MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS)

Advertisement

Electronic technologies have evolved to the extent that modern device features are now measured in nanometers and new device concepts, fabrication methods and characterisation techniques have emerged. Take your place to set the agenda for tomorrows electronics world.

MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) exploits techniques developed by the microelectronics industry to produce micron-scale mechanical devices, such as accelerometers and micro-pumps on silicon wafers.

Several types of MEMS device are already very well established in the market place, but we expect massive growth in this field. Among the most exciting developments are in the bioMEMS areas where medical diagnostics and the concept of lab-on-a-chip are important new markets.

MEMS is a very multidisciplinary field that requires knowledge of electronics design, fabrication technologies, measurement systems and mechanics. To reflect these requirements this programme of study includes microelectronics device fabrication and design modules as well as specialised options on Microsystems Technology.

Key Facts
* Southampton is ranked in the top 51-100 universities for Computer Science in the 2012 QS World Rankings
* We are ranked in the top three universities in the UK for computer sciences and IT
* Southampton University has pioneered many of the most important advances in computer science and web technology of the past 10 years

Career opportunities
* Academia
* Electronics/semiconductor industry
* Materials science, including textiles, polymers and packaging
* Biotechnology in the medical industry and pharmaceutical industry
* Optoelectronics

The programme has been designed to maximise student choice by allowing you to tailor the structure to suit your own interests. You can choose areas that reflect your personal interests and work on an individual project. You will however, also take a number of compulsory modules to ensure you are exposed to key topics in all areas.

Modules

Semester 1
Compulsory Modules

* ELEC6011 Introduction to MEMS
* ELEC6021 Research Methods
* ELEC6100 Lab on a Chip
* ELEC6108 Microfabrication

Optional Modules

* ELEC3025 Integrated Circuit Design
* ELEC3042 Introduction to BioNanotechnology
* ELEC6009 Nanoelectronic Devices

Semester 2
Compulsory Modules

* ELEC6105 Instrumentation and Sensors
* ELEC6107 MEMS Laboratory Project
* ELEC6111 MEMS Sensors and Actuators
* ELEC6121 Project Preparation

Optional Modules

* ELEC3019 Photonic Devices
* ELEC3024 Nanofabrication and Charact
* ELEC6104 Bio-Nanotech Lab Project
* ELEC6106 Logic & Quantum Devices
* ELEC6109 Nano-Electronics Laboratory Project
* ELEC6110 Memory and Spintronic Devices
* ELEC6112 Biosensors

Non-Standard
Compulsory Modules

* ELEC6003 MSc Project

Honours Degree: Our normal entry requirement is a first-class or upper second-class degree (or equivalent) in a related discipline, such as Mathematics, Physics, Engineering and Computer Science. English Language Requirements: If English is not your first language, you will be required to pass an approved English test to ensure you can enjoy the full benefit of your studies. We normally ask for an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 (with a writing score of 6), or a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 580. International Qualifications: We welcome applications from international students. For information on applying, visit the International Office website. Selection Process: All individuals are selected and treated on their relative merits and abilities in line with the University's Equal Opportunities Policy. Disabled applicants will be treated according to the same procedures as any other applicant with the added involvement of the Disability Office to assess their needs. The programme may require adaptation for students with disabilities (eg hearing impairment, visual impairment, mobility difficulties, dyslexia), particularly the practical laboratory sessions, and we will attempt to accommodate students wherever possible. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

Scholarships
Some students taking the course are sponsored by industry, while other students obtain financial support from local authorities, from professional institutions such as the Institution of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) or from Career Development Loans. If you wish to obtain such sponsorship, you must make your own private arrangements.