

M-TECH in Metallurgical And Materials Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela


Sundargarh, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at National Institute of Technology Rourkela Sundargarh?
This Metallurgical and Materials Engineering program at National Institute of Technology Rourkela focuses on cutting-edge aspects of materials science, processing, characterization, and simulation. It addresses critical needs in Indian industries like manufacturing, aerospace, defense, and energy, equipping students with advanced knowledge for innovation in next-generation materials development and application. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical expertise.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates with a B.E./B.Tech in Metallurgical, Materials, Mechanical, Chemical, or related disciplines who aspire to specialize in advanced materials. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into R&D or core manufacturing sectors, and working professionals aiming to upgrade their skills for leadership roles in materials technology and engineering in India''''s growing industrial landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in leading Indian PSUs like SAIL, DRDO, ISRO, and private giants like Tata Steel, Hindalco, and Maruti. Roles include R&D engineers, materials scientists, and quality assurance specialists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals, contributing to India''''s technological self-reliance and innovation in materials.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Metallurgical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate initial semesters to thoroughly grasp subjects like Advanced Physical Metallurgy and Materials Science. Actively participate in lectures, review recommended textbooks, and utilize online resources like NPTEL courses for deeper understanding. Form study groups for peer learning and problem-solving.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Standard textbooks (e.g., Callister, Reed-Hill), Departmental study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is indispensable for all subsequent advanced studies, research projects, and technical interviews in core materials and metallurgical industries.
Develop Hands-on Lab Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Engage proactively in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering Lab sessions. Focus on understanding the principles behind each experiment, mastering equipment operation (e.g., XRD, SEM, universal testing machines), and accurate data interpretation. Document all findings meticulously in lab reports.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory manuals, SEM/XRD/TEM instruments, Mechanical testing equipment
Career Connection
Practical skills are critical for R&D roles, quality control, and process engineering positions, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to material characterization and development.
Begin Computational Tools Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Start learning basic computational tools and software relevant to materials science, such as MATLAB, Python for data analysis, and introductory Finite Element Method (FEM) software. Utilize university licenses and online tutorials to build foundational skills in modeling and simulation.
Tools & Resources
MATLAB, Python (Anaconda), Abaqus/ANSYS tutorials, Online coding platforms
Career Connection
Proficiency in computational methods is highly valued in modern materials engineering for design, process optimization, and predictive analysis, opening doors to advanced R&D roles.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Specialization- (Semester 2-3)
Carefully select elective courses that align with specific career aspirations, whether in composites, nanotechnology, advanced ceramics, or surface engineering. Attend introductory lectures of various electives and consult faculty advisors to make informed choices that build niche expertise.
Tools & Resources
Departmental elective course lists, Faculty advisors, Industry trend reports
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge gained from electives enhances employability in niche sectors and positions graduates as experts in specific material domains.
Initiate Robust Research Project (Phase-I)- (Semester 3)
For Project Phase-I, conduct a thorough literature review, identify a significant research gap, and formulate clear objectives. Develop a detailed experimental plan or simulation strategy. Regularly interact with your faculty mentor for guidance and feedback on progress.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Research papers, Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
This phase is crucial for developing independent research skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving, which are essential for R&D careers and higher studies (Ph.D.).
Engage in Industry and Research Networking- (Semester 2-3)
Actively attend departmental seminars, guest lectures by industry experts, and workshops. Seek opportunities to network with alumni, faculty from other institutions, and professionals through conferences or online platforms like LinkedIn. Participate in inter-college competitions.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Conference calendars, Departmental events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, industry insights, potential collaborations, and helps in understanding current industry demands and future career prospects.
Advanced Stage
Excellence in Project Execution & Thesis Writing- (Semester 4)
In Project Phase-II, focus on meticulous data collection, rigorous analysis, and compelling interpretation of results. Prioritize high-quality thesis writing, adhering to academic standards, and strive for research publication in reputable journals or conference proceedings.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Grammarly, Journal guidelines
Career Connection
A strong thesis and publications significantly bolster your profile for placements in R&D organizations, academic positions, or admission to prestigious Ph.D. programs globally and in India.
Prepare for Comprehensive Viva-Voce- (Semester 3 (end) - Semester 4)
Systematically revise all core and elective subjects. Be prepared to discuss your project in depth, including methodology, results, and broader implications. Practice presenting your work concisely and fielding questions from an expert panel. Focus on conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
Course notes, Project thesis, Practice presentations with peers/mentors
Career Connection
A successful viva demonstrates holistic understanding and strong communication skills, highly valued in professional interviews and academic assessments.
Strategic Career Planning & Placement Preparation- (Semester 3-4)
Engage actively with the Career Development Centre/Placement Cell. Refine your resume/CV, practice technical and HR interviews, and identify target companies or research institutions. Participate in mock interviews and group discussions to hone your soft skills and confidence.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Online interview platforms, Company profiles
Career Connection
Proactive and strategic placement preparation maximizes your chances of securing desirable job offers in core industries, R&D labs, or public sector undertakings across India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E./B.Tech or equivalent degree in relevant discipline (e.g., Metallurgical, Materials, Mechanical, Chemical) with at least 6.5 CGPA or 60% marks in aggregate.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 102 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM6101 | Advanced Physical Metallurgy | Core | 6 | Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Alloys, Phase Transformations in Solids, Crystal Defects and Strengthening Mechanisms, Diffusion in Crystalline Solids, Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Non-ferrous Alloy Systems |
| MM6102 | Advanced Materials Science | Core | 6 | Atomic Structure and Bonding, Crystal Structures and Imperfections, Electrical and Dielectric Properties, Magnetic Properties of Materials, Optical Properties and Applications, Materials Selection and Design |
| MM6103 | Advanced Characterization Techniques | Core | 6 | X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Thermal Analysis (DTA, DSC, TGA), Spectroscopic Techniques (EDS, XPS) |
| MM6104 | Materials and Metallurgical Engineering Lab-I | Lab | 3 | Microstructural Analysis, Heat Treatment Processes, Mechanical Testing (Tensile, Hardness, Impact), Fractography, Material Characterization using XRD/SEM, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) basics |
| Elective-I | Elective-I | Elective | 6 | Advanced topics in specific material areas based on choice |
| Elective-II | Elective-II | Elective | 6 | Advanced topics in specific material areas based on choice |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM6201 | Advanced Manufacturing Processes | Core | 6 | Advanced Casting Techniques, Metal Forming Processes, Advanced Welding Technologies, Powder Metallurgy and Sintering, Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing), Surface Engineering and Coatings |
| MM6202 | Materials Modelling and Simulation | Core | 6 | Computational Materials Science Principles, Thermodynamic and Kinetic Modeling, Molecular Dynamics and Monte Carlo Simulations, Density Functional Theory (DFT) basics, Phase Field Modeling, Finite Element Method (FEM) in Materials |
| MM6203 | Corrosion and Degradation of Materials | Core | 6 | Electrochemistry of Corrosion, Forms of Corrosion, Environmental Cracking, Corrosion Prevention and Control, High-Temperature Oxidation and Degradation, Materials Selection for Corrosive Environments |
| MM6204 | Materials and Metallurgical Engineering Lab-II | Lab | 3 | Corrosion Rate Measurement, Electrochemical Techniques, Surface Coating Characterization, Advanced Welding Processes, Powder Metallurgy Component Fabrication, Degradation Analysis |
| Elective-III | Elective-III | Elective | 6 | Specialized topics in materials processing or characterization |
| Elective-IV | Elective-IV | Elective | 6 | Specialized topics in materials degradation or design |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM7101 | Project Phase-I | Project | 6 | Literature Review and Problem Identification, Research Proposal Development, Methodology Design and Planning, Experimental Setup or Simulation Model Design, Preliminary Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation |
| Elective-V | Elective-V | Elective | 6 | Advanced specialized course from a chosen stream |
| Elective-VI | Elective-VI | Elective | 6 | Advanced specialized course from a chosen stream |
| MM7102 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Viva | 2 | Overall knowledge in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Understanding of core and elective subjects, Research aptitude and problem-solving skills, Clarity of concepts and applications, Project background and relevance, General awareness in the field |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MM7201 | Project Phase-II | Project | 16 | Detailed Data Analysis and Interpretation, Advanced Experimental Work/Simulation, Result Validation and Discussion, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Scientific Paper Publication Strategies, Final Thesis Defense and Presentation |




