Introduction to Compound Semiconductor Photonics

Compound Semiconductors are essential materials to modern and new technologies such as 5G, driverless cars, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). They also have a key role to play in helping to address some of the challenges of the modern world, including sustainability and the net zero agenda.

You may be more familiar with Silicon, which has been the backbone of the electronics revolution from the 1960s. Being a single element from the periodic table, Silicon has a limited set of properties. Compound Semiconductors have superior properties to Silicon, enabling many new and innovative technologies and devices such as:

• Power (power electronics for electric vehicles)
• Speed (radio frequency for 5G and RADAR)
• Light (photonics for optical fibre communications)

By the end of the course participants will be able to:

• explain what photonics is and where it is found in everyday life
• describe, in simple terms, what semiconductors are, including the difference between elemental (silicon) and compound semiconductors
• describe, in simple terms, how photonic integrated circuits are made
• describe, at a basic level, the nano and micro fabrications techniques used to make photonics devices
• understand, in simple terms, semiconductor applications and know which semiconductors are appropriate
• appreciate the current and future marketplace applications for photonic chips
• explain how photonic chip technology is contributing to society, to the development of new technologies, and helping to address the challenges of the modern world

This is an online course that you can undertake in your own time. The training will take approximately 3.5 hours to complete.
Delivery will be via a variety of online and interactive activities such as short videos and test-your-knowledge exercises.
You will have access for 2 months from the date you first access the learning materials.

There is no live element but there is a discussion board where participants can pose questions to the tutor and others on the course. The course will be delivered via the University's virtual learning platform, Learning Central. Your individual login details will be emailed to you a few days before your course access begins.

A CPD Certificate of Completion will be issued to learners who achieve 70% or more in the end of course test. This is a multiple-choice test.

This course has no formal entry requirements. This course is designed for any of the following: Those working in the semiconductor sector who wish to up-skill their knowledge of compound semiconductor photonics. Those looking to re-train into the semiconductor/ compound semiconductor sector. Those supporting the sector – for example suppliers to the sector. Early to mid-career professionals seeking enhancement or career change. Recent graduates aiming to enter the sector equipped with relevant skills. 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.

• 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.