

M-TECH-ELECTRONICS-AND-COMMUNICATION-ENGINEERING in Microwave Communication Engineering at School of Engineering, Cochin University of Science and Technology


Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Microwave & Communication Engineering at School of Engineering, Cochin University of Science and Technology Ernakulam?
This Microwave & Communication Engineering program at School of Engineering, Cochin University of Science and Technology focuses on advanced concepts in RF, microwave, and wireless communication systems. It addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in India''''s rapidly expanding telecommunications and defense sectors, providing in-depth knowledge of antenna design, radar systems, and advanced wireless technologies. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications crucial for innovation in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for B.Tech graduates in Electronics & Communication, Electrical & Electronics, or related fields seeking specialized knowledge. It suits fresh graduates aiming for R&D roles in telecom, defense, or aerospace. Working professionals looking to upskill in cutting-edge communication technologies or transition into wireless design and microwave engineering will also find this program highly beneficial, leveraging their foundational engineering background.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in leading Indian telecom companies, defense organizations, and R&D labs. Roles include RF Engineer, Microwave Design Engineer, Communication System Architect, and Antenna Specialist. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong curriculum aligns with skill demands for certifications in areas like wireless network design and RF engineering, fostering significant growth trajectories.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Mathematical & Core Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on Advanced Engineering Mathematics, Communication Theory, and RF/Microwave Circuit fundamentals. Attend all lectures, actively participate in problem-solving sessions, and consult reference books beyond the prescribed text to solidify your understanding of foundational concepts.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, MIT OpenCourseWare for advanced topics, MATLAB/Python for mathematical simulations
Career Connection
A robust theoretical base is critical for understanding complex system designs and troubleshooting in later stages, directly impacting R&D and design roles in the industry.
Hands-on Lab Proficiency & Simulation- (Semester 1-2)
Excel in Communication and Microwave Lab I & II. Go beyond basic exercises by exploring advanced simulations using tools like Ansys HFSS, ADS (Advanced Design System), and MATLAB for RF/microwave components and systems. Document all experiments meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Ansys HFSS, Keysight ADS, MATLAB, LabVIEW
Career Connection
Practical skills in simulation and hardware implementation are highly valued by industries for design, testing, and prototyping roles, enhancing employability.
Active Learning & Peer Group Collaboration- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss challenging concepts and solve problems collaboratively. Teach each other topics, prepare for exams together, and engage in healthy academic competition to deepen collective understanding and improve retention.
Tools & Resources
Collaborative whiteboards, Online forums, Library resources
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and fosters a supportive network, which are crucial for team-oriented project environments in the Indian industry.
Intermediate Stage
Specialized Elective Deep Dive- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose electives (Elective III, IV, V) based on your career interests and future aspirations. Dedicate extra effort to delve deep into the chosen specialization areas, reading relevant research papers and attempting mini-projects related to these subjects.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Scopus, Specialized textbooks, Open-source project platforms
Career Connection
Builds a strong profile in a niche area (e.g., Advanced Antenna Design, Millimeter Wave Communication), making you a highly desirable candidate for specific industry roles.
Initiate & Structure Project Phase I- (Semester 3)
Begin your M.Tech project with a clear problem statement, comprehensive literature review, and a well-defined methodology. Seek guidance from faculty, attend departmental project presentations, and start building preliminary components or simulations for your project.
Tools & Resources
Research journals, Faculty mentors, Project management tools (e.g., Trello)
Career Connection
Lays the foundation for high-quality research and project work, which is often a key criterion for R&D roles and for showcasing problem-solving abilities to recruiters.
Technical Communication & Seminar Excellence- (Semester 3)
Utilize the Technical Writing & Seminar course (from Sem 2) to hone your scientific writing and presentation skills. Practice presenting complex ideas clearly, concisely, and professionally. Actively seek and incorporate feedback on your seminar presentations.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX, Grammarly, Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides), Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Effective technical communication is paramount for documenting designs, presenting research findings, and collaborating with international teams in professional settings.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Project Development & Publication- (Semester 4)
Execute Project Phase II with a strong focus on achieving tangible, innovative results. Aim for a high-quality thesis and, if feasible, strive to publish your research in a reputable conference or journal. Actively participate in project reviews and incorporate feedback.
Tools & Resources
Research labs and equipment, Advanced simulation tools, Academic writing tools, Publication platforms (IEEE, Springer)
Career Connection
A strong, well-executed and potentially published project significantly boosts your resume for R&D positions, academic pursuits, and demonstrates advanced capabilities.
Placement & Career Strategy- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell. Prepare thoroughly for technical interviews by reviewing core concepts, practicing design problems, and taking mock interviews. Attend workshops on resume building, interview etiquette, and aptitude tests. Network with alumni and industry professionals.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Mock interview platforms, Industry meetups and seminars
Career Connection
Direct path to securing desired job roles in leading telecom, defense, or R&D companies in India, and navigating the competitive Indian job market effectively.
Continuous Learning & Industry Trend Monitoring- (Semester 4)
Stay updated with the latest advancements in microwave engineering and communication technologies (e.g., 6G, quantum communication, advanced antenna designs). Follow industry blogs, participate in webinars, and pursue relevant online certifications to maintain cutting-edge knowledge.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Spectrum, Tech news sites, Online course platforms (Coursera, edX for specific certifications), Industry whitepapers
Career Connection
Ensures long-term career relevance and adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, essential for sustained professional growth and leadership in India''''s tech sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Tech. Degree in Electronics & Communication Engineering/Electronics Engineering/Electrical and Electronics Engineering/Applied Electronics & Instrumentation Engineering/Instrumentation Engineering/Electronics & Instrumentation Engineering/Electrical Engineering with 60% marks (for General Category, 55% for SEBC/OEC, Pass for SC/ST). Valid GATE score is desirable.
Duration: 4 semesters
Credits: 68 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EC6101 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics | Core | 4 | Linear Algebra, Probability and Statistics, Stochastic Processes, Transforms, Numerical Methods |
| 22EC6102 | Advanced Communication Theory | Core | 4 | Digital Modulation, Channel Coding, Spread Spectrum, MIMO Systems, Fading Channels |
| 22EC6103 | RF and Microwave Circuits | Core | 4 | Transmission Lines, S-Parameters, Impedance Matching, Amplifier Design, Oscillator Design |
| 22EC6104 | Communication and Microwave Lab I | Lab | 2 | RF Circuit Simulation, Antenna Measurements, Digital Modulation Techniques, Microwave Components, Spectrum Analysis |
| 22EC6105 | Research Methodology & IPR | Core (Audit) | 0 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Intellectual Property Rights, Patent Filing |
| 22EC6106A | RF MEMS | Elective I | 3 | Microfabrication Techniques, RF Switches, Varactors and Capacitors, Tunable Filters, MEMS Antennas |
| 22EC6106B | Photonics and Optical Communication | Elective I | 3 | Optical Fibers, LED and Laser Sources, Photodetectors, Optical Amplifiers, Wavelength Division Multiplexing |
| 22EC6106C | Digital Signal Processing Architectures | Elective I | 3 | DSP Processors, Fixed-point Arithmetic, Filter Architectures, FFT Architectures, VLSI for DSP |
| 22EC6106D | Satellite Communication Systems | Elective I | 3 | Satellite Orbits, Link Design, Earth Station Technology, Multiple Access Techniques, VSAT Systems |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EC6201 | Advanced Electromagnetic Theory | Core | 4 | Maxwell''''s Equations, Wave Propagation, Transmission Lines, Waveguides, Antenna Fundamentals |
| 22EC6202 | Radar and Navigational Aids | Core | 4 | Radar Equation, CW and Pulsed Radar, MTI and Doppler Radar, Navigation Systems, Global Positioning System (GPS) |
| 22EC6203 | Wireless Communication Systems | Core | 4 | Mobile Radio Propagation, Cellular Concepts, Multiple Access Techniques, GSM Architecture, 5G Communication |
| 22EC6204 | Communication and Microwave Lab II | Lab | 2 | Microwave Integrated Circuits, Wireless Channel Modeling, Radar System Simulation, RF System Testing, Optical Communication Experiments |
| 22EC6205 | Technical Writing & Seminar | Core | 1 | Technical Report Writing, Scientific Presentation Skills, Literature Review, Research Paper Structure, Effective Communication |
| 22EC6206A | Antennas and Array Design | Elective II | 3 | Antenna Parameters, Dipole and Monopole Antennas, Aperture Antennas, Antenna Array Synthesis, Smart Antennas |
| 22EC6206B | IoT for Smart Systems | Elective II | 3 | IoT Architecture, Sensors and Actuators, IoT Connectivity Protocols, Cloud Computing for IoT, Smart Home/City Applications |
| 22EC6206C | Wireless Sensor Networks | Elective II | 3 | Sensor Node Architecture, Network Topologies, MAC Protocols for WSN, Routing Protocols, Localization Techniques |
| 22EC6206D | Digital Image and Video Processing | Elective II | 3 | Image Enhancement, Image Restoration, Image Segmentation, Image Compression, Video Coding Standards |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EC7101A | Advanced RF and Microwave Antennas | Elective III | 3 | Microstrip Antennas, Reflector Antennas, Lens Antennas, Active Integrated Antennas, Antenna Measurement Techniques |
| 22EC7101B | EMI/EMC | Elective III | 3 | EMI Sources and Coupling, Cabling and Grounding, Shielding Techniques, EMC Standards, EMC Measurements |
| 22EC7101C | Cognitive Radio | Elective III | 3 | Software Defined Radio (SDR), Spectrum Sensing, Spectrum Management, Cognitive Radio Architectures, Dynamic Spectrum Access |
| 22EC7101D | Software Defined Radio | Elective III | 3 | SDR Architecture, Hardware Platforms (USRP), GNU Radio, Digital Downconverter/Upconverter, Waveform Development |
| 22EC7102A | Spread Spectrum Communication | Elective IV | 3 | Pseudo-Noise Sequences, Direct Sequence CDMA, Frequency Hopping CDMA, Synchronization Techniques, Jamming Margin |
| 22EC7102B | Ultra Wide Band Communication | Elective IV | 3 | UWB Principles, UWB Pulse Generation, Multiple Access for UWB, UWB Channel Models, UWB Antennas |
| 22EC7102C | Millimeter Wave Communication | Elective IV | 3 | MmWave Propagation Characteristics, MmWave Transceivers, Massive MIMO for MmWave, MmWave Channel Modeling, 5G/6G Applications |
| 22EC7102D | Cyber Physical Systems | Elective IV | 3 | CPS Architectures, Sensors and Actuators, Networking in CPS, Security and Privacy in CPS, Real-time Systems |
| 22EC7103A | RF Systems Design | Elective V | 3 | Receiver Architectures, Transmitter Architectures, Noise Figure and Gain, Link Budget Analysis, Mixers and Oscillators |
| 22EC7103B | Bio-Medical Telemetry | Elective V | 3 | Biosignal Acquisition, Telemetry Systems, Wireless Body Area Networks, Medical Devices and Standards, Data Security in Telemetry |
| 22EC7103C | Cryptography and Network Security | Elective V | 3 | Symmetric Key Cryptography, Asymmetric Key Cryptography, Hash Functions and Digital Signatures, Network Attacks, Firewalls and VPNs |
| 22EC7103D | Fibre Optic Communication | Elective V | 3 | Optical Fibers, Light Sources (LEDs, Lasers), Photodetectors, Optical Amplifiers, WDM Systems |
| 22EC7104 | Project Phase I | Project | 3 | Literature Survey, Problem Definition, Project Proposal, Methodology Planning, Initial Implementation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EC7201 | Project Phase II | Project | 12 | System Design and Development, Experimental Validation, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Project Presentation and Viva Voce |




