

M-TECH in Power Electronics And Control For Electric Vehicle at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal


Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Power Electronics and Control for Electric Vehicle at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal Dakshina Kannada?
This M.Tech Power Electronics and Control program at National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Mangaluru focuses on advanced power electronic converter topologies, sophisticated control strategies, and their applications in modern electrical systems. It is particularly relevant given India''''s push towards electric mobility and sustainable energy solutions. The program differentiates itself by integrating theoretical depth with practical application, addressing the growing industry demand for specialists in power conversion, motor drives, and energy management within the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for electrical and electronics engineering graduates seeking entry into the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) sector, renewable energy, or industrial automation. It also suits working professionals looking to upskill in power electronics, battery management, or control systems. Career changers transitioning into the green technology space, especially those with a strong engineering background, will find this specialization beneficial. Prerequisites include a B.E./B.Tech in a related field with strong fundamentals in circuit theory and control.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in India, including roles as EV powertrain engineers, power electronics designers, battery management system developers, or renewable energy integration specialists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 15-30 LPA or more in leading Indian and multinational companies. The program prepares students for roles in R&D, manufacturing, and consultancy, aligning with certifications in areas like electric vehicle technology and advanced control.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Core Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Focus intensely on core subjects like Advanced Power Electronic Converters and Advanced Control Systems. Understand the theoretical underpinnings thoroughly as they form the bedrock for specialized EV topics. Actively participate in problem-solving sessions and tutorials to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on power electronics and control, Textbook problems, MATLAB/Simulink for basic simulations
Career Connection
A robust understanding of fundamentals is critical for designing efficient EV powertrains and reliable control systems, key skills sought by employers like Tata Elxsi and Bosch India for entry-level roles.
Master Simulation Tools Early- (Semester 1)
Become proficient in power electronics simulation tools like PSPICE, PSIM, and MATLAB/Simulink by actively engaging in laboratory sessions (e.g., Power Electronic System Laboratory) and trying extra simulations. This practical skill is invaluable for design and testing phases.
Tools & Resources
PSPICE, PSIM, MATLAB/Simulink tutorials, University lab resources
Career Connection
Simulation expertise accelerates design cycles in EV manufacturing and R&D, making graduates highly valuable to companies developing new power electronics solutions and prototyping new designs.
Initiate Research Exploration- (Semester 1)
Utilize the Research Methodology & IPR course to start exploring potential project topics related to electric vehicles or renewable energy. Read research papers, identify existing gaps, and brainstorm innovative solutions. This early start aids in defining the M.Tech project effectively.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Google Scholar, NITK library resources
Career Connection
Early research exposure fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students for R&D roles in companies like General Electric (India) or various research institutions.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in EV Technologies- (Semester 2)
Deep dive into the ''''Electric and Hybrid Vehicles'''' elective. Complement coursework by researching the latest EV components, battery technologies, and charging infrastructure developments. Aim for a mini-project or paper submission to demonstrate focused expertise.
Tools & Resources
Automotive journals, EV industry reports, Coursera/edX courses on EV technology
Career Connection
This direct specialization makes you a prime candidate for EV-specific roles at companies like Ather Energy, Ola Electric, or startups within the dynamic Indian EV ecosystem, offering specialized roles.
Develop Hands-on Hardware Skills- (Semester 2)
Seek opportunities for hands-on experience with hardware relevant to power electronics and drives. This could involve participating in department projects, joining student clubs focused on robotics or EVs, or building small prototypes to apply theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Microcontrollers (Arduino/Raspberry Pi), DSP kits, Power electronic components, NITK fabrication labs
Career Connection
Practical hardware skills are essential for product development and testing roles in companies like L&T Technology Services or startups innovating in power electronics and drive systems.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 2)
Attend webinars, workshops, and conferences focused on power electronics, EVs, and renewable energy. Connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship opportunities to gain insights and build professional relationships.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, IEEE Power Electronics Society events, Industry expos in India
Career Connection
Networking can lead to valuable internships, project collaborations, and eventually placement opportunities in leading organizations across India, expanding your career horizons.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Impact M.Tech Project- (Semesters 3-4)
Focus on a challenging and relevant M.Tech project (Phase II) that addresses a real-world problem in power electronics or EV control. Aim for publishable results or a working prototype. Regularly consult with your supervisor and department faculty for guidance and feedback.
Tools & Resources
Advanced simulation software, Experimental setups, University research grants, Technical writing guides
Career Connection
A strong project forms the centerpiece of your resume, showcasing your expertise and problem-solving abilities to recruiters from companies like DRDO, ISRO, or major consultancies, opening doors to specialized roles.
Prepare for Core Placements- (Semesters 3-4)
Systematically prepare for interviews with core power electronics, drives, and EV companies. Revise fundamental concepts, practice technical questions, and work on your communication skills. Attend campus placement talks and mock interviews organized by the institution.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Company-specific interview guides, Technical interview preparation books, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Targeted preparation maximizes your chances of securing a coveted role in your specialized field, leading to a strong career start in companies like Tata Power or Delta Electronics, and others in the core sector.
Cultivate Professional & Leadership Skills- (Semesters 3-4)
Beyond technical skills, focus on developing soft skills such as teamwork, communication, project management, and ethical decision-making. Volunteer for leadership roles in department activities or student organizations to hone these crucial interpersonal abilities.
Tools & Resources
Communication workshops, Leadership development programs, Participating in departmental events, Online soft skill courses
Career Connection
These skills are crucial for career growth, allowing you to move into leadership and management positions in engineering teams at companies like Wipro, Infosys, or startups aiming for scale and innovation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Electronics & Instrumentation Engineering, Instrumentation & Control Engineering, or equivalent with a minimum CGPA of 6.5 out of 10 or 60% aggregate marks. GATE qualification is typically required for admission.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 68 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE851 | Power Electronic Drives | Core | 3 | DC Motor Drives, Induction Motor Drives, Synchronous Motor Drives, Field-oriented Control, Direct Torque Control |
| EE852 | Electric and Hybrid Vehicles | Professional Elective | 3 | EV Architectures, Hybrid Powertrains, Batteries for EVs, Fuel Cells in Vehicles, Motor Drives for EVs |
| EE814 | Renewable Energy Systems | Professional Elective | 3 | Solar PV Systems, Wind Energy Conversion, Hydropower Systems, Biomass Energy, Grid Integration of Renewables |
| EE815 | Smart Grid Technologies | Open Elective | 3 | Smart Grid Components, Microgrids, Demand Side Management, Communication Technologies, Cyber Security in Grids |
| EE898 | Project Work Phase-I | Project | 6 | Literature Survey, Problem Definition, Methodology Planning, Preliminary Design, Report Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE817 | Power Quality | Professional Elective | 3 | Power Quality Issues, Harmonics Analysis, Voltage Sag and Swell, Mitigation Techniques, Active Power Filters |
| EE823 | Special Electrical Machines | Professional Elective | 3 | Switched Reluctance Motors, Stepper Motors, Permanent Magnet DC Motors, Linear Induction Motors, Servo Motors |
| EE899 | Project Work Phase-II | Project | 10 | Advanced Design and Modeling, Simulation and Validation, Experimental Setup, Data Analysis, Mid-term Thesis Reporting |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EE899 | Project Work Phase-II (Continuation) | Project | 10 | Final Design Implementation, Comprehensive Testing, Results Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Publication Strategy |




