

M-TECH in Chemical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela


Sundargarh, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Chemical Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela Sundargarh?
This M.Tech Chemical Engineering program at NIT Rourkela focuses on advanced principles and applications crucial for modern chemical industries. In India, this specialization is vital for sectors like petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, materials, and sustainable energy, addressing evolving industrial demands. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for cutting-edge challenges in process design, optimization, and control, reflecting the nation''''s push for industrial self-reliance.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for chemical engineering graduates holding a B.Tech/B.E. degree and a valid GATE score, aiming for research and development roles. It also suits working professionals seeking to upgrade their expertise in advanced chemical processes, process modeling, and sustainable technologies. Additionally, individuals passionate about contributing to India''''s burgeoning industrial landscape in areas like energy, environment, and materials will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in leading Indian and multinational companies as process engineers, R&D scientists, consultants, or project managers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program fosters advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, aligning with industry demand for expertise in sustainable processes and smart manufacturing, opening doors to leadership roles and further academic pursuits.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus deeply on advanced transport phenomena, reaction engineering, and process control. Utilize textbooks, research papers, and online courses (e.g., NPTEL lectures) to build a robust theoretical foundation. Participate in departmental tutorials and discussion groups.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, standard textbooks (e.g., Bird, Fogler, Ogunnaike), departmental faculty, peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are essential for cracking technical interviews and excelling in R&D or process design roles.
Develop Simulation and Modeling Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with courses like Process Modeling and Simulation. Learn to use industry-standard software packages (e.g., Aspen Hysys, MATLAB, COMSOL) through lab sessions and self-practice. Undertake small modeling projects to apply theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Aspen Hysys, MATLAB, COMSOL Multiphysics, simulation tutorials, departmental computing labs
Career Connection
Proficiency in simulation tools is a highly sought-after skill for process engineers and R&D specialists in the chemical industry.
Engage in Early Research Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Attend departmental seminars, read research papers from faculty, and discuss potential M.Tech project ideas with professors. This helps in identifying areas of interest and aligning with ongoing research, providing a head start for later project work.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, NIT Rourkela research portals, faculty office hours, departmental research colloquia
Career Connection
Early exposure to research methodology and areas helps in defining a strong project, which is crucial for academic distinction and future R&D careers.
Intermediate Stage
Specialization through Electives and Internships- (Semester 2-3)
Strategically choose electives from Lists B, C, and D that align with your career aspirations (e.g., environmental, energy, or biochemical engineering). Pursue summer internships or short-term industry projects to gain practical experience and network within your chosen specialization.
Tools & Resources
Industry contacts, career services, professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), departmental faculty
Career Connection
Specialization enhances employability by aligning skills with specific industry needs. Internships are often pathways to pre-placement offers.
Participate in Research and Publications- (Semester 2-3)
Work diligently on your M.Tech Project-I and II, aiming for high-quality research outcomes. Try to publish a paper in a reputed conference or journal. This demonstrates advanced research capabilities and contributes significantly to your academic profile.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (e.g., Google Scholar), academic writing workshops, faculty mentors, university library resources
Career Connection
Publications significantly boost CVs for R&D roles, PhD admissions, and differentiate candidates in competitive job markets.
Develop Problem Solving and Optimization Skills- (Semester 2-3)
Focus on applying process optimization techniques learned in courses to real-world or simulated problems. Participate in hackathons or competitions related to process optimization and design. This enhances critical thinking and practical problem-solving.
Tools & Resources
GAMS, Python optimization libraries (SciPy, PuLP), case studies, industry challenge platforms
Career Connection
Companies highly value engineers who can identify inefficiencies and propose optimized solutions, leading to cost savings and improved productivity.
Advanced Stage
Intensive M.Tech Project Completion- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate significant effort to M.Tech Project-II and III. Ensure rigorous experimental validation, comprehensive data analysis, and a well-structured thesis. Regular meetings with your supervisor and peer reviews are crucial for timely and quality completion.
Tools & Resources
Lab equipment, data analysis software (e.g., Origin, MATLAB), thesis writing guidelines, faculty supervisor
Career Connection
A strong M.Tech project is the cornerstone of an M.Tech degree, showcasing independent research capabilities, critical for R&D and higher studies.
Comprehensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 3-4)
Actively engage with the campus placement cell. Prepare a tailored resume, practice aptitude tests, group discussions, and technical interviews specific to chemical engineering roles. Network with alumni and attend pre-placement talks to understand company requirements.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, online aptitude platforms, mock interview sessions, LinkedIn, alumni network
Career Connection
Essential for securing desirable job offers in core chemical industries, consulting, or IT roles that value analytical skills.
Professional Networking and Continuous Learning- (Semester 3-4)
Attend national and international conferences, workshops, and webinars relevant to chemical engineering. Build a professional network with peers, faculty, and industry experts. Stay updated with emerging technologies and industry trends through continuous learning, possibly pursuing certifications in niche areas.
Tools & Resources
Professional bodies (e.g., IIChE), conference proceedings, online courses (Coursera, edX), industry journals
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to future opportunities, collaborations, and career growth. Continuous learning ensures long-term relevance in a dynamic industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Tech/B.E. in Chemical Engineering or equivalent discipline with a valid GATE score, as per general M.Tech admission requirements of NIT Rourkela.
Duration: 4 semesters
Credits: 61 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH 6101 | Advanced Transport Phenomena | Core | 3 | Momentum Transport, Mass Transport, Energy Transport, Convective Transport, Turbulence |
| CH 6103 | Advanced Separation Processes | Core | 3 | Membrane Separation, Adsorption, Chromatography, Reactive Distillation, Ion Exchange |
| CH 6105 | Advanced Chemical Reaction Engineering | Core | 3 | Non-Ideal Reactors, Heterogeneous Catalysis, Multiphase Reactors, Biochemical Reactors, Residence Time Distribution |
| CH 6107 | Advanced Process Control | Core | 3 | Multivariable Control, Optimal Control, Model Predictive Control, Adaptive Control, Advanced PID Control |
| CH XXXX | Elective - I (From List A) | Elective | 3 | Process Plant Design and Economics, Computer Aided Process Design, Petroleum Refining Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, Advanced Fluidization Engineering, Nanotechnology |
| CH 6191 | Advanced Chemical Engineering Lab-I | Lab | 2 | Advanced Transport Phenomena Experiments, Chemical Reaction Engineering Experiments, Process Control Experiments, Separation Processes Experiments |
| CH 6193 | Seminar | Seminar | 1 | Literature Review, Technical Presentation, Research Methodology, Scientific Communication |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH 6201 | Process Modeling and Simulation | Core | 3 | Mathematical Modeling, Numerical Methods, Simulation Software, Steady-State Simulation, Dynamic Simulation |
| CH 6203 | Process Optimization | Core | 3 | Linear Programming, Non-Linear Programming, Integer Programming, Dynamic Programming, Genetic Algorithms |
| CH XXXX | Elective - II (From List B) | Elective | 3 | Bioseparation Technology, Environmental Pollution Control Engineering, Electrochemical Engineering, Energy Technology and Management, Advanced Thermodynamics, Fuel Cell Technology, Advanced Separation Processes, Chemical Process Safety |
| CH XXXX | Elective - III (From List C) | Elective | 3 | Industrial Waste Management, Catalysis and Catalytic Processes, Sustainable Chemical Processes, Pharmaceutical Engineering, Process Intensification, Biomass Conversion Technologies, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Food Process Engineering |
| CH 6291 | Advanced Chemical Engineering Lab-II | Lab | 2 | Process Modeling Experiments, Process Simulation Experiments, Process Optimization Applications, Advanced Process Equipment Analysis |
| CH 6293 | Industrial Training/Research Methodology | Project/Training | 2 | Research Design, Data Analysis Techniques, Literature Survey, Scientific Writing, Industrial Exposure |
| CH 6297 | M.Tech Project-I | Project | 4 | Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Experimental Design, Preliminary Results, Report Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH XXXX | Elective - IV (From List D) | Elective | 3 | Biofuel Production Technology, Advanced Catalytic Reaction Engineering, Polymer Reaction Engineering, Air Pollution Control and Design, Waste to Energy Technologies, Process Utility and Safety, Computational Chemical Engineering, Advanced Transport Processes in Bioreactors |
| CH 7197 | M.Tech Project-II | Project | 8 | Deep Research, Experimental Work, Data Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Presentation Skills |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CH 7297 | M.Tech Project-III | Project | 12 | Advanced Research, Comprehensive Thesis, Final Defense, Publication Preparation, Innovation |




