OpenCourser brand icon
Sign in
We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Course image
Coursera logo

Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1

4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 130 ratings
see reviews
Keon Jae Lee

This course aims to provide a general understanding of semiconductor devices. This course explores the principles and the operation mechanism of semiconductor, such as charge transfer, p-n junction, junction capacitors, and Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors(MOSFETs).

Read more

This course aims to provide a general understanding of semiconductor devices. This course explores the principles and the operation mechanism of semiconductor, such as charge transfer, p-n junction, junction capacitors, and Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors(MOSFETs).

The lecture notes can be downloaded with registration, that helps students watch the videos. It is recommeded to print them in two pages in one A4 sheet and take notes during lectures for better understanding. Also, there are quiz problems to check your understanding of the lectures each week. To receive course certificate, you must score at least 60% of each week's quiz withing two chances.

Lecture notes, quiz and certificate are offered to registered students only.

week 1 Introduction to Semiconductor Devices

week 2 Crystal properties, Atoms, Electons and Schrodinger Equation 　

week 3 Carriers in Semiconductors

week 4 Excess Carriers and Drift Carriers in Semiconductors

week 5 p-n Junction under Equilibrium

week 6 Currnet Flow at p-n Junction

week 7 Junction Capacitance, p-n Junction Applications, Breakdown

Enroll now

Here's a deal for you

Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Valid until March 12, 2027
Save 40% Off 3 Months
Access thousands of top-rated learning programs with a Coursera Plus monthly subscription and take 40% off 3 months for a limited time.
Take
40%
off
Get offer

What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1 Overview, Semiconductor History & Industry
Week 2 Crystal Properties, Energy Bands
Week 3 Carriers in Semiconductor
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores semiconductor devices, which are fundamental to electronics
Taught by Keon Jae Lee, an expert in semiconductor devices
Suitable for beginners in semiconductor device principles
May require some background in basic electricity and physics

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Foundational semiconductor devices for engineers

According to learners, "Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1" from KAIST provides a robust theoretical foundation for understanding semiconductor physics and device operation. Many praise the instructor's clear explanations and ability to simplify complex topics like p-n junctions and MOSFETs. The course structure is logical, building concepts systematically. While a solid introduction for those starting in the field, some students note its heavy theoretical focus and suggest it would benefit from more practical examples or simulations. Learners also advise that a strong prior understanding of physics and calculus is highly recommended to fully grasp the material.
Provides a comprehensive and deep understanding of physics.
"This course provided a thorough and comprehensive introduction. The course structure is logical, building from atomic structure to device operation."
"The theoretical explanations are robust and provide a strong understanding of the underlying physics."
"Solid course on semiconductor fundamentals. It's heavy on theory, which is what I was looking for."
Complex topics made understandable by an excellent instructor.
"The lectures are clear, well-paced, and Professor Kim explains complex topics like p-n junctions and MOSFETs in an understandable way."
"The instructor's passion for the subject really shone through. I particularly appreciated the detailed derivations and explanations for concepts like carrier transport."
"Prof. Kim has an exceptional ability to simplify complex topics. The detailed explanations of p-n junction characteristics were particularly insightful."
Emphasizes fundamentals; could use more real-world examples.
"I wished there were more practical examples or simulations to bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications."
"The delivery felt very academic and lacked engaging examples. It felt like a textbook put into video format."
"If you're looking for practical design tips, this isn't it. It's pure physics and device operation principles."
Best for learners with a background in physics/calculus.
"I struggled with this course... I think it's better suited for someone with a strong physics background already."
"Good overview, but definitely requires a strong prior understanding of physics and calculus."
"I managed to get through it, but it required significant external resources and a lot of self-study to truly grasp all the nuances."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1 with these activities:
Compile notes and resources for future reference
Creating accessible notes and readily available resources improves long-term retention of the material.
Browse courses on Semiconductors
Show steps
  • Create a system for organizing your notes and resources.
  • Regularly add to your notes and resources.
  • Review your notes and resources periodically.
Review core concepts in solid state physics
This course builds on core concepts from solid state physics. Reviewing these ideas beforehand will help you better understand the material covered in this course.
Browse courses on Solid State Physics
Show steps
  • Review your notes from a previous solid state physics course.
  • Go over practice problems and solutions from your previous solid state physics course.
  • Read a chapter or two from a solid state physics textbook.
Create a presentation on a topic related to semiconductors
Creating a presentation on a topic related to semiconductors will help you deepen your understanding of the material and improve your communication skills.
Browse courses on Semiconductors
Show steps
  • Choose a topic related to semiconductors.
  • Research the topic.
  • Create a presentation that is clear and informative.
  • Practice your presentation.
  • Give your presentation to a group of people.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Solve practice problems on p-n junctions
Solving practice problems will help you solidify your understanding of p-n junctions, which are a key concept in this course.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in a textbook.
  • Solve the problems on your own.
  • Check your answers against the solutions.
Discuss the course material with other students
Discussing the course material with other students can help you understand the material better and identify areas where you need more help.
Browse courses on Semiconductors
Show steps
  • Find a group of students who are taking the same course.
  • Meet with the group regularly to discuss the course material.
  • Help each other understand the material.
Follow tutorials on MOSFETs
MOSFETs are a type of transistor that is used in many electronic devices. Following tutorials on MOSFETs will help you learn more about how they work and how to use them.
Show steps
  • Find tutorials on MOSFETs online or in a book.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
  • Build a simple circuit using a MOSFET.
Participate in a hackathon or coding competition
Developing solutions to real-world problems helps you develop problem-solving skills and refines your ability to apply your knowledge.
Browse courses on Semiconductors
Show steps
  • Find a hackathon or coding competition that is relevant to the course material.
  • Form a team or work on your own.
  • Develop a solution to the problem.
  • Submit your solution to the competition.
Mentor a younger student in the subject
Mentoring others improves your ability to learn and remember information through knowledge organization.
Browse courses on Semiconductors
Show steps
  • Find a younger student who is interested in learning about semiconductors.
  • Meet with the student regularly to help them understand the material.
  • Answer the student's questions and provide them with guidance.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Semiconductor Process Engineer
The Semiconductor Process Engineer designs, develops, and tests semiconductor devices. These devices are used in a wide variety of electronic products, including computers, cell phones, and digital cameras. The engineer uses the knowledge of semiconductor physics and materials science to create devices that meet specific performance and reliability requirements. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices and is essential for success as a Semiconductor Process Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Process Engineer
Semiconductor Device Physicist
The Semiconductor Device Physicist conducts research and development on semiconductor devices. This work may involve the design, fabrication, and testing of new devices, or the improvement of existing devices. The physicist uses knowledge of semiconductor physics, materials science, and device physics to develop new and innovative devices. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices and is a valuable resource for Semiconductor Device Physicists.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Device Physicist
Semiconductor Device Modeler
The Semiconductor Device Modeler develops and uses computer models to simulate the behavior of semiconductor devices. These models are used to predict the performance of devices under different operating conditions. The modeler uses his or her knowledge of semiconductor physics, materials science, and computer science to develop accurate and efficient models. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices and is helpful for Semiconductor Device Modelers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Device Modeler
Semiconductor Device Applications Engineer
The Semiconductor Device Applications Engineer designs and develops applications for semiconductor devices. This work may involve the design of new products, the integration of devices into existing products, or the development of new markets for devices. The engineer uses his or her knowledge of semiconductor devices, applications, and markets to develop successful products and applications. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices and is may be helpful for Semiconductor Device Applications Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Device Applications Engineer
Semiconductor Device Sales Engineer
The Semiconductor Device Sales Engineer sells semiconductor devices to customers. This work may involve the identification of customer needs, the development of sales presentations, and the negotiation of sales contracts. The engineer uses his or her knowledge of semiconductor devices, applications, and markets to develop successful sales strategies. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices and is may be helpful for Semiconductor Device Sales Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Semiconductor Device Sales Engineer
Solid State Physicist
A Solid-State Physicist is a scientist who specializes in the study of the physical properties of solids. Solid-state physicists investigate the electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties of solids to understand their behavior. They use their knowledge to develop new materials and devices, such as semiconductors and superconductors. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices and may be useful for Solid-State Physicists who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Solid State Physicist
Device Engineer
Device Engineers design, develop, and test electronic devices. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. Device Engineers use their knowledge of semiconductor physics, materials science, and device physics to design and develop new and innovative devices. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices, which may be helpful for Device Engineers who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Device Engineer
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists research, develop, and test new materials for use in a variety of applications. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, aerospace, and automotive. Materials Scientists use their knowledge of materials science, chemistry, and physics to develop new and improved materials. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor materials, which may be helpful for Materials Scientists who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical and electronic equipment. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. Electrical Engineers use their knowledge of electricity, electronics, and computer science to design and develop new and innovative products. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices, which may be useful for Electrical Engineers who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. Software Engineers use their knowledge of computer science, software engineering, and mathematics to design and develop new and innovative software applications. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices, which may be helpful for Software Engineers who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Computer Engineer
Computer Engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware and software. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. Computer Engineers use their knowledge of computer science, computer engineering, and mathematics to design and develop new and innovative computer hardware and software. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices, which may be useful for Computer Engineers who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Engineer
Physicist
Physicists study the fundamental laws of nature. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, aerospace, and automotive. Physicists use their knowledge of physics to develop new and improved products and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor devices, which may be helpful for Physicists who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physicist
Chemist
Chemists study the composition, structure, and properties of matter. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, pharmaceutical, and chemical. Chemists use their knowledge of chemistry to develop new and improved products and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles of semiconductor materials, which may be helpful for Chemists who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chemist
Mathematician
Mathematicians study the properties of numbers, shapes, and other mathematical objects. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, finance, and insurance. Mathematicians use their knowledge of mathematics to develop new and improved products and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in the mathematical principles underlying semiconductor devices, which may be helpful for Mathematicians who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mathematician
Statistician
Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. They work in a variety of industries, including semiconductor, finance, and insurance. Statisticians use their knowledge of statistics to develop new and improved products and technologies. This course provides a solid foundation in the statistical principles underlying semiconductor devices, which may be helpful for Statisticians who want to pursue careers in the field of semiconductor devices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1.
Cover image
Semiconductor Physics and Devices
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor physics and devices, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductors. It is written in a clear and concise style, making it accessible to students and professionals alike.
Semiconductor Physics And Devices: Basic Principles
Hardcover
$$$$
Semiconductor Physics & Devices : Basic Principles...
Paperback
$$$
Semiconductor Physics And Devices
Hardcover
$$$$
Semiconductor Physics and Devices
Hardcover
$$
Semiconductor Physics And Devices
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Fundamentals of Semiconductor Devices
Save
Classic textbook on semiconductor devices, providing a thorough understanding of the principles and operation of semiconductor devices. It is written in a clear and concise style, making it accessible to students and professionals alike.
Fundamentals of Semiconductor Devices
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Save
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on semiconductor device fundamentals. It is written in a clear and concise style, making it accessible to students and professionals alike.
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Hardcover
$$$
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Solid state electronic devices
Save
Comprehensive and authoritative reference on the physics of semiconductor devices. It is written in a clear and concise style, making it accessible to students and professionals alike.
Solid State Electronic Devices
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Modern Semiconductor Devices for Integrated Circuits
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of modern semiconductor devices for integrated circuits, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Modern Semiconductor Devices for Integrated Circuits
Paperback
$$
Modern Semiconductor Devices for Integrated Circuits
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor devices, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Hardcover
$$$
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
High Speed Semiconductor Physics. Theoretical...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor devices for high-speed electronics, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
High Speed Semiconductor Physics. Theoretical...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Semiconductor Nanodevices
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor nanodevices, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Semiconductor Nanodevices: Physics, Technology and...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Solid State Physics
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the physics of semiconductors, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Solid State Physics
Paperback
Check
Solid State Physics
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Semiconductor Device Modeling with Spice
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor device modeling with SPICE, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Semiconductor Device Modeling
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor device technology, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Paperback
Check
Physics of Semiconductor Devices
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Nanowire Transistors
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor devices and applications, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Nanowire Transistors: Physics of Devices and...
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Artificial Intelligence
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of semiconductor fundamentals, covering the fundamental principles and applications of semiconductor devices.
Artificial Intelligence: An Introduction for the...
Paperback
$$
Artificial Intelligence: An Introduction to the Big...
Hardcover
$$$$
Artificial Intelligence: An Introduction for the...
Kindle Edition
$$

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:
Facebook
LinkedIn
Reddit
X
Link
Email

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1.
Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 2
Most relevant
Introduction to Electronics
Most relevant
Electrical Properties and Semiconductors
Most relevant
Light Emitting Diodes and Semiconductor Lasers
Most relevant
Optical and X-Ray Characterization
Most relevant
Introduction to Power Semiconductor Switches
Most relevant
Organic Solar Cells - Theory and Practice
Most relevant
Shape and Property Control of Metals I & II
Most relevant
Physics of silicon solar cells
Most relevant

Coursera Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Verified partner policies & purchase protections

Accredited University Partner
Free Trial & Audit

7-Day Free Trial & Free Audit

7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions; free audit option available on most individual courses to explore video lectures and readings at no charge.

Return & Refund Policy

14-Day Refund Guarantee

14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus subscriptions and single-course purchases prior to certificate issuance. Monthly subscriptions do not offer refunds once billed.

Buyer Protections

Verified Academic & Industry Partner

Accredited university and industry certifications (e.g. Stanford, Google, IBM, Yale), secure SSL payment processing, and verifiable digital certificate links.

Key Purchase Protections
14-day refund window on annual Coursera Plus and single courses
7-day free trial on monthly Coursera Plus subscriptions
Free course audit option for lectures and readings
Verified certificates from top universities & companies
OpenCourser Verified Partner Policy details last reviewed: 2026-10-22
Course image
Rating
4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
8 hours to complete
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Instructor
Keon Jae Lee
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores semiconductor devices, which are fundamental to electronics
Taught by Keon Jae Lee, an expert in semiconductor devices
Suitable for beginners in semiconductor device principles
May require some background in basic electricity and physics
Share this
Share to help others discover this course.
Facebook LinkedIn X Reddit Link Email
Begin learning today
Enroll now to gain full access to Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1.
Enroll now
Save for later
Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.
Save
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser