Student Training on Awareness and Readiness for Semiconductors (STARS)

Student Training on Awareness and Readiness for Semiconductors (STARS)

STARS 2026 is the gateway for engineering students to start their career in the semiconductor industry.


The Purdue Student Training, Awareness, and Readiness for Semiconductors (STARS) is a comprehensive project-focused program that introduces concepts and tools to promote semiconductor education to students at an earlier time than otherwise possible. The program includes two focused tracks offered through VIP courses on (1) Semiconductor Chip Design and (2) Semiconductor Manufacturing and Packaging.

Students interested in participating in STARS 2026 will need to fill out an interest application form for one or both of the two tracks, found at the following links:

There is a Dec. 5 application deadline to be considered for open registration. Acceptance decisions will be announced Dec 19.

    • Who can apply for the STARS program?

      STARS is open to Purdue students enrolled at West Lafayette or Indy campus. The program is generally designed for current first or second year students.

    • Purdue offers a Semiconductors and Microelectronics Certificate, which is a total of 16 credits. Summer, semester long, or full time internships/ co-op/ SURF or similar equivalents can count towards 6 credit hours. Experiences such as STARS, VIP SoCET, and VIP Semiconductors @ Purdue count towards this certificate.

    • More information about this certificate can be found at the following link: Semiconductors and Microelectronics Certificate