

M-TECH in Manufacturing Engineering at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal


Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Manufacturing Engineering at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal Dakshina Kannada?
This Manufacturing Engineering program at NITK Mangaluru focuses on advanced production technologies, intelligent systems, and sustainable practices. It addresses the growing need for skilled professionals in India''''s rapidly expanding manufacturing sector, covering automation, quality, and supply chain. The curriculum integrates traditional and modern approaches, preparing students for innovative roles in industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for mechanical, production, industrial, and related engineering graduates seeking to specialize in advanced manufacturing. It suits fresh graduates aspiring for R&D or production management roles, and working professionals aiming to upskill in areas like automation, smart manufacturing, or lean production, enhancing their career trajectory in core industries.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and defense sectors in India. Potential roles include Manufacturing Engineer, Process Design Engineer, Quality Manager, and Supply Chain Analyst. Starting salaries typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, with significant growth potential, aligning with industry demand for expertise in advanced production systems.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Manufacturing Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand the fundamentals of Advanced Manufacturing Processes, Materials, and Metrology. Utilize textbooks, online courses (e.g., NPTEL lectures), and lab sessions diligently. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, ensuring a strong conceptual base.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Manufacturing, Lab equipment operation manuals, Reference textbooks
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for excelling in technical interviews and contributes directly to solving real-world production challenges in future roles like Process Engineer or Quality Analyst.
Develop Hands-on CAD/CAM and Metrology Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in Manufacturing Engineering Lab I and II, focusing on practical application of CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, Mastercam) and precision measurement tools. Seek opportunities for extra practice beyond prescribed lab hours and consider certifications in relevant software.
Tools & Resources
CAD/CAM software licenses (SolidWorks, CATIA), CNC machine simulators, Metrology lab instruments
Career Connection
Proficiency in CAD/CAM and metrology is highly valued by Indian manufacturing companies for roles in design, quality control, and production planning, directly improving employability.
Explore Research Areas via Seminars and Electives- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize the ''''Seminar'''' course in Semester 2 to explore emerging research areas in manufacturing like Additive Manufacturing, Smart Manufacturing, or Sustainable Production. Select electives strategically based on interest areas for Project Work Phase I, and network with faculty for potential guidance.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Scopus, NITK Central Library resources, Departmental research groups
Career Connection
Early identification of research interests can lead to strong project work, potentially publication, and better preparation for R&D roles or further doctoral studies in India or abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Industrial Internships- (Semester 3)
Actively seek and complete an industrial internship (MEME 702) in a reputable manufacturing company or R&D center. Focus on gaining practical exposure to production lines, quality assurance, supply chain logistics, or automation systems. Document learning thoroughly for the internship report.
Tools & Resources
NITK Training & Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Industry contacts
Career Connection
Internships are critical for networking, understanding industry dynamics, and securing pre-placement offers (PPOs) from top Indian companies, enhancing placement prospects significantly.
Specialize through Electives and Project Work- (Semester 3)
Select Elective V and VI strategically to build expertise in a niche area like Digital Manufacturing, Robotics, or Supply Chain Analytics. Align Project Work Phase I (MEME 701) with these specialized areas to develop in-depth knowledge and problem-solving skills, collaborating with faculty mentors.
Tools & Resources
Specialized software (e.g., for simulation, data analytics), Journal articles on chosen specialization
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more targeted and valuable candidate for specific roles in advanced manufacturing, such as Robotics Engineer or Lean Manufacturing Specialist, increasing career competitiveness.
Participate in Manufacturing Competitions and Workshops- (Semester 3)
Join relevant student chapters (e.g., ASME, SAE) and participate in national-level technical competitions (e.g., hackathons, design challenges) focused on manufacturing innovation. Attend workshops on emerging technologies like Industry 4.0 or Additive Manufacturing to broaden practical skills and network.
Tools & Resources
NITK technical clubs, Industry conferences, Online certification platforms
Career Connection
These activities build a strong resume, demonstrate practical skills and teamwork, and expose students to potential employers and mentors, critical for securing roles in innovative manufacturing firms.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Impact Master''''s Thesis (Project Work Phase II)- (Semester 4)
Dedicate full effort to Project Work Phase II (MEME 703), aiming for a novel contribution or a strong industry-relevant solution. Focus on rigorous experimentation, data analysis, and clear thesis writing. Prepare meticulously for the final defense, showcasing your research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Simulation software, Statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, R)
Career Connection
A well-executed thesis can significantly boost career prospects, serving as a powerful portfolio piece for R&D positions, academic careers, or even entrepreneurship in India''''s technology landscape.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Networking- (Semester 4)
Begin intensive preparation for placements well in advance. Practice aptitude tests, technical interviews (focusing on core and specialized subjects), and group discussions. Network with alumni and industry professionals through LinkedIn and college events to explore job opportunities and gain insights.
Tools & Resources
Placement Cell resources, Online aptitude platforms, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Proactive and thorough placement preparation is essential to secure desirable job offers from top manufacturing companies, consultancies, or PSUs in India upon graduation.
Develop Leadership and Project Management Skills- (Semester 4)
Take on leadership roles in project teams or departmental activities. Focus on improving communication, problem-solving, and project management skills, which are crucial for senior engineering and managerial roles. Consider short courses or workshops on project management methodologies.
Tools & Resources
Project management tools (e.g., Trello, Asana), Leadership development workshops
Career Connection
Beyond technical expertise, strong leadership and project management capabilities are highly sought after for career progression into managerial positions within the Indian manufacturing industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must have passed B.E./B.Tech. in Mechanical, Production, Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Automobile, Marine Engineering from a recognized University/Institution with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks (6.5/10 CGPA) or 55% aggregate marks (6.0/10 CGPA) for SC/ST/PwD candidates. GATE qualification is generally mandatory.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 76 Credits
Assessment: Internal: As per institutional academic regulations, External: As per institutional academic regulations
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEME 601 | Manufacturing Metrology and Quality Engineering | Core | 4 | Metrology Concepts, Measurement Principles, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, Statistical Quality Control, Reliability Engineering |
| MEME 602 | Advanced Materials Engineering | Core | 4 | Engineering Materials, Phase Transformations, Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Alloys, Composite Materials, Smart Materials |
| MEME 603 | Advanced Manufacturing Processes | Core | 4 | Advanced Machining Processes, Abrasive Machining, Non-conventional Machining, Forming and Joining Processes, Additive Manufacturing |
| MEME 604 | Manufacturing Engineering Lab I | Lab | 2 | Metrology Experiments, Material Testing, Machine Tool Operations, Non-Conventional Machining Practice, CAD/CAM exercises |
| MEEX XXX | CAD/CAM | Elective | 3 | Geometric Modeling, Solid Modeling, CAD Software, CNC Programming, CAM Applications |
| MEEX XXX | Design for Manufacturing and Assembly | Elective | 3 | DFM Principles, Design for Assembly, Material Selection for DFM, Process Selection, Tolerance Analysis |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEME 605 | Computer Integrated Manufacturing | Core | 4 | CIM Concepts, Automation Technologies, CAD/CAM Integration, CNC Machines, Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS) |
| MEME 606 | Product Design, Development & Management | Core | 4 | Product Design Process, Design Thinking, Material Selection, Prototyping, Product Lifecycle Management |
| MEME 607 | Operations Research & Supply Chain Management | Core | 4 | Linear Programming, Queuing Theory, Inventory Management, Logistics Optimization, Supply Chain Strategies |
| MEME 608 | Manufacturing Engineering Lab II | Lab | 2 | CAD/CAM Software Practice, CNC Programming, Robot Programming, FMS Simulation, Ergonomics Study |
| MEEX XXX | CIM and Automation | Elective | 3 | Automation Principles, Robotics in Manufacturing, Control Systems, Automated Material Handling, Data Acquisition in Manufacturing |
| MEEX XXX | Robotics | Elective | 3 | Robot Kinematics, Robot Dynamics, Robot Control, Robot Programming, Industrial Applications of Robotics |
| MEME 609 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Literature Review, Research Methodology, Domain Specific Topic |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEME 701 | Project Work Phase I | Project | 8 | Problem Identification, Literature Survey, Project Planning, Methodology Development, Preliminary Design/Analysis |
| MEEX XXX | Supply Chain Management | Elective | 3 | Supply Chain Design, Demand Forecasting, Logistics Network Design, Supply Chain Risk Management, Green Supply Chain |
| MEEX XXX | Digital Manufacturing | Elective | 3 | Industry 4.0, Smart Factories, Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data Analytics in Manufacturing, Cyber Physical Systems |
| MEME 702 | Internship | Internship | 2 | Industry Exposure, Practical Application, Report Writing, Presentation, Professional Ethics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEME 703 | Project Work Phase II | Project | 12 | Experimental Work/Simulation, Data Analysis, Results Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Project Defense |




