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MBA in Production And Operations Management at Cochin University of Science and Technology
Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Production and Operations Management at Cochin University of Science and Technology Ernakulam?
This Production and Operations Management program at Cochin University of Science and Technology focuses on optimizing processes and resource utilization within organizations. In the rapidly evolving Indian industrial landscape, this specialization equips students with expertise to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and manage complex supply chains, addressing significant demand for skilled professionals in manufacturing, logistics, and service sectors nationwide.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering or science graduates seeking entry into the manufacturing, supply chain, or service industry. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upgrade their operations management skills for career advancement. Furthermore, it suits career changers transitioning into roles like operations analysts, supply chain managers, or quality assurance specialists in various Indian industries.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect lucrative career paths in India as operations managers, supply chain consultants, process improvement specialists, or project managers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with industry certifications in lean management, Six Sigma, and project management, boosting employability in top Indian companies like Tata Motors, Amazon India, and Reliance.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Quantitative & Analytical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensively on Quantitative Techniques, Operations Research, and Managerial Economics. Master statistical analysis, linear programming, and data interpretation skills crucial for operations roles by practicing problems and using relevant software.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R or Python for basic data analysis, NPTEL courses on Operations Research, Online problem-solving platforms like HackerRank
Career Connection
Essential for solving complex operational problems, demand forecasting, and inventory optimization, skills highly valued by manufacturing and logistics firms in India.
Develop Core Management Understanding- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core subjects like Production & Operations Management (from Sem 2), Accounting, and Marketing. Understand how different functional areas interrelate and impact operational efficiency through case studies and group discussions.
Tools & Resources
Harvard Business Review case studies, Management journals, Industry webinars, Peer learning groups
Career Connection
Provides a holistic business perspective, enabling future managers to make informed decisions that consider broader organizational goals, leading to cross-functional leadership roles.
Enhance Communication & Soft Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in presentations, group discussions, and mock interviews to refine business communication, negotiation, and teamwork abilities. Seek opportunities for leadership in student clubs and extracurricular activities.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International, Online courses on public speaking (Coursera/edX), Professional networking events, Mentorship from seniors
Career Connection
Crucial for effective team leadership, client interaction, presenting project proposals, and securing placements in competitive operational management roles across India.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in Operations Electives- (Semester 3)
Deep dive into Production and Operations Management electives like Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Total Quality Management, and Project Management. Seek professional certifications relevant to these areas for specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
APICS (ASCM) certifications (CSCP, CPIM), Six Sigma Yellow/Green Belt, PMP certification (for project management), Simulation software like Arena
Career Connection
Directly aligns with specialized roles in supply chain, quality assurance, and project management, making graduates highly desirable for specific industry functions and better compensation.
Pursue Industry Internships & Projects- (Semester 3)
Secure internships in manufacturing units, logistics companies, or consulting firms focusing on operations. Actively seek out industry projects that apply classroom learning to real-world challenges, potentially with local businesses.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, Industry contacts, Networking events, Participation in industry-sponsored hackathons or case competitions
Career Connection
Provides practical experience, builds professional networks, enhances your resume, and often leads to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting career launch in India.
Develop Data-Driven Problem Solving- (Semester 3)
Apply statistical and analytical tools learned in previous semesters to operations-specific problems encountered in coursework or projects. Focus on process mapping, optimization, and data visualization for decision-making.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel (advanced functions), Power BI, Tableau, Process mapping software (e.g., Visio), Access to industry-specific data sets for analysis
Career Connection
Equips students for roles requiring data analysis and informed decision-making, such as operations analyst, business intelligence specialist, and process excellence lead in Indian companies.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation/Project Application- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic directly related to a current industry challenge in Production and Operations Management. Conduct thorough research, data analysis, and propose actionable solutions, demonstrating your expertise and problem-solving ability.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus), Statistical software (SPSS, R, Python), Survey tools, Mentorship from faculty and industry experts
Career Connection
Showcases in-depth expertise, problem-solving capabilities, and research acumen, making graduates stand out for R&D, consulting, or strategic operations roles, often leading to better placement opportunities.
Network & Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with alumni, attend industry conferences, and participate in campus recruitment drives. Prepare rigorously for interviews, focusing on case studies and operations-specific questions to secure desired job roles.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni mentorship programs, Mock interview sessions, Resume and cover letter workshops, Company research platforms
Career Connection
Maximizes opportunities for securing desired placements in top-tier companies by leveraging connections and demonstrating readiness for industry roles, ensuring a strong career launch.
Continuous Learning & Future Trends- (Semester 4 and beyond)
Stay updated on emerging trends in operations management such as Industry 4.0, AI in supply chain, sustainability, and resilient operations. Explore relevant online courses or workshops to enhance your knowledge beyond the curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, Udemy courses on advanced topics, Industry blogs, Reports from consulting firms (e.g., McKinsey, Deloitte), Professional associations like ASCM or PMI
Career Connection
Positions graduates as forward-thinking professionals, ready to adapt to technological shifts and lead innovation in their respective operations functions, crucial for long-term career growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in any Bachelor’s Degree Examination of Mahatma Gandhi University/Cochin University of Science and Technology or any other University recognized by Cochin University of Science and Technology, with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate. A valid KMAT/CMAT/CAT score is mandatory.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 92 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA 1.1 | Management Theory & Organizational Behavior | Core | 4 | Management principles, Classical theories, Organizational structure, Leadership, Motivation, Organizational culture |
| MBA 1.2 | Quantitative Techniques for Management | Core | 4 | Probability, Statistical inference, Regression analysis, Forecasting techniques, Decision theory, Correlation analysis |
| MBA 1.3 | Managerial Economics | Core | 4 | Demand analysis, Production theory, Cost analysis, Market structures, Pricing strategies, National income |
| MBA 1.4 | Business Environment & Law | Core | 4 | Economic environment, Political & legal environment, Social & cultural environment, Consumer protection law, Competition law, Environmental protection |
| MBA 1.5 | Accounting for Management | Core | 4 | Financial accounting principles, Cost accounting, Management accounting, Ratio analysis, Budgeting, Fund flow statement |
| MBA 1.6 | Computer Applications in Business | Core | 4 | MS Office suite, Data analysis tools, Internet & e-commerce, Database concepts, Management Information Systems, Cyber security |
| MBA 1.7 | Business Communication & Soft Skills | Core | 2 | Communication process, Verbal & non-verbal communication, Presentations, Business writing, Group discussions, Interview skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA 2.1 | Marketing Management | Core | 4 | Marketing concepts, Market segmentation, Product life cycle, Pricing strategies, Promotion mix, Distribution channels |
| MBA 2.2 | Financial Management | Core | 4 | Time value of money, Capital budgeting, Working capital management, Cost of capital, Capital structure theories, Dividend policy |
| MBA 2.3 | Human Resources Management | Core | 4 | HR planning, Recruitment & selection, Training & development, Performance appraisal, Compensation management, Industrial relations |
| MBA 2.4 | Research Methodology for Management | Core | 4 | Research design, Data collection methods, Sampling techniques, Data analysis, Hypothesis testing, Report writing |
| MBA 2.5 | Production & Operations Management | Core | 4 | Operations strategy, Process design, Capacity planning, Facilities location, Inventory management, Quality management systems |
| MBA 2.6 | Operations Research | Core | 4 | Linear programming, Transportation models, Assignment models, Network models (PERT/CPM), Queuing theory, Simulation techniques |
| MBA 2.7 | Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management | Core | 2 | Entrepreneurial process, Business plan development, Startup ecosystem, Types of innovation, Intellectual property, Venture capital |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA 3.1 | Strategic Management | Core | 4 | Strategic planning, Competitive advantage, Corporate strategy, Business-level strategy, Strategy implementation, Strategic control |
| MBA 3.2 | International Business | Core | 4 | Globalization, Theories of international trade, Foreign direct investment, International financial markets, International marketing, Cultural environment |
| MBA 3.3 | Business Ethics & Corporate Governance | Core | 4 | Ethical theories, Corporate social responsibility, Ethical decision-making, Governance principles, Board of directors, Stakeholder management |
| MBA 3.4 (E2.1) | Total Quality Management | Elective | 3 | Quality concepts, TQM principles, Quality control tools, Six Sigma methodology, ISO standards, Quality awards |
| MBA 3.5 (E2.2) | Logistics & Supply Chain Management | Elective | 3 | Supply chain concepts, Logistics functions, Transportation management, Warehousing operations, Inventory control, Supply chain integration |
| MBA 3.6 (E2.3) | Services Operations Management | Elective | 3 | Characteristics of services, Service design, Service quality management, Waiting line models, Capacity management in services, Service process improvement |
| MBA 3.7 (E2.4) | Advanced Production & Operations Management | Elective | 3 | Lean manufacturing, Just-in-Time (JIT), Agile operations, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Advanced planning systems, Operations strategy formulation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBA 4.1 | Dissertation / Project Work | Project | 6 | Research problem identification, Literature review, Data collection & analysis, Methodology design, Report writing, Presentation of findings |
| MBA 4.2 | Viva Voce | Viva | 2 | Comprehensive subject knowledge, Research defense, Presentation skills, Critical thinking, Problem-solving acumen, Overall understanding of MBA concepts |
| MBA 4.3 (E2.5) | Materials Management | Elective | 3 | Inventory management, Purchasing & procurement, Storekeeping, Material handling, Value analysis, Vendor development |
| MBA 4.4 (E2.6) | Project Management | Elective | 3 | Project life cycle, Project planning & scheduling, PERT/CPM, Resource allocation, Risk management, Project execution & control |
| MBA 4.5 (E2.7) | Technology Management | Elective | 3 | Technology forecasting, Technology acquisition, R&D management, Innovation management, Intellectual property rights, Technology commercialization |
| MBA 4.6 (E2.8) | Purchasing & Vendor Management | Elective | 3 | Purchasing process, Strategic sourcing, Supplier selection & evaluation, Contract management, E-procurement, Global sourcing |
