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PHD in Electronics Communication Engineering at Rajarajeswari College of Engineering
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Electronics & Communication Engineering at Rajarajeswari College of Engineering Bengaluru?
This Electronics & Communication Engineering PhD program at RajaRajeswari College of Engineering focuses on advanced research and innovation in core and emerging areas of ECE. The curriculum is designed to foster deep analytical skills and contribute to technological advancements crucial for India''''s growing electronics and telecommunications sector. It emphasizes interdisciplinary research, addressing industry demands in areas like VLSI, signal processing, communication systems, and embedded intelligence.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated individuals holding a Master''''s degree in ECE or a related discipline, seeking to pursue cutting-edge research. It caters to fresh postgraduates aiming for academic or R&D careers, as well as experienced professionals looking to contribute significantly to their field or transition into research leadership roles within Indian industries and government organizations. Candidates should possess strong foundational knowledge and an aptitude for independent inquiry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure impactful roles in academia, government research labs (like DRDO, ISRO), and R&D departments of leading Indian and multinational companies (e.g., Intel India, Qualcomm India, TCS, Wipro). Career paths include Research Scientist, University Professor, Senior Design Engineer, or Innovation Lead. Entry-level research salaries in India typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, growing significantly with experience and publications. The program also prepares candidates for entrepreneurial ventures in high-tech.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Excel in Coursework & Identify Research Gaps- (First 6-12 months)
Dedicate significant effort to the compulsory ''''Research Methodology and IPR'''' and ''''Research & Publication Ethics'''' courses, and chosen ECE electives. Actively engage with faculty to understand their research areas, read extensively in chosen domains, and identify a clear, impactful research problem that aligns with current industry needs or academic voids in India.
Tools & Resources
VTU e-Learning portal, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Web of Science, Departmental research seminars
Career Connection
Strong coursework provides the theoretical bedrock for high-quality research, making you a more valuable asset in R&D roles. Identifying a relevant research gap is the first step to a successful, publishable thesis, crucial for academic and industry careers.
Develop Strong Technical Writing & Presentation Skills- (Throughout the first year)
Beyond coursework, focus on refining your academic writing for proposals, literature reviews, and eventually papers. Regularly present your literature survey and research ideas to peers and faculty, seeking constructive feedback to improve communication and articulate complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, LaTeX, Microsoft PowerPoint, Departmental seminars and workshops on scientific writing
Career Connection
Effective communication of research is paramount for academic publications, conference presentations, and future roles in academia or industry R&D where conveying complex ideas to diverse audiences is key to leadership and influence.
Build a Strong Peer and Mentor Network- (Ongoing from start)
Actively connect with fellow PhD scholars within ECE and related departments at RRCE and VTU. Engage with your supervisor regularly, seeking guidance not just on your research but also on career development, networking opportunities, and navigating academic challenges. Attend departmental research colloquia and guest lectures.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research groups, VTU PhD Scholars'''' Association (if applicable), LinkedIn, Research conferences
Career Connection
A robust network provides support, collaboration opportunities, and opens doors to future academic or industry collaborations, vital for long-term career growth in the Indian research ecosystem and beyond.
Intermediate Stage
Master Advanced Research Tools & Simulation Software- (Months 12-30)
Acquire proficiency in specialized software and hardware tools relevant to your ECE research (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, Python for ML/DL, Cadence for VLSI, ANSYS for electromagnetics, NI LabVIEW, or specific experimental setups). Dedicate time to hands-on learning and advanced problem-solving using these tools for data collection and analysis.
Tools & Resources
Software licenses provided by RRCE/VTU, Online tutorials (NPTEL, Coursera for advanced topics), Departmental research laboratories and workshops
Career Connection
Expertise in industry-standard tools makes you highly employable in R&D and design roles within technology companies in India, where practical application skills and hands-on experience are deeply valued for solving real-world problems.
Aim for High-Quality Publications & Conference Presentations- (Months 18-48)
Systematically document research findings and strive to publish in reputable peer-reviewed journals (Scopus/WoS indexed) and present at national/international conferences. Early and consistent publications validate your work, enhance your academic profile, and are critical for PhD progression and future career prospects in India.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms (Elsevier, Springer, IEEE), Conference call-for-papers, Publication ethics workshops at RRCE/VTU, ResearchGate, Academia.edu
Career Connection
Publications are the currency of academia and research. They significantly boost your CV for faculty positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and senior R&D roles, differentiating you in the competitive Indian and global job markets.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Collaborations & Workshops- (Months 24-48)
Explore opportunities to collaborate with researchers from other departments or institutions, especially for projects with real-world implications (e.g., ECE with AI, IoT, Biomedical). Attend advanced workshops and seminars on emerging ECE technologies to broaden your perspective and integrate new methodologies into your research, fostering a holistic approach.
Tools & Resources
VTU research collaboration initiatives, Industry-academia interaction events, Advanced technical workshops (e.g., AI/ML, Quantum Computing, IoT)
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary skills are highly sought after in modern R&D. Collaborations can lead to innovative solutions and a wider professional network, crucial for leadership roles and solving complex problems in India''''s diverse tech landscape.
Advanced Stage
Systematize Thesis Writing & Regular Review- (Months 48-60)
Begin structuring your thesis early, writing chapters as research progresses rather than waiting until the end. Maintain clear and meticulous documentation of your work, results, and discussions. Schedule regular, in-depth reviews with your supervisor to ensure alignment with expectations and to receive critical feedback on content, structure, and academic rigor.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, LaTeX for document preparation, Departmental guidelines for thesis structure and formatting, Plagiarism checker software
Career Connection
A well-written, rigorously reviewed thesis is the culmination of your PhD, a testament to your research capabilities, and a key document for future academic and professional applications, showcasing your ability to conduct and present complex research.
Prepare Rigorously for Viva Voce & External Examiner Review- (Months 54-72)
Practice defending your research findings and methodology comprehensively. Anticipate potential questions from external examiners, both technical and conceptual, covering the breadth and depth of your work. Seek mock viva sessions with senior faculty or experienced researchers to hone your presentation and Q&A skills, building confidence for the final defense.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva panels with faculty members, Reviewing previous PhD thesis defenses (if available), Discussions with recently graduated PhD alumni, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Keynote)
Career Connection
A strong viva voce performance showcases your mastery of the subject and your ability to articulate and defend complex research under scrutiny, leaving a lasting positive impression crucial for academic appointments and research leadership roles.
Strategize Post-PhD Career Pathways & Networking- (Months 50-72)
Actively explore diverse career options post-PhD, including academic positions, industry R&D, entrepreneurship, or government research. Network with professionals in these fields, attend career fairs, and tailor your CV and research statement to target specific roles. Consider post-doctoral fellowships for further specialization or global exposure.
Tools & Resources
VTU/RRCE career services (if applicable for PhD scholars), LinkedIn, Naukri, Glassdoor for job searches, Academic job portals (e.g., AcademicKeys, Chronicle of Higher Education), Industry conferences and networking events
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition from PhD to your desired professional path, leveraging your specialized knowledge to secure high-impact roles within India or internationally, aligning your research expertise with market demand.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master’s degree by the corresponding statutory regulatory body (e.g. AICTE, UGC, PCI, MCI, etc.), with at least 55% aggregate marks or its equivalent grade ‘B’ in the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent grade in a point scale wherever grading system is followed) or an equivalent degree from a foreign educational Institution accredited by an Assessment and Accreditation Agency which is approved or recognized by an authority, established or incorporated under a law in its home country or any other statutory authority in that country for the purpose of assessing, accrediting or assuring quality and standards of educational institutions.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 16 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester phase
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17PHDRM | Research Methodology and IPR | Core (Compulsory) | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Problem Formulation, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Intellectual Property Rights and Patents |
| 17PHDRE | Research and Publication Ethics | Core (Compulsory) | 4 | Philosophy and Ethics of Science, Scientific Conduct and Research Integrity, Publication Ethics and Malpractices, Open Access Publishing and Journal Selection, Plagiarism and Self-Plagiarism, Predatory Publishers and Journals |
| 17PHDECE01 | Advanced Digital Communication | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Digital Modulation Techniques, Error Control Coding, Spread Spectrum Communication, Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) Systems, Wireless Channel Modeling |
| 17PHDECE02 | Advanced Digital Signal Processing | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Adaptive Filters, Multirate Signal Processing, Wavelet Transforms, Power Spectrum Estimation, Array Signal Processing, Speech and Audio Processing |
| 17PHDECE03 | Advanced Embedded System Design | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Embedded Processors and Microcontrollers, Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS), Device Driver Development, Embedded Networking and IoT, Hardware-Software Co-design, Low-Power Embedded Systems |
| 17PHDECE04 | Advanced VLSI Design | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | CMOS VLSI Design Flow, Digital System Design Using HDL, High-Speed VLSI Circuits, Low-Power VLSI Design Techniques, FPGA-based System Design, VLSI Testing and Verification |
| 17PHDECE05 | Wireless Sensor Networks | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | WSN Architectures and Components, MAC Protocols for WSN, Routing Protocols in WSN, Localization and Time Synchronization, Security in Wireless Sensor Networks, WSN Applications and Deployment |
| 17PHDECE06 | RF and Microwave Circuits | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | RF Transmission Lines, S-Parameters and Network Analysis, RF Amplifier Design, Microwave Oscillators and Mixers, Filter Design for RF Applications, Antenna Theory and Design |
| 17PHDECE07 | Image and Video Processing | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Image Transforms (FFT, DCT, Wavelet), Image Enhancement and Restoration, Image Segmentation and Feature Extraction, Video Compression Standards, Motion Estimation and Compensation, Object Recognition in Images |
| 17PHDECE08 | Machine Learning for ECE Applications | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Introduction to Machine Learning, Supervised Learning Algorithms (Regression, Classification), Unsupervised Learning (Clustering), Neural Networks and Deep Learning Fundamentals, Machine Learning for Signal Processing, Applications in Communication and Control Systems |
| 17PHDECE09 | Advanced Medical Electronics | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Biomedical Sensors and Transducers, Bio-signal Acquisition and Conditioning, ECG, EEG, EMG Systems, Medical Imaging Modalities, Therapeutic and Prosthetic Devices, Medical Instrumentation Design |
| 17PHDECE10 | Quantum Computing and Communication | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Fundamentals of Quantum Mechanics, Qubits and Quantum Gates, Quantum Algorithms (Shor''''s, Grover''''s), Quantum Cryptography, Quantum Teleportation, Quantum Communication Networks |
| 17PHDECE11 | Advanced Power Electronics | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Power Semiconductor Devices, Advanced DC-DC Converters, PWM Techniques for Inverters, Active Power Factor Correction, Renewable Energy Systems, High Frequency Power Conversion |
| 17PHDECE12 | Advanced Control Systems | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | State Space Analysis, Nonlinear Control Systems, Optimal Control Theory, Adaptive Control, Robust Control, Digital Control Systems |
| 17PHDECE13 | EMI/EMC | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Sources of EMI, EMI Coupling Mechanisms, EMI Standards and Regulations, Shielding and Grounding Techniques, Filter Design for EMC, PCB Design for EMC |
| 17PHDECE14 | MEMS | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | MEMS Fabrication Processes, Micro-sensors (Pressure, Accelerometers), Micro-actuators, RF MEMS Devices, Optical MEMS, Bio-MEMS |
| 17PHDECE15 | Nano Electronics | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Quantum Mechanics in Nanoelectronics, Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene, Quantum Dots and Nanowires, Nano-fabrication Techniques, Molecular Electronics, Spintronics |
| 17PHDECE16 | Optical Communication & Networks | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Optical Fibers and Waveguides, Optical Transmitters and Receivers, Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM), Optical Amplifiers, Fiber Optic Networks (PON, SONET), Free Space Optical Communication |
| 17PHDECE17 | Satellite Communication | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Orbital Mechanics and Launchers, Satellite Subsystems, Link Design and Budgets, Earth Station Technology, Multiple Access Techniques (FDMA, TDMA, CDMA), VSAT Systems and Applications |
| 17PHDECE18 | Radar Systems | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Radar Equation, Radar Transmitters and Receivers, Radar Antennas, CW and FMCW Radar, MTI and Pulsed Doppler Radar, Radar Clutter and Detection |
| 17PHDECE19 | Bio-Medical Signal Processing | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Physiological Signal Characteristics, Noise and Artifacts in Bio-signals, Time-Frequency Analysis of Bio-signals, Adaptive Filtering for Bio-signals, Feature Extraction from ECG, EEG, Biomedical Signal Compression |
| 17PHDECE20 | Communication Protocols and Switching Architectures | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | OSI and TCP/IP Models, Ethernet and IP Protocols, Routing Protocols, Traffic Engineering, Switching Architectures (Crossbar, Banyan), Quality of Service (QoS) |
| 17PHDECE21 | RF MEMS | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | RF MEMS Switches, RF MEMS Inductors and Capacitors, RF MEMS Resonators and Filters, RF MEMS Phase Shifters, Packaging and Reliability, Applications in Communication Systems |
| 17PHDECE22 | Digital VLSI Testing | Elective (Candidates choose two from the ECE Electives list) | 4 | Fault Models (Stuck-at, Delay Faults), Test Generation Algorithms (D-Algorithm, PODEM), Design for Testability (DFT), Scan Design and BIST, Boundary Scan (JTAG), Memory Testing |
