M-TECH in Embedded Control Automation at Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Udupi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Embedded Control & Automation at Manipal Academy of Higher Education Udupi?
This Embedded Control & Automation program at Manipal Academy of Higher Education focuses on integrating advanced embedded systems with sophisticated control and automation techniques. It addresses the growing need in India for professionals who can design, implement, and manage intelligent systems across diverse industries. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications crucial for real-world industrial challenges and technological advancements.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates with a background in Electronics, Electrical, Instrumentation, Mechatronics, or Computer Science seeking to specialize in cutting-edge control and automation technologies. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill for roles in industrial automation, IoT, robotics, and smart manufacturing. Career changers looking to transition into the high-demand fields of embedded systems and industrial control will find this specialization highly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue lucrative career paths in India as Embedded Software Engineers, Control System Designers, Automation Engineers, Robotics Engineers, or IoT Solution Architects. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 15-30+ LPA in top Indian and multinational companies. The program prepares students for roles in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, process industries, and smart infrastructure development, aligning with certifications like Certified Automation Professional.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Technical Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Focus intensively on understanding the core concepts of advanced embedded systems, digital system design, and control theory. Regularly practice problem-solving, circuit design, and programming using microcontrollers and FPGAs.
Tools & Resources
Proteus, Keil MDK, Vivado/Quartus, MATLAB/Simulink, NPTEL courses
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is crucial for technical interviews and provides the base for developing complex systems in future projects and roles.
Develop Hands-on Lab Skills- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in all lab sessions, striving to go beyond basic exercises. Experiment with different hardware components, troubleshoot circuits, and refine programming skills by implementing varied control algorithms and embedded applications.
Tools & Resources
Arduino/Raspberry Pi kits, Sensor modules, Oscilloscope, Function generator, Soldering station
Career Connection
Practical experience is highly valued by recruiters; proficiency in lab skills translates directly to ability in industrial design and development roles.
Engage in Peer Learning and Technical Clubs- (Semester 1)
Form study groups with peers to discuss challenging topics, share knowledge, and collaborate on small projects. Join university technical clubs focused on robotics, electronics, or automation to build a network and gain exposure to advanced projects.
Tools & Resources
Discord/WhatsApp groups, University''''s robotics club, ISTE/IEEE student chapters
Career Connection
Enhances communication skills, fosters teamwork, and provides opportunities for early project involvement, which are key for professional success and networking.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Industry-Relevant Mini-Projects- (Semester 2-3)
Apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems by working on mini-projects, perhaps in collaboration with local industries or as part of a faculty-mentored initiative. Focus on advanced process control, industrial instrumentation, or robotics applications.
Tools & Resources
PLCs, SCADA software, Industrial communication protocols, Rockwell Arena, Siemens TIA Portal
Career Connection
Demonstrates problem-solving abilities and practical implementation skills, making candidates highly attractive for internships and placements in automation firms.
Attend Workshops and Industrial Visits- (Semester 2-3)
Seek out and participate in workshops on emerging technologies like IoT, AI in automation, or advanced robotics. Arrange or join industrial visits to manufacturing plants, process industries, or R&D centers to understand real-world automation deployments.
Tools & Resources
Industry conferences, Technical symposiums, MAHE''''s industry liaison office
Career Connection
Provides critical exposure to industry practices, current trends, and potential employers, enhancing career readiness and networking opportunities.
Prepare for GATE/NET/Industry Certifications- (Semester 2-3)
If aiming for public sector jobs or further research, begin focused preparation for GATE. Alternatively, pursue industry certifications relevant to embedded systems or automation, such as Certified Automation Professional CAP or vendor-specific PLC certifications.
Tools & Resources
GATE coaching materials, NPTEL courses, Official certification guides from ISA, Siemens, Rockwell
Career Connection
Enhances competitive edge for higher studies, government jobs, or specialized roles in the private sector.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Impact Master''''s Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a research-oriented or industry-sponsored project that addresses a significant problem in embedded control or automation. Aim for innovation, rigorous methodology, and potential for publication in reputed conferences or journals.
Tools & Resources
Advanced simulation software, Specialized hardware, Departmental labs, IEEE Xplore, Scopus
Career Connection
A strong project is a powerful resume booster, showcasing advanced skills, research capabilities, and problem-solving prowess, highly valued by R&D departments and for doctoral studies.
Network Strategically and Attend Placement Drives- (Semester 4)
Actively network with alumni, industry professionals, and faculty members to explore job opportunities. Attend all placement drives, prepare a tailored resume highlighting project work and skills, and practice technical and HR interviews.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, MAHE''''s career services office, Alumni network, Mock interview platforms
Career Connection
Maximizes chances of securing desirable placements in core companies, MNCs, and startups specializing in embedded systems and automation.
Develop Professional Communication & Documentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Focus on refining technical writing for thesis, project reports, and research papers. Practice presenting complex technical information clearly and concisely, essential for both academic and industrial settings.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, LaTeX, Presentation software, University writing center, Peer feedback
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are critical for collaborating in teams, explaining solutions to clients, and advancing into leadership roles in any engineering field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed B.E. / B.Tech. in Electronics & Communication Engineering / Electrical & Electronics Engineering / Electronics & Instrumentation Engineering / Mechatronics Engineering / Instrumentation & Control Engineering / Computer Science & Engineering / Information Technology or M.Sc. in Physics / Electronics / Instrumentation or equivalent degree with minimum 50% aggregate marks. Candidates must also apply for MAHE OET / GATE.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTC 5001 | Digital System Design using HDL | Core | 4 | HDL fundamentals, Verilog/VHDL, Combinational logic design, Sequential logic design, Finite State Machines, FPGA architecture and design |
| MTC 5002 | Advanced Control Systems | Core | 4 | State-space analysis, Optimal control theory, Robust control methods, Adaptive control systems, Non-linear control systems, Stability analysis techniques |
| MTC 5003 | Advanced Embedded Systems | Core | 4 | Embedded processors and microcontrollers, ARM architecture, Real-Time Operating Systems RTOS, Embedded C programming, Device drivers development, Embedded networking and IoT |
| MTE 5XXX | Elective I | Elective | 3 | Specialized concepts in chosen field, Advanced theory and applications, Emerging trends and technologies, Design and implementation challenges, Case studies and projects |
| MTL 5001 | Digital System Design using HDL Lab | Lab | 1 | HDL programming and simulation, FPGA implementation and verification, Timing analysis and optimization, Design of complex digital circuits, Debugging and testing HDL code |
| MTL 5002 | Advanced Embedded Systems Lab | Lab | 1 | RTOS implementation and task management, Embedded C programming for peripherals, Sensor and actuator interfacing, Communication protocols implementation, Debugging embedded software |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTC 5004 | Advanced Digital Signal Processing | Core | 4 | Discrete-time signals and systems, Z-transform and its applications, Digital filter design FIR/IIR, Fast Fourier Transform FFT, Adaptive filters and multi-rate DSP |
| MTC 5005 | Advanced Process Control | Core | 4 | Process modeling and identification, PID control tuning techniques, Advanced control strategies, Multivariable control systems, Distributed Control Systems DCS |
| MTC 5006 | Industrial Instrumentation | Core | 4 | Industrial sensors and transducers, Signal conditioning and data acquisition, Smart sensors and their applications, Industrial communication protocols, Calibration and error analysis |
| MTE 5XXX | Elective II | Elective | 3 | Specialized concepts in chosen field, Advanced theory and applications, Emerging trends and technologies, Design and implementation challenges, Case studies and projects |
| MTL 5003 | Advanced Process Control Lab | Lab | 1 | PID controller implementation and tuning, DCS simulation and configuration, Process control loop analysis, Advanced control strategies implementation, Real-time process monitoring |
| MTL 5004 | Industrial Instrumentation Lab | Lab | 1 | Sensor calibration and characterization, Signal conditioning circuit design, Data acquisition system setup, Industrial network configuration, Troubleshooting instrumentation systems |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTC 6001 | Advanced Robotics and Automation | Core | 4 | Robot kinematics and dynamics, Robot control architectures, Motion planning and navigation, Industrial automation principles, Programmable Logic Controllers PLCs, SCADA systems and HMI |
| MTE 6XXX | Elective III | Elective | 3 | Specialized concepts in chosen field, Advanced theory and applications, Emerging trends and technologies, Design and implementation challenges, Case studies and projects |
| MTP 6001 | Project Work – I | Project | 8 | Problem identification and definition, Literature review and research gaps, Methodology design and planning, Preliminary implementation and results, Technical report writing, Presentation and defense of work |
| MTC 6002 | Technical Seminar | Seminar | 1 | Research topic selection, Literature survey and critical analysis, Technical presentation skills, Scientific communication, Peer review and feedback |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTP 6002 | Project Work – II | Project | 16 | Advanced implementation and experimentation, Data analysis and interpretation, Validation and performance evaluation, Thesis writing and documentation, Publication preparation, Final project defense |