VLSI Design Syllabus & Subjects 2023: Semester-wise List, Top Colleges Syllabus PDF

Updated on Nov 6, 2022 03:37 IST
Pragati Singh

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

  • 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?

A. VLSI, or Very Large-Scale Integration, is a crucial breakthrough in electronics. By joining the VLSI course, students will learn how to develop an integrated circuit by coalescing thousands of small transistors into a single chip. In order to pursue a career in this, students require to have graduated in engineering and science. These courses are PG-level courses.

Q. What are the different VLSI courses available in India?

A. Students in India can opt for different VLSI design courses, such as M.E. or M.Tech in VLSI design, M.Sc. in VLSI design and technology, and PG Diploma in VLSI Design. One can also go for different certification courses provided by well-known universities and colleges in India.

Q. Is it good to go for VLSI certificate courses?

A. The demand for VLSI professionals is now increasing worldwide, and by opting for a VLSI certificate course, you will be able to explore some of the best professional career opportunities in this field. The certificate courses are skill-enhancing programmes that allow the students to have industry-ready skills and knowledge.

Q. Who can pursue VLSI courses?

A. All computer science graduates can opt for this course. Students doing electrical engineering can also go for it. Some universities and colleges in India allow the professionals working in the IC designing field, telecommunications, electronic and electrical fields to pursue a VLSI course.

Q. What are the major skills required for this course?

A. To successfully complete the VLSI course, a student must have good communication skills. This course also requires the students to have other different skills like adaptability, organisation, flexibility, fundamentals of digital design and critical thinking skills.

Q. What types of software are used in VLSI courses?

A. One of the most widely used software for VLSI design is Cadence. This is the most professional software developed for creating IC layout designs. Some other useful tools that students will learn to use during the course are Tanner, Mentor Graphics, Glade and Electric. Students will also learn to use different VLSI IC layout tools. 

Q. What are the major subjects in VLSI programmes?

A. There are multiple fields within a VLSI course, and the subjects also vary from one college to another. Some of the major subjects that students will learn in VLSI courses are: Analog IC design, CAD for VLSI circuits, RF system design, Mathematics for electronics engineering and Functional verification.

Q. Is VLSI a good course?

A. Yes, VLSI is an excellent career choice, and different programmes offer unique job opportunities for ECE freshers looking for employment. Both in India and other countries, VLSI courses provide the candidates with varying roles of employment featuring attractive salary incentives and solid professional growth.

Q. Do VLSI courses have coding?

A. Yes, all the VLSI courses focus on coding. Students will have to learn the basics of coding and tools to code in order to develop designs. The code that will be developed in the VLSI design process will define the integrated circuit’s architecture. Moreover, the M.Sc. in VLSI programme requires the students to have coding skills.

Q. What will I study in VLSI courses?

A. The VLSI course primarily focuses on the development of skills in circuit designing. You will also study CAD, RF system design, wireless communication structure, analogue IC design and more.

Q. Which is better - M.Tech in VLSI design and technology or M.Sc. in VLSI design and technology?

A. M.Tech and M.Sc. in VLSI design and technology are good courses, but both are different. If you want to get a job as soon as you complete your VLSI programme, M.Tech can be a good option. But if you want to carry out R&D in VLSI and want to work as a professor, then doing an M.Sc. degree will work best for you. Choose the programmes based on your long-term goals.

Q. Is the VLSI course easy to learn?

A. Like other engineering and computer science-related industries, VLSI can be a little difficult to learn. Students who want to pursue a VLSI course should have sufficient knowledge of mathematics, science, digital designing, and more.

Q. Does VLSI require NEET?

A. VLSI is a field that studies the design and development of microchips, microcontrollers, and more. As VLSI is an engineering course, you don’t have to appear for the NEET entrance exam to get a seat in top colleges and universities offering VLSI programmes.

Q. What are the major uses of VLSI design?

A. VLSI circuits are widely used everywhere. Some of the major applications of VLSI include microprocessors in PCs, workstations, chips in camcorders, digital cameras, chips in graphic cards, and chips in mobile phones, portable computing devices, and more.

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for VLSI Design. Students interested in pursuing a career on VLSI Design, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

22 Jan ' 25 - 24 Jan ' 25

JEE Main 2025 Exam Date Session 1 - Paper 1

28 Jan ' 25 - 29 Jan ' 25

JEE Main 2025 Exam Date Session 1 - Paper 1

7 Jan ' 25

GATE 2025 Admit Card

1 Feb ' 25

GATE 2025 Exam (CS1 | AG | MA | CS2 | NM | MT | T...

30 Dec ' 24 - 15 Feb ' 25

MHT CET 2025 Application Form

16 Feb ' 25 - 22 Feb ' 25

MHT CET 2025 Application Form with late fee

Popular VLSI Design Colleges in India

Following are the most popular VLSI Design Colleges in India. Learn more about these VLSI Design colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
2 Courses
3 L
14 - 17 LPA

#1 India Today

2 Courses
3.8 L - 7.8 L
4.3

Top 25 in India

2 Courses
1.23 L - 1.84 L
5.0

#7 India Today

1 Course
20 K
17 LPA

#3 The Week

4 Courses
20 K - 10 L
21.28 LPA

#4 India Today

1 Course
1.4 L
10 LPA

#7 The Week

Popular Private VLSI Design Colleges in India

1 Course
40.89 K
1 Course
1.0
1.0
1 Course
1.3 L
1 Course
83.04 K
2 Courses
21.6 K
1 Course
67.84 K

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular VLSI Design courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in VLSI Design.

Popular VLSI Design UG Courses

Following are the most popular VLSI Design UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular VLSI Design PG Courses

Following are the most popular VLSI Design PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...