Apr 24, 2024  
2022-2023 SLCC General Catalog 
    
2022-2023 SLCC General Catalog [**** ATTENTION: YOU ARE VIEWING AN ARCHIVED CATALOG ****]

Microscopy: CP (CTE)


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Certificate of Proficiency | 20 credits minimum

Program Website
Academic and Career Advising

Program Description
The Microscopy Certificate of Proficiency Program will provide students with skills in basic optical, electron, and scanning probe microscopy techniques.  Electron and scanning probe microscopes are powerful tools designed to generate topographical images and data on a wide variety of micro -and nanoscale materials.  These microscopes are used in a multitude of academic and industrial endeavors across many scientific disciplines.  This two-year certification program is comprised of coursework with a substantial hands-on component.  Students who complete the program will be proficient in basic optical microscopy, scanning probe microscopy, electron microscopy, chemical characterization (x-ray/EDS), electrical characterization, image processing, interpretation of microscope data, and presentation of observations. The application of microscopy is an important component of numerous economic fields including but not limited to; semiconductors, materials science, metallurgy, engineering, environmental studies, medicine, manufacturing, and nanotechnology. This certificate is meant to be a stackable credential, meaning students can use the knowledge and technical skills acquired to enhance their chosen field of study or employment.

Career Opportunities
Students completing the Microscopy Certificate of Proficiency program will be highly qualified for most entry-level lab assistant positions or technician positions in a variety of fields. Microscopy related employment is available in fields such as materials research, medical diagnostic, life sciences research, product development, quality assurance, failure analysis, and process optimization. Potential lab assistant and technician entry level positions for students who complete the program are found in government, academic, and industrial institutions.  

Estimated Cost for Students
Tuition and student fees: http://www.slcc.edu/student/financial/tuition-fees.aspx
Course fees: $35

Note: Fees vary based upon specific registration and are subject to changes.

Program Requirements


Time to Completion & Graduation Map


  • Microscopy CP: Part-time  
  • Part-time: Four semesters
  • Students who need to take preparatory classes to satisfy requirements of first semester classes should plan on extra time to complete the program.

Program Learning Outcomes


Program learning outcome alignment with Student Learning Outcomes  in brackets.

  • Students will learn how to characterize micro and nanoscale structures using Atomic Force Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Additionally, students will learn how to analyze nanoscale materials using energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and UV-VIS spectroscopy. [1,2,3,4,6,7]
  • Students will demonstrate their ability to deposit micro and nanoscale structures utilizing stamping lithography, imprint lithography, and self-assembly of alkanethiol molecules. Students will subsequently demonstrate their ability to use the AFM, SEM, TEM, and spectroscopic techniques to analyze their sample. [1,3,4]
  • Students will understand the chemical and physical phenomena associated with the following fabrication techniques; top-down fabrication, sputter, physical vapor deposition systems, plasma, and chemical materials modification. [1,3,4]
  • Students will develop a professional decorum that is transferable to an industrial or academic nanofabrication lab by conducting presentations in associated microscopy course work. Preparation for the presentation involves; research skills, presentation skills, and technical reporting and documentation. [2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9]

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