

INTEGRATED-M-SC in Chemistry at National Institute of Technology Rourkela


Sundargarh, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Chemistry at National Institute of Technology Rourkela Sundargarh?
This Integrated M.Sc. Chemistry program at NIT Rourkela focuses on providing a comprehensive five-year education, blending foundational science with advanced chemical principles and applications. It equips students with deep theoretical knowledge and practical skills crucial for India''''s rapidly growing chemical, pharmaceutical, and material science industries. The program''''s integrated structure ensures a holistic learning experience, preparing graduates for diverse roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for ambitious 10+2 graduates with a strong aptitude for science, particularly Chemistry, seeking an in-depth academic journey. It caters to those aspiring for research careers, entry-level positions in chemical R&D, manufacturing, or quality control, and individuals aiming for higher studies (PhD) in India or abroad. A keen interest in scientific inquiry and problem-solving is a key prerequisite for success.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in India''''s booming chemical and allied sectors. Roles in pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, agrochemicals, and material science are common. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 15-20 LPA for experienced professionals. The curriculum often aligns with requirements for various national scientific competitive examinations and professional research roles.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Chemistry & Math Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a robust understanding of fundamental concepts in Physical, Inorganic, and Organic Chemistry, along with essential Engineering Mathematics. Attend all lectures, actively participate in tutorials, and clarify doubts promptly to establish a strong academic base for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (Atkins'''' Physical Chemistry, Shriver & Atkins Inorganic Chemistry, Clayden Organic Chemistry), Online platforms like NPTEL for conceptual clarity, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for excelling in entrance exams for higher studies (GATE, CSIR NET) and for understanding complex industrial processes in future roles.
Develop Essential Lab Skills & Documentation- (Semester 1-2)
Pay meticulous attention during laboratory sessions to grasp experimental techniques, accurate data collection, and precise observation. Maintain a detailed lab notebook, understand safety protocols, and practice writing clear, concise lab reports to develop scientific rigor.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory manuals, Safety guidelines (MSDS), Institutional reporting templates
Career Connection
Proficiency in lab work and scientific documentation is indispensable for R&D, quality control, and analytical roles in chemical industries.
Enhance Communicative & Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in communicative English classes, participate in group discussions, and practice public speaking. Simultaneously, develop problem-solving abilities by consistently tackling numerical problems and conceptual questions from various subjects to improve analytical thinking.
Tools & Resources
English language practice apps (Grammarly, BBC Learning English), Competitive exam preparation books for analytical reasoning, Mentorship from senior students
Career Connection
Strong communication and analytical skills are highly valued by recruiters for roles across R&D, technical sales, and management within the chemical sector.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Early Research & Project Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Identify faculty working on interesting research areas and express interest in summer research internships or minor projects. This provides hands-on experience in advanced techniques, experimental design, and critical thinking beyond the classroom curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research profiles (Department website), Institutional research grant opportunities, Internship portals (SURE, SPARK, KVPY summer programs)
Career Connection
Early research experience significantly boosts profiles for Masters/PhD admissions abroad and for R&D roles in leading Indian companies and government labs.
Network with Industry Professionals & Alumni- (Semester 3-5)
Attend departmental seminars, workshops, and industry interaction events. Utilize alumni networks on platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the chemical sector. These interactions can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential internship or placement leads.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, NIT Rourkela Alumni Association portal, Departmental notice boards for event announcements
Career Connection
Building a professional network opens doors to hidden job markets, industry trends, and informs career decisions within the Indian chemical landscape.
Explore Interdisciplinary Subjects & Electives- (Semester 3-5)
Use the elective slots to explore specialized areas within Chemistry or related fields like Materials Science, Biochemistry, or Environmental Science. This broadens your scientific perspective and helps identify specific areas of interest for advanced specialization and future career paths.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, Consultation with faculty advisors, Online courses (Coursera, edX) in specialized topics
Career Connection
Diversifying knowledge through electives makes you a more versatile candidate, sought after by companies requiring multidisciplinary problem-solving abilities.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Research & Dissertation Work- (Semester 6-8)
Dedicate significant time to your Integrated M.Sc. project/dissertation. Focus on developing independent research skills, meticulously analyzing data, and preparing a high-quality thesis. Aim for publication in reputable journals if the research yields significant results.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Statistical software (Origin, GraphPad Prism), Thesis writing guides, Plagiarism checkers
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a powerful credential for academic research positions, R&D roles, and admission to top PhD programs in India and globally.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements & Higher Studies- (Semester 6-8)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, refining resume writing, interview techniques, and technical presentations. For higher studies, prepare for competitive exams like GATE, CSIR NET, or GRE/TOEFL/IELTS, and work on statement of purpose and recommendation letters.
Tools & Resources
NIT Rourkela Career Development Centre (CDC), Mock interview sessions, Online test series for competitive exams, University/Scholarship application portals
Career Connection
Strategic preparation ensures successful transition into desired career paths, whether in industry as a Chemist/Scientist or pursuing advanced research.
Cultivate Professional Ethics & Leadership- (Semester 6-8)
Understand and adhere to ethical practices in research and industry, including data integrity, intellectual property, and environmental responsibility. Seek opportunities to lead projects, organize events, or mentor junior students to develop valuable leadership and teamwork qualities.
Tools & Resources
Institutional ethics guidelines, Workshops on professional conduct, Student clubs and societies for leadership roles
Career Connection
Beyond technical skills, ethical conduct and leadership are crucial for career progression into senior scientific and managerial positions in India''''s chemical industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 Examination with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM) or Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCB) with minimum 75% aggregate marks (65% for SC/ST/PwD candidates) or top 20 percentile in the respective board examination. A valid JEE Main Score is also required.
Duration: 5 years / 10 semesters
Credits: 196 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (Mid Semester + Assignments/Quiz), External: 50% (End Semester)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS1001 | Communicative English | Core | 3 | Advanced English Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Public Speaking, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion |
| MA1001 | Engineering Mathematics – I | Core | 4 | Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Partial Differential Equations, Vector Calculus |
| CH1001 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, Thermodynamics, Electrochemistry, Organic Reactions, Polymer Chemistry |
| CS1001 | Programming & Data Structure | Core | 3 | C Programming Basics, Data Types, Control Structures, Arrays, Pointers, Functions, Recursion |
| BT1001 | Introduction to Bio-Sciences | Core | 3 | Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Immunology, Biotechnology Applications |
| CH1091 | Engineering Chemistry Lab | Lab | 2 | Volumetric Analysis, Gravimetric Analysis, pH Metry, Conductometry, Viscosity Measurement |
| CS1091 | Programming & Data Structure Lab | Lab | 2 | C Program Implementation, Arrays and Strings, Functions and Pointers, File Handling, Basic Data Structures |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA1002 | Engineering Mathematics – II | Core | 4 | Matrices, Linear Algebra, Multivariable Calculus, Laplace Transforms, Fourier Series |
| PH1001 | Engineering Physics | Core | 3 | Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Optics, Electromagnetism, Semiconductor Physics, Lasers |
| ME1001 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Statics, Dynamics, Kinematics, Kinetics, Work and Energy, Friction |
| EE1001 | Basic Electrical Engineering | Core | 3 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Electrical Machines, Transformers, Power Systems, Basic Electronics |
| LS1001 | Environmental Science | Core | 3 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Pollution, Renewable Energy, Environmental Impact Assessment, Waste Management |
| PH1091 | Engineering Physics Lab | Lab | 2 | Optics experiments, Semiconductor Devices, Magnetic Fields, Sound Waves, Error Analysis |
| CE1091 | Engineering Drawing | Lab | 2 | Orthographic Projections, Isometric Projections, Sectioning, Dimensioning, CAD Basics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH2001 | Physical Chemistry – I | Core | 4 | Chemical Thermodynamics, Chemical Kinetics, Electrochemistry, Surface Chemistry, Colloids, Photochemistry |
| CH2003 | Inorganic Chemistry – I | Core | 4 | Atomic Structure, Periodic Properties, Chemical Bonding, Main Group Elements, Transition Elements, Coordination Chemistry |
| CH2005 | Organic Chemistry – I | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Organic Chemistry, Stereochemistry, Reaction Mechanisms, Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes, Aromaticity |
| CH2007 | Chemical Calculations | Core | 3 | Stoichiometry, Chemical Equilibrium Calculations, Acid-Base Calculations, Redox Reactions, Gas Laws, Solutions |
| CH2091 | Physical Chemistry Lab – I | Lab | 2 | Thermochemistry, Reaction Rate Studies, pH Measurement, Conductivity Experiments, Surface Tension |
| CH2093 | Inorganic Chemistry Lab – I | Lab | 2 | Qualitative Analysis, Quantitative Inorganic Analysis, Complexometry, Gravimetric Estimation, Synthesis of Simple Compounds |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH2002 | Physical Chemistry – II | Core | 4 | Quantum Chemistry, Spectroscopy (Rotational, Vibrational, Electronic), Group Theory, Statistical Thermodynamics, Phase Rule |
| CH2004 | Inorganic Chemistry – II | Core | 4 | Coordination Chemistry, Organometallic Chemistry, Bioinorganic Chemistry, Solid State Chemistry, Catalysis |
| CH2006 | Organic Chemistry – II | Core | 4 | Aldehydes and Ketones, Carboxylic Acids and Derivatives, Amines, Phenols, Ethers, Pericyclic Reactions |
| CH2008 | Analytical Methods in Chemistry | Core | 3 | Gravimetric Analysis, Volumetric Analysis, Chromatographic Techniques, Spectrophotometry, Electroanalytical Methods |
| CH2092 | Physical Chemistry Lab – II | Lab | 2 | Spectrophotometric Analysis, Viscosity, Surface Tension, Refractometry, Chemical Kinetics |
| CH2094 | Organic Chemistry Lab – I | Lab | 2 | Organic Synthesis, Recrystallization, Distillation, Chromatography, Functional Group Identification, Melting Point Determination |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH3001 | Physical Chemistry – III | Core | 4 | Electrochemistry (Advanced), Chemical Kinetics (Advanced), Colloids and Polymers, Adsorption, Quantum Statistics |
| CH3003 | Inorganic Chemistry – III | Core | 4 | Organometallic Chemistry (Advanced), Bio-inorganic Chemistry (Advanced), Advanced Coordination Chemistry, Nanomaterials, Green Chemistry |
| CH3005 | Organic Chemistry – III | Core | 4 | Heterocyclic Compounds, Carbohydrates, Amino Acids and Proteins, Nucleic Acids, Photochemistry of Organic Molecules |
| CH3007 | Industrial Chemistry | Core | 3 | Chemical Industries, Unit Operations, Industrial Catalysis, Petrochemicals, Fertilizers, Polymers Industry |
| CH3091 | Physical Chemistry Lab – III | Lab | 2 | Electrochemical Cells, Reaction Order Determination, Colligative Properties, Adsorption Isotherms, Polymer Characterization |
| CH3093 | Inorganic Chemistry Lab – II | Lab | 2 | Synthesis of Coordination Complexes, Magnetic Susceptibility, IR Spectroscopy of Complexes, Metal Ion Estimation |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH3002 | Advanced Spectroscopic Methods | Core | 4 | NMR Spectroscopy, Mass Spectrometry, EPR Spectroscopy, Mössbauer Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction |
| CH3004 | Environmental Chemistry | Core | 4 | Atmospheric Chemistry, Water Chemistry, Soil Chemistry, Environmental Pollutants, Green Chemistry Principles, Waste Treatment |
| CH3006 | Polymer Chemistry | Core | 4 | Polymer Synthesis, Polymer Characterization, Polymer Properties, Polymerization Mechanisms, Plastics, Rubbers |
| CH3XXX | Elective – I | Elective | 3 | |
| CH3092 | Organic Chemistry Lab – II | Lab | 2 | Multi-step Organic Synthesis, Chromatographic Separations, Spectroscopy (IR, UV-Vis) of Organic Compounds |
| CH3094 | Instrumentation Lab | Lab | 2 | Operation of Spectrophotometer, pH meter, Conductometer, Chromatograph, Electroanalytical Instruments |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH4001 | Supramolecular Chemistry | Core | 4 | Non-covalent Interactions, Molecular Recognition, Host-Guest Chemistry, Self-Assembly, Dendrimers, Rotaxanes |
| CH4003 | Green Chemistry | Core | 4 | Principles of Green Chemistry, Green Solvents, Catalysis in Green Chemistry, Renewable Feedstocks, Atom Economy, Waste Minimization |
| CH4XXX | Elective – II | Elective | 3 | |
| CH4XXX | Elective – III | Elective | 3 | |
| CH4091 | Project/Dissertation – I | Project | 4 | Research Proposal, Literature Survey, Experimental Design, Data Collection, Scientific Writing |
| CH4093 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Scientific Presentation Skills, Literature Review, Current Research Trends, Oral Communication |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH4002 | Advanced Organic Synthesis | Core | 4 | Retrosynthetic Analysis, Name Reactions, Asymmetric Synthesis, Protecting Groups, Photochemistry in Synthesis, Catalytic Reactions |
| CH4004 | Materials Chemistry | Core | 4 | Solid State Chemistry, Inorganic Materials, Polymer Materials, Nanomaterials, Characterization Techniques, Applications |
| CH4XXX | Elective – IV | Elective | 3 | |
| CH4XXX | Elective – V | Elective | 3 | |
| CH4092 | Project/Dissertation – II | Project | 4 | Experimental Execution, Data Analysis, Result Interpretation, Report Writing, Presentation of Findings |
| CH4094 | Comprehensive Viva | Core | 2 | Broad Chemical Knowledge, Problem Solving, Research Aptitude, Interview Skills |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH5001 | Advanced Physical Chemistry | Core | 4 | Reaction Dynamics, Surface Science, Computational Chemistry, Advanced Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics |
| CH5003 | Medicinal Chemistry | Core | 4 | Drug Discovery, Drug Design, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Drug Metabolism, Targeted Drug Delivery |
| CH5XXX | Elective – VI | Elective | 3 | |
| CH5XXX | Elective – VII | Elective | 3 | |
| CH5091 | Project/Dissertation – III | Project | 4 | In-depth Research, Critical Analysis, Advanced Experimental Techniques, Thesis Preparation, Publication Ethics |
| CH5093 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Advanced Research Presentations, Peer Review, Academic Discourse, Critical Thinking |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH5XXX | Elective – VIII | Elective | 3 | |
| CH5XXX | Elective – IX | Elective | 3 | |
| CH5092 | Project/Dissertation – IV | Project | 10 | Independent Research, Comprehensive Thesis Submission, Viva Voce Examination, Contribution to Knowledge |




