

B-TECH in Chemical Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology Ropar


Rupnagar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Chemical Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology Ropar Rupnagar?
This Chemical Engineering program at Indian Institute of Technology Ropar focuses on equipping students with fundamental and advanced knowledge in process design, optimization, and sustainable technologies. It emphasizes a strong theoretical foundation coupled with practical applications relevant to Indian industries such as petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, materials science, and environmental management. The program is distinguished by its blend of traditional chemical engineering principles with modern computational and experimental techniques, preparing graduates for the evolving demands of the Indian and global chemical sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers who have excelled in JEE Advanced and possess a strong aptitude for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. It is well-suited for fresh graduates seeking entry into core chemical industries or pursuing higher education and research. Additionally, it caters to individuals passionate about developing sustainable processes, optimizing industrial operations, and contributing to environmental solutions within India''''s growing industrial landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in process engineering, research and development, plant operations, and consulting within India''''s thriving chemical, energy, and environmental sectors. Entry-level salaries typically range from 6 to 12 Lakhs INR per annum, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals. The curriculum prepares students for roles in both public sector undertakings (PSUs) and major private companies, with opportunities to align with professional certifications in process safety and project management.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Science and Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a strong foundation in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and introductory chemical engineering. Utilize NPTEL lectures and external online courses (like Coursera, edX) to supplement classroom learning, ensuring deep conceptual understanding. This robust base is crucial for comprehending advanced topics and for competitive exams such as GATE and interviews for core engineering roles.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Khan Academy, Reference textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals enhances problem-solving abilities, which is highly valued by employers in design and R&D roles. It also forms the bedrock for specializing in advanced chemical engineering domains.
Cultivate Basic Programming and CAD Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Develop proficiency in programming languages like C/Python and essential engineering graphics software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks). Practice solving numerical problems using code and familiarize yourself with basic CAD tools. Attend workshops or join relevant campus clubs to enhance practical application. This skill set is increasingly vital for process modeling, simulation, and equipment design in modern industries.
Tools & Resources
Python/C compilers, Online coding platforms, Free CAD software trials, IIT Ropar Computer Centre workshops
Career Connection
These skills are critical for roles in process simulation, automation, and design, offering a competitive edge in technical interviews and project work.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning and Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Participate actively in English communication courses and join diverse student clubs or societies. Focus on improving technical writing, public speaking, and teamwork skills. Seek out opportunities for cross-disciplinary projects to broaden your perspective beyond chemical engineering, enhancing overall academic performance and professional readiness.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International, IIT Ropar literary clubs, Group project work
Career Connection
Effective communication and teamwork are soft skills highly sought after by employers, crucial for collaborating on projects and presenting technical findings in any industry role.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Industry-Relevant Internships- (Semester 3-5 (especially summer breaks))
Secure summer internships in chemical plants, research laboratories, or petrochemical facilities. Focus on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world industrial problems, gaining hands-on experience in areas like unit operations, process control, or environmental management. Actively network with industry professionals during the internship. The IIT Ropar Training & Placement Cell and professional networks can be leveraged for this.
Tools & Resources
IIT Ropar Training & Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Naukri.com, Company career pages
Career Connection
Internships provide practical exposure, enhance resumes, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability in core industries.
Specialize through Electives and Mini-Projects- (Semester 4-6)
Strategically select departmental electives based on your interests and career goals, such as Biochemical Engineering, Catalysis, or Advanced Separation Processes. Pursue mini-projects or research under faculty guidance in these specialized areas to develop in-depth knowledge and practical skills. This builds a strong portfolio for advanced studies or niche industry roles.
Tools & Resources
Departmental faculty mentors, Research journals, Simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, PRO/II)
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles and provides a competitive edge in interviews for advanced technical positions.
Participate in Technical Competitions and Workshops- (Semester 3-6)
Actively engage in national and international technical events, design competitions, and workshops organized by professional bodies like the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers (IIChE). These platforms provide opportunities to showcase skills, solve complex engineering challenges, and network with peers and industry experts. This enhances practical application of knowledge and problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
IIChE student chapters, IIT Ropar technical fests, Industrial training workshops
Career Connection
Winning or participating in competitions demonstrates initiative and practical skills, making your profile stand out to recruiters and for graduate school admissions.
Advanced Stage
Excel in B.Tech Project and Research- (Semester 7-8)
Dedicate significant effort to your B.Tech project, aiming for high-quality research or an innovative design/solution. Collaborate closely with your faculty advisor and, if possible, align your project with current industry challenges or faculty research interests. Consider publishing your work in reputed conferences or journals. A strong project is a cornerstone for advanced career opportunities and higher studies.
Tools & Resources
Advanced lab equipment, Specialized simulation software, Research databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Faculty expertise
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates independent research capabilities, critical thinking, and technical proficiency, which are key requirements for R&D roles and for securing admissions to top MS/PhD programs.
Intensive Placement and Career Development Training- (Semester 7-8)
Undergo intensive training for placements, focusing on aptitude tests, technical interviews, group discussions, and HR rounds. Leverage the IIT Ropar Career Development Centre for mock interviews, resume reviews, and career counseling. Network actively with alumni for mentorship and insights into industry trends. Prepare thoroughly for specific companies targeting chemical engineering graduates.
Tools & Resources
IIT Ropar Career Development Centre, Online aptitude platforms, Interview preparation guides, Alumni network
Career Connection
Comprehensive preparation directly translates into a higher chance of securing desirable placements in top companies or gaining acceptance into prestigious academic programs.
Pursue Advanced Certifications and MOOCs- (Semester 6-8)
Augment your degree with advanced certifications or specialized MOOCs in areas like Process Safety Management, Data Analytics for Chemical Engineers, or specific software proficiency (e.g., Python for data science, Aspen Plus). These certifications add valuable credentials and demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning, making you highly competitive in niche and high-demand areas. This positions you for leadership or expert roles.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NPTEL, Professional bodies offering certifications (e.g., AIChE, CCPS)
Career Connection
These specialized skills and certifications are highly valued in industries embracing digital transformation and advanced process management, leading to better job prospects and faster career progression.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- JEE Advanced Ranks and 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (PCM) as per IIT admission norms.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 162 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH101 | Basic Chemistry | Core | 4 | Quantum chemistry, Chemical bonding, Thermodynamics, Electrochemistry, Kinetics, Organic reactions |
| CH103 | Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Volumetric titrations, pH metry, Spectrophotometry, Synthesis of organic compounds, Reaction kinetics experiments |
| MA101 | Engineering Mathematics I | Core | 4 | Differential calculus, Integral calculus, Sequences and series, Functions of several variables, Vector calculus |
| CS101 | Introduction to Computer Science | Core | 3 | Problem solving, C/Python programming, Data types and control flow, Functions and arrays, Pointers and basic data structures |
| ME101 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 2.5 | Orthographic projections, Sectional views, Isometric projections, Development of surfaces, Computer Aided Design |
| PH101 | Physics | Core | 4 | Classical mechanics, Electromagnetism, Wave optics, Quantum physics, Statistical mechanics |
| PH103 | Physics Lab | Lab | 1.5 | Experiments on mechanics, Optics, Electricity, Magnetism, Semiconductor devices |
| HS101 | English Communication | Core | 2 | Reading comprehension, Writing skills, Listening skills, Oral communication, Technical presentation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE101 | Basic Electrical Engineering | Core | 4 | DC circuits analysis, AC circuits fundamentals, Transformers, Electrical machines principles, Semiconductor devices, Operational amplifiers |
| EE103 | Basic Electrical Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Verification of network theorems, Transient analysis, Characteristics of diodes and BJT, Op-amp based circuits, Measurement of electrical quantities |
| MA102 | Engineering Mathematics II | Core | 4 | Ordinary differential equations, Laplace transforms, Fourier series and transforms, Partial differential equations, Complex analysis |
| CE101 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 4 | Statics of particles, Rigid bodies equilibrium, Trusses and frames analysis, Friction, Dynamics of particles, Kinematics of rigid bodies |
| ME102 | Workshop Practices | Lab | 1.5 | Machining operations, Welding processes, Carpentry, Foundry technology, Fitting, Sheet metal work |
| HS102 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Natural resources and ecosystems, Biodiversity conservation, Environmental pollution control, Social issues and environment, Human population and environment |
| CHL101 | Introduction to Chemical Engineering | Core | 3 | Scope of chemical engineering, Basic concepts and definitions, Unit operations and processes, Mass and energy balances, Professional ethics and safety |
| HSXXX | Humanities Elective I | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective (e.g., Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA201 | Engineering Mathematics III | Core | 4 | Linear algebra and matrices, Eigenvalues and eigenvectors, Vector spaces, Numerical methods, Probability and statistics |
| CHL201 | Chemical Process Calculations | Core | 4 | Material balances without reaction, Material balances with reaction, Energy balances for processes, Recycle, bypass, and purge operations, Combustion processes, Humidity and saturation |
| CHL202 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Fluid properties, Fluid statics and manometry, Bernoulli''''s equation and applications, Flow through pipes and fittings, Pumps and compressors, Flow measurement techniques |
| CHL203 | Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics | Core | 4 | First law of thermodynamics, Second law of thermodynamics, PVT behavior of fluids, Phase equilibria, Reaction equilibria, Thermodynamic cycles |
| CHL204 | Chemical Engineering Lab I | Lab | 1.5 | Fluid flow measurements, Pump characteristics, Viscosity measurement, Orifice and Venturi meters, Drag coefficient determination |
| HSXXX | Humanities Elective II | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHL205 | Heat Transfer Operations | Core | 4 | Conduction heat transfer, Convection heat transfer, Radiation heat transfer, Heat exchangers design, Evaporators and condensers, Boiling and condensation |
| CHL206 | Mass Transfer Operations I | Core | 4 | Molecular and eddy diffusion, Interphase mass transfer, Distillation column design, Absorption operations, Stripping operations, Humidification and dehumidification |
| CHL207 | Chemical Reaction Engineering I | Core | 4 | Reaction kinetics and rate laws, Batch reactor design, Plug flow reactor design, CSTR design, Multiple reactions, Isothermal reactor analysis |
| CHL208 | Transport Phenomena | Core | 4 | Momentum transport, Energy transport, Mass transport, Shell balances, Equations of change, Boundary layer theory |
| CHL209 | Chemical Engineering Lab II | Lab | 1.5 | Heat transfer experiments, Mass transfer experiments, Fluidization studies, Filtration operations, Crystallization processes |
| HSXXX | Humanities Elective III | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHL301 | Mass Transfer Operations II | Core | 4 | Liquid-liquid extraction, Leaching processes, Adsorption and ion exchange, Drying operations, Membrane separation processes, Chromatography |
| CHL302 | Chemical Reaction Engineering II | Core | 4 | Non-ideal flow and RTD, Heterogeneous catalysis, Solid catalyzed reactions, Biochemical reactions and reactors, Non-isothermal reactor design, Residence time distribution |
| CHL303 | Process Dynamics and Control | Core | 4 | Laplace transforms, Dynamic behavior of processes, Feedback control systems, PID controllers tuning, Stability analysis of control systems, Frequency response analysis |
| CHL304 | Process Equipment Design | Core | 4 | Design of storage tanks, Heat exchangers design, Distillation column design, Pressure vessels design, Piping and instrumentation diagrams, Cost estimation of equipment |
| CHL305 | Chemical Engineering Lab III | Lab | 1.5 | Process control experiments, Reaction kinetics studies, Mass transfer equipment performance, Heat exchanger performance evaluation, Process simulation exercises |
| CHLXXX | Department Elective I | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective (e.g., Polymer Science and Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Advanced Thermodynamics) |
| CHLXXX | Open Elective I | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other departments |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHL306 | Process Modeling and Simulation | Core | 4 | Mathematical modeling of processes, Numerical methods for C.E., Process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS), Optimization techniques, Dynamic simulation, Flowsheeting |
| CHL307 | Industrial Pollution Control | Core | 4 | Air pollution control technologies, Wastewater treatment methods, Solid waste management, Hazardous waste management, Environmental regulations and standards, Green engineering principles |
| CHL308 | Process Economics and Project Management | Core | 4 | Capital cost estimation, Operating cost analysis, Profitability analysis, Project scheduling and control, Risk management, Depreciation and taxes |
| CHL309 | Chemical Engineering Lab IV | Lab | 1.5 | Simulation software applications, Pollution control experiments, Process economics case studies, Advanced unit operations, Process safety experiments |
| CHL498 | Summer Internship | Internship | 3 | Industrial exposure, Application of chemical engineering principles, Problem-solving in industrial settings, Technical report writing, Professional communication |
| CHLXXX | Department Elective II | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective |
| CHLXXX | Open Elective II | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other departments |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHL499 | B.Tech Project Part I | Project | 3 | Problem definition and scope, Literature review, Methodology development, Experimental design and planning, Preliminary results and analysis |
| CHLXXX | Department Elective III | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective |
| CHLXXX | Department Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective |
| CHLXXX | Open Elective III | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other departments |
| HSXXX | Humanities Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective |
| NCXXX | Non-Credit Course/MOOC (P/NP) | Non-Credit | 0 | Professional ethics, Soft skills development, Contemporary technologies, Entrepreneurship fundamentals, Research methodology |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHL401 | Safety in Chemical Industries | Core | 3 | Hazard identification and analysis, Risk assessment and management, Accident investigation, Safety management systems, Industrial hygiene, Emergency preparedness |
| CHL499 | B.Tech Project Part II | Project | 6 | Data analysis and interpretation, Simulation and experimental validation, Thesis writing and documentation, Presentation and defense, Prototype development, Concluding remarks and future scope |
| CHLXXX | Department Elective V | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective |
| CHLXXX | Open Elective IV | Elective | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other departments |




