

M-E in Manufacturing Systems Engineering at Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani


Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is Manufacturing Systems Engineering at Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani Jhunjhunu?
This Manufacturing Systems Engineering program at BITS Pilani focuses on integrating advanced manufacturing technologies, systems, and management principles. It addresses the growing need for engineers who can design, implement, and manage complex production systems in India. The program emphasizes optimizing manufacturing processes, leveraging automation, and ensuring quality, catering to the evolving demands of the Indian industrial landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates, especially those with a mechanical, production, or industrial engineering background, seeking to specialize in modern manufacturing. It also suits working professionals in the manufacturing sector aiming to upgrade their skills in areas like automation, supply chain, and quality management, enabling them to take on leadership roles in Indian industries.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in Indian and multinational manufacturing companies. Roles include Manufacturing Engineer, Production Manager, Quality Assurance Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, or Automation Specialist. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more, aligning with the growth trajectory of India''''s ''''Make in India'''' initiative.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Manufacturing Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand the foundational concepts of manufacturing planning, control, and advanced processes. Focus on problem-solving techniques introduced in Operations Research and material science, as these form the bedrock for advanced topics. Form study groups to discuss complex theories and solve practice problems collaboratively.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks for MSE G511, G512, G513, G521, NPTEL videos on manufacturing and OR, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for interviews and problem-solving in manufacturing roles. It builds the analytical thinking required for future specialization.
Develop Practical Skills in CAD/CAM and Metrology- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in lab sessions for Computer Aided Manufacturing and Metrology. Seek opportunities for hands-on experience with CNC machines, CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD), and quality inspection tools. Understand software functionalities and practical applications beyond theoretical knowledge. Look for online tutorials or workshops to enhance skills.
Tools & Resources
CAD/CAM software suites (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA), Machine shops/labs, Online courses (Coursera, edX)
Career Connection
Practical proficiency in design and manufacturing software, coupled with quality measurement skills, makes graduates highly employable for roles in design, production, and quality departments.
Explore Industry Trends and Emerging Technologies- (Semester 1-2)
Stay updated with current trends in the Indian manufacturing sector, such as Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, and sustainable production. Read industry reports, attend webinars, and follow reputable manufacturing publications. This broadens perspective and helps identify areas for future specialization and project work.
Tools & Resources
Manufacturing Today magazine, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) reports, Industry association websites
Career Connection
Awareness of industry trends positions students as forward-thinking professionals, valuable in strategic roles and for selecting relevant thesis topics, aligning with future industry needs.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Exposure to Industrial Robotics and Automation- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in workshops and projects related to industrial robotics and automation. Understand robot programming, kinematics, and integration with manufacturing systems. Look for opportunities to work on small automation projects, either as part of coursework or independently. Network with faculty members involved in robotics research.
Tools & Resources
Robot simulation software (e.g., RoboDK, V-REP), Departmental robotics lab, Online robotics tutorials
Career Connection
Proficiency in robotics and automation is a high-demand skill in modern manufacturing, opening doors to roles in automation engineering, system integration, and advanced production.
Undertake Simulation-based Projects- (Semester 3)
Leverage the Manufacturing Systems Simulation course to build and analyze simulation models for real-world manufacturing scenarios. Utilize simulation software to optimize processes, identify bottlenecks, and make data-driven decisions. Proactively seek faculty guidance for complex simulation challenges and consider incorporating this into a mini-project.
Tools & Resources
Arena Simulation, FlexSim, AnyLogic, Academic papers on manufacturing simulation
Career Connection
Simulation skills are highly valued for process optimization, industrial engineering, and lean manufacturing roles, directly impacting efficiency and cost savings in manufacturing operations.
Strategic Elective Selection and Networking- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose electives that align with your career aspirations and emerging industry needs. Attend seminars and guest lectures by industry experts. Actively network with alumni and professionals through LinkedIn and industry events to understand their roles and gain insights into potential career paths and internship opportunities.
Tools & Resources
BITS Pilani Alumni Network, LinkedIn, Industry conferences and workshops
Career Connection
Strategic elective choices deepen specialization, while networking opens doors to internships, mentorship, and invaluable career guidance, significantly boosting placement prospects.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Practice School / Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Treat Practice School II or Dissertation as a capstone experience. Select a topic of high industrial relevance or significant research potential. Dedicate full effort to problem definition, literature review, methodology, data collection, analysis, and report writing. Aim for tangible outcomes or publishable research. For Practice School, immerse fully in the industry environment.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Statistical software (R, Python, Minitab), Project Management tools
Career Connection
A strong dissertation or an impactful Practice School experience is a powerful resume builder, showcasing research capabilities or practical industry problem-solving, leading to better job offers and potentially higher studies.
Intensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Begin placement preparation well in advance. Focus on honing technical skills related to manufacturing systems, practice aptitude tests, and refine communication and interview skills. Attend mock interviews and participate in resume building workshops organized by the university''''s placement cell. Target companies relevant to manufacturing engineering.
Tools & Resources
BITS Pilani Placement Cell, Online aptitude platforms, Interview preparation guides, Technical books on manufacturing
Career Connection
Thorough preparation ensures confidence and competence during recruitment drives, significantly improving chances of securing desirable placements with top manufacturing and consulting firms.
Develop Leadership and Managerial Competencies- (Semester 4)
Actively seek opportunities to lead teams in academic projects, club activities, or organizational roles. Develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. This program aims to create future leaders in manufacturing, so cultivate managerial thinking and strategic vision alongside technical expertise.
Tools & Resources
Leadership workshops, Team projects, Professional development courses
Career Connection
Beyond technical roles, industries seek engineers who can lead and manage. Developing these competencies makes graduates suitable for leadership and project management roles early in their careers.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Integrated First Degree of BITS or its equivalent. Or M.Sc. or equivalent in relevant disciplines. Admissions are typically based on a Higher Degree Admissions Test (HDT) and prior academic record.
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSE G511 | Manufacturing Planning and Control | Core | 4 | Production Planning, Master Production Scheduling, Material Requirements Planning, Capacity Planning, Inventory Control, Shop Floor Control |
| MSE G512 | Advanced Machining Processes | Core | 4 | Non-Traditional Machining, Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, Laser Beam Machining, Abrasive Jet Machining, Ultrasonic Machining |
| MSE G513 | Applied Operations Research | Core | 4 | Linear Programming, Network Models, Queuing Theory, Inventory Models, Dynamic Programming, Simulation |
| MSE G521 | Advanced Engineering Materials | Core | 4 | Advanced Metals, Polymers, Ceramics, Composite Materials, Material Characterization, Failure Mechanisms |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSE G522 | Computer Aided Manufacturing | Core | 4 | NC/CNC Programming, CAD/CAM Integration, Process Planning, Flexible Manufacturing Systems, Robotics in Manufacturing, Manufacturing Automation |
| MSE G523 | Metrology and Quality Engineering | Core | 4 | Measurement Principles, Statistical Process Control, Quality Assurance, Design of Experiments, Total Quality Management, Advanced Inspection Methods |
| MSE G531 | Industrial Robotics | Core | 4 | Robot Kinematics, Robot Dynamics, Robot Control, Robot Programming, Robot Applications, Vision Systems |
| Elective I | Elective I | Elective | 4 | Chosen from an approved list of electives by the department |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSE G532 | Advanced Engineering Design | Core | 4 | Product Design Methodology, Concurrent Engineering, Design for Manufacturing, Robust Design, Optimization in Design, Design Automation |
| MSE G629 | Manufacturing Systems Simulation | Core | 4 | Simulation Modeling, Discrete Event Simulation, Random Number Generation, Statistical Analysis, Simulation Software, Manufacturing Applications |
| Elective II | Elective II | Elective | 4 | Chosen from an approved list of electives by the department |
| MSE G620 | Seminar / Elective III | Core/Elective | 4 | Depends on chosen topic for Seminar or selected Elective |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSE G699 | Practice School II / Dissertation | Project/Internship | 16 | Research Methodology, Project Management, Data Analysis, Technical Report Writing, Problem Solving, Industry Application |




