Introductory Nanotechnology Courses: Experiences of an Educator

Abstract

The demand for trained professionals in the area of Nanotechnology is increasing as the technology is getting commercialized . Among other regions, the north-eastern United States (the states of New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Connecticut) is noticing a quick rise of Nanotechnology and related businesses. Some of these businesses are currently in the process of moving the technology from the lab to the market place and are in need of engineers (Bachelors and Masters level) to achieve this goal. An undergraduate course (Nanoscale Sciences) and a graduate level course (Introduction to Nanotechnology) was offered to Engineering and Science students in the 2004-2005 academic year at the University of New Haven to educate such professionals. A few local Nanotechnology business aided in developing the curriculum and shared resources with the students. The undergraduate course was an overview of Nanotechnology with an emphasis on Nanomaterials. The Graduate course was targeted for Electrical and Computer Engineers with an emphasis on Nanodevices.