If you are interested in chip design, this is a very promising direction. The chip industry is a strategic industry for the country, and there is a huge demand for professional talent. To help you clearly understand the preparations required to become a chip designer, I have outlined a comprehensive path from professional selection to knowledge and skill reserves.
At the undergraduate level, the most directly related major is “Integrated Circuit Design and Integrated Systems.” Additionally, you may consider “Electronic Science and Technology” or “Electronic Information Engineering.” The key course areas and core content you need to master are:
| Knowledge Area | Core Courses / Content |
|---|---|
| Mathematical Foundations | Advanced Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Probability Theory, University Physics (especially the electromagnetism part). |
| Circuit and Systems | Circuit Analysis, Analog Electronic Technology, Digital Electronic Technology, Signals and Systems, Computer Organization and Architecture. |
| Semiconductor Fundamentals | Semiconductor Physics and Devices, Principles of Semiconductor Manufacturing Processes. |
| Core Professional Courses | Digital Integrated Circuit Design: Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) Design, Hardware Description Language.Analog Integrated Circuit Design: CMOS Analog Integrated Circuit Design, Integrated Circuit Layout Design.Systems and Tools: System on Chip (SoC) Design, Electronic Design Automation (EDA) Technology. |