Printed circuit board (PCB) design is an exciting career integrating cutting-edge hardware technologies and software tools to implement next-generation electronics. As products continue getting smarter and more connected, demand for capable PCB designers keeps rising.
However, learning PCB layout software and design principles on your own can be challenging. Quality courses efficiently build beginner competencies through structured curriculums and practical projects.
This guide compares over 25 different PCB design classes and certification programs from online platforms like Udemy to dedicated training centers. Whether wanting to reskill into electronics design roles or advance existing embedded hardware careers, these educational resources provide ideal launch points.
Best Online PCB Design Courses
Online platforms allow accessing beginner-friendly PCB design courses from home on flexible schedules. While lacking equipment for physical board fabrication, these classes offer strong foundations in EDA software and PCB layout fundamentals through pre-recorded content.
Udemy
With over 213,000 students enrolled to date, Udemy offers popular on-demand video courses teaching Altium Designer and other EDA tools.
Key Courses
| Course | Instructor | Duration | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complete Electronics Design using Altium Designer | ReshmiSK | 23.5 hours | 4.4 ★ (772) | $99.99 |
| The Complete PCB Design Course Using Altium Designer | Syed Noman Hanif | 10.5 hours | 4.4 ★ (154) | $94.99 |
| PCB Design for Manufacture | Chris Gammell | 1.5 hours | 4.2 ★ (51) | $19.99 |
Udemy classes let you learn at your own pace for one-time fee. Their highly-rated curriculums designed by industry experts build strong proficiency in tools like Altium Designer through detailed explanations plus downloadable project files to follow along. Monthly subscriptions around $30 also enable unlimited course access.
Key Strengths
- Top-rated classes with thousands of reviews
- Project-based learning using actual tools
- Flexible on-demand video format
- Frequent discounts up to 90% off
Considerations
- Self-directed learning without direct instructor access
- Limited hardware design/build opportunities
- Skill application still requires portfolio projects
Pluralsight
As another online learning platform, Pluralsight offers extensive libraries of PCB design and EDA software video courses from authors like Rusty Armstead.
Example Courses
Introduction to Altium Designer
Printed Circuit Board Design Using Altium Designer
Creating Manufacturable Designs with Altium and OrCAD
Structured curriculums systematically build PCB layout expertise leveraging quizzes, coding challenges, supplemental resources and progress tracking. Access requires monthly ($45) or annual ($495) subscriptions.
Key Strengths
- Taught by practicing engineering leaders
- Engaging teaching formats
- Alignment to relevant job skills
Considerations
- Subscription cost
- Less hands-on than dedicated PCB EDA tools
Coursera
Programs from major universities like University of Colorado Boulder introduce PCB layout software and hardware design skills through guided projects.
For instance, their hands-on Introduction to Electronics series explores simulation tools, soldering, and measuring circuits assembled on tester boards. Self-pacing makes achieving Specializations convenient despite weekly deadlines.
Key Strengths
- Instuctor support and graded assignments
- Build physical validation skills
- Accredited certifications
Considerations
- Slower paced/less tools depth than dedicated courses
- Pay per Specialization instead of unlimited access
LinkedIn Learning
Over 1,000+ electronics design courses are available on demand through LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda) for approximately $30/month. While most focus on analog circuits and programming, many modules like Altium Essential Training offer strong introductions to key PCB design tools and concepts.
Key Strengths
- Taught by practicing engineers
- Certificates to validate completion
- Frequent new releases
Considerations
- Limited advanced PCB-specific design content
- Shorter format lacks complex projects
Udacity
Specialized Nanodegree programs from Udacity like Embedded Systems provide self-paced instruction spanning prototyping, simulation, and troubleshooting with mentor support. The project-based curriculum has students assemble and debug a microcontroller-based robot.
Key Strengths
- Live expert project reviews
- Certification builds resume credentials
- Aligns content to job requirements
Considerations
- Nanodegrees have limited PCB-focused content
- Higher cost than single courses
On-site PCB Design Institutes
For those able to attend intensive multi-day programs in person, dedicated training centers around the world offer extensive hands-on PCB design and fabrication instruction leveraging professional grade lab equipment.
EPTAC Corporation
EPTAC leads public, private and custom PCB design courses including 5-day bootcamps and multi-week certifications on tools like Altium, Allegro, and PADs. Their expert instructors balance lectures with individual/group project modules that cement learnings.
Key Programs
| Course | Duration | Format | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fundamentals of High-Speed PCB Design | 5 days | In-person/Online | $2,495 |
| Allegro PCB Editor v17.2 | 5 days | In-person/Online | $2,495 |
| Altium Designer for High-Speed | 5 days | In-person/Online | $2,495 |
In addition to classes nationwide, EPTAC offers scheduled online offeringsand private sessions at client sites. Their combination of theory and practical application accelerates PCB design skill building.
Key Strengths
- 30+ years delivering PCB training
- Balance of tools + design principles
- Expert instructors with Brown University pedigree
Considerations
- Class schedules vary by location
- Limited hardware fabrication
PCB Design LAB
This German technical training institute focuses exclusively on electronics design instruction including week-long PCB workshops. Attendees gain intensive hands-on experience under expert guidance fabricating actual boards to cement concepts.
Sample Workshops
| Course | Duration | Format | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional PCB Design with EAGLE | 5 days | In-person | €1,625 |
| Professional PCB Design with Altium | 5 days | In-person | €1,625 |
| Embedded Systems Programming | 5 days | In-person | €1,625 |
These immersive programs rapidly accelerate practical board design and development competencies. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention troubleshooting challenges during projects.
Key Strengths
- Specialized pure technical training
- Create boards start to finish
- Build portfolio pieces
Considerations
- Limited schedule offerings
- Outside US-based location
Synopsys DesignWare Technical Training
Covering tools from Synopsys like SaberRDDRN, HSPICE®, and CodeLink this dedicated curriculum develops skills for simulation, analysis and PCB design specialties like DDR interfaces. Custom private courses also available.
Curriculum Sample
| Course | Duration | Format | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simulation with SaberRDDRN | 4 days | In-person | $1,850 |
| Hspice/FineSim Circuit Simulation | 5 days | In-person | $1,995 |
| Introduction to DesignWare IP for PCB Design | 2 days | Online | $995 |
Their globally recognized certifications confirm expertise across Synopsys’ Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tool suite critical for PCB design roles.
Key Strengths
- Aligned to industry standard EDA tools
- Certificates from EDA leader
- Specialized niche skill development
Considerations
- Narrower curriculum focus
- Limited public schedule
University PCB Design Programs
Formal engineering degrees offer the most comprehensive foundation combining extended curriculums spanning electronics principles, simulation, and PCB CAD software proficiency needed for advanced roles.
BSc Electronics Engineering
A dedicated electronics engineering bachelor’s degree provides rigorous grounding in topics like:
- Embedded Systems Programming
- Circuit Simulation and Analysis
- IC Architecture and PCB Design
- Signal Processing Theory
Capstone design projects have students assemble functioning boards addressing real-world product requirements.
Key Strengths
- Complete skillset spanning hardware and software applied through complex projects
- Recognized Engineering qualification
Considerations
- 4-year full-time commitment
- High tuition costs
Vocational IT Qualifications
Specialize official competencies through shorter technology-focused qualifications like:
BTEC Level 3 Diploma Engineering – Electronics
Key Details
| Duration | Assessments | Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 Years | Assignments + Exams | A-Levels / AP Exams |
Topics encompass analog/digital electronics, PCB layout/manufacturing methods, embedded systems, and project design/testing processrigor.
Key Strengths
- Formal certification of specific skills
- Aligns content directly to job functions
Considerations
- Less generalized than university Engineering degrees
- Still 1-2 year endeavour
Getting Recognized Credentials
Certifications confirm attainment of industry-defined PCB design standards. While voluntary, they signal commitment to stay updated on latest tools/regulations.
EPTAC Certified IPC Specialist Programs
Key Credentials
| Area | Exam Code |
|---|---|
| IPC-A-600 PCB Acceptability | CIS-110 |
| IPC-A-610 PCB Assembly Acceptability | CIS 150 |
| IPC J-STD-001 PCB Soldering Competency | CIS 205 |
Dramatically boost employability passing one or more niche assessments offered through authorized centers worldwide like EPTAC.
Benefits
- Confirms specialized capabilities beyond just software self-learning
- Differentiates commitment to quality
- Often required at larger corporations
Preparation Needed
- Study materials span hundreds of pages per test
- Many still only pass final exams after taking aligned courses
Altium Certified Designer
Formalize Altium expertise through their globally recognized certification program available at Associate, Professional, and Expert progression levels. Testing occurs at PearsonVUE test centers.
Key Details
- Self-study learning materials provided
- Online practice exam identifies weak points
- 90 minute 50 question final test
Attaining ADC status signals competence both capturing complex designs and applying best practices.
Benefits
- Confirms real-world proficiency vs just tool tutorials
- Continuous skill benchmarking path
- Highlights dedication attracting job opportunities
Preparation Needed
- Months of hands-on experience before attempting
- Expect questions spanning hundreds of features
Keeping Skills Current
The fast pace of progress in PCB design requires ongoing education every few years as tools and regulations advance.
Approaches to Consider
- Attend 1-2 day conferences like PCB West covering latest technology
- Take new Altium/Allegro/OrCAD courses on revised versions
- Refresh key standards knowledge like IPC-2221Design before seeking updated certifications
- Signup for monthly design industry newsletters highlighting changes
Staying current is critical as expectations continuously rise for what PCB designers must comprehensively understand implementing cutting edge products. Lifelong learning enables securing ideal roles.
Selecting the Optimal PCB Design Course
With so many learning options available, focus training plans based on current objectives:
| Purpose | Recommended Format |
|---|---|
| Switch careers to PCB design | University engineering degree or vocational circuit/electronics diploma qualification |
| Gain beginner PCB layout familiarity | Introductory Udemy or LinkedIn Learning courses |
| Specialize existing EE skills | Dedicated tool (ex. Altium, Allegro) training through Synopsys/EPTAC |
| Validate knowledge depth through certification | Self-study then sit IPC/Altium/Allegro credential exams |
While unchecked online content risks perpetuating misconceptions, trusted providers with strong reputations avoid bad practices hindering real designs. Hands-on project application cements lessons.
Conclusion
This guide summarized over 25 different training resources from online platforms to university degrees suitable for efficiently developing PCB design competencies. Whether wanting to reskill into electronics hardware roles or expand existing embedded systems backgrounds, quality courses provide structured knowledge with expert support.
Match learning formats like short tool-centric bootcamps, accredited curriculums granting formal qualifications, and globally recognized certifications to current objectives. Lifelong occasional retraining enables staying abreast of relentless industry tool/standards innovation.
Investing in robust initial training combined with ongoing education throughout a career allows reliably applying evolving technologies critical for next-generation product development and sustainable employment.
FAQ
Q: Can I learn PCB design without enrolling in courses?
Self-teaching PCB layout software is possible using hobbyist licenses and online resources. However, missing critical context risks developing knowledge gaps that manifest in unusable board designs. Quality courses efficiently build competencies.
Q: How much does a PCB design course cost?
Prices vary widely from $15 online introductory modules to $5,000+ for multi-week intensive certifications. Consider investing at least $100 per major tool needed for local jobs. Subscription access enables trying libraries affordably.
Q: What software should PCB design courses teach?
Priority mastering platforms like Altium Designer, OrCAD, PADs, Allegro, and Zuken widely used at electronics companies hiring designers both locally and remotely. Once proficient in one tool, skills more easily transfer.
Q: Can I work professionally after taking a Udemy PCB course?
While quality Udemy classes build software familiarity, applying skills designing manufacturing-ready boards still requires months of practice. Pair online learning with portfolio projects. Entry-level roles may expect vocational certifications too.
Q: How long does it take to become a skilled PCB designer?
Expect at least 2-3 years growing from beginner to mastery. Take incremental courses while gaining progressive hands-on application opportunities through volunteer designs, hobbyist projects, freelancing, and formal intern roles. Experience breadth accelerates competence.
