives

  • ECE 533 – Power Electronics Design & Packaging

  • ECE 557 – Principles of MOS Transistors

  • ECE 523 – Photonics and Optical Communications

  • ECE 529 – Semiconductor Optoelectronic Devices

  • ECE 534 – Power Electronics

  • ECE 553 – Semiconductor Power Devices

  • ECE 724 – Electronic Properties of Solid-State Devices

  • ECE 735 – Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Power Devices

  • ECE 511 – Analog Electronics

  • ECE 712 – Integrated Circuit Design for Wireless Communication

  • ECE 549 – Microwave Design

  • ECE 719 – Advanced Microwave Design

Materials track electives

  • MSE 703 – Interaction of Electrons with Materials

  • MSE 760 – Materials Science in Processing of Semiconductor Devices

  • MSE 704 – Interaction of Photons with Materials

  • MSE 751 – Thin Film and Coating Science and Technology I

  • MSE 752 – Thin Film and Coating Science and Technology II

 

Learn by doing

Practicum experiences offer hands-on work with WBG devices and systems. Students will use advanced equipment to test, model, and analyze WBG technologies.

Where this degree can take you

Graduates will be prepared for roles such as:

  • R&D engineer in semiconductor manufacturing

  • Power electronics design engineer

  • Wide bandgap device or module engineer
  • Applications engineer (EVs, renewables, aerospace)
  • Roles in national labs and government agencies

Industries hiring wide bandgap talent include electric vehicles, renewable energy, aerospace and defense, industrial systems, data centers, and semiconductor manufacturing.

Is this program right for you?

Ideal backgrounds

  • BS in electrical engineering, computer engineering, materials science, physics or related disciplines
  • Mid-career engineers seeking advanced technical preparation

What we’re looking for

  • Strong fundamentals in circuits, devices, or materials
  • Interest in clean energy, transportation, or semiconductor applications
  • Motivation to enter fast-growing power and semiconductor sectors

Admissions and key dates

  • Program start: Fall 2026
  • Application term: Opening in 2026 (date TBD)
  • Location: NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina

Additional requirements:

  • NC State Graduate School application
  • Relevant undergraduate degree
  • Transcripts, statement of purpose, and recommendations
  • English proficiency documentation (if applicable)
Is this program full-time or on campus?

The MS-WBGS program is hybrid. Coursework includes online synchronous and asynchronous components, with intensive on-campus summer practicum sessions.

Can I work part-time while enrolled?

Yes. The hybrid structure supports part-time employment, though students may need scheduling flexibility during practicum sessions.

Is there a thesis option?

No. This is a non-thesis professional program focused on applied learning and industry engagement.

Are assistantships available?

No. Students should plan for self-funding, employer support, scholarships, or external funding.

Do I need semiconductor experience?

No. Applicants only need strong fundamentals in engineering or physical sciences.

Ready to explore your next step?

Let’s talk! tell us a little about yourself using this form and our ECE team will follow up with information and support.

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Disclosure

The program is approved by the UNC Board of Governors and is subject to final approval from SACSCOC.