Nanotechnology (Chemistry) (B.S.)

The nanotechnology track includes 18 credit hours in courses from Penn State University’s Center for Nanotechnology Education and Utilization (CNEU). This may be done through a spring semester or summer residence at PSU, State College, or through online classes and an intense two-week residence in the summer to work in the nanotech labs and clean rooms. When and how to do the practicum is an important discussion to have with your advisor.

To qualify for the Nanotechnology Practicum, a 2.0 GPA in each of the following: CHEM 115, CHEM 116, CHEM 231, CHEM 232, CHEM 321, and CHEM 361 is required. A surcharge in addition to BU tuition and fees is required.

Requirements

The Pennsylvania Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology (NMT) Partnership is a joint effort between Penn State University and 32 schools across the Commonwealth, including Bloomsburg University. The objective is to equip a new generation workforce with nanotechnology-based manufacturing and new product development skills through certificates, associate degrees and baccalaureate degrees in Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology (NMT).

All academic programs require a Capstone Semester at Penn State University. This 18-credit semester is taught by staff from Penn State’s Center for Nanotechnology Education and Utilization and offers the most current hands-on exposure available in nanofabrication manufacturing technology.

NMT Program Requirements

• A recommendation from Bloomsburg's nanotechnology program
• An introductory understanding of chemistry and physics
• Proficiency in college-level algebra
• College-level writing skills
• Computer skills
• Good interpersonal skills

Programs supported by the NMT Partnership, including Bloomsburg University's nanotechnology program, require a Capstone Semester at Penn State University. This component will be arranged by BU and is offered during the spring and summer semesters. The semester includes 18 credits of coursework and offers access to state-of-the-art equipment and cleanroom facilities.

Benefits of the Capstone Semester

• Flexible Credits — The 18 credits earned in the six-course Capstone Semester apply to every student’s career path. Students pay the tuition for the Capstone Semester credits to their home NMT partner institution (i.e. Bloomsburg University) according to its current tuition rates. Coursework is continuously evolving to keep the content up to date.
• Room and Board — While attending the Capstone Semester, students may be eligible to receive a partial room and board grant. This state support is administered by the Centre for Nanotechnology Education and Utilization.
• University Environment — Receive hands-on training with the latest nanotechnology fabrication and characterization equipment at one of the nation’s leading research universities.
• Group Dynamic — As a Capstone Semester student, you’ll receive the most current, hands-on exposure available in nanofabrication manufacturing and characterization technology. You’ll work in groups with other students from different schools and diverse backgrounds, enhancing each other’s experience.
• Unique Skill Set — Cleanroom protocols, material processing and characterization, hardware training, safety and environmental training, and computer simulation
• Industry Interaction — Capstone graduates enjoy exclusive access to a powerful job network and receive industry announcements and job postings, even if they are continuing their education.

Industry-Relevant Course Work

The Capstone Semester is a six-course hands-on experience exposing the student to state-of-the art equipment and cleanroom facilities at Penn State. The 18 credits of coursework can be used toward an associate, or baccalaureate degree, used to earn an NMT Certificate, or both depending on the specific program of the student’s “Home Institution.” Staff members teach the capstone semester during all three of Penn State’s scheduled semesters and continuously evolve these courses to add or update process and characterization technologies. Refinement of the capstone semester is carried out in close consultation with the industry members of the NMT Program’s Advisory Board.

Skill Sets Gained

• Basic nanotechnology EHS awareness
• Nanotechnology equipment and processing foundation skills
• Nanotechnology pattern transfer foundation skills
• Nanotechnology fabrication skills
• Nanotechnology characterization skills
• Nanotechnology professional skills