Magnetic properties of nanoscale magnetic-layer systems using FeNi, Co, FeMn, Al 2 O 3 , and SiC layers are studied experimentally. The dependence of magnetic behavior on the system geometry and parameters is addressed. Ferromagnet-semiconductor exchange coupling subject to the amplitude of an applied magnetic field is revealed. It is found that the magnetic behavior of the nanostructures varies in a nonlinear manner with applied magnetic field. Spin-tunneling magnetoresistance is observed in magnetic-layer junctions containing an Al 2 O 3 spacer. In-plane-conduction magnetic-field sensors using an Al 2 O 3 or a SiC spacer are fabricated and tested.