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M-TECH in Computer Engineering Cyber Security at School of Technology
Gandhinagar, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Computer Engineering (Cyber Security) at School of Technology Gandhinagar?
This M.Tech Computer Engineering (Cyber Security) program at School of Technology, PDEU focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and practical skills to combat modern cyber threats. It addresses the critical demand for cyber security professionals in India by integrating core computer engineering with specialized modules in network security, cryptography, and digital forensics. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to building secure systems.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates, especially from Computer Science, IT, or Electronics backgrounds, who possess a valid GATE score and aspire to build a career in cyber security. It also caters to working professionals in the IT sector looking to upskill in areas like secure software development, penetration testing, or incident response, seeking advanced theoretical and applied expertise.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in India as Cyber Security Analysts, Ethical Hackers, Security Architects, Forensic Investigators, or Security Consultants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 15-30+ LPA. The program aligns with industry certifications like CEH, CISSP, and provides a strong foundation for leadership roles in Indian and multinational corporations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Computing Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to master advanced data structures, algorithms, and operating system concepts. These form the bedrock for understanding complex security vulnerabilities and designing robust solutions. Utilize online platforms for competitive programming to sharpen problem-solving skills.
Tools & Resources
GeeksforGeeks, HackerRank, Coursera courses on Algorithms
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for cracking technical interviews at top-tier companies and excelling in advanced security roles requiring deep system understanding.
Cultivate Research and Scientific Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in research methodology courses and labs. Practice literature review, data analysis, and technical report writing. Seek opportunities to present mini-projects or seminar topics to improve communication and presentation abilities.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, LaTeX for document preparation, IEEE Xplore for research papers
Career Connection
These skills are essential for M.Tech thesis work, publishing research, and thriving in R&D roles or pursuing a Ph.D. in India or abroad.
Build a Programming Proficiency for Security- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong programming skills in languages relevant to cyber security such as Python, C/C++, and Java. Practice implementing cryptographic algorithms, network scanning tools, and secure coding practices in lab sessions and personal projects.
Tools & Resources
Python Official Documentation, OpenSSL library documentation, GitHub for personal projects
Career Connection
Practical coding ability is critical for roles like Security Engineer, Incident Responder, and for automating security tasks in Indian tech companies.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Cyber Security Labs and Projects- (Semester 2-3)
Beyond theoretical knowledge, actively participate in hands-on labs for cryptography, network security, ethical hacking, and forensics. Work on mini-projects that involve real-world security challenges, building prototypes or analyzing vulnerabilities.
Tools & Resources
Wireshark, Kali Linux, OWASP ZAP, VirtualBox for lab environments
Career Connection
Practical experience significantly enhances employability for roles in penetration testing, security auditing, and digital forensics in India''''s growing cybersecurity market.
Network with Industry Professionals and Participate in CTFs- (Semester 2-3)
Attend cybersecurity conferences, workshops, and webinars. Join professional bodies like ISACA or NASSCOM''''s Cybersecurity COE. Participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions to apply skills in a competitive environment and build a professional network.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Defcon India chapters, Online CTF platforms like TryHackMe/Hack The Box
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships and job opportunities, while CTF experience showcases practical skills highly valued by recruiters in India.
Explore Specialised Electives and Certifications- (Semester 2-3)
Strategically choose program electives that deepen your specialization in areas like cloud security, IoT security, or blockchain technology. Consider pursuing industry certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CEH, SANS GIAC) alongside your academic studies to validate your expertise.
Tools & Resources
Official certification study guides, Udemy/edX for specialized courses
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and certifications make you a more attractive candidate for niche roles and higher-paying positions in companies focused on specific security domains.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Thesis/Project Work- (Semester 3-4)
Select a challenging and relevant thesis topic in cyber security. Engage deeply with your supervisor, conduct thorough research, and aim for innovative solutions. Focus on real-world problem statements and potentially publish your findings in conferences or journals.
Tools & Resources
Research papers platforms, Jupyter Notebooks, Simulation tools
Career Connection
A strong thesis demonstrates problem-solving abilities, research aptitude, and specialized expertise, crucial for R&D roles, academic positions, or senior technical roles in India.
Focus on Placement Preparation and Interview Skills- (Semester 4)
Actively prepare for campus placements, focusing on technical aptitude, coding, and specialized cybersecurity questions. Practice mock interviews, refine your resume to highlight projects and skills, and understand common interview patterns of Indian tech companies.
Tools & Resources
Interviewbit, LeetCode, PDEU Placement Cell resources
Career Connection
Effective preparation maximizes your chances of securing placements in leading IT companies and cybersecurity firms offering competitive packages in India.
Develop Leadership and Communication Abilities- (Semester 3-4)
Participate in departmental activities, lead student groups, and mentor juniors. Enhance your presentation and soft skills, as effective communication is vital in cybersecurity for explaining complex issues to non-technical stakeholders or managing security teams.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (local chapters), Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for career progression into managerial or senior consulting roles within the Indian cybersecurity industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in Engineering / Technology or an equivalent degree in respective disciplines (e.g., Computer Engineering, Information Technology) with at least 60% aggregate marks OR CPI/CGPA of 6.5 on a 10 point scale. Valid GATE Score is mandatory for admission.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGCE101C | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Statistical Analysis for Research, Technical Report Writing |
| PGCE102C | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms | Core | 4 | Advanced Tree Structures, Graph Algorithms, Dynamic Programming, Amortized Analysis, Parallel and Distributed Algorithms |
| PGCE103C | Advanced Computer Architecture | Core | 4 | Processor Pipelining, Memory Hierarchy Design, Cache Coherence Protocols, Multiprocessor Systems, GPU Architectures |
| PGCE104E | Information Security | Program Elective I (Cyber Security) | 3 | Security Attacks and Services, Cryptographic Techniques, Access Control Mechanisms, Network Security Concepts, Legal and Ethical Aspects of Security |
| PGCE105L | Advanced Computing Lab | Lab | 2 | Implementation of Advanced Data Structures, Algorithm Design and Analysis Tools, System Programming Exercises, Performance Optimization Techniques |
| PGCE106L | Research Methodology Lab | Lab | 1 | Literature Review Techniques, Data Analysis Software Usage, Scientific Writing Practice, Research Tool Exploration |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGCE201C | Advanced Operating Systems | Core | 4 | Distributed Operating Systems, Cloud OS Concepts, Virtualization Technologies, Operating System Security, Real-time Operating Systems |
| PGCE202C | Advanced Database Management Systems | Core | 4 | Distributed Databases, Big Data Management, Data Warehousing and Mining, NoSQL Databases, Database Security |
| PGCE203E | Cryptography and Network Security | Program Elective II (Cyber Security) | 3 | Symmetric Key Cryptography, Asymmetric Key Cryptography, Hash Functions and Digital Signatures, Network Security Protocols (SSL/TLS, IPsec), Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems |
| PGCE204E | Secure Software Engineering | Program Elective III (Cyber Security) | 3 | Security Requirements Engineering, Threat Modeling and Risk Assessment, Secure Coding Principles, Static and Dynamic Analysis, Security Testing and Verification |
| OE2xx | Open Elective I | Open Elective | 3 | |
| PGCE205L | Database & Operating System Lab | Lab | 2 | Advanced DBMS Querying, Operating System Commands and Shell Scripting, Process Synchronization Implementation, Database Security Configurations |
| PGCE206P | Mini Project/Seminar | Project | 2 | Literature Survey, Problem Definition and Analysis, Design and Planning, Technical Presentation Skills |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGCE301E | Cyber Security and Forensics | Program Elective IV (Cyber Security) | 3 | Cybercrime Investigation Process, Digital Evidence Collection and Preservation, Forensic Tools and Techniques, Network and Web Application Forensics, Mobile Device Forensics |
| PGCE302E | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing | Program Elective V (Cyber Security) | 3 | Information Gathering and Reconnaissance, Vulnerability Scanning and Exploitation, Web Application Hacking, Wireless Network Security Assessment, Post-Exploitation Techniques |
| OE3xx | Open Elective II | Open Elective | 3 | |
| PGCE303P | Project Work - Phase I | Project | 8 | Problem Identification and Formulation, Comprehensive Literature Review, Methodology and Design Phase, Initial Implementation and Prototyping, Interim Project Report |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGCE401P | Project Work - Phase II | Project | 18 | Advanced Implementation and Development, Experimental Design and Evaluation, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Project Defense and Presentation |
