

M-E in Structural Engineering at A R S College of Engineering


Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Structural Engineering at A R S College of Engineering Kancheepuram?
This Structural Engineering program at ARS College of Engineering focuses on advanced principles of structural analysis, design, and construction, catering to the evolving demands of the Indian infrastructure sector. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing engineers for complex challenges in building, bridge, and industrial structure development across India. It differentiates itself by integrating modern computational tools and sustainable construction practices.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for civil engineering graduates seeking to specialize in structural design and analysis. It also caters to practicing engineers in construction or consultancy firms looking to enhance their skills in advanced structural concepts and software applications. Individuals aspiring for research or academic careers in structural engineering will also find the program beneficial, with prerequisites typically including a B.E./B.Tech. in Civil Engineering.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Structural Design Engineers, Project Managers, Consultants, and researchers in government and private sectors. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program equips students with expertise vital for certifications like Chartered Engineer (IEI) and provides a strong foundation for higher studies or entrepreneurship in the Indian construction industry.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Mechanics and Mathematics- (Semester 1)
Focus intensely on fundamental courses like Theory of Elasticity, Advanced Structural Analysis, and Applied Probability. Solve a wide array of problems to build strong analytical skills. Utilize textbooks and online resources like NPTEL lectures to grasp concepts thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Coursera (for related topics), Textbooks (e.g., Timoshenko for Elasticity, Bhavikatti for Analysis)
Career Connection
A robust understanding of core principles is crucial for advanced design, analytical problem-solving in internships, and cracking technical interviews for core structural engineering roles.
Master Advanced Concrete Technology and Design- (Semester 1)
Deeply understand the properties of various concrete types and advanced RCC design principles. Work through design problems for complex elements and gain familiarity with relevant Indian Standards (IS codes). Actively participate in design discussions.
Tools & Resources
IS 456, IS 13920, M.L. Gambhir (Concrete Technology), P.C. Varghese (RCC Design), Bureau of Indian Standards website
Career Connection
Essential for becoming a competent structural designer in India, where concrete structures are prevalent. Direct application in design offices.
Initiate Software Proficiency and Lab Skills- (Semester 1)
Actively engage in the Computer Aided Design Laboratory. Learn and practice extensively with initial modules of software like STAAD.Pro, ETABS, and AutoCAD. Develop strong experimental skills in concrete testing and material characterization.
Tools & Resources
STAAD.Pro, ETABS, AutoCAD, lab manuals, software tutorials
Career Connection
Provides early exposure to industry tools and practical testing, critical for both design roles and site engineering.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in Design (Steel, Substructure) and FEM- (Semester 2)
Focus on specialized design courses like Steel Structures and Substructure Design. Understand the nuances of foundation design and plastic analysis. Master the fundamentals of Finite Element Analysis (FEM) and its application in structural problems.
Tools & Resources
IS 800, IS 1904, Bowles (Foundation Analysis and Design), Zienkiewicz (FEM), commercial FEA software (e.g., ANSYS if available)
Career Connection
Directly applicable to roles requiring specialized design knowledge in foundations, steel structures, and advanced analysis using FEM.
Strategic Elective Choices and Industry Insights- (Semester 2)
Carefully select professional electives aligned with career goals (e.g., Earthquake Resistant Design, Bridge Engineering, Tall Buildings). Attend industry webinars, guest lectures, and visit construction sites to gain practical insights into the application of theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Professional bodies (IEI, ICI), industry magazines, LinkedIn for networking, NPTEL advanced courses
Career Connection
Tailors your expertise to specific industry demands, making you more marketable for specialized roles and enhancing your professional network.
Enhance Advanced Lab Skills and Reporting- (Semester 2)
Excel in the Advanced Structural Engineering Laboratory by performing Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), dynamic testing, and material characterization. Develop meticulous data analysis and report writing skills, crucial for documentation in engineering projects.
Tools & Resources
Lab equipment, data analysis software (Excel, MATLAB), technical report writing guidelines
Career Connection
Develops practical problem-solving, experimental validation, and clear communication skills, valuable for R&D, quality control, and consulting roles.
Advanced Stage
Initiate and Execute Capstone Project (Phase I & II)- (Semester 3-4)
Start Project Work Phase I by identifying a relevant, challenging problem, conducting thorough literature review, and formulating a robust methodology. In Phase II, meticulously execute the project, analyze results, and prepare a high-quality thesis. Seek faculty mentorship actively.
Tools & Resources
Research papers (Scopus, Google Scholar), simulation software, experimental setup, thesis writing guides
Career Connection
Showcases independent research and problem-solving capabilities, a significant asset for R&D, higher studies, and demonstrating advanced skills to potential employers.
Focus on Structural Rehabilitation and Sustainable Practices- (Semester 3)
Gain expertise in Maintenance and Rehabilitation of Structures, understanding deterioration mechanisms and repair techniques. Explore sustainable construction materials and methods, aligning with India''''s growing focus on green infrastructure.
Tools & Resources
Relevant IS codes for repair, journals on sustainable construction, case studies of structural failures and repairs
Career Connection
Positions you for roles in structural audit, retrofitting, and sustainable design, increasingly vital fields in the Indian context.
Develop Professionalism and Career Preparedness- (Semester 3-4)
Polish soft skills, presentation abilities, and technical communication. Actively participate in campus placements, mock interviews, and resume building workshops. Network with alumni and industry professionals through conferences and seminars.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell services, LinkedIn, professional societies (ICI, ACCE), interview preparation guides
Career Connection
Ensures holistic development, making graduates job-ready and capable of navigating the professional landscape effectively in India and globally.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. in Civil Engineering or an equivalent relevant qualifying examination as per Anna University norms.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA4151 | Applied Probability and Statistical Methods | Professional Core | 4 | Probability and Random Variables, Standard Distributions, Two Dimensional Random Variables, Testing of Hypotheses, Design of Experiments |
| ST4101 | Theory of Elasticity | Professional Core | 3 | Analysis of Stress, Analysis of Strain, Stress-Strain Relations, Two Dimensional Problems in Cartesian Coordinates, Two Dimensional Problems in Polar Coordinates |
| ST4102 | Advanced Concrete Technology | Professional Core | 3 | Concrete Making Materials, Mineral and Chemical Admixtures, Properties of Fresh Concrete, Properties of Hardened Concrete, Special Concrete |
| ST4103 | Advanced Reinforced Concrete Design | Professional Core | 3 | Design of Flat Slabs, Yield Line Theory, Design of Deep Beams, Design of Water Tanks, Introduction to Prestressed Concrete |
| ST4104 | Advanced Structural Analysis | Professional Core | 3 | Flexibility Method, Stiffness Method, Influence Lines, Introduction to Finite Element Method, Plate Structures |
| ST4111 | Computer Aided Design Laboratory | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Software Application for Structural Analysis, Design of Reinforced Concrete Elements, Design of Steel Elements, Finite Element Analysis Practice, Project-based design using software |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST4201 | Substructure Design | Professional Core | 3 | Site Investigation, Shallow Foundations, Deep Foundations, Earth Retaining Structures, Special Foundations (Machine, Raft) |
| ST4202 | Design of Steel Structures | Professional Core | 3 | Plastic Analysis, Design of Plate Girders, Design of Gantry Girders, Industrial Buildings, Cold-Formed Steel Structures |
| ST4203 | Finite Element Analysis | Professional Core | 3 | Introduction to FEM, One Dimensional Elements, Two Dimensional Elements (Plane Stress/Strain), Isoparametric Formulation, Introduction to Commercial Software |
| PE-I | Professional Elective I | Elective | 3 | Topics as per chosen elective from the R2021 list |
| PE-II | Professional Elective II | Elective | 3 | Topics as per chosen elective from the R2021 list |
| PE-III | Professional Elective III | Elective | 3 | Topics as per chosen elective from the R2021 list |
| PE-IV | Professional Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Topics as per chosen elective from the R2021 list |
| ST4211 | Advanced Structural Engineering Laboratory | Professional Core Lab | 2 | Non-Destructive Testing of Concrete, Dynamic Testing of Structures, Material Characterization Tests, Structural Health Monitoring Techniques, Advanced Computer Simulation |
| AU4001 | Mandatory Course-1 (English for Research Paper Writing) | Mandatory (Audit) | 0 | Planning and Preparation, Writing Skills, Structure of a Research Paper, Reviewing and Publishing, Ethical Considerations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST4301 | Maintenance and Rehabilitation of Structures | Professional Core | 3 | Causes of Deterioration, Repair Materials, Repair and Rehabilitation Techniques, Strengthening of Structures, Demolition and Reconstruction |
| PE-V | Professional Elective V | Elective | 3 | Topics as per chosen elective from the R2021 list |
| OE-I | Open Elective I | Open Elective | 3 | Topics as per chosen open elective from the R2021 list |
| ST4311 | Project Work Phase I | Project | 6 | Literature Survey, Problem Identification, Objective Formulation, Methodology Development, Preliminary Report |
| AU4002 | Mandatory Course-2 (Disaster Management) | Mandatory (Audit) | 0 | Introduction to Disasters, Vulnerability Assessment, Disaster Preparedness, Response and Recovery, Risk Reduction Strategies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST4411 | Project Work Phase II | Project | 12 | Detailed Analysis and Design, Experimental/Numerical Investigations, Results Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Presentation and Viva-Voce |




