BS in Electrical Engineering: Semiconductor Technologies
What Is a Semiconductor Engineering Degree?
A semiconductor engineering degree examines the engineering behind a chip throughout its product life cycle, from architecture and design before fabrication to evaluating the finished device after production. GCU’s Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with an Emphasis in Semiconductor Technologies approaches this field through an electrical engineering foundation while connecting pre-silicon design with post-silicon operations.
Students gain perspective on how technical decisions can affect manufacturability, device performance, product quality, production yield and cost as semiconductor products move from an initial concept toward high-volume production.
Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
- 16+ years old
- High School Graduate
- 2.8+ Unweighted GPA
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
- ACT: 19
- SAT: 1000*
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
What To Expect in a Semiconductor Technologies Emphasis Program
Students can expect to move between analytical problem-solving, computer-based work and hands-on engineering applications. Early studies establish the mathematics, physics, programming and circuit knowledge needed to approach increasingly complex problems. As you progress, laboratory experiences introduce opportunities to analyze material properties, work with electronic circuits, use simulations and instrumentation, design experiments and interpret engineering data.
The BS in Electrical Engineering: semiconductor technologies emphasis also challenges you to think beyond whether a solution works. You will consider requirements, process variability, reliability, resource efficiency and other constraints that shape real engineering decisions. Project-based experiences culminate in a capstone where you will work in teams to plan, develop and present an applied research or design project.
Throughout the program, you can strengthen technical communication, collaboration, project planning and problem-solving skills. GCU’s Christian identity and mission are integrated into the classroom experience, emphasizing stewardship, discipline and professional and ethical standards.
The BS in Electrical Engineering: Semiconductor Technologies Experience
University Accreditation and Academic Standards
GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Engineering and Technology shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Study Semiconductor Engineering on Campus
Studying on GCU's campus allows you to participate in classroom instruction, team-based projects and hands-on laboratory experiences. You will apply electrical engineering principles to semiconductor technologies, circuit analysis, materials science, manufacturing processes and product validation.
Collaboration with faculty and peers and participation in engineering projects help you develop problem-solving and technical communication skills while applying concepts introduced in your coursework.
Access Student Support for Engineering Majors
Engineering majors can access academic and student resources that support coursework, project development, technical learning and professional growth. The College of Engineering and Technology's student resources provide additional information about university services and resources available to help you navigate your degree program and work toward graduation.
What Will I Study in a Semiconductor Technologies Engineering Program?
You will study engineering mathematics, programming, electronics, signals and systems, semiconductor materials, manufacturing operations and product validation. The curriculum combines electrical engineering fundamentals with specialized semiconductor technologies and processes.
Coursework also addresses engineering design, testing methodologies, statistical analysis, quality and reliability, project management and collaborative problem-solving.
BS in Electrical Engineering: Semiconductor Technologies Core Topics
Core topics connect the scientific principles behind electronic components with the engineering decisions that shape how they perform, are produced and meet technical requirements. You will examine these areas from multiple perspectives, considering factors such as material properties, performance, reliability, production efficiency and cost. Together, these subjects provide a broader view of how engineering decisions made at one stage can influence outcomes throughout a product’s development.
Study the technologies, processes and analytical methods that support semiconductor engineering, including:
Semiconductor design
Examine semiconductor architecture, product development workflows and pre-silicon design concepts that affect device performance, manufacturability and product requirements.
Material science
Study crystal structures, energy bands and the electrical, thermal and optical properties of materials used in semiconductor technologies.
Manufacturing processes
Study fabrication, packaging, assembly and production processes used to manufacture semiconductor devices while addressing quality and reliability requirements.
Testing and validation
Analyze testing procedures, validation methods and experimental design techniques used to evaluate device functionality and performance.
Quality analytics
Apply statistics, process control and yield analysis to evaluate manufacturing performance and identify opportunities for process improvement.
Engineering economics
Examine cost analysis, project planning and resource optimization to understand how engineering decisions affect production efficiency and business outcomes.
Which Electrical Engineering Degree Is Right for You?
The right electrical engineering degree depends on the systems and technologies you want to study. GCU's semiconductor technologies emphasis focuses on semiconductor devices, materials, design, manufacturing, testing and related applications while retaining a foundation in electrical engineering.
Students interested in microelectronics, semiconductor manufacturing and semiconductor product development can compare this emphasis with GCU's broader electrical engineering and power systems programs.
What Can You Do With a BS in Electrical Engineering: Semiconductor Technologies?
Graduates with a BS in Electrical Engineering with an Emphasis in Semiconductor Technologies may pursue engineering and technology roles involving the design, development, testing and production of electronic components and systems, depending on employer requirements and individual qualifications. The program's electrical engineering foundation and emphasis on semiconductor design, materials, manufacturing, testing, validation and quality analysis can support preparation for work involving semiconductor products as well as broader electrical, electronics and computer hardware applications.
While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not maintain a separate profile for semiconductor design engineers, the BLS data below represent broader engineering occupations related to the program rather than employment outcomes specifically for semiconductor engineering graduates.
Related career paths may include:
Electrical engineer
Design, develop and test electrical equipment, systems and components for a range of technical applications.
Electronics engineer (except computer)
Design and develop electronic components and circuitry for industrial, commercial and other applications.
Computer hardware engineer
Research, design, develop and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards and memory devices.
Architectural and engineering manager
Plan and direct engineering activities, coordinate technical projects and oversee teams of engineers and other specialists.
Median annual wage for electrical and electronics engineers as of May 2025(See disclaimer 1)
Estimated job growth for electrical and electronics engineers from 2025 to 2035(See disclaimer 2)
Explore Tuition for Your Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering
Explore GCU's current on-campus tuition information to understand tuition rates and costs associated with earning your bachelor's degree.
GCU has not increased campus tuition rates since 2009
Ways To Save
Your education is an important financial investment, and there are several ways to help manage costs while earning your degree. GCU’s university counselors are available to help you explore available options and provide personalized guidance on your estimated cost of attendance.
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine eligibility for federal grants and student loans. Since some aid is awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis, GCU recommends submitting the FAFSA as early as possible after Oct. 1 to maximize funding opportunities.
If you’ve earned college credits from another institution, you may be able to complete your degree sooner at GCU by transferring those credits. Submit the Lopes Unofficial Credit Evaluation form, then connect with a university counselor who can provide you with personalized guidance.
You may be able to reduce your college costs by applying for GCU’s on-campus or online student scholarships. We invite you to explore available institutional scholarships and determine which opportunities you may be eligible for. GCU also encourages students to seek out third‑party scholarships and grants.
Explore Your Financial Options
Connect with a university counselor to learn more about tuition, cost-planning resources and available options.
Semiconductor Engineering FAQs
Explore common questions about semiconductor engineering, including what semiconductor engineers do, industries that use semiconductor technologies, skills developed through the degree and options for continued study.
Is a semiconductor engineering degree worth it?
What does a semiconductor engineer do?
What industries use semiconductor engineers?
How does a semiconductor technology emphasis complement an electrical engineering degree?
What skills can I develop in an electrical engineering degree with a semiconductor technologies emphasis?
Can I pursue graduate study after earning an electrical engineering degree with a semiconductor technologies emphasis?
What Are the Admission Requirements for the Electrical Engineering: Semiconductor Technologies Degree?
GCU offers a streamlined admission process with no application fee, personal statement or essay required. High school students may qualify for admission by meeting either the minimum GPA requirement or minimum SAT or ACT test score requirements. Admission criteria may vary by degree or program, so please review the requirements for your chosen program.
You can apply to a degree program at GCU in just three simple steps. Your university counselor is standing by to assist you with any questions about the application process.
It starts with selecting the program that aligns with your goals from one of GCU's 380+ academic programs — from undergraduate degrees to post-master’s certificate programs to doctoral degrees.
Pick your program
Explore our on-campus, online or evening cohort options under the Degree Programs page to find the right program for you.
Complete our online application
Your university counselor will direct you to the online application. Fill in all required information and submit the form.
Submit supporting documents
Submit your official transcripts and any relevant test scores, and confirm with your university counselor that all forms for your desired program are submitted.
Program Curriculum
General Education Requirements
Required General Education Courses
Core Courses
Develop electrical engineering knowledge while studying semiconductor design, materials, manufacturing, testing and validation. Explore GCU's BS in Electrical Engineering with an Emphasis in Semiconductor Technologies and take the next step toward your academic goals.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Electrical and Electronics Engineers as of May 2025, retrieved September 2026. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as electrical and electronics engineers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It is very unlikely that a median salary will reflect an entry-level salary. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
- Data shown is effective August 2026, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electrical and Electronics Engineers, retrieved September 2026.
Approved and verified accurate by the Assistant Dean of the College of Engineering and Technology on Oct. 14, 2026.