.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-TECH in Vlsi Design at Mahaveer Institute of Science and Technology
Hyderabad, Telangana
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is VLSI Design at Mahaveer Institute of Science and Technology Hyderabad?
This VLSI Design program at Mahaveer Institute of Science and Technology, affiliated with JNTU Hyderabad, focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge in microelectronics, integrated circuit design, and system-on-chip architectures. It addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in India''''s booming semiconductor industry, covering design, verification, and testing of complex VLSI systems with a strong emphasis on practical skills.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for electronics and communication engineering graduates seeking to specialize in chip design. It also suits working professionals from India''''s semiconductor industry aiming to upgrade their skills in cutting-edge VLSI technologies, or career changers transitioning into the fast-paced world of integrated circuit development and embedded systems within India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect robust career paths as VLSI Design Engineers, Verification Engineers, CAD Engineers, or Application Engineers in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-8 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 15-30+ LPA. The program aligns with industry needs, fostering skills for roles in Indian and global semiconductor giants operating in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core VLSI Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a deep understanding of digital and analog CMOS fundamentals, MOS transistor operation, and basic analog circuits. Actively participate in lectures, solve problems from standard textbooks, and utilize online resources to strengthen your conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses (VLSI Design, Digital IC Design), Weste & Harris ''''CMOS VLSI Design'''', Razavi ''''Design of Analog CMOS Integrated Circuits'''', Online forums like StackExchange for clarifications
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is indispensable for excelling in technical interviews and for understanding complex design challenges in the VLSI industry.
Gain Hands-on EDA Tool Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Acquire practical experience with industry-standard Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools. Focus on schematic capture, layout design, simulation, and verification using tools commonly used in the VLSI industry during lab sessions and mini-projects.
Tools & Resources
Cadence Virtuoso, Synopsys Design Compiler, Mentor Graphics Calibre (academic licenses), Tanner EDA Tools, University''''s lab infrastructure
Career Connection
Proficiency with EDA tools is a primary requirement for almost all VLSI engineering roles, enabling direct application of knowledge in a professional setting.
Engage in Collaborative Learning and Problem Solving- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, brainstorm solutions for design challenges, and collaboratively prepare for examinations. Teaching concepts to others is an effective way to solidify your own understanding.
Tools & Resources
Whiteboards, Online collaboration platforms (Google Meet), JNTUH previous year question papers, Group assignments and projects
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills, which are highly valued by employers in the Indian semiconductor industry.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Selection and Deep Dive- (Semester 2-3)
Carefully choose program electives that align with your career aspirations and the latest industry trends, such as AI accelerators or advanced packaging. Consult with faculty for project ideas that allow for deeper exploration within your chosen specialization.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library for research papers, Industry whitepapers from companies like Intel, Qualcomm, Technical blogs and magazines
Career Connection
Developing a niche skill set through specialized electives makes you a more attractive candidate for companies seeking specific expertise, offering a competitive edge.
Undertake Practical Mini-Projects and Prototyping- (Semester 2-3)
Actively participate in the mini-project, applying theoretical knowledge to design and implement small-scale VLSI systems, FPGA-based designs, or embedded solutions. Focus on clear documentation and presentation of your work.
Tools & Resources
FPGA development boards (e.g., Xilinx Artix-7, Intel Cyclone V), Verilog/VHDL for hardware description, C/C++ for embedded programming, Simulation tools
Career Connection
Showcases your ability to translate theoretical concepts into working prototypes, a critical skill for design and verification engineers in the semiconductor industry.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 2-3)
Attend workshops, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or industry bodies. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals and alumni in the VLSI domain to gain insights and identify opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional body events (IEEE, IETE), Department''''s industry interaction cell, Alumni network events
Career Connection
This opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and a better understanding of industry expectations, which can be crucial for securing placements.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Impact Dissertation Project- (Semester 3-4)
Select a challenging and relevant dissertation topic in VLSI Design. Conduct in-depth research, implement a novel solution, or design a complex system. Emphasize clear problem definition, robust methodology, and impactful, measurable results.
Tools & Resources
Advanced EDA suites (Cadence, Synopsys), Academic journals and conferences (VLSI-DAT, DAC, ICCAD), University computing resources, Guidance from faculty advisors
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a powerful resume enhancer, demonstrating advanced research, problem-solving, independent work capabilities, and technical writing skills, vital for R&D roles.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Mock Interviews- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically prepare for campus placements by practicing aptitude tests, technical questions in VLSI, Digital Electronics, CMOS, Verilog/VHDL, and HR interview scenarios. Participate in mock interviews and group discussions to refine your communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Online aptitude platforms, GeeksforGeeks, Interviewbit, Company-specific interview guides, Career counseling services
Career Connection
Directly enhances your chances of securing job offers from leading semiconductor companies, EDA tool vendors, and R&D divisions within India.
Pursue Professional Certifications and Skill Validation- (Semester 3-4)
Consider pursuing certifications in specialized areas like FPGA design, ASIC verification, or specific EDA tools if available and recognized by the industry. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and specialized skill development.
Tools & Resources
Online learning platforms (Coursera, edX), Vendor-specific training programs (e.g., Xilinx, Cadence, Synopsys), Industry-recognized certification bodies (if applicable)
Career Connection
Professional certifications provide a competitive advantage, validate your specialized skills, and make your profile stand out to potential employers in the Indian VLSI job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. in ECE/EEE/EIE/Instrumentation/Electronics/CSE or equivalent degree, with valid GATE score or qualified in TS-PGECET conducted by TSCHE.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 68 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R22A0401PC | VLSI System Design | Core | 4 | MOS Transistor Theory, CMOS Logic Gates, VLSI Design Flow, Fabrication Technologies, Stick Diagrams and Layout, HDL for VLSI Design |
| R22A0402PC | CMOS Analog and Mixed Signal Design | Core | 4 | MOS Device Models, Current Mirrors and References, Single-Stage Amplifiers, Operational Amplifiers, Comparators and Data Converters, Noise and Mismatch |
| R22A0403PE | Digital IC Design | Program Elective-I | 3 | Combinational Logic Design, Sequential Logic Design, Dynamic Logic Circuits, Delay and Timing Analysis, Power Dissipation in Digital ICs, Low Power Design Techniques |
| R22A0406PE | Scripting Languages for VLSI | Program Elective-II | 3 | Perl/Python for VLSI, TCL Scripting Fundamentals, Data Parsing and Manipulation, EDA Tool Automation, Testbench Generation, Version Control for Scripts |
| R22A0408PC | VLSI System Design Lab | Lab | 2 | CMOS Inverter Characteristics, Combinational Logic Implementation, Sequential Circuit Design, Layout Design using EDA Tools, SPICE Simulations, FPGA Prototyping Basics |
| R22A0001AC | Research Methodology and IPR | Audit Course-I | 0 | Research Problem Formulation, Research Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Patent Filing and Infringement, Academic Writing and Ethics |
| R22A0002AC | English for Research Paper Writing | Audit Course-II | 0 | Planning a Research Paper, Effective Abstract Writing, Introduction and Literature Review, Methodology and Results, Discussion and Conclusion, Citations and References |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R22A0409PC | Low Power VLSI Design | Core | 4 | Sources of Power Dissipation, Static and Dynamic Power, Power Estimation Techniques, Voltage and Frequency Scaling, Adiabatic Switching Circuits, Low Power Architectures |
| R22A0410PC | CMOS Digital IC Design | Core | 4 | CMOS Inverter Characteristics, Static and Dynamic CMOS Logic, Interconnects and Device Sizing, Clocking Strategies, Memory Circuits (SRAM/DRAM), Design for Manufacturability (DFM) |
| R22A0414PE | System on Chip Architecture | Program Elective-III | 3 | SoC Design Methodologies, Processor Cores and DSPs, Bus Architectures (AMBA, OCP), Memory Subsystems, IP Core Integration, Hardware-Software Co-design |
| R22A0520PE | Internet of Things | Program Elective-IV | 3 | IoT Architecture and Protocols, Sensors, Actuators, and Gateways, Communication Technologies (Zigbee, LoRa, Wi-Fi), Cloud Platforms for IoT, IoT Data Analytics, Security and Privacy in IoT |
| R22A0417PC | Advanced VLSI System Design Lab | Lab | 2 | Advanced CMOS Layout Design, Mixed-Signal Circuit Simulation, Design for Testability (DFT) techniques, FPGA Based System Prototyping, Physical Design Flow (Synthesis, P&R), ASIC Design Flow Experience |
| R22A0418PC | Mini Project with Seminar | Mini Project | 2 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Design and Implementation, Testing and Verification, Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
| R22A0005AC | Value Education | Audit Course-III | 0 | Ethics and Human Values, Moral Development Theories, Professional Ethics, Environmental Ethics, Cultural Values, Social Responsibility |
| R22A0008AC | Personality Development through Yoga and Meditation | Audit Course-IV | 0 | Introduction to Yoga, Asanas and Pranayama, Meditation Techniques, Stress Management, Concentration and Memory, Holistic Well-being |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R22A0420PE | Embedded Systems | Program Elective-V | 3 | Microcontrollers and Processors, Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS), Device Drivers, Interrupts and Timers, Communication Protocols (I2C, SPI, UART), Embedded C Programming |
| R22A0521OE | Cyber Security | Open Elective | 3 | Fundamentals of Cryptography, Network Security Protocols, Web Application Security, Malware and Vulnerabilities, Cyber Laws and Forensics, Security Best Practices |
| R22A0424PJ | Dissertation Part-I / Project Work | Project | 10 | Problem Definition, Literature Survey, Methodology and Design, Preliminary Implementation, Intermediate Report Preparation, Presentation and Defense |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| R22A0425PJ | Dissertation Part-II / Project Work | Project | 12 | Advanced Implementation and Testing, Performance Analysis and Optimization, Results and Discussion, Final Thesis/Report Writing, Pre-Submission Seminar, Viva-Voce Examination |
