

B-TECH-M-TECH in Rf And Microwaves at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur


Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is RF and Microwaves at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur Kanpur Nagar?
This RF and Microwaves specialization within the B.Tech-M.Tech Dual Degree in Electrical Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur provides an in-depth exploration of high-frequency electromagnetic theory, circuit design, and system applications. It prepares students for roles in wireless communication, radar, satellite technology, and advanced sensing systems. The program''''s interdisciplinary approach and rigorous curriculum are designed to meet the growing demands of India''''s strategic defense, space, and telecom sectors for specialized RF engineering talent.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideally suited for ambitious engineering students who have excelled in their foundational B.Tech Electrical Engineering courses and demonstrate a keen interest in electromagnetic theory, wave propagation, and high-frequency electronics. It is perfect for those aspiring to contribute to cutting-edge research and development in wireless technologies, aerospace, and defense in India. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, coupled with a solid mathematics background, are highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this specialized program are highly sought after by leading Indian PSUs like ISRO, DRDO, BEL, and major telecom players such as Reliance Jio and Airtel, as well as global MNCs with R&D operations in India (e.g., Qualcomm, Ericsson). Career paths include RF Design Engineer, Antenna Specialist, Microwave System Architect, or Wireless R&D Engineer. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 10-20 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential into senior technical and leadership roles within the Indian ecosystem.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-4)
Dedicate extensive effort to thoroughly understanding foundational courses in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Circuits, Signals and Systems, and especially Electromagnetics (EE320A). These subjects are absolutely critical building blocks for advanced RF and Microwave concepts. Leverage NPTEL courses and departmental tutorials for supplementary learning.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL online courses, IITK tutorial classes, Standard engineering textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A robust grasp of these fundamentals ensures a smoother transition into specialized RF topics, facilitates quicker learning of new technologies, and is a prerequisite for most technical interviews in core engineering companies.
Develop Strong Analytical and Simulation Skills- (Semester 2-5)
Cultivate strong problem-solving abilities and proficiency in computational tools. Learn programming languages like Python/MATLAB for numerical analysis and familiarize yourself with basic circuit simulation software (e.g., LTSpice). These skills are essential for modeling and validating complex RF systems.
Tools & Resources
MATLAB, Python (with SciPy/NumPy), LTSpice, Online problem-solving platforms like HackerRank for logical thinking
Career Connection
Computational skills are indispensable in modern RF engineering for design, analysis, and optimization, making graduates highly valuable for R&D roles in industries requiring numerical modeling and data interpretation.
Actively Engage in Lab Work and Mini-Projects- (Semester 3-6)
Go beyond mere completion in lab courses; strive to understand the underlying principles and experimental limitations. Take initiative in departmental mini-projects or join a professor''''s early-stage research activities to gain hands-on experience in basic electronics, measurement techniques, and report writing.
Tools & Resources
Electrical Engineering departmental labs, DIY electronics kits (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), Technical clubs
Career Connection
Practical exposure builds confidence, improves troubleshooting skills, and provides tangible experience for your resume, significantly enhancing your profile for internships and entry-level positions.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Core RF/Microwave Foundations- (Semester 6-8)
Focus intently on courses like Antenna Theory and Design (EE631), Microwave Engineering (EE632), and RF Circuit Design (EE633). These subjects directly form the core of your specialization. Attend relevant workshops, seminars, and guest lectures to broaden your perspective beyond the classroom.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks (e.g., Pozar for Microwave Engineering), IEEE journals for latest research, Departmental workshops
Career Connection
Mastery of these foundational RF/Microwave subjects is paramount for securing specialized roles. It demonstrates your core technical competence and readiness for advanced design and analysis tasks.
Pursue Specialized Internships and Industry Exposure- (Semester 7-9)
Actively seek internships at core RF/Microwave companies, defense organizations (DRDO, BEL), or telecom R&D centers in India. These internships offer invaluable exposure to industry tools (HFSS, CST, ADS), project management, and real-world design challenges, complementing your academic learning.
Tools & Resources
IITK Career Development Cell, Professional networking events, Company career pages (e.g., Ericsson, Qualcomm, Tata Elxsi)
Career Connection
Internships are critical for practical experience, building professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting your employability in the competitive RF and Microwave industry.
Engage in Departmental Research and Projects- (Semester 7-9)
Actively participate in faculty-mentored research projects within the Electromagnetics and Microwave Engineering group. This provides hands-on experience with advanced research methodologies, experimental setups, and the opportunity to contribute to scientific publications, strengthening your M.Tech project foundation.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research group pages, Departmental project opportunities, Conferences like InCAP, IWPC (for student presentations)
Career Connection
Early research exposure not only hones your technical skills but also distinguishes your profile for competitive M.Tech projects and future PhD opportunities, especially in R&D-focused organizations.
Advanced Stage
Excel in M.Tech Specialization Electives and Labs- (Semester 8-10)
Strategically choose your M.Tech level electives to deepen your specialization in areas like Computational Electromagnetics (EE635), Millimeter Wave Technology (EE637), or Wireless Communication (EE636). Invest heavily in advanced simulation labs, mastering tools like CST Studio Suite, Keysight ADS, and Ansys HFSS for complex design and analysis.
Tools & Resources
CST Studio Suite, Keysight ADS, Ansys HFSS, Advanced RF/Microwave laboratory equipment and measurement systems
Career Connection
Deep expertise gained from these advanced electives and tools makes you a highly specialized professional, opening doors to advanced R&D and design roles in niche RF/Microwave segments with higher responsibility and compensation.
Execute a High-Impact M.Tech Project/Thesis- (Semester 9-10)
Undertake a challenging and innovative M.Tech project (EE698, EE699) in RF and Microwaves, focusing on a problem with significant academic or industrial relevance. Work closely with your supervisor, aim for publishable results, and prepare a meticulously documented thesis. This project will be your magnum opus.
Tools & Resources
Comprehensive literature databases (IEEE Xplore, Scopus), Advanced simulation and measurement facilities, Thesis writing guides
Career Connection
A strong M.Tech thesis is a powerful differentiator, showcasing your ability to conduct independent, impactful research. It is highly valued by top R&D companies and provides a solid stepping stone for PhD programs.
Strategic Networking and Placement Preparation- (Semester 9-10)
Actively network with IIT Kanpur alumni working in RF/Microwave fields, industry professionals, and faculty mentors. Attend national and international conferences (e.g., IEEE AP-S, EuMW) to stay updated and expand your professional circle. Prepare a compelling resume and practice technical and HR interviews rigorously, focusing on specialized RF concepts and project experiences.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Professional Network, IITK Placement Cell services, Mock interview platforms, Industry newsletters and forums
Career Connection
Effective networking and thorough preparation are crucial for securing desired placements in top-tier companies or for gaining admission to prestigious doctoral programs, leveraging your specialized knowledge and IIT Kanpur''''s reputation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Admission through JEE Advanced for B.Tech program, followed by satisfying internal academic criteria and departmental policies for continuation into the M.Tech specialization within Electrical Engineering.
Duration: 5 years (10 semesters)
Credits: Approximately 255 credits (including B.Tech and M.Tech components) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Varies by course, typically involves continuous evaluation through quizzes, assignments, mid-semester examinations, and lab work., External: Varies by course, typically an end-semester examination constitutes a major portion of the grade.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIF101A | Introduction to Life Sciences | Core | 9 | Cellular Biology, Genetics and Heredity, Physiology Basics, Microbiology, Ecology and Environment |
| ESC101A | Introduction to Engineering | Core | 10 | Engineering Disciplines Overview, Problem Solving Methodologies, Engineering Design Process, Basic Programming Concepts, Ethical Aspects of Engineering |
| MTH101A | Mathematics I | Core | 12 | Single Variable Calculus, Sequences and Series, Multivariable Calculus Introduction, Linear Algebra Fundamentals, Vector Calculus Basics |
| PHY101A | Physics I | Core | 9 | Classical Mechanics, Oscillations and Waves, Basic Thermodynamics, Special Relativity Concepts, Geometrical and Physical Optics |
| CHM101A | Chemistry | Core | 9 | Atomic Structure and Bonding, Chemical Kinetics, Electrochemistry Principles, Organic Chemistry Basics, States of Matter and Phase Equilibria |
| TA101A | Engineering Graphics | Core | 6 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Dimensioning and Tolerancing, Introduction to CAD Software |
| PE101A | Physical Education | Core | 0 | Physical Fitness, Sports and Games, Wellness and Lifestyle |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSO101A | Introduction to Professional Ethics and History of Science and Technology | Core | 6 | Ethical Theories, Professionalism in Engineering, Historical Scientific Discoveries, Societal Impact of Technology, Case Studies in Engineering Ethics |
| ESC102A | Introduction to Computing | Core | 10 | Programming Constructs, Data Types and Operators, Functions and Modules, Basic Algorithms, Object-Oriented Programming Introduction |
| MTH102A | Mathematics II | Core | 12 | Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations Introduction, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series, Basic Numerical Methods |
| PHY102A | Physics II | Core | 9 | Electromagnetism Fundamentals, Quantum Mechanics Introduction, Statistical Mechanics Basics, Solid State Physics Principles, Nuclear Physics Overview |
| TA102A | Manufacturing Processes | Core | 6 | Casting Processes, Forming Techniques, Machining Operations, Joining Methods, Additive Manufacturing Basics |
| HSS-I Elective | Humanities and Social Sciences Elective I | Elective | 9 | Microeconomics, Sociology of Technology, Cognitive Psychology, Indian Literature, Philosophy of Science |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE201A | Signals and Systems | Core | 10 | Continuous and Discrete Time Signals, Linear Time Invariant Systems, Fourier Series and Transform, Laplace Transform, Z-Transform |
| EE210A | Analog Circuits | Core | 10 | Diode Circuits and Applications, BJT and MOSFET Amplifiers, Operational Amplifiers, Frequency Response Analysis, Feedback and Stability Concepts |
| EE250A | Electrical Circuits | Core | 10 | Kirchhoff''''s Laws, Network Theorems, First and Second Order Transient Analysis, AC Circuits and Phasors, Resonance and Coupled Circuits |
| MTH203A | Complex Analysis and Differential Equations | Core | 12 | Complex Numbers and Functions, Analytic Functions, Cauchy-Riemann Equations, Series Solutions of ODEs, Partial Differential Equations Modeling |
| ESO207A | Data Structures and Algorithms | Core | 10 | Arrays and Linked Lists, Stacks, Queues, and Trees, Graphs and Graph Algorithms, Sorting and Searching Techniques, Hashing and File Structures |
| HSS-II Elective | Humanities and Social Sciences Elective II | Elective | 9 | Indian Political System, History of Modern India, Cultural Anthropology, English Communication, Logic and Critical Thinking |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE200A | Digital Circuits | Core | 10 | Boolean Algebra and Logic Gates, Combinational Logic Circuits, Sequential Logic Circuits, Memory and Programmable Logic Devices, Digital System Design |
| EE320A | Electromagnetics | Core | 10 | Electrostatics and Magnetostatics, Maxwell''''s Equations, Wave Propagation in Media, Transmission Lines Theory, Waveguides and Resonators Introduction |
| EE301A | Control Systems | Core | 10 | System Modeling and Transfer Functions, Stability Analysis (Routh-Hurwitz, Nyquist), Root Locus Techniques, Bode Plots and Frequency Response, State Space Analysis |
| EE340A | Microprocessors and Microcontrollers | Core | 10 | Processor Architecture, Assembly Language Programming, Memory and I/O Interfacing, Interrupts and Timers, Introduction to Embedded Systems |
| ESO208A | Material Science and Engineering | Core | 10 | Crystal Structures, Mechanical Properties of Materials, Electrical and Dielectric Properties, Magnetic Properties, Semiconductor Physics |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE300A | Communication Systems | Core | 10 | Analog Modulation Techniques, Digital Modulation Techniques, Noise in Communication Systems, Information Theory Basics, Error Control Coding Introduction |
| EE330A | Power Electronics | Core | 10 | Power Semiconductor Devices, DC-DC Converters (Choppers), AC-DC Rectifiers, DC-AC Inverters, Power Quality and Harmonics |
| EE350A | Electric Machines | Core | 10 | Transformers, DC Machines (Generators and Motors), Induction Machines, Synchronous Machines, Special Purpose Electric Machines |
| EE380A | Electronics Engineering Lab I | Lab | 6 | Analog Circuit Design and Testing, Digital Circuit Implementation, Microprocessor Interfacing Experiments, Basic Signal Processing using MATLAB, Introduction to Control System Simulations |
| OEC-I | Open Elective I | Elective | 9 | Interdisciplinary Topics, Computational Science, Environmental Science and Engineering, Management Principles, Innovation and Entrepreneurship |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE400A | Digital Signal Processing | Core | 10 | Discrete-Time Systems, Z-Transform and Discrete Fourier Transform, Fast Fourier Transform Algorithms, FIR and IIR Filter Design, Multirate Signal Processing |
| EE480A | Electronics Engineering Lab II | Lab | 6 | Advanced Analog and Digital System Design, Communication Systems Experiments, Power Electronics Applications, Embedded Systems Development, Advanced Control Algorithms Implementation |
| DEP-I | Departmental Elective I | Elective | 9 | Advanced Digital Communication, VLSI Design Principles, Optoelectronics, Renewable Energy Systems, Introduction to Machine Learning |
| DEP-II | Departmental Elective II | Elective | 9 | Digital Image Processing, Robotics and Automation, Quantum Computing Fundamentals, Smart Grids and Power Systems, Biomedical Instrumentation |
| OEC-II | Open Elective II | Elective | 9 | Project Management, Financial Engineering, Sustainable Development, Artificial Intelligence Applications, Big Data Analytics |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE591A | B.Tech Project Part I | Project | 10 | Problem Formulation and Definition, Literature Review and Survey, Methodology Development, Preliminary Design and Simulation, Initial Results Analysis |
| EE631 | Antenna Theory and Design | Specialization Core | 10 | Antenna Fundamentals and Parameters, Radiation Mechanisms, Linear and Planar Antenna Arrays, Microstrip Antennas, Antenna Measurement Techniques |
| EE632 | Microwave Engineering | Specialization Core | 10 | Microwave Transmission Lines, S-Parameters and Network Analysis, Microwave Passive Devices, Microwave Active Devices, Introduction to Microwave Integrated Circuits |
| DEP-III | Departmental Elective III | Elective | 9 | Semiconductor Device Physics, Optical Fiber Communication, Advanced Embedded Systems Design, Digital VLSI Design, Computer Networks Architecture |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE592A | B.Tech Project Part II | Project | 10 | Advanced Experimentation and Prototyping, Detailed Data Analysis and Interpretation, System Implementation and Testing, Technical Report Writing, Project Presentation and Defense |
| EE633 | RF Circuit Design | Specialization Core | 10 | RF Active and Passive Components, Impedance Matching Networks, Low Noise Amplifier Design, RF Mixers and Oscillators, RF Power Amplifier Design |
| EE634 | Electromagnetic Theory | Specialization Core | 10 | Advanced Maxwell''''s Equations, Electromagnetic Boundary Conditions, Waveguides and Resonators, Time-Varying Fields, Electromagnetic Potentials |
| DEP-IV | Departmental Elective IV | Elective | 9 | MEMS and NEMS, Image and Video Processing, Machine Learning for Signal Processing, Cyber-Physical Systems, Satellite Communication Systems |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE698 | M.Tech Project Part I | Project | 18 | Advanced Research Problem Definition, Comprehensive Literature Survey, Methodology and Experimental Design, Simulation and Modeling, Preliminary Results and Analysis |
| EE635 | Computational Electromagnetics | Specialization Elective | 10 | Finite Difference Time Domain Method, Finite Element Method, Method of Moments, Transmission Line Matrix Method, Commercial EM Software Tools |
| EE636 | Wireless and Mobile Communication | Specialization Elective | 10 | Cellular System Concepts, Radio Propagation and Fading Channels, Multiple Access Techniques (FDMA, TDMA, CDMA, OFDMA), MIMO Systems and Diversity, 5G and Beyond Wireless Technologies |
| DEP-V | Departmental Elective V (M.Tech Level) | Elective | 10 | Advanced Digital Communication, RFIC Design, Radar Systems Engineering, Terahertz Technology, Medical Imaging Systems |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE699 | M.Tech Project Part II | Project | 24 | Advanced System Design and Prototyping, Detailed Data Analysis and Interpretation, Performance Evaluation and Validation, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Oral Defense Preparation |
| EE637 | Millimeter Wave and Terahertz Technologies | Specialization Elective | 10 | Millimeter Wave Propagation, MM-Wave Devices and Components, Terahertz Generation and Detection, Applications in Imaging and Communication, Antenna Design for MM-Wave Frequencies |
| DEP-VI | Departmental Elective VI (M.Tech Level) | Elective | 10 | Advanced Electromagnetics, Optical Communication Networks, Cognitive Radio Systems, Satellite Navigation Systems, Biomedical RF Applications |




