Microelectronics

BITS Pilani looks into M.E. CGPA for placements rather than 10th, 12th, or graduation marks. However, overall academic performance may be taken into consideration in some cases:Cut-off for specific companies: There are certain companies that have strict minimum CGPA cut-offs for eligibility in their recruitment process. These cut-offs vary company-wise and are quite often on the higher side than the institute's average cut-off.Interview shortlisting: although the CGPA remains the most important criterion, a student can get an interview call based on other parameters like projects, extra-curricular activities, and aptitude test performance.

This is basically a matter of your interests and even specific career interests, since both paths require different sets of skills. A quick comparison for your viewing pleasure is shown in the table below:FeatureMicroelectronicsEmbedded SystemsFocusHardware design, chip developmentCombining hardware and software to create intelligent devicesTasksDesign circuits, optimise fabrication processesDevelop firmware, interface with hardware, write real-time codeIndustriesSemiconductor, consumer electronics, medical devices Automotive, robotics, aerospace, Internet of Things (IoT)SkillsStrong understanding of electronics, physics, circuit designProgramming skills (C, C++), knowledge of microcontrollers, operating systemsSalaryGenerally high, with potential for specializationCan be comparable to microelectronics, varies depending on experience and industryMicroelectronics could also be a very good career option for:If you like hardware and have experience in designing electronic circuits. If you are interested in latest technologies such as nanoelectronics and quantum computing. If you want to make good money in the semiconductor industry.

It all depends upon your interests and career goals. So, if you are interested in the basic principles of microchips and have a flair for versatile options, then Microelectronics is the way to go.Or if you are more interested in the advanced design of complex integrated circuits and have a strong foundation in digital circuits, then VLSI suits the bill. Some of the key differences between both the courses are mentioned in the table below:AspectMicroelectronicsVLSIScopeSpreads and covers a range of aspects of microchip design and fabricationDeeper into the design and realization of very large-scale integrated circuitsSpecialisationsAnalog circuits, digital circuits, mixed-signal circuits, MEMS, etc.Digital design, physical design, verification and testing, etc.Job ProspectsVaried and diverse across several fields of consumer electronics, communication, healthcare, etc.Focused in the semiconductor industry and related industriesAcademic focusEducational focusFundamentals of microelectronics, including device physics, circuit design, and fabrication processesAdvanced topics in VLSI design, such as computer-aided design (CAD) tools, low-power design, and high-performance design