Kettering University has received formal approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to offer its Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices, officially advancing one of the first high-intensity undergraduate programs of its kind in the nation.
The HLC’s Institutional Actions Council approved the program, affirming Kettering’s request to deliver the degree in an accelerated format, allowing students to complete the full degree in as few as three years. The program is designed to address urgent national workforce needs by advancing students on a more focused path through a rigorous, Co-op-integrated curriculum.
“We are directly responding to national and industry needs,” said Dr. James Zhang, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “Kettering has a long history of adapting education to align with industry demands, and this degree exemplifies that commitment. By combining an accelerated curriculum with deep Co-op engagement, we are preparing students for high-impact careers in a field that is critical to national security and technological innovation.”
The HLC approval follows growing state and national attention around semiconductor education and workforce development needs. During a May visit to Kettering’s GM Mobility Research Center, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer underscored the importance of building a skilled talent pipeline to support advanced manufacturing, specifically a semiconductor “Fab.”
“Right now, there’s an ongoing race to mine the minerals, make the components, and assemble the products the world will need for decades to come,” Whitmer said. “Michigan is well-positioned to lead this race, but we need to use every resource we have in order to win.”
The program approval is also a reflection of Kettering University’s institutional strength and commitment to academic excellence. In 2024, the Higher Learning Commission reaffirmed Kettering’s ten-year institutional accreditation with a perfect scorecard.
“Kettering University’s educational model was built for industry, and the design of our new bachelor’s degree in semiconductors is a natural extension of that legacy,” said Kettering University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “This is the first accelerated STEM degree of its kind and a high-intensity path designed to prepare students to lead in the semiconductor revolution. It provides students an opportunity to master the science and engineering of semiconductors faster while also preserving the deep industry engagement that defines a Kettering education.”
The program is structured to align with ABET accreditation standards and is rooted in Kettering University’s long-standing model of integrating rigorous academics with real-world Co-op learning. Students will be able to apply to this program beginning August 8, 2025. As the semiconductor industry continues to grow and evolve, Kettering’s newest degree ensures students are not only ready to enter the field — they’re ready to lead it.
