VLSI Design Syllabus & Subjects 2023: Semester-wise List, Top Colleges Syllabus PDF
Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content
VLSI stands for Very Large Scale Integration and is widely used to develop IC-Integrated Circuits by perfectly combining millions of MOS (Metal Oxide Silicon) transistors. VLSI has been used in different devices, like cameras, smartphones, memory cards, etc. Based on your personal preference and eligibility criteria, you can opt for various programmes available under VLSI courses like M.Tech, PG Diploma, M.Sc. or certification programmes. A career in VLSI is industry-specific. Students who have completed their engineering degrees can go for it. M.Tech, M.Sc. and B.Tech in VLSI are the most popular courses among the students.
- Syllabus – Important Facts about VLSI
- List of Subjects in VLSI
- 2.1 Typical Core Subjects for VLSI
- 2.2 Typical Elective Subjects for VLSI
- Detailed Syllabus for VLSI
- Specialisations Offered by VLSI
- Books and Authors Related to VLSI
- Entrance Exams for VLSI
- Syllabus for Distance Programme in VLSI
- Top Colleges for VLSI Course
- VLSI Design Syllabus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Syllabus – Important Facts about VLSI
- MTech in VLSI: 2-year full-time programme - It allows the students to learn more about designing microcontrollers and understanding different designing algorithms and offers some skills and knowledge of the industrial aspect.
- BTech in VLSI: 4-year full-time course - This degree in VLSI allows the students to understand the structure and function of the VLSI system. The students will be able to equip themselves with technical knowledge and skills.
- Scope in India - VLSI is a perfect option for engineering students and offers different job roles. This is a sophisticated area that is based on electronic engineering. Students from an electronic engineering background can get a job in the semiconductor industry. The Government of India also has different incentive programmes for the chip makers to create more job opportunities for students.
- VLSI syllabus in IITs - The Indian Institute of Technology has different branches in major states in India and has become a highly preferred institution for studying VLSI in India. The courses allow the students:
- To explore MOS VLSI design
- To learn about synthesis, design as well as modelling of systems, circuits as well as subsystems
- Applying different techniques and tools to automate the chip design process
- To develop entrepreneurial skills
- To understand nano and micro semiconductor devices
- VLSI syllabus in NITs - One of the most reputed institutes in India for VLSI, NIT- National Institute of Technology, provides the students with many core courses in VLSI. Some of the major courses are:
- Design of ASICs
- HDL programming
- Analog IC design
- Discrete optimisation and graph theory
- VLSI process technology
- Advanced digital design
- Asynchronous system design
- General examination pattern - Students are generally evaluated based on projects, mid and end semester examinations, lab exercises, and assignments in all colleges and universities.
List of Subjects in VLSI
Typical Core Subjects for VLSI
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|
Graph Theory and Discrete Optimisation |
This core subject will allow the students to have knowledge of discrete structures and how to apply those structures as a tool to solve the issues in a general communication network. Under this, students will learn about DFS- BFS algorithm, max-spanning tree algorithm, PERT- CPM complexity of algorithms, Chvatal theorem, Dirac theorem and more. |
Digital Image Processing |
This subject helps the students to learn the basics of digital image processing and how to perform the task using a tool. The primary focus of this course is to develop different computer systems to perform processing on an image. Compression, image acquisition, colour image processing, multi-resolution ad wavelets processing and morphological processing are some of the major topics that students will find in this course. |
RF System Design |
The course involves the valid application of transmission lines, antennae, and waveguides and an understanding of various principles of the electromagnetic field to design different RF devices. The students will also learn about the fundamentals of propagation, antennas, power amplifiers, small-signal, frequency synthesis, conversion of frequency and more. |
ASIC Design |
The course offers the students detailed knowledge about the physical design flow of IC. They will learn to use VLSI EDA tools to understand the flow of programmable ASIC. Furthermore, it also includes the steps to create a design using Verilog code. The students will be able to detect and resolve the issues in ASIC design. |
Typical Elective Subjects for VLSI
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|
Hardware and Software Co-Design |
By going through this subject, you will understand the process of synergism of different software and hardware through the current VLSI design. This will help you enhance your knowledge in identifying and resolving issues based on the application domain, design methodology, and implementation technology. |
Testing of VLSI Circuits |
This course will help students understand how to choose an effective testing method to detect faulty chips after the manufacturing process. This course may include burn-in testing, manufacturing testing, verification testing, incoming inspection, etc. You will also get to know about the test vectors related to VLSI. |
CMOS Device Modelling |
This course primarily deals with MOS device modelling and understanding the working concepts of MOS devices. The course will help the students understand how semiconductor devices and MOSFET are modelled. Students will learn the application of MOSFET in different fields. Furthermore, it enables them to have knowledge of different advanced MOSFET structures, like FinFET and SOI FET. |
Detailed Syllabus for VLSI
Are you planning to join a VLSI course? With a detailed understanding of the syllabus, you will be able to make the right decision.
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
MEMS Design |
Introduction to MEMS Design |
This subject allows the students to learn more about MEMS, a technology used to develop small integrated devices and systems combining different electrical and mechanical components. You will also learn about micromachines or microsystem technology. |
2 |
Sequential Circuit Design |
Sequential Circuit Design |
This course educates students about static latches as well as registers. They will also learn about pulse registers, pipelining, monostable sequential circuits, sense amplifier-based registers, Schmitt triggers, etc. |
3 |
Digital Design |
Digital Design |
The student will learn and understand the transistor-level CMOS logic design. After completing this course, students will be able to develop models of small-sized CMOS circuits and know the different characteristics of a CMOS circuit construction. |
4 |
Embedded Systems |
VLSI and Embedded Systems |
The course is primarily focused on developing skills in students about designing circuits and semiconductor devices along with different architecting systems utilising various embedded systems, for example, memory, peripherals, CPUs and more. Students will learn about SOC design, VLSI design and its verification, Low-power VLSI design, advanced embedded systems, advanced microcontrollers, etc. |
5 |
CAD of Digital Systems |
CAD of Digital Systems |
The subject will help the students learn how to create 2D drawings and 3D models of objects digitally using CAD tools. This course will develop the skills in reviewing, modifying, and simulating the design before the chip is manufactured. Students will explore more about different advanced CAD programmes in this course. |
6 |
Digital Signal Processing |
Digital Signal Processing Structures |
As DSPs are widely used in different application areas, it has become a crucial part of VLSI. This subject is included in the programme to introduce the students to multiple DSP structures. You will learn the fundamentals of DSP, different DSP structures and methods to implement them, and know the designing complexities of different filters. |
7 |
VLSI Design Automation |
Automation of VLSI Design |
There is a huge requirement for different methods to automate different VLSI design methods effectively. This subject will introduce the students to different useful and efficient automation techniques. Students will acquire knowledge on the successful implementation of graph theory. You will explore multiple automation methods that can be used for VLSI interconnects. |
7 |
VLSI Technology |
VLSI Technology |
This subject focuses on different micro-fabrication processes, such as thermal, lithography, dopant diffusion, thermal oxidation, ion implantation, etc. You will understand the chemical and physical process of IC fabrication technology. It explains the physics of water fabrication and crystal growth. Furthermore, it will help you to learn different lithography techniques. |
8 |
Testing of VLSI Circuit |
Testing of VLSI Circuit |
This subject allows the students to develop their knowledge of different digital testing methods applied to VLSI design. On the other hand, they will learn to test various algorithms for digital circuits. |
Specialisations Offered by VLSI
The VLSI course trains the professionals to work successfully in VLSI design, and they also play a different role while working between design, development and technology. The programme can help students with academics, analysis, and research-oriented careers. The application of this study can be found in IT, electronic and other major industries. Some of the major specialisation options that one can choose are:
Specialisation |
Subjects |
Details |
---|---|---|
Digital System Synthesis and Verification |
Verilog System Verilog Analysis of System Verilog |
This specialisation allows the students to have detailed knowledge about the Verilog HDL language and helps them get a detailed insight into System C. They will also explore the object-oriented features of Verilog. |
NANO Electronic |
Single Electronics Molecular Electronics |
You will develop the skills and knowledge about using carbon nanotubes and SET in transistors design. It enables you to learn the basics of spintronics and molecular electronics. |
Genetic Algorithms |
Partitioning Placement and routing VLSI testing |
This specialisation focuses on developing students’ knowledge of genetic algorithms. You will learn how to implement genetic algorithms to solve VLSI physical design problems effectively. |
Books and Authors Related to VLSI
VLSI is a vast course, and some of the crucial subjects you need to learn are digital design and layout designing. To understand these, you need to have a robust knowledge of digital circuits, VHDL, Verilog, and more. Here are some best books that students can use:
Subject |
Book Title |
Author(s) |
Description |
---|---|---|---|
VLSI Design |
CMOS VLSI Design |
Ayan Banerjee, David Harris and Neil H.E. |
This book gives a detailed explanation of CMOS VLSI design. All the interconnects, clocking processes and circuits of CMOS are properly explained in this. This book also covers helpful tutorials on Verilog, SPICE and VHDL. |
CMOS |
Basic VLSI Design |
Kamran Eshraghian and Douglass A. Pucknell |
This book covers all the things about VLSI, and students will also explore updated contents of gallium arsenide technologies, BiCMOS, nMOS, CMOS and more. It has all the modules that can help engineering students. |
Circuits |
Microelectronic Circuits |
Adel S. Sedra, Keeneth C. Smith |
By going through this book, students will be able to understand more than the latest CMOS technology. This book is considered the VLSI Bible. The complex concepts are explained with easy-to-understand examples. |
Design Automation |
Algorithms for VLSI Physical Design Automation |
Naveed A. Sherwani |
The book has detailed information on the design and fabrication of VLSI devices, VLSI physical design automation, data structures, fabrication process, physical design automation of MCMs and more. |
VLSI Systems |
Introduction to VLSI Systems and Circuits |
John P. Uyemura |
This book will help the students know more about logic design, high-level system considerations, fabrication, and silicon circuitry. It focuses on explaining layout, CMOS logic circuits, etc., in an understandable manner. |
Entrance Exams for VLSI
Below are some of the entrance exams that students will have to appear to secure a seat in VLSI courses at the well-known universities and colleges in India. It may be noted that the aspiring students should have a minimum average of 50% marks in their 10 and +2 levels from the recognised board. Candidates may be exempt from the VLSI entrance examination if they possess a valid entrance test score. Some of the major entrance exams for this course are:
- GATE - Graduate Aptitude Test in Learning
- IIT entrance exam to get a seat in IITs
- GGSIPU Engineering Entrance Examination
- BITSAT exam for Birla Institute of Science and Technology
- AUCET
- LPUNEST
- AJEE
- ITM NEST
- KEA
- TS PGECET
The difficulty level of the entrance examinations can range from high to moderate. However, you can clear the tests by focusing on some major subjects, like chemistry, mathematics, etc. You will get multiple-choice questions, and the exams have a negative marking system.
Syllabus for Distance Programme in VLSI
Students who don’t have sufficient time and money to join a full-time VLSI programme can join a distance programme in VLSI. There are different colleges and universities in India offering distance programmes to students who don’t meet the minimum eligibility requirements for a full-time VLSI programme.
It may be noted that the syllabus for the distance programmes in VLSI is similar to the regular programmes; the evaluation format is also the same. There will be 30% for internal examinations and 70% for the end semester examinations.
Many top-rated colleges offer distance VLSI programmes like IIMT University, SRM University, SIT Darjeeling, and more.
Top Colleges for VLSI Course
Considering the choice of specialisation offered, curriculum and in-house placement opportunities, these are some of the best colleges to do VLSI courses in India:
Sl. No. |
College/University/Institution |
Syllabus (PDFs) |
---|---|---|
1 |
IIT Delhi |
To be uploaded soon |
2 |
SRM University |
Download Here |
3 |
IISC Bangalore |
To be uploaded soon |
4 |
IIT Hyderabad |
To be uploaded soon |
5 |
NIT Silchar |
To be uploaded soon |
6 |
NIT Uttarakhand |
To be uploaded soon |
7 |
VIT Vellore |
Download Here |
8 |
NIT Rourkela |
Download Here |
9 |
NIT Warangal |
Download Here |
10 |
NIT Calicut |
To be uploaded soon |
VLSI Design Syllabus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What do you mean by the VLSI design course?
Q. What are the different VLSI courses available in India?
Q. Is it good to go for VLSI certificate courses?
Q. Who can pursue VLSI courses?
Q. What are the major skills required for this course?
Q. What types of software are used in VLSI courses?
Q. What are the major subjects in VLSI programmes?
Q. Is VLSI a good course?
Q. Do VLSI courses have coding?
Q. What will I study in VLSI courses?
Q. Which is better - M.Tech in VLSI design and technology or M.Sc. in VLSI design and technology?
Q. Is the VLSI course easy to learn?
Q. Does VLSI require NEET?
Q. What are the major uses of VLSI design?
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Popular VLSI Design Colleges in India
Popular Private VLSI Design Colleges in India
Most Popular Courses
Popular Courses
- M.Tech. in Electronics and Communications Engineering (VLSI and Embedded Systems)IIIT Delhi - Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology
- M.Tech. in VLSI DesignNoida Institute of Engineering and Technology (NIET)
- B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering + M.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering (VLSI Design)IIITDM Kancheepuram - Indian Institute of Information Technology Design & Manufacturing
- B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering (Embedded Systems and VLSI Design)The NorthCap University
- M.Tech. in VLSI and Embedded SystemB.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology
- M.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering (VLSI design)Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women (IGDTUW)
- B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication EngineeringAlliance College of Engineering and Design, Alliance University
- M.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering (Microelectronics and VLSI Design)MIT School of Engineering & Science
- Discontinued(September,2024)-M.Tech. in VLSIR.N.S. Institute of Technology
- B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication EngineeringNIIT University
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