525.621.81 - Introduction to Electronics and the Solid State

Introduction to Electronics and the Solid State provides a rigorous graduate-level study of the physical principles governing semiconductor materials and modern electronic devices. Building upon concepts from quantum mechanics, solid-state physics, and semiconductor transport theory, this course develops the analytical foundation necessary to understand the operation, modeling, and design of semiconductor devices used throughout contemporary electronic systems.

Students investigate semiconductor crystal structures, energy band theory, carrier statistics, carrier transport, pn junctions, semiconductor interfaces, metal-semiconductor contacts, MOS capacitors, MOSFETs, bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), Junction Field-Effect Transistors (JFETs), and advanced semiconductor technologies. Mathematical modeling is emphasized throughout the course, allowing students to quantitatively analyze device operation, evaluate engineering tradeoffs, and interpret device performance under practical operating conditions.

The course integrates semiconductor physics with engineering analysis through quantitative problem solving, technical discussions, and a comprehensive semester-long engineering design project. Students will develop the ability to analyze semiconductor device behavior, communicate engineering concepts effectively, and apply theoretical principles to modern electronic systems.

Although there are no formal prerequisites for this course, students are expected to have a working knowledge of undergraduate calculus, differential equations, introductory physics, and basic circuit analysis. Familiarity with elementary semiconductor concepts is beneficial but not required.

This course follows a Monday through Sunday schedule. Most modules run for a period of seven (7) days, exceptions are noted on the Course Outline page. Each instructional module opens one week prior to the module beginning. Students are encouraged to begin each week's work early by reviewing the module overview, assigned readings, and instructional materials before attempting the assessments. Students should also regularly check the Calendar and Announcements for updates.

Most modules include the following components:

• Module Overview
• Readings
• Lectures
• Discussion
• Assignment
• Quiz

Beginning in Module 8, students will also complete scaffolded milestones for the semester-long Final Project. These milestones provide opportunities to receive instructor feedback before submitting the completed engineering report by the end of the course.

Students should expect to spend approximately 10–12 hours each week completing readings, reviewing lecture materials, solving engineering problems, participating in discussions, and developing the Final Project.

Because semiconductor device theory is cumulative, concepts introduced early in the semester form the foundation for understanding later material. Students are therefore strongly encouraged to remain current with readings and assignments throughout the course.

The course is organized into fourteen instructional modules that progressively develop the physical principles governing semiconductor devices and modern electronic systems.

• Module 1: The Crystal Structure of Solids - Topics include the crystal structure of solids, imperfections in crystal lattices, and common semiconductor growth methods.
• Module 2: Quantum Mechanics and Electron Behavior in Solids - Topics include wave-particle duality, the Schrödinger equation, quantum tunneling, and the quantization of energy levels in confined systems.
• Module 3: Band Theory, Carrier Statistics, and Quantum Models in Solids - Topics include energy band formation, the Kronig–Penney model, effective mass, density of states, and carrier distribution governed by Fermi–Dirac statistics.
• Module 4: Carrier Concentration, Fermi Level, and Doping in Semiconductors - Topics include equilibrium conditions in semiconductors and explores how carrier concentrations, Fermi level positioning, and doping affect electrical behavior.
• Module 5: Carrier Transport, Mobility, and the Hall Effect - Topics include the behavior of charge carriers in semiconductors under non-equilibrium conditions, key transport mechanisms including drift and diffusion, and critical parameters such as mobility, conductivity, and resistivity.
• Module 6: Nonequilibrium Carriers, Quasi-Fermi Levels, and Surface Effects - Topics include nonequilibrium carrier dynamics, including generation, recombination, transport, and carrier lifetime in semiconductors.
• Module 7: The p-n Junction - Topics include the physical and electrical behavior of the p-n junction, equilibrium and non-equilibrium carrier processes, charge distributions, potential barriers, depletion regions, and electric fields in both uniform and nonuniformly doped junctions.
• Module 8: The p-n Junction Diode - Topics include the current–voltage characteristics, small-signal behavior, and transient response of the p-n junction diode, ideal and non-ideal diode operation, and diode modeling techniques for AC analysis, switching applications, and special cases such as tunnel diodes.
• Module 9: Metal–Semiconductor and Semiconductor Heterojunctions - Topics include metal–semiconductor junctions, Schottky barrier diodes, metal–semiconductor ohmic contacts, and semiconductor heterojunctions.
• Module 10: Fundamentals of the Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor - Topics include MOS capacitors, threshold voltage, capacitance–voltage characteristics, and MOSFET operation.
• Module 11: Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor: Additional Concepts - Topics include MOSFET nonideal effects, device scaling, threshold voltage modifications, breakdown mechanisms, radiation effects, and hot-electron degradation.
• Module 12: The Bipolar Transistor - Topics include the bipolar junction transistor (BJT), carrier injection, and extend pn-junction concepts to active semiconductor devices capable of amplification and switching.
• Module 13: The Junction Field-Effect Transistor - Topics include JFET operation, current-voltage characteristics, nonideal effects, equivalent circuits, MESFETs, High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs), and high-frequency device operation.
• Module 14: Wrap Up - Integration of semiconductor device concepts into a comprehensive engineering analysis of a semiconductor device, as well as a course reflection.

The goal of this course is to develop a rigorous understanding of semiconductor materials, electronic device physics, and the engineering principles governing modern semiconductor devices. Students will integrate theoretical concepts with quantitative engineering analysis to evaluate semiconductor device performance and understand the physical mechanisms responsible for electronic device operation.

Throughout the semester, students will strengthen their analytical, mathematical, and technical communication skills by applying semiconductor theory to realistic engineering problems. The course emphasizes professional engineering practice through quantitative problem solving, scholarly research, and the completion of a comprehensive capstone project.

Students who are most successful in this course generally:

• Complete the assigned readings before viewing lecture materials.
• Practice engineering calculations rather than memorizing equations.
• Attend office hours whenever concepts become challenging.
• Participate actively in discussions.
• Begin the Final Project as early as possible.
• Incorporate instructor feedback into each successive project milestone.
• Ask questions whenever clarification is needed.

Because each module builds directly upon previous concepts, remaining current with coursework significantly improves success in later modules.

Semiconductor devices form the foundation of nearly every modern electronic system. My goal is to help students develop both a rigorous theoretical understanding of semiconductor physics and the practical engineering skills needed to analyze, evaluate, and communicate complex technical concepts.

Throughout this course, emphasis is placed not only on obtaining correct numerical solutions but also on understanding the physical principles governing device behavior. Successful engineers must be able to interpret results, evaluate engineering tradeoffs, communicate technical information effectively, and continually adapt to emerging technologies.

I encourage students to approach this course with curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to ask questions. My hope is that you leave this course with greater confidence in your ability to analyze semiconductor devices, solve challenging engineering problems, and apply these concepts within both academic research and professional engineering practice.

• CLO 1: Explain theoretical principles and practical approaches related to solid-state physics and semiconductor devices.
• CLO 2: Apply fundamental concepts of quantum mechanics and device physics to analyze semiconductor behavior.
• CLO 3: Design semiconductor devices based on their physical properties and operational principles.
• CLO 4: Evaluate the performance of semiconductor devices by analyzing their physical properties and operational principles.
• CLO 5: Analyze problems related to semiconductor device functionality and performance.
• CLO 6: Solve problems by applying appropriate methods to improve semiconductor device functionality and performance.

Neamen, D. A. (2012). Semiconductor Physics and Devices: Basic Principles (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.

ISBN-13: 978-0073529585

This textbook serves as the primary reference throughout the course and provides both the theoretical foundations and quantitative analyses necessary for understanding semiconductor materials and electronic devices. Students are expected to complete the assigned readings prior to reviewing the lecture materials and attempting module assignments.

Additional textbook purchasing information is available through the Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals Bookstore.

The following references are not required but provide excellent supplemental material for students interested in exploring semiconductor device physics in greater depth.

• Ashcroft, N. W., & Mermin, N. D. (1976). Solid State Physics. Brooks/Cole.
• Dimitrijev, S. (2006). Principles of Semiconductor Devices. Oxford University Press.
• Pierret, R. F. (1996). Semiconductor Device Fundamentals. Addison-Wesley.
• Sze, S. M., & Ng, K. K. (2007). Physics of Semiconductor Devices (3rd ed.). Wiley.

These references expand upon topics including carrier transport, semiconductor fabrication, transistor operation, device scaling, reliability, and advanced semiconductor technologies.

The Johns Hopkins Sheridan Libraries provide access to an extensive collection of engineering journals, conference proceedings, technical standards, and electronic reference materials. Students are encouraged to utilize these resources throughout the semester, particularly while completing the Final Project.

Research assistance is available through the Engineering for Professionals Research Guide or by scheduling an appointment with an engineering librarian.

Students should have access to:

• Microsoft Word (or equivalent word processing software)
• Microsoft Excel (or equivalent spreadsheet software)
• Adobe Acrobat Reader or another PDF reader
• Canvas Learning Management System
• Zoom
• Reliable broadband Internet access

Although programming is not required in this course, students are welcome to utilize MATLAB, Python, Mathematica, or similar computational tools to verify engineering calculations or generate plots. Any computational tools used should be appropriately documented within submitted work.

Additionally, students are expected to be comfortable with:

• Preparing professional technical reports
• Creating figures and tables
• Using equation editors when appropriate
• Uploading assignments through Canvas
• Participating in Zoom meetings
• Accessing scholarly literature through the Sheridan Libraries

Because this course emphasizes quantitative engineering analysis, students should also be comfortable performing algebraic manipulations, solving engineering equations, and interpreting numerical results.

This course emphasizes the application of semiconductor theory through engineering analysis. Students are expected to complete assigned readings, participate actively in discussions, solve quantitative engineering problems, complete quizzes, and progressively develop a comprehensive Final Project.

Students should expect to devote approximately 10–12 hours per week to course activities.

Assignments are due according to the dates published within the course.

Weekly discussions provide opportunities to connect semiconductor theory with practical engineering applications while learning from classmates' experiences and perspectives. 

Each discussion consists of two required components. 

Students should submit their initial response no later than Day 4 of each module. 

Initial responses should: 

• Demonstrate understanding of the assigned readings. 
• Apply semiconductor engineering concepts. 
• Include appropriate technical reasoning. 
• Support conclusions using engineering principles. 

Students are encouraged to reference textbook concepts, engineering examples, or scholarly literature whenever appropriate. 

Students should respond thoughtfully to at least two classmates by Day 7 of each module. 

High-quality responses extend the discussion through: 

• Additional engineering insight 
• Constructive technical feedback 
• Alternative approaches 
• Thoughtful questions 
• Practical engineering examples 

Responses consisting solely of agreement or brief statements without technical contribution will not receive full credit. 

The instructor regularly participates in discussions to clarify concepts, answer questions, and summarize important engineering principles. 

Assignments reinforce the engineering concepts introduced throughout each module. 

Assignments emphasize: 

• Mathematical modeling 
• Semiconductor physics 
• Device analysis 
• Engineering calculations 
• Physical interpretation 
• Design tradeoffs 

Students should clearly demonstrate the complete engineering solution rather than simply reporting final numerical answers. 

Each assignment should include: 

• Problem statement 
• Assumptions 
• Governing equations 
• Variable definitions 
• Unit analysis 
• Intermediate calculations 
• Final answers 
• Engineering interpretation 

Whenever appropriate, figures, graphs, tables, and equations should be professionally formatted and referenced within the discussion. 

Professional technical writing is expected throughout the course. 

Most modules include auto-graded quizzes designed to reinforce important theoretical concepts presented within each module. 

Quizzes emphasize conceptual understanding rather than memorization and may include questions covering: 

• Semiconductor materials 
• Carrier transport 
• Energy bands 
• Junction theory 
• MOS capacitors 
• MOSFET operation 
• Bipolar transistor operation 
• Junction Field-Effect Transistors 
• Semiconductor fabrication 
• Reliability and scaling 
• Device comparisons 

Students are encouraged to complete all assigned readings prior to attempting each quiz. 

The Final Project serves as the capstone experience for the course. 

Students will complete a comprehensive engineering analysis of a semiconductor device selected from one of the approved project options. 

The completed report should resemble a professional engineering technical report rather than a collection of solutions. 

The project integrates semiconductor physics, engineering analysis, mathematical modeling, performance evaluation, scholarly research, and professional technical communication. 

To support successful completion of the Final Project, the project has been scaffolded across the second half of the semester. 

Students will: 

• Select an approved semiconductor device. 
• Identify preliminary scholarly references. 
• Submit a project outline. 
• Receive instructor feedback regarding project scope, organization, and technical direction. 

Students submit: 

• Device Overview 
• Semiconductor Physics Analysis 
• Preliminary engineering calculations 

Instructor feedback focuses on technical accuracy, organization, and engineering depth. 

Students submit a near-complete draft including: 

• Revised earlier sections 
• Mathematical analysis 
• Performance evaluation 
• Engineering applications 
• Device comparison 

Students should revise their reports based on instructor feedback before completing the final submission. 

Students submit the completed engineering report by Day 5. 

The report should demonstrate mastery of semiconductor physics, quantitative engineering analysis, scholarly research, and professional technical communication.

Assignments are due according to the dates published in the course. Students are responsible for monitoring assignment deadlines through the Course Calendar, Announcements, and individual module pages.

Grades will generally be posted within one week of the assignment due date. More comprehensive assignments, project milestones, and the Final Project may require additional grading time because of the detailed technical feedback provided.

Engineering assignments emphasize both technical correctness and engineering reasoning. While arriving at the correct numerical answer is important, demonstrating a clear understanding of the underlying physical principles and mathematical derivations is equally important. Students are encouraged to show all work and clearly explain their engineering thought process.

Questions regarding grades should be submitted by email within one week after grades have been posted.

EP uses a +/- grading system (see “Grading System”, Graduate Programs catalog, p. 10).

Engineering concepts build progressively throughout the semester, making timely participation essential for success. 

Assignments may be submitted up to three calendar days after the due date with a 10% deduction unless prior arrangements have been approved due to documented extenuating circumstances. 

Assignments submitted more than three days late may not receive credit unless approved by the instructor before the due date. 

Discussions are designed to promote meaningful interaction among classmates throughout the module. 

Because discussions depend upon timely participation, late discussion submissions generally cannot receive full credit. 

Students experiencing unavoidable circumstances should contact the instructor as early as possible. 

Project milestone submissions should be completed according to the published schedule. 

The purpose of the milestones is to provide formative feedback that students can incorporate into subsequent drafts. Late milestone submissions reduce the opportunity for meaningful instructor feedback and may affect the quality of the completed Final Project. 

The Final Project represents the culmination of the semester's work and is due on Day 5 of Module 14. 

Students are encouraged to begin work on the project early and make steady progress throughout the semester using the milestone schedule provided in the course.

Throughout this course students are expected to communicate in the style of practicing engineers. 

Technical reports should demonstrate: 

• Clear organization 
• Professional formatting 
• Logical engineering reasoning 
• Appropriate technical vocabulary 
• Correct grammar and spelling 
• Complete mathematical derivations 
• Accurate engineering conclusions 

Engineering writing should focus on explaining why a device behaves as it does rather than simply describing observed behavior. 

Engineering calculations should always include sufficient detail so another engineer could reproduce the analysis. 

Submitted work should generally include: 

• Problem statement 
• Assumptions 
• Governing equations 
• Definition of variables 
• Unit analysis 
• Intermediate calculations 
• Final numerical results 
• Engineering interpretation 

Numerical answers without supporting calculations may receive reduced credit even when correct. 

Professional engineering reports should integrate visual information effectively. 

Students should: 

• Number all figures and tables. 
• Provide descriptive captions. 
• Reference each figure within the discussion. 
• Label axes and include units. 
• Clearly define all variables appearing in equations. 

Engineering graphics should improve the clarity of technical communication rather than simply decorate the report. 

All outside information must be properly cited using APA style unless otherwise specified. 

Students are encouraged to make extensive use of: 

• Peer-reviewed engineering journals 
• Conference proceedings 
• Scholarly textbooks 
• Government technical publications 
• Manufacturer technical documentation when appropriate 

Students should avoid relying on Wikipedia or other crowd-sourced websites as primary technical references.

Engineering is inherently collaborative; however, all submitted assignments must represent each student's own work unless collaboration has been explicitly authorized. 

Students are encouraged to discuss engineering concepts, compare solution approaches, and ask questions of classmates. 

However, students may not: 

• Share completed assignments 
• Copy calculations 
• Submit another person's work 
• Allow another individual to complete any portion of an assignment 

The Final Project should represent each student's independent engineering analysis. 

Per the Johns Hopkins Engineering for Professionals Generative Artificial Intelligence guidance, this course is designated as: 

✅ Green: Liberal GenAI use is permitted, with expectations for transparency and accountability. 

Generative AI tools may be used to support learning and improve technical communication. 

Examples of appropriate uses include: 

• Brainstorming ideas 
• Improving organization 
• Clarifying engineering concepts 
• Reviewing explanations 
• Improving grammar and writing clarity 
• Identifying additional scholarly references 

Students remain fully responsible for: 

• Technical accuracy 
• Mathematical derivations 
• Engineering calculations 
• Physical interpretations 
• Conclusions 
• Verification of all AI-generated information 

AI should never replace independent engineering judgment. 

Whenever AI contributes materially to an assignment, students should include a brief disclosure describing how AI was used. 

An acceptable disclosure statement is as follows: 

Generative AI was used to assist with brainstorming, improving organization, and editing this report. All engineering calculations, technical analyses, interpretations, and conclusions were independently completed and verified by the author. 

Failure to appropriately disclose AI use may constitute academic misconduct under University policy.

Deadlines for Adding, Dropping, and Withdrawing from Courses

Students may add a course up to one week after the start of the term for that particular course. Students may drop courses according to the drop deadlines outlined in the EP academic calendar. Between the 6th week of the class and prior to the final withdrawal deadline, a student may withdraw from a course with a W on their academic record. A record of the course will remain on the academic record with a W appearing in the grade column to indicate that the student registered and withdrew from the course. 

Academic Misconduct Policy

Students with Disabilities - Accommodations and Accessibility

Student Conduct Code

Classroom Climate

JHU is committed to creating a classroom environment that values the diversity of experiences and perspectives that all students bring. Everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. Fostering an inclusive climate is important. Research and experience show that students who interact with peers who are different from themselves learn new things and experience tangible educational outcomes. At no time in this learning process should someone be singled out or treated unequally on the basis of any seen or unseen part of their identity. If you have concerns in this course about harassment, discrimination, or any unequal treatment, or if you seek accommodations or resources, please reach out to the course instructor directly. Reporting will never impact your course grade. You may also share concerns with your program chair, the Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, or the Office of Institutional Equity. In handling reports, people will protect your privacy as much as possible, but faculty and staff are required to officially report information for some cases (e.g. sexual harassment).

Course Auditing

When a student enrolls in an EP course with “audit” status, the student must reach an understanding with the instructor as to what is required to earn the “audit.” If the student does not meet those expectations, the instructor must notify the EP Registration Team (EP-Registration@exchange.johnshopkins.edu) in order for the student to be retroactively dropped or withdrawn from the course (depending on when the "audit" was requested and in accordance with EP registration deadlines). All lecture content will remain accessible to auditing students, but access to all other course material is left to the discretion of the instructor.