An improved method for making a semiconductor device is described. Initially, a structure is formed that includes first and second hard masking layers that cover a dielectric layer. A layer of photoresist is deposited and patterned to expose part of the second hard masking layer to define a via. That exposed part of the second hard masking layer is then etched. A second layer of photoresist is deposited and patterned to expose a second part of the second hard masking layer to define a trench. After etching the exposed second part of the second hard masking layer, a via and trench are etched into the dielectric layer, which are then filled with a conductive material.