An intensive curriculum on embedded software design for vocational-purpose training

This paper presents the design and implementation of an intensive curriculum on embedded software design for university or college graduates of engineering background, who are seeking job opportunities in developing software for embedded system products. It is part of a government-conducted project intending to resolve the shortage of embedded software engineers in SoC (System-on-Chip) and related industry. In order to balance among the required expertise in developing embedded software, background diversity of the enrolled students, and the 300-hour limit on total course hours imposed by the project, the curriculum is designed towards delivering ready-to-use skills and aimed at establishing a solid common ground as required by embedded software engineers. The curriculum is composed of 9 courses which are divided into foundation modules, core modules, and practicing modules. More than 75% of the students were employed to work in embedded software and related industry within 6 months after completing this curriculum. This curriculum, although it has its limitation, demonstrates an effective alternative to supplying industry with trained manpower of embedded software.