
M-TECH in Smart Manufacturing at Indian Institute of Science


Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Smart Manufacturing at Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru?
This Smart Manufacturing M.Tech program at Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, focuses on integrating cutting-edge digital technologies with conventional manufacturing processes. It addresses the growing need for skilled professionals who can drive Industry 4.0 adoption in India, optimizing production, enhancing efficiency, and fostering innovation across various industrial sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates from mechanical, electrical, computer science, and related disciplines, seeking to specialize in advanced manufacturing. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill in areas like robotics, AI, IoT, and data analytics to transform Indian factories into smart, interconnected systems.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles as Smart Manufacturing Engineers, Automation Specialists, Data Scientists for Production, or Digital Twin Architects in India''''s booming manufacturing sector. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 8-15 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in advanced roles across automotive, aerospace, and electronics industries.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Robust Foundational Skills in Digital Manufacturing- (Semester 1-2)
Focus deeply on core courses like "Introduction to Smart Manufacturing," "Advanced Robotics," and "IoT & Sensors." Actively participate in lab sessions (e.g., "Smart Manufacturing Lab") to gain hands-on experience with hardware and software tools. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and reinforce understanding.
Tools & Resources
MATLAB, Python (for data analysis), CAD/CAM software, Robot Operating System (ROS), Open-source IoT platforms
Career Connection
A strong foundation in these areas is crucial for all smart manufacturing roles, providing the technical bedrock for future specialization and problem-solving in industrial settings, crucial for entry-level positions.
Master Data Analytics and Machine Learning for Industry- (Semester 1-2)
Pay special attention to "Data Analytics and Machine Learning for Manufacturing" and practice applying these techniques to real-world datasets. Leverage online courses (Coursera, NPTEL) for supplementary learning in Python, R, and relevant ML libraries. Work on mini-projects using manufacturing data.
Tools & Resources
Python (Pandas, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow), R, Jupyter Notebooks, Datasets from Kaggle or industrial case studies
Career Connection
Data-driven decision-making is central to Smart Manufacturing. Proficiency in ML and data analytics makes graduates highly sought after for roles in predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimization in Indian industries.
Engage in Departmental Research & Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Actively seek opportunities to engage with faculty research projects or attend workshops hosted by the Department of Mechanical Engineering or interdisciplinary centers. This exposes you to cutting-edge research and practical applications beyond the classroom.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research labs, IISc workshops, Industry speaker sessions, Research paper databases
Career Connection
Early exposure to research and current industry trends helps identify areas of interest for dissertations and future career paths, fostering innovative thinking relevant for R&D roles in India.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Specialization through Electives and Mini-Projects- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose electives (e.g., "Operations and Supply Chain Management," "AI in Manufacturing") that align with your career interests. Work on mini-projects that integrate knowledge from multiple courses, simulating real manufacturing challenges.
Tools & Resources
Industry case studies, Project management tools, Specialized software for chosen electives (e.g., simulation software)
Career Connection
Specializing early through electives and projects helps build a unique profile, making you a stronger candidate for niche roles in specific manufacturing domains or companies during placements.
Seek Industry Internships or Experiential Learning- (Semester 3)
Actively apply for summer internships in smart manufacturing roles at leading Indian manufacturing firms or R&D centers. Focus on gaining practical experience in implementing Industry 4.0 solutions, automation, or data analytics projects.
Tools & Resources
IISc Career Development Centre, LinkedIn, Company career pages (e.g., Siemens, Bosch, TCS, Infosys)
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for gaining real-world exposure, building professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting placement prospects in India''''s competitive job market.
Develop Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 3)
Participate in technical paper presentations, design competitions, and departmental seminars. Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely. Join relevant student clubs for public speaking opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series, Peer review sessions for project reports, Technical communication guides
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are vital for engineers to collaborate effectively, present solutions to stakeholders, and excel in leadership roles within Indian and global organizations.
Advanced Stage
Excel in M.Tech Dissertation Project (SM299)- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate significant effort to your dissertation project, treating it as a real-world R&D assignment. Choose a topic with industrial relevance or significant research potential in smart manufacturing. Collaborate closely with your advisor and potentially industry mentors.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Simulation software, Experimental setups, High-performance computing resources
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases your ability to conduct independent research, solve complex problems, and contribute to the field, making you highly attractive for R&D roles, PhD admissions, or specialized industry positions.
Network Strategically and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 4)
Attend industry conferences, career fairs, and alumni networking events. Tailor your resume and interview preparation to specific smart manufacturing roles. Practice mock interviews, focusing on both technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
Tools & Resources
IISc Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Industry associations (e.g., CII, FICCI manufacturing committees), Alumni network
Career Connection
Effective networking can open doors to opportunities not advertised publicly, while thorough placement preparation ensures you convert interviews into job offers at top Indian and global manufacturing firms.
Build a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 4)
Compile a portfolio of your projects, including code repositories (GitHub), project reports, research papers, and presentations. Highlight your contributions and the impact of your work in smart manufacturing.
Tools & Resources
GitHub, Personal website/blog, LinkedIn profile, Digital presentation tools
Career Connection
A well-curated portfolio provides tangible evidence of your skills and accomplishments, significantly enhancing your credibility and showcasing your expertise to potential employers in the Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. or equivalent degree in Mechanical / Industrial / Production / Mechatronics / Electrical / Electronics / Computer Science / Aerospace / Civil / Materials / Metallurgy / Instrumentation / Manufacturing / Industrial Design; OR M.Sc. or equivalent degree in Physics / Mathematics / Materials Science / Electronics disciplines. Admission typically requires a valid GATE score.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SM201 | Introduction to Smart Manufacturing | Core | 3 | Industry 4.0 concepts, Cyber-physical systems, Digital twin, IoT in manufacturing, Data-driven manufacturing, Additive manufacturing overview |
| SM202 | Advanced Manufacturing Processes | Core | 3 | Additive manufacturing principles, High-performance machining, Micro-manufacturing techniques, Advanced forming processes, Laser-based manufacturing |
| SM203 | Advanced Robotics and Automation | Core | 3 | Robot kinematics and dynamics, Robot control architectures, Path planning, Industrial robot applications, Collaborative robotics, Vision systems |
| SM204 | Industrial Internet of Things and Sensors | Core | 3 | IoT architecture, Sensor types and principles, Data acquisition systems, Edge and cloud computing for IoT, Communication protocols (e.g., MQTT, OPC UA), Cybersecurity in IoT |
| SM210 | Operations and Supply Chain Management | Elective | 3 | Demand forecasting, Production planning, Inventory control, Logistics and distribution, Supply chain optimization, Network design |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SM205 | Data Analytics and Machine Learning for Manufacturing | Core | 3 | Statistical methods, Supervised learning (regression, classification), Unsupervised learning (clustering), Deep learning basics, Predictive maintenance, Quality control applications |
| SM206 | Digital Manufacturing and Cyber Physical Systems | Core | 3 | Digital thread, Virtual commissioning, Augmented reality in manufacturing, Model-based engineering, System integration, Manufacturing simulation |
| SM207 | Manufacturing Automation and Control Systems | Core | 3 | Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PID control, Discrete event systems, Batch control |
| SM208 | Quality Engineering and Reliability | Core | 3 | Statistical Process Control (SPC), Design of Experiments (DOE), Six Sigma methodology, Reliability modeling, Failure analysis, Total Quality Management (TQM) |
| SM251 | Smart Manufacturing Lab | Lab | 4 | Sensor interfacing, Robot programming, PLC configuration, Data visualization, Additive manufacturing operation, Virtual reality applications |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SM211 | Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems in Manufacturing | Elective | 3 | Knowledge representation, Inference engines, Expert system development, Machine learning for process optimization, Scheduling algorithms, Robotics control with AI |
| SM212 | Sustainable Manufacturing | Elective | 3 | Life cycle assessment, Eco-design, Waste minimization, Energy efficiency, Circular economy principles, Environmental regulations |
| SM213 | Advanced Materials for Manufacturing | Elective | 3 | Smart materials (shape memory alloys, piezoelectrics), Composites manufacturing, Nanomaterial fabrication, Biomaterials, Material characterization techniques |
| FE001 | Free Elective | Elective | 4 | Subject chosen by student from any department/center, Requires advisor approval, Broadens knowledge base, Complements specialization, Interdisciplinary focus |
| SM299 | M.Tech Dissertation Project Part 1 | Project | 14 | Research methodology, Problem definition, Literature review, Experimental design, Data analysis, Initial report writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SM299 | M.Tech Dissertation Project Part 2 | Project | 14 | Advanced experimental work, Detailed data analysis and interpretation, Solution development and validation, Final thesis writing, Oral defense preparation, Presentation of findings |




