

B-TECH in Metallurgical Materials Engineering at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal


Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Metallurgical & Materials Engineering at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal Dakshina Kannada?
This Metallurgical & Materials Engineering program at NITK, Mangaluru, focuses on the science and engineering of all classes of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. It delves into their extraction, processing, properties, and applications, crucial for India''''s growing manufacturing, aerospace, and energy sectors. The program is distinguished by its blend of fundamental science and practical engineering, addressing critical industrial demand for advanced materials.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with a strong aptitude for physics, chemistry, and mathematics, seeking entry into core engineering disciplines. It also caters to individuals passionate about developing advanced materials for diverse applications, from consumer goods to strategic defense. Aspiring researchers, innovators, and those looking to contribute to India''''s self-reliance in materials technology will find this curriculum highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in PSUs like SAIL, DRDO, ISRO, and private firms such as Tata Steel, JSW Steel, and materials R&D centers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 5-8 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 15-25 lakhs. Growth trajectories involve specialization in areas like additive manufacturing, biomaterials, or corrosion engineering, aligning with national industrial certifications.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on core engineering subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Programming. Utilize online platforms such as NPTEL and Khan Academy for supplementary learning and practice problems regularly. This strong foundation is essential for understanding advanced material science concepts and excelling in competitive exams like GATE.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Problem-solving textbooks
Career Connection
A solid grasp of fundamentals is critical for cracking technical interviews and for building innovative solutions in future engineering roles.
Develop Programming and CAD Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in programming labs and develop proficiency in languages like C/C++ or Python, which are increasingly important for materials simulation. Simultaneously, acquire basic skills in CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks from campus workshops or online tutorials. This dual skill set enhances problem-solving and design capabilities.
Tools & Resources
GeeksforGeeks, HackerRank, AutoCAD/SolidWorks tutorials
Career Connection
These skills are highly sought after for R&D roles, material design, and process optimization in modern industries.
Participate in Interdisciplinary Projects- (Semester 1-2)
Seek opportunities to join small interdisciplinary projects, even non-credit ones, with peers from other engineering branches. This fosters teamwork, broadens perspective, and helps apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. NITK provides ample opportunities for such collaborative learning through student clubs and faculty initiatives.
Tools & Resources
Student technical clubs, Departmental project forums
Career Connection
Early exposure to collaborative problem-solving builds crucial team skills, highly valued in Indian industries, and enhances networking.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Departmental Research & Labs- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively participate in departmental research activities, assisting faculty or senior students in their lab work. Spend extra hours in the Metallurgical and Materials Engineering labs to gain hands-on experience with equipment like microscopes, testing machines, and furnaces. This practical exposure reinforces theoretical understanding.
Tools & Resources
Departmental labs, Faculty research projects, Journals for literature review
Career Connection
Hands-on experience with material characterization and processing equipment is a major advantage for core sector placements and higher studies.
Pursue Internships and Industrial Training- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek internships during summer breaks at companies like Tata Steel, JSW, or any manufacturing unit in India. Even short-term industrial training provides invaluable exposure to real-world material challenges and industrial processes. Leverage NITK''''s strong industry connections for these opportunities.
Tools & Resources
NITK Placement Cell, Internshala, Company career portals
Career Connection
Internships bridge the gap between academia and industry, often leading to pre-placement offers and providing a competitive edge in job markets.
Develop Specialization through Electives and Courses- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully select program electives that align with your career interests, whether it''''s ceramics, polymers, or advanced metals. Consider taking online certification courses in specific areas like NDT, corrosion control, or additive manufacturing from platforms like Coursera or edX to gain a specialized edge.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NPTEL advanced courses
Career Connection
Specialized skills make you a niche candidate for specific roles in R&D or advanced manufacturing industries in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Major Project- (Semester 6-8)
Choose a challenging major project that involves design, experimentation, and analysis, ideally addressing a current industrial problem or research gap. Work diligently with your faculty mentor, focusing on robust methodology, data interpretation, and high-quality report writing. Aim for publications if possible.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Simulation software (ANSYS, COMSOL), Research papers
Career Connection
A strong project showcases your problem-solving abilities, research aptitude, and technical depth, significantly boosting placement and higher education prospects.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 6-8)
Start preparing for campus placements by honing your communication, aptitude, and technical interview skills. Practice mock interviews and group discussions. For those aiming for M.Tech or PhD, focus on GATE preparation or GRE/TOEFL for international universities. Utilize NITK''''s career guidance services.
Tools & Resources
NITK Career Development Center, GATE coaching materials, Interview preparation guides
Career Connection
Effective preparation is key to securing desired job roles in leading Indian companies or gaining admission to prestigious graduate programs.
Network and Engage Professionally- (Semester 6-8)
Attend national and international conferences, workshops, and webinars related to metallurgical and materials engineering. Network with industry professionals, researchers, and alumni. Join professional bodies like the Indian Institute of Metals (IIM) to stay updated on industry trends and career opportunities. This expands your professional circle.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences (e.g., IIM-ATM), Alumni networks
Career Connection
Building a strong professional network provides mentorship opportunities, job leads, and insights into industry advancements, crucial for long-term career growth in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 149 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA111 | Engineering Mathematics - I | Core | 3 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Partial Differentiation, Multiple Integrals, Vector Calculus |
| PH110 | Engineering Physics | Core | 3 | Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Lasers and Optics, Electromagnetism, Nanomaterials |
| ME110 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 3 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Development of Surfaces, CAD Tools Introduction |
| CS110 | Problem Solving and Programming | Core | 3 | Programming Fundamentals, Control Structures, Functions and Arrays, Pointers and Strings, File I/O |
| PH111 | Engineering Physics Lab | Lab | 1 | Experiments on Optics, Experiments on Electricity, Semiconductor Devices, Magnetic Properties, Error Analysis |
| CS111 | Problem Solving and Programming Lab | Lab | 1 | C Programming Exercises, Conditional Statements, Loops and Functions, Array and String Manipulation, File Handling |
| WS111 | Workshop | Lab | 1 | Fitting Shop, Carpentry Shop, Foundry Shop, Welding Shop, Machine Shop Operations |
| GE110 | General Engineering | Audit | 0 | Interdisciplinary Engineering Concepts, Societal Impact of Engineering, Ethics in Engineering, Sustainable Development, Professional Practices |
| UC110 | Universal Human Values | Audit | 0 | Self-Exploration as the Process for Value Education, Basic Human Aspirations, Harmony in the Family, Harmony in the Society, Harmony in Nature |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA112 | Engineering Mathematics - II | Core | 3 | Linear Algebra, Ordinary Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series, Numerical Methods |
| CY110 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Water Treatment, Corrosion and its Control, Electrochemistry, Materials Chemistry, Spectroscopic Techniques |
| EE110 | Elements of Electrical Engineering | Core | 3 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Transformers, DC Machines, AC Machines |
| EC110 | Elements of Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | Semiconductor Diodes, Transistors (BJT, FET), Operational Amplifiers, Digital Logic Gates, Communication Systems Basics |
| CY111 | Engineering Chemistry Lab | Lab | 1 | Water Analysis, Volumetric Titrations, Colorimetry, Potentiometry, Conductometry |
| EE111 | Elements of Electrical Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Verification of Circuit Laws, Measurement of Electrical Quantities, Characteristics of DC Machines, Transformer Tests, AC Circuit Analysis |
| EC111 | Elements of Electronics Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Diode Characteristics, Transistor Amplifier Circuits, Op-Amp Applications, Logic Gate Experiments, Oscillators |
| UC111 | Environmental Studies | Audit | 0 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Pollution Control, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Ethics, Sustainable Development Goals |
| UC112 | Yoga & Sports | Audit | 0 | Fundamentals of Yoga, Asanas and Pranayama, Benefits of Sports, Physical Fitness, Wellness Practices |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA207 | Engineering Mathematics - III | Core | 3 | Complex Analysis, Probability and Statistics, Random Variables, Sampling Distributions, Regression Analysis |
| MM201 | Introduction to Materials Science and Engineering | Core | 3 | Atomic Structure and Bonding, Crystal Structures, Imperfections in Solids, Diffusion in Materials, Mechanical Properties of Materials |
| MM202 | Physical Metallurgy | Core | 3 | Phase Diagrams, Solidification Principles, Diffusion in Metals, Deformation Mechanisms, Recrystallization and Grain Growth |
| MM203 | Thermodynamics of Materials | Core | 3 | Laws of Thermodynamics, Free Energy and Chemical Potential, Phase Equilibria, Solutions and Electrochemistry, Reaction Kinetics |
| MM204 | Material Characterization Techniques | Core | 3 | X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Optical Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Spectroscopic Techniques (EDS, XPS) |
| MM205 | Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Lab - I | Lab | 1 | Microstructure Examination, Hardness Testing, Tensile Testing, Impact Testing, Heat Treatment Effects |
| HS200 | Basic English | Core | 2 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Listening Skills, Spoken English |
| GE200 | General Engineering | Audit | 0 | Engineering Design Principles, Project Management Basics, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Engineering, Safety in Engineering |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM251 | Manufacturing Processes | Core | 3 | Casting Processes, Forming Processes (Rolling, Forging), Welding and Joining, Machining Processes, Powder Metallurgy |
| MM252 | Principles of Extractive Metallurgy | Core | 3 | Mineral Processing, Pyrometallurgy, Hydrometallurgy, Electrometallurgy, Extraction of Specific Metals |
| MM253 | Mechanical Behavior of Materials | Core | 3 | Stress-Strain Relationships, Elastic and Plastic Deformation, Fracture Mechanics, Fatigue and Creep, Toughness and Hardness |
| MM254 | Phase Transformation and Heat Treatment | Core | 3 | Nucleation and Growth, Diffusion-Controlled Transformations, Martensitic Transformations, Iron-Carbon System Transformations, Heat Treatment Processes |
| MM255 | Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer | Core | 3 | Fluid Properties and Statics, Fluid Dynamics, Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer |
| MM256 | Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Lab - II | Lab | 1 | Metallography of Ferrous Alloys, Metallography of Non-Ferrous Alloys, Phase Transformation Studies, Heat Treatment Experiments, Casting Defects Analysis |
| HS250 | Professional Communication | Core | 2 | Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion, Interview Skills, Business Correspondence |
| GE250 | General Engineering | Audit | 0 | Project Planning and Execution, Quality Control Basics, Intellectual Property Rights, Professional Ethics Case Studies, Societal Responsibility |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM301 | Foundry Technology | Core | 3 | Moulding and Core Making, Melting Furnaces, Solidification of Castings, Casting Defects, Special Casting Processes |
| MM302 | Powder Metallurgy | Core | 3 | Powder Production, Powder Characterization, Compaction Processes, Sintering Theory and Practice, P/M Products and Applications |
| MM303 | Materials Joining | Core | 3 | Fusion Welding Processes, Solid-State Welding, Brazing and Soldering, Adhesive Bonding, Welding Metallurgy and Defects |
| MM304 | Corrosion Engineering | Core | 3 | Electrochemistry of Corrosion, Forms of Corrosion, Corrosion Testing, Corrosion Control Methods, Corrosion in Specific Environments |
| MM305 | Nondestructive Testing | Core | 3 | Visual Inspection, Liquid Penetrant Testing, Magnetic Particle Testing, Ultrasonic Testing, Radiography Testing |
| MM306 | Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Lab - III | Lab | 1 | Foundry Experiments, Welding Procedure Qualification, Corrosion Rate Measurement, Non-Destructive Testing Applications, Powder Compaction Studies |
| MM307 | Professional Practice | Core | 2 | Engineering Ethics, Teamwork and Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Professional Societies, Career Planning |
| OE | Open Elective I | Open Elective | 3 | Topics from other engineering disciplines |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM351 | Materials Design and Selection | Core | 3 | Design Process, Material Selection Criteria, Material Property Charts, Case Studies in Material Selection, Economic and Environmental Factors |
| MM352 | Surface Engineering | Core | 3 | Surface Modification Techniques, Thin Film Deposition, Thermal Spraying, Laser Surface Treatment, Characterization of Surfaces |
| MM353 | Composites and Smart Materials | Core | 3 | Types of Composites, Manufacturing of Composites, Mechanical Behavior of Composites, Shape Memory Alloys, Piezoelectric Materials |
| PE | Program Elective I | Program Elective | 3 | Specialized topics in Metallurgical & Materials Engineering |
| PE | Program Elective II | Program Elective | 3 | Advanced topics in Metallurgical & Materials Engineering |
| MM354 | Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Lab - IV | Lab | 1 | Surface Coating Evaluation, Composite Material Testing, Advanced Microscopy, Material Failure Analysis, Computational Materials Science Applications |
| MM355 | Materials Simulation and Characterization Lab | Lab | 1 | Thermodynamic Simulations, Phase Field Modeling, Molecular Dynamics, Material Property Prediction, Data Analysis of Experimental Results |
| OE | Open Elective II | Open Elective | 3 | Topics from other engineering disciplines or humanities |
| MM356 | Minor Project | Project | 2 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Experimental Design, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM401 | Failure Analysis | Core | 3 | Modes of Failure, Fractography, Microscopic Analysis of Failures, Case Studies of Industrial Failures, Preventive Measures |
| MM402 | Green and Sustainable Materials | Core | 3 | Life Cycle Assessment, Eco-Friendly Materials, Recycling and Reusing Materials, Biodegradable Materials, Sustainable Manufacturing |
| PE | Program Elective III | Program Elective | 3 | Advanced specialized topic in materials engineering |
| PE | Program Elective IV | Program Elective | 3 | Further advanced topics in metallurgy |
| OE | Open Elective III | Open Elective | 3 | Diverse topics from interdisciplinary fields |
| MM403 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Core | 1 | Overall Subject Knowledge, Problem-Solving Abilities, Communication Skills, Technical Concepts, Industry Relevance |
| MM404 | Major Project Phase - I | Project | 6 | Project Proposal Development, Extensive Literature Survey, Methodology Planning, Preliminary Data Collection, Progress Reporting |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PE | Program Elective V | Program Elective | 3 | Highly specialized topic in a chosen sub-field |
| OE | Open Elective IV | Open Elective | 3 | Advanced topics in management, entrepreneurship, or technology |
| MM451 | Major Project Phase - II | Project | 10 | Experimental Work/Simulation, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Results and Discussion, Conclusion and Future Scope, Thesis Writing and Defense |
| MM452 | Internship / Industrial Training | Practical | 2 | Practical Industry Experience, Application of Theoretical Knowledge, Problem Solving in Industry, Professional Networking, Industrial Report Submission |




