Fabless semiconductor implementation model as an enabling factor for "Virtual Labs" in online postgraduate degrees in microelectronics

Modern technology and the increasingly readily available access to the internet in recent years have initiated the paradigm shift from the "local student" to the "global and virtual student", which is evident in the increased numbers of students who are enrolling in the postgraduate (master's and PhD) degrees offered through remote means. Such students are not necessarily even present in the town or the country of the university at which they have enrolled. Traditional walk-in universities such as the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, are consequently increasing the portfolio of online degrees, which is in line with the trend seen by many universities worldwide. Education in electronics traditionally requires a hands-on approach, and the laboratory component remains a requirement even at postgraduate level. In this paper, the fabless semiconductor manufacturing approach, already deployed by many microelectronic industry giants, is aligned as an enabling factor of establishing "virtual labs", used to fulfil the practical education component of both research-based and coursework microelectronic modules offered online. A case study involving postgraduate degrees with specialization in microelectronics from the University of Johannesburg is also presented.