

M-TECH in Automobile Engineering at National Institute of Technology Patna


Patna, Bihar
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Automobile Engineering at National Institute of Technology Patna Patna?
This Automobile Engineering program at National Institute of Technology Patna focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge in vehicle design, dynamics, propulsion, and manufacturing. With India''''s rapidly growing automotive industry, the program emphasizes sustainable mobility, electric vehicles, and intelligent transport systems. It aims to develop skilled engineers capable of addressing complex challenges in research and development, design, and production within the Indian automotive sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for mechanical engineering graduates seeking to specialize in the automotive domain, fresh engineers aspiring for R&D roles in leading auto companies, and working professionals aiming to upgrade their skills in areas like electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and advanced manufacturing. Candidates with a strong foundation in mechanical principles and an interest in automotive technology will find this curriculum highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure high-demand positions in India''''s automotive giants, ancillaries, and R&D centers. Career paths include Automotive Design Engineer, Powertrain Specialist, NVH Engineer, Vehicle Dynamics Analyst, and EV Systems Engineer. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly higher. The program also prepares students for further research or entrepreneurial ventures in the automotive space.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Engineering Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand advanced thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and solid mechanics. These are foundational for all specialized automotive topics. Regularly solve problems from standard textbooks and engage in group study sessions to clarify doubts.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on core mechanical subjects, Reference books like Cengel & Boles for Thermodynamics, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures you grasp complex automotive systems faster, perform well in technical interviews, and build robust solutions in future projects.
Master Automotive Software Tools- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in CAE Lab sessions to gain proficiency in CAD, FEM, and CFD software (e.g., SolidWorks, ANSYS, ABAQUS, CATIA). Seek additional online tutorials and practice projects to build expertise beyond classroom assignments.
Tools & Resources
ANSYS Academic Student version, OpenFOAM for CFD, Online tutorials and certification courses for specific software
Career Connection
Proficiency in industry-standard software is a critical skill for design, analysis, and R&D roles, making you highly employable in automotive engineering.
Participate in Technical Workshops and Competitions- (Semester 1-2)
Seek out and participate in workshops on vehicle dynamics, engine tuning, or advanced materials. Join student chapters like SAE India and engage in inter-college competitions (e.g., Baja SAE, Formula Bharat) to gain practical exposure and teamwork skills.
Tools & Resources
SAE India student chapters, Local hackathons and design challenges, NIT Patna''''s departmental clubs
Career Connection
These experiences demonstrate practical application of knowledge, enhance problem-solving skills, and provide valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialization Electives- (Semester 2-3 (as electives are offered in these semesters))
Strategically choose program electives (e.g., Hybrid Electric Vehicles, Autonomous Vehicles) based on your career interests. Pursue certification courses or advanced online modules to supplement classroom learning in these specialized areas.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX courses on EV technology or AI for autonomous systems, Industry reports and whitepapers, Specialized books
Career Connection
Developing niche expertise in high-growth areas like EVs or autonomous tech makes you a specialized candidate for advanced R&D and product development roles.
Seek Industry Internships and Live Projects- (Semester 2-3 summer breaks)
Actively pursue internships with automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, or automotive R&D firms in India during summer breaks. Engage in live industry projects offered by faculty or through department collaborations.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), NIT Patna placement cell, Faculty network
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable real-world experience, build industry contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations for full-time roles.
Cultivate Research and Communication Skills- (Semester 3)
Focus on the Seminar course to refine your research, technical writing, and presentation abilities. Actively participate in departmental seminars and present your project ideas to improve public speaking and critical feedback reception.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, LaTeX for technical reports, Toastmasters club (if available)
Career Connection
Strong communication and research skills are essential for R&D roles, academic pursuits, and leadership positions, enabling effective knowledge dissemination.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Major Project Work- (Semester 3-4)
Treat your Major Project (I & II) as a capstone experience. Select a challenging topic aligned with current industry trends (e.g., advanced materials for lightweighting, smart vehicle systems). Aim for publication in a reputed conference or journal.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science for literature search, Simulation tools, Guidance from faculty mentors
Career Connection
An outstanding project showcases your problem-solving capabilities, research aptitude, and technical depth, significantly boosting your profile for placements and higher studies.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Interviews- (Semester 3-4)
Begin placement preparation early by practicing aptitude, technical questions, and HR interviews. Create a strong resume highlighting projects, skills, and internships. Network with alumni working in desired companies for insights and referrals.
Tools & Resources
Online platforms for aptitude practice, Mock interview sessions, NIT Patna Alumni Network
Career Connection
Thorough preparation ensures you confidently clear interview rounds, leading to successful placements in top automotive and manufacturing companies.
Develop a Professional Portfolio- (Throughout the program, culminating in Semester 4)
Compile all your project reports, simulation results, CAD models, and technical presentations into a professional digital portfolio. Include testimonials or recommendations from internship supervisors and project guides.
Tools & Resources
GitHub for code/models, Personal website/LinkedIn profile, Google Drive for documents
Career Connection
A well-maintained portfolio acts as a tangible proof of your skills and accomplishments, leaving a strong impression on recruiters and demonstrating your capabilities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 60 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA 101 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics | Program Core Elective (Choice between MA 101 and ME 101) | 3 | Linear Algebra, Vector Calculus, Partial Differential Equations, Fourier Series, Probability and Statistics |
| ME 101 | Advanced Solid Mechanics | Program Core Elective (Choice between MA 101 and ME 101) | 3 | Stress and Strain, Theory of Elasticity, Plasticity, Fatigue, Fracture Mechanics |
| ME 102 | Advanced Thermodynamics | Program Core | 3 | Laws of Thermodynamics review, Thermodynamic relations, Statistical thermodynamics, Irreversible thermodynamics, Combustion principles |
| ME 103 | Advanced Fluid Mechanics | Program Core | 3 | Basic Equations of Fluid Motion, Viscous Flow Analysis, Boundary Layer Theory, Compressible Flow, Turbulent Flow Characteristics |
| ME 104 | Vehicle Dynamics | Program Core | 3 | Tire Mechanics, Suspension Systems Analysis, Braking Dynamics, Steering System Dynamics, Vehicle Stability and Control |
| ME 105 | Engine & Chassis Design | Program Core | 3 | Engine Component Design, Chassis Frame Design, Powertrain System Components, Vehicle Body Structure, Safety and Ergonomics in Design |
| ME 106 | Automobile Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | Engine Performance Testing, Emission Measurement, Vehicle Suspension Characterization, Braking System Evaluation, Automotive Sensor Applications |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME 201 | Advanced Internal Combustion Engines | Program Core | 3 | Thermodynamic Cycles, Combustion Kinetics, Engine Emissions Control, Performance Parameters, Alternative Fuels |
| ME 202 | Advanced Heat Transfer | Program Core | 3 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer, Phase Change Processes, Heat Exchanger Design |
| ME 203 | Finite Element Methods | Program Core | 3 | Variational Formulations, Element Formulation Techniques, Isoparametric Elements, Dynamic Analysis, Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis |
| ME 204 | CAE Lab | Lab | 2 | CAD Software Applications, FEM Software for Structural Analysis, CFD for Fluid Flow Simulations, Design Optimization Techniques, Virtual Prototyping and Validation |
| ME 701 | Hybrid Electric Vehicles | Program Elective | 3 | Electric Drivetrain Components, Battery and Energy Storage, Fuel Cell Technology Integration, Hybridization Strategies, Vehicle Control Systems |
| ME 702 | Autonomous Vehicles | Program Elective | 3 | Sensor Fusion Techniques, Perception Systems, Localization and Mapping, Path Planning Algorithms, Control for Autonomous Driving |
| ME 703 | Vehicle Aerodynamics | Program Elective | 3 | Aerodynamic Drag and Lift, External Flow Phenomena, Flow Visualization Techniques, CFD Applications in Vehicle Design, Wind Tunnel Testing |
| ME 704 | Automotive Safety | Program Elective | 3 | Crashworthiness Standards, Passive Safety Systems, Active Safety Technologies, Occupant Protection Mechanisms, Accident Reconstruction Principles |
| ME 705 | Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH) | Program Elective | 3 | Sound and Vibration Measurement, Modal Analysis, Damping and Isolation Techniques, Automotive NVH Testing, Acoustic Material Selection |
| ME 706 | Tribology & Surface Engineering | Program Elective | 3 | Friction Mechanisms, Wear Phenomena, Lubrication Regimes, Surface Coatings, Material Characterization for Tribology |
| ME 707 | Advanced Manufacturing Processes | Program Elective | 3 | CNC Machining, Additive Manufacturing, Rapid Prototyping, Advanced Forming Processes, Quality Control in Manufacturing |
| ME 708 | Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) | Program Elective | 3 | Navier-Stokes Equations, Finite Volume Method, Turbulence Modeling, Grid Generation Techniques, CFD Post-Processing |
| ME 709 | Advanced Materials for Automobiles | Program Elective | 3 | Polymer Composites, Lightweight Alloys, Smart Materials, Material Characterization, Sustainable Materials and Recycling |
| ME 710 | Vehicle Testing & Homologation | Program Elective | 3 | Automotive Test Standards, Emission Regulations, Safety Testing Protocols, Vehicle Certification, Quality Assurance in Automotive Manufacturing |
| ME 711 | CAD/CAM | Program Elective | 3 | Geometric Modeling, Surface Modeling, Solid Modeling Principles, NC Programming, Tool Path Generation |
| ME 712 | Advanced Mechanics of Composite Materials | Program Elective | 3 | Lamina Theory, Laminate Theory, Failure Criteria for Composites, Micromechanics of Composites, Manufacturing of Composite Structures |
| ME 713 | Mechatronics & Control Systems | Program Elective | 3 | Sensors and Actuators, Microcontroller Applications, PID Control Principles, Embedded Systems Design, System Integration |
| ME 714 | Robotics | Program Elective | 3 | Robot Kinematics, Robot Dynamics, Trajectory Planning, Robot Control, Industrial Robotic Applications |
| ME 715 | Vehicle System Design | Program Elective | 3 | System Integration, Vehicle Performance Analysis, Component Selection and Sizing, Design Optimization, Life Cycle Assessment |
| ME 716 | Reliability Engineering | Program Elective | 3 | Probability Distributions in Reliability, Life Testing and Data Analysis, Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Maintenance Strategies, Quality and Reliability Management |
| ME 717 | Fuel Cell Technology | Program Elective | 3 | Fuel Cell Principles, Types of Fuel Cells, Materials for Fuel Cells, Fuel Cell System Integration, Automotive Applications of Fuel Cells |
| ME 718 | Automotive Quality Management | Program Elective | 3 | ISO/TS Standards, Six Sigma Methodology, Lean Manufacturing Principles, Quality Control Tools, Supply Chain Quality Management |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME 301 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Technical Presentation Skills, Research Methodology, Literature Review, Communication and Reporting, Critical Analysis of Research |
| ME 302 | Major Project – I | Project | 6 | Problem Identification, Project Planning and Management, Extensive Literature Survey, Methodology Development, Preliminary Results and Analysis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME 401 | Major Project – II | Project | 12 | Experimental Setup and Execution, Data Collection and Analysis, Simulation and Modeling, Result Interpretation and Discussion, Thesis Writing and Presentation |




