

B-TECH in Mechanical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela


Sundargarh, Odisha
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Mechanical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela Sundargarh?
This Mechanical Engineering program at NIT Rourkela focuses on fundamental principles of design, thermal sciences, manufacturing, and materials science. It prepares students to innovate and solve complex engineering problems, catering to the burgeoning demand in India''''s automotive, energy, manufacturing, and aerospace sectors. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a strong aptitude in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, eager to understand how mechanical systems work. It also suits diploma holders seeking lateral entry for advanced studies and career changers aiming to transition into core engineering roles or R&D, with a passion for innovation, design, and robust problem-solving.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in design, production, R&D, and maintenance across various industries. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 10-20+ LPA. Growth trajectories include leadership roles in manufacturing, product development, and project management in Indian and multinational companies, often aligned with certifications in CAD, CAM, or Lean Manufacturing.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Engineering Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant effort to building a strong foundation in core engineering subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering Mechanics. Regularly solve problems from textbooks and reference materials to solidify understanding. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and peer-teach.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL lectures for foundational courses, Khan Academy for conceptual clarity, Textbooks like Cengage, S. Chand, Reference books for problem solving
Career Connection
A robust fundamental understanding is crucial for subsequent advanced courses and forms the basis for technical interview questions during placements and competitive exams like GATE.
Develop Programming Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom assignments, practice coding problems regularly in C/C++ or Python. Participate in online coding challenges or platforms to improve logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Basic programming is increasingly vital for simulation and automation in Mechanical Engineering.
Tools & Resources
GeeksforGeeks, HackerRank, LeetCode, CodeChef, Python for Everybody (Coursera)
Career Connection
Enhances analytical skills, opens avenues in computational engineering, and is a prerequisite for roles involving data analysis, automation, and smart manufacturing systems.
Engage in Hands-on Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in workshops offered by the institute or local organizations focusing on basic manufacturing practices, 3D printing, or robotics. These practical sessions complement theoretical knowledge and provide early exposure to engineering tools and processes.
Tools & Resources
College''''s workshop facilities, Local maker spaces, Robotics clubs and technical societies
Career Connection
Develops practical skills and familiarity with tools, important for lab-based roles, R&D, and demonstrating practical aptitude during internships and job interviews.
Intermediate Stage
Acquire CAD/CAM and Simulation Software Proficiency- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond compulsory lab work, dedicate extra hours to master industry-standard software like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, ANSYS, or MATLAB. Complete online tutorials and undertake small personal design projects to build a portfolio. Seek certifications if available.
Tools & Resources
SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA, ANSYS, Abaqus (for FEA/CFD), MATLAB/Simulink, LinkedIn Learning, YouTube tutorials
Career Connection
Essential for design, analysis, and product development roles in almost all mechanical industries, significantly boosting employability and project potential.
Seek Early Internships & Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or summer training programs in core mechanical industries. Failing that, engage in research projects under faculty guidance or participate in technical competitions (e.g., BAJA, SAE Aero Design) to apply learned concepts.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn, TnP Cell of NIT Rourkela, Departmental notice boards for faculty projects, National-level design competitions
Career Connection
Provides invaluable industry exposure, builds a professional network, and strengthens resumes for future placements. Practical experience is highly valued by employers.
Network and Participate in Technical Societies- (Semester 3-5)
Join and actively participate in student chapters of professional bodies like ASME, SAE, or IMechE. Attend technical talks, seminars, and workshops organized by these societies. Network with seniors, alumni, and industry experts.
Tools & Resources
ASME, SAE, IMechE student chapters, Departmental technical clubs, NIT Rourkela alumni network
Career Connection
Expands knowledge, develops soft skills like leadership and communication, and provides access to mentorship and potential job opportunities through professional connections.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Advanced Specialization and Project Work- (Semester 6-8)
Choose electives strategically based on career interests (e.g., thermal, design, manufacturing, robotics). Dedicate significant effort to your final year projects (Project I & II), aiming for innovative solutions to real-world problems. Consider publishing research if the project yields significant results.
Tools & Resources
Advanced simulation software (e.g., ABAQUS, COMSOL), Research journals and databases, Faculty mentorship, industry collaboration
Career Connection
Showcases specialized knowledge and problem-solving capabilities, crucial for R&D roles, higher studies, and impressing recruiters during placement drives.
Intensive Placement and Career Preparation- (Semester 6-8)
Engage in rigorous preparation for campus placements, including aptitude tests, technical interviews, and group discussions. Polish your resume and cover letter, highlighting projects, internships, and technical skills. Also prepare for competitive exams like GATE if pursuing higher studies or PSU jobs.
Tools & Resources
Training & Placement Cell of NIT Rourkela, Online aptitude platforms (e.g., IndiaBix), Mock interview sessions, professional resume services, GATE coaching materials
Career Connection
Directly impacts securing desired job offers or admission to postgraduate programs in top institutions, ensuring a strong start to your professional journey.
Undergo Industrial Training/Internship- (Semester 8)
Leverage the compulsory Industrial Training/Internship to gain deep insights into industry operations, supply chain, and project management. Focus on learning practical skills, understanding company culture, and networking with professionals. Treat it as an extended interview opportunity.
Tools & Resources
NIT Rourkela''''s Industrial Training/Internship portal, Company websites for direct applications, Professional mentors within the company
Career Connection
Often leads to Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs), provides practical experience highly valued by recruiters, and helps in making informed career decisions post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 199 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA1001 | Mathematics – I | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Multivariable Calculus, Vector Calculus, Matrices and Determinants |
| PH1001 | Physics | Core | 4 | Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, Optics, Solid State Physics |
| PH1002 | Physics Lab | Lab | 2 | Interference and Diffraction, Magnetic Field Measurement, Semiconductor Devices, Wave Phenomena, Measurement Techniques |
| EE1001 | Basic Electrical Engineering | Core | 4 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Transformers, DC Machines, AC Machines |
| EE1002 | Basic Electrical Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | Verification of Circuit Laws, AC Circuit Analysis, Transformer Characteristics, DC Motor Performance, Three-Phase Circuits |
| CS1001 | Computer Programming | Core | 3 | Introduction to C Programming, Control Structures, Functions and Arrays, Pointers and Strings, Structures and File I/O |
| CS1002 | Computer Programming Lab | Lab | 2 | Basic C Programming, Conditional Statements, Loops and Arrays, Function Implementation, File Handling Practice |
| HS1001 | Communicative English | Core | 2 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Presentation Skills |
| ID1001 | Engineering Drawing | Core | 3 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectional Views, Projection of Solids, Introduction to CAD |
| ID1002 | Manufacturing Practice | Lab | 2 | Carpentry, Fitting, Welding, Sheet Metal, Foundry |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA1002 | Mathematics – II | Core | 4 | Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series, Complex Analysis |
| CY1001 | Chemistry | Core | 4 | Chemical Thermodynamics, Electrochemistry, Corrosion and its Control, Polymer Chemistry, Spectroscopy |
| CY1002 | Chemistry Lab | Lab | 2 | Volumetric Analysis, pH Metry, Conductometry, Viscosity Measurement, Water Quality Analysis |
| EC1001 | Basic Electronics Engineering | Core | 4 | Semiconductor Diodes, Transistors (BJTs & FETs), Operational Amplifiers, Digital Logic Gates, Communication Systems Basics |
| EC1002 | Basic Electronics Engineering Lab | Lab | 2 | Diode Characteristics, Transistor Amplifier Circuits, Op-Amp Applications, Digital Gate Verification, Rectifier Circuits |
| ME1001 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 4 | Statics of Particles, Equilibrium of Rigid Bodies, Friction, Kinematics of Rigid Bodies, Kinetics of Rigid Bodies |
| ID1003 | Green Practice | Lab | 2 | Energy Conservation, Waste Management, Renewable Energy Basics, Environmental Impact Assessment, Sustainable Practices |
| HS1002 | Economics | Core | 3 | Demand and Supply, Market Structures, National Income, Inflation and Unemployment, Fiscal and Monetary Policy |
| HS1003 | Professional Ethics & Human Values | Core | 2 | Ethical Theories, Professionalism, Environmental Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, Human Values |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME2001 | Solid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Stress and Strain, Shear Force and Bending Moment, Bending and Torsion of Beams, Principal Stresses and Strains, Deflection of Beams |
| ME2003 | Thermodynamics | Core | 4 | First Law of Thermodynamics, Second Law of Thermodynamics, Entropy, Thermodynamic Cycles, Properties of Pure Substances |
| ME2005 | Manufacturing Processes – I | Core | 4 | Casting Processes, Forming Processes, Welding Processes, Powder Metallurgy, Joining Processes |
| ME2007 | Machine Drawing | Core | 3 | Limits, Fits and Tolerances, Riveted and Welded Joints, Threaded Fasteners, Keys, Couplings and Bearings, Assembly Drawing |
| HS2001 | Organizational Behaviour | Elective | 3 | Individual Behaviour, Group Dynamics, Leadership, Motivation, Organizational Culture |
| MA2001 | Mathematics – III | Core | 4 | Linear Algebra, Probability and Statistics, Numerical Methods, Vector Spaces, Optimization Techniques |
| ME2002 | Solid Mechanics Lab | Lab | 2 | Tensile Testing, Hardness Testing, Impact Testing, Compression Testing, Torsion Testing |
| ME2004 | Thermal Engineering Lab – I | Lab | 2 | IC Engine Performance, Boiler Testing, Refrigeration Cycle Analysis, Air Compressor Performance, Heat Pump Studies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME2006 | Kinematics of Machinery | Core | 4 | Mechanisms and Machines, Velocity and Acceleration Analysis, Cams and Followers, Gears and Gear Trains, Synthesis of Mechanisms |
| ME2008 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 4 | Fluid Properties, Fluid Statics, Fluid Kinematics, Fluid Dynamics, Viscous Flow |
| ME2010 | Metrology and Machine Tools | Core | 4 | Limits, Fits and Tolerances, Linear and Angular Measurements, Comparators, Lathe Machines, Milling and Grinding Machines |
| ME2012 | Theory of Machines Lab | Lab | 2 | Static and Dynamic Balancing, Flywheel Experiments, Vibration Analysis, Gear Train Experiments, Cam Profile Generation |
| ME2014 | Fluid Mechanics and Machines Lab | Lab | 2 | Flow Through Pipes, Minor Losses in Pipes, Pump Characteristics, Turbine Performance, Boundary Layer Measurement |
| EV2001 | Environmental Science & Engineering | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Pollution Control, Waste Management, Environmental Policies, Sustainable Development |
| HS2003 | English for Professional Communication | Elective | 3 | Business Communication, Report Writing, Technical Presentations, Group Discussions, Interview Skills |
| OP2001 | Operations Research | Elective | 4 | Linear Programming, Transportation and Assignment Problems, Queuing Theory, Game Theory, Project Management (PERT/CPM) |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME3001 | Dynamics of Machinery | Core | 4 | Balancing of Rotating Masses, Vibration Analysis, Governors and Gyroscopes, Damping and Isolation, Multi-degree of Freedom Systems |
| ME3003 | Heat Transfer | Core | 4 | Conduction Heat Transfer, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer, Heat Exchangers, Phase Change Heat Transfer |
| ME3005 | Design of Machine Elements | Core | 4 | Stress Concentration, Fatigue Failure, Design of Shafts, Design of Fasteners, Design of Springs |
| ME3007 | Engineering System Design | Core | 3 | Design Process, Conceptual Design, Product Design, Value Engineering, Design for Manufacturing |
| ME3009 | CAD/CAM Lab | Lab | 2 | Geometric Modeling, Assembly Modeling, Finite Element Analysis Software, CNC Programming, CAM Software |
| ME3011 | Heat Transfer Lab | Lab | 2 | Thermal Conductivity Measurement, Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer, Heat Exchanger Performance, Fin Efficiency |
| ID3001 | Innovation and Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Innovation Process, Business Plan Development, Market Analysis, Funding for Startups, Intellectual Property Rights |
| ME301X | Department Elective – I | Elective | 3 | Finite Element Method (e.g., FEM fundamentals, applications), Production Planning & Control (e.g., inventory management, scheduling), Combustion Engineering (e.g., fuels, combustion kinetics), Turbomachinery (e.g., turbines, compressors), Non-Conventional Energy Systems (e.g., solar, wind energy), Mechatronics (e.g., sensors, actuators, control systems) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME3002 | Measurement & Instrumentation | Core | 4 | Measurement Systems, Temperature Measurement, Pressure and Flow Measurement, Strain Gauges, Data Acquisition Systems |
| ME3004 | Manufacturing Processes – II | Core | 4 | Advanced Machining Processes, Non-Traditional Machining, Additive Manufacturing, Jigs and Fixtures, Automation in Manufacturing |
| ME3006 | Fluid Power Systems | Core | 4 | Hydraulic Systems, Pneumatic Systems, Pumps and Actuators, Valves and Controls, Fluid Logic Control |
| ME3008 | Design of Machine Elements Lab | Lab | 2 | CAD for Machine Elements, Stress Analysis Software, Design of Joints, Shaft Design Problems, Spring Design Problems |
| ME3010 | Measurement & Control Lab | Lab | 2 | Sensor Calibration, Transducer Characteristics, PID Controller Tuning, Data Acquisition Systems, PLC Programming Basics |
| ME3012 | Manufacturing Lab | Lab | 2 | Lathe Operations, Milling Operations, Grinding Operations, CNC Machine Operation, Metrology Instruments |
| ME301X | Department Elective – II | Elective | 3 | Computational Fluid Dynamics (e.g., Navier-Stokes, turbulence models), Additive Manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing technologies), Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning (e.g., VCR cycle, psychrometry), Power Plant Engineering (e.g., steam, gas, nuclear power plants), Product Design & Development (e.g., design thinking, prototyping), Robotics (e.g., robot kinematics, control) |
| OE301X | Open Elective – I | Elective | 3 | Topics depend on chosen elective from other departments, Example: Project Management, Supply Chain Management, Data Science Fundamentals, Innovation Management, Renewable Energy Technologies, Digital Marketing |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME4001 | Industrial Engineering and Management | Core | 4 | Work Study and Ergonomics, Inventory Management, Production Planning and Control, Quality Management, Plant Layout and Material Handling |
| ME4003 | Mechanical Vibration | Core | 4 | Single Degree of Freedom Systems, Two Degree of Freedom Systems, Multi Degree of Freedom Systems, Vibration Measurement, Vibration Control |
| ME4005 | Project – I | Project | 2 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology Development, Preliminary Design/Experimentation, Report Writing |
| ME4007 | Seminar | Project | 2 | Literature Review on Technical Topic, Technical Presentation Skills, Question and Answer Session, Report Preparation, Time Management for Presentation |
| ME400X | Department Elective – III | Elective | 3 | Advanced Mechanics of Solids (e.g., elasticity, plasticity), Non-Destructive Testing (e.g., ultrasonic, radiography), Cryogenic Engineering (e.g., low-temperature systems), Digital Manufacturing (e.g., IoT in manufacturing), Quality Control & Reliability (e.g., statistical process control), Automotive Engineering (e.g., vehicle dynamics, engine systems) |
| ME401X | Department Elective – IV | Elective | 3 | Advanced Heat Transfer (e.g., micro-scale HT, inverse HT), Supply Chain Management (e.g., logistics, inventory optimization), Computational Combustion (e.g., reaction kinetics, CFD), Advanced Fluid Mechanics (e.g., compressible flow, turbulence), Theory of Plasticity (e.g., yield criteria, plastic flow), Micro- and Nano-manufacturing (e.g., MEMS, NEMS) |
| OE401X | Open Elective – II | Elective | 3 | Topics depend on chosen elective from other departments, Example: Data Structures, Artificial Intelligence, Financial Management, Cyber Security, Human Resource Management, Big Data Analytics |
| OE402X | Open Elective – III | Elective | 3 | Topics depend on chosen elective from other departments, Example: Internet of Things, Machine Learning, Entrepreneurial Finance, Environmental Management, Marketing Management, Cloud Computing |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ME4002 | Project – II | Project | 8 | Project Implementation, Experimental Validation/Simulation, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Results and Discussion, Final Thesis Writing and Presentation |
| ME4004 | Industrial Training / Internship | Project | 3 | Real-world Industry Exposure, Application of Engineering Principles, Problem-solving in Industrial Context, Teamwork and Communication, Technical Report Submission |
| ME402X | Department Elective – V | Elective | 3 | Maintenance Engineering (e.g., predictive, preventive maintenance), Computer Aided Design (e.g., advanced CAD techniques), Material Handling Systems (e.g., conveyors, AGVs), Tribology (e.g., friction, wear, lubrication), Smart Materials (e.g., shape memory alloys, piezoelectrics), Advanced Manufacturing (e.g., Industry 4.0, smart factories) |
| ME40XX | Department Elective – VI | Elective | 3 | Advanced Machine Design (e.g., optimization, special machines), Renewable Energy Engineering (e.g., solar, wind, biomass systems), Industrial Safety Management (e.g., risk assessment, safety audits), Robotics and Automation (e.g., industrial robots, automated systems), Finite Volume Method for Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer (e.g., numerical methods for CFD), Rapid Prototyping and Tooling (e.g., FDM, SLA, DMLS applications) |
| OE40XX | Open Elective – IV | Elective | 3 | Topics depend on chosen elective from other departments, Example: Supply Chain Analytics, Data Visualization, Quantum Computing, Human-Computer Interaction, Intellectual Property Rights, Operations Management |




