Synopsys Expands Global Academic Programs to Inspire the Next Generation of Semiconductor Engineers
This summer, Synopsys launched a series of global academic initiatives designed to give students hands-on experience in semiconductor design and engineering. The programs not only provide valuable learning opportunities but also represent strategic investments in building the semiconductor workforce of the future.
Why It Matters
Semiconductors power nearly every modern innovation — from smartphones to electric vehicles. Yet the industry faces a pressing challenge: a global talent shortage. By 2030, forecasts estimate the semiconductor sector will need 1 million additional skilled professionals on top of sustaining today’s workforce.
To address this gap, the Synopsys Foundation and Synopsys Academic and Research Alliances (SARA) are expanding collaborations with universities, research institutions, and students worldwide. Their mission: to empower and inspire the next generation of engineers who will drive tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
Program Highlights
Chip Design to Tapeout Pilot Program (Global)
In partnership with GlobalFoundries (GF), Synopsys launched a pioneering pilot program offering universities access to real-world chip design and manufacturing. Supported by SARA and GFLabs, the initiative provides 40 universities with Synopsys EDA tools, training, and design collateral, while GF manufactures the chips through its GlobalShuttle Multi-Project Wafer Program. This initiative significantly lowers barriers to custom silicon innovation.
Semiconductor Design 101 with Purdue University (Global)
In July, Synopsys and Purdue University introduced a 15-hour, self-paced online course tailored to high school students, university learners, and professionals. Already, more than 450 participants have completed the course, earning a Purdue certificate and gaining foundational chip design knowledge.
Intensive Training Program (Vietnam)
In June, over 30 students graduated from the 13-week Synopsys Spring Intensive Training Program in Design Verification and Synthesis. Graduates also joined job-matching sessions with Taiwan-based companies. Soon after, a new summer cohort began, wrapping up in August with a graduation ceremony scheduled for early September.
“IC the Future” Summer Camp (Taiwan)
Now in its third year, this high-school summer camp introduces students to semiconductor and IC design concepts, building STEM confidence and skills. Enrollment has grown 3x since 2023, and 90% of participants continue into STEM-related studies after attending.
Academic Seminar on FinFET Technologies (Taiwan)
Co-hosted with leading Taiwanese universities and research institutes, this two-day seminar gathered students, professors, and industry leaders. Sessions featured MediaTek and Synopsys executives, panels on AI and EDA in education, and workshops offering hands-on FinFET design experience.
IC Design Boot Camps (Latin America)
Between July and August, Synopsys hosted boot camps in seven countries: Guatemala, Colombia, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Chile, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Nearly 400 students learned about Synopsys EDA tools and IP, building practical IC design skills recognized by regional engineering faculties. Many Synopsys employees trace their careers back to these programs.
Summer & Seasonal Schools (Europe)
Across Germany, Italy, Portugal, and the Netherlands, Synopsys partnered with universities to host advanced training programs on topics such as AI-driven test engineering, photonics, analog/digital IC design, and next-gen chip technologies. Hundreds of participants gained both technical expertise and valuable networking opportunities.
Investing in the Future
By scaling educational initiatives worldwide, Synopsys is addressing the semiconductor workforce gap head-on. These programs provide students with the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to enter the industry, ensuring that innovation in technology continues to accelerate well into the future.
