Skip to Content
Course

Electronics Assembly Technology

EE-41007

Master PCB Assembly from Components to Production-Ready Electronics

The Electronics Assembly Technology course provides a comprehensive introduction to the processes, tools, materials, and standards used in modern printed circuit board (PCB) assembly. As electronics manufacturing continues to evolve, understanding how components are accurately placed, soldered, and inspected is critical for ensuring product reliability and performance.

In this course, you explore the full PCB assembly lifecycle, from bare boards to fully functional electronic systems. You will gain practical knowledge of surface mount technology (SMT), through-hole assembly, and mixed technology integration, while also learning how automated equipment and quality assurance processes are used in real-world manufacturing environments.

Special emphasis is placed on soldering techniques, inspection standards such as IPC-A-610, and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles to improve manufacturability and efficiency. Whether you are pursuing a career in electronics manufacturing or looking to strengthen your technical foundation, this course equips you with the skills needed to succeed in today’s electronics industry.

Course Topics

  • Understanding the PCB Assembly Process
  • Acceptability, Regulations, and Materials
  • Solder Paste Screen Printing
  • Component Pick-and-Place
  • Reflow Soldering
  • Through-Hole Component Soldering
  • Wave & Selective Soldering Processes
  • Inspection & Quality Control
  • Rework Techniques
  • Supplemental Processes
  • Test Processes
  • Cleaning Practices
  • Transport & Handling
  • Industry Trends & Career Opportunities
Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:
  • Understand SMT and through-hole assembly processes and equipment
  • Identify electronic components, placement methods, and assembly line stages
  • Analyze soldering methods including reflow, wave, and hand soldering
  • Apply IPC standards (especially IPC-A-610) for inspection and quality control
  • Perform basic rework, repair, and yield improvement techniques
  • Interpret assembly documentation such as BOMs, pick-and-place files, and drawings
  • Evaluate Design for Assembly (DFA) principles to improve manufacturability

Who Should Take This Course

  • Aspiring electronics technicians and assembly specialists
  • Manufacturing and process engineers working with PCBs
  • Quality control and inspection professionals in electronics production
  • PCB designers and hardware engineers seeking DFA knowledge
  • Students and career changers entering the electronics manufacturing field

Course Details and Next Steps

  • Course Typically Offered: Online during Summer and Winter quarters. 
  • Next steps: Upon completion of this course, consider expanding your PCB expertise by enrolling in the PCB Fabrication Technology (EE-41005).
  • More information: Contact unexengr@ucsd.edu to learn more about this course and related PCB offerings.

Industry Collaboration with EMAC

EMAC-(1).png

This course is offered in collaboration with the Electronic Manufacturing and Assembly Collaborative (EMAC) — a national initiative supporting workforce development in electronics manufacturing and PCB design.

Through this partnership, students gain access to industry-informed curriculum and hands-on learning that aligns with current trends in electronics design, assembly, and advanced manufacturing.
 

Career & Internship Opportunities

Students enrolled in this course can access the EMAC Student Success Portal, which connects learners to internships and entry-level job opportunities in the electronics industry.

Use the portal to:

  • Browse nationwide electronics manufacturing job openings
  • Create a profile to showcase your skills
  • Connect with employers in PCB design, engineering, and advanced manufacturing

🔗 Explore the EMAC Student Portal

Course Information

Online
3.00 units
$775.00

Get more information

This course applies to these programs

RF Engineering

Course sessions

Add To Cart

Section ID:

199448

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 7/6/2026

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Brittany White

Brittany White
Brittany White is a Senior Engineering Technician based in Lewiston, Idaho, with over 10 years of hands on experience in SMT and PCBA manufacturing. As an instructor, she brings real world industry knowledge into the virtual classroom, translating complex manufacturing concepts into clear, practical lessons that students can immediately apply. Brittany has led and supported measurable process improvements across multiple SMT lines, improving AOI effectiveness and driving defect reduction through disciplined root cause analysis. Passionate about knowledge sharing and mentorship, Brittany fosters an engaging, respectful learning environment that encourages questions, critical thinking, and operational excellence.
Full Bio