

M-TECH in Communication Systems at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA)


Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Communication Systems at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Thanjavur?
This Communication Systems program at Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy focuses on advanced studies in wireless, optical, and digital communication technologies. It addresses the evolving needs of the Indian telecommunications sector, driven by rapid digital transformation and the rollout of 5G and fiber-optic networks. The program aims to equip students with expertise in modern communication paradigms.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates with a background in Electronics and Communication, Electrical, or related fields, seeking to specialize in cutting-edge communication technologies. It also caters to working professionals in the telecom industry looking to enhance their skills in areas like advanced digital communication, RF design, and network security, and contribute to India''''s digital infrastructure growth.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue roles as communication engineers, network architects, RF engineers, or research scientists in top Indian telecom companies, defense organizations, and R&D firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 12-20 LPA. The specialization prepares students for careers contributing to India''''s burgeoning digital economy.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Core Communication Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to master the foundational principles of advanced digital communication, microwave, and optical communication. Utilize online platforms like NPTEL courses for deeper understanding and practice problems from standard textbooks.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Communication Systems, Textbooks by Proakis, Rappaport, MATLAB tutorials
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for interviews and for building complex systems in future roles as communication engineers.
Develop Advanced Simulation and Lab Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in lab sessions for Advanced Digital Communication and Microwave & Optical Communication. Gain hands-on proficiency in simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, OptiSystem, and network simulators. Explore open-source alternatives like GNU Radio.
Tools & Resources
MATLAB/Simulink, OptiSystem, Network Simulators (e.g., NS-3), Lab Manuals
Career Connection
Practical skills in simulation and hardware implementation are highly valued in R&D and product development roles within the Indian telecom industry.
Engage in Technical Reading and Discussion- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, read research papers and industry reports on emerging communication technologies. Form study groups to discuss complex topics, prepare for presentations, and foster a collaborative learning environment.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, Google Scholar, Departmental seminars, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Staying updated with industry trends and research enhances problem-solving abilities and prepares students for advanced roles and academic pursuits.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Projects and Specialization Focus- (Semester 2-3)
Apply theoretical knowledge by undertaking mini-projects in areas like DSP, communication networks, or RF circuit design. Focus on electives that align with career interests, such as IoT or Cryptography, and build a portfolio of specialized work.
Tools & Resources
Arduino/Raspberry Pi for IoT projects, Open-source DSP libraries, Network simulation tools, Elective course materials
Career Connection
Practical project experience showcases skills to potential employers and helps in securing specialized roles or internships in target domains.
Seek Industry Internships and Workshops- (Semester 2-3 (during semester breaks or as part of MCI301))
Actively search for internships at telecom companies, R&D labs, or relevant startups in India. Attend industry workshops, tech talks, and hackathons to gain practical exposure and network with professionals.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Internshala, Company career pages, Department''''s placement cell
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable industry experience, often leading to pre-placement offers and a deeper understanding of real-world challenges and solutions.
Participate in Coding and Design Competitions- (Semester 2-3)
Engage in competitive programming challenges focusing on signal processing, network algorithms, or embedded systems. Participate in design contests related to RF, antenna, or IoT solutions to hone problem-solving and innovation skills.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, CodeChef, IEEE competitions, Company-sponsored hackathons
Career Connection
Success in competitions demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, making candidates stand out in recruitment processes.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Program Project (Phase I & II)- (Semester 3-4)
Devote significant effort to the ''''Programme Project - Phase I & II''''. Choose a relevant and impactful research or development topic in communication systems. Work closely with faculty mentors, publish research papers if possible, and build a robust prototype.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Departmental resources, Faculty mentorship, Journals for publication
Career Connection
A strong final year project is a powerful resume booster, demonstrating independent research, problem-solving, and technical expertise, crucial for R&D roles and higher studies.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Networking- (Semester 3-4)
Begin intensive preparation for placements well in advance. Practice technical interviews, aptitude tests, and group discussions. Network actively with alumni and industry professionals through conferences and professional bodies like IEEE.
Tools & Resources
Mock interviews, Aptitude test platforms, LinkedIn, IEEE student chapters
Career Connection
Thorough preparation ensures readiness for campus placements in Indian telecom giants and tech companies, maximizing job offers and career opportunities.
Explore Entrepreneurship and Advanced Research- (Semester 4 onwards)
Consider developing a startup idea based on communication system innovations, leveraging university incubation centers. For those interested in academia, prepare for competitive exams like UGC NET or pursue Ph.D. opportunities in specialized areas.
Tools & Resources
SASTRA Incubation Centre, Startup India resources, Ph.D. program guides, Research grants
Career Connection
This stage fosters innovation and leadership, leading to roles as technical entrepreneurs, lead researchers, or faculty members, driving the future of communication technology in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E. / B.Tech in ECE / EIE / EEE / E & TC or M.Sc. (Electronics / Applied Electronics / Material Science / Physics / Applied Physics) or equivalent.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCA101 | APPLIED MATHEMATICS FOR COMMUNICATION ENGINEERS | Core | 4 | Linear Algebra, Probability and Random Processes, Stochastic Processes, Queueing Theory, Optimization Techniques |
| MCC101 | ADVANCED DIGITAL COMMUNICATION | Core | 4 | Digital Modulation Techniques, Channel Coding, Spread Spectrum, Multi-carrier Modulation, Synchronization |
| MCC102 | MICROWAVE & OPTICAL COMMUNICATION | Core | 4 | Microwave Devices, Transmission Lines, Optical Fibers, Optical Sources and Detectors, Optical Networks |
| MCE101 | WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS | Elective | 3 | WSN Architecture, MAC Protocols, Routing Protocols, Localization, Security in WSN |
| MCC103 | ADVANCED DIGITAL COMMUNICATION LAB | Lab | 2 | Modulation Schemes, Channel Coding, Spread Spectrum, Equalization, MATLAB Simulations |
| MCC104 | MICROWAVE & OPTICAL COMMUNICATION LAB | Lab | 2 | Microwave Components, VSWR Measurement, Optical Fiber Characteristics, OTDR, WDM |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC201 | ADVANCED DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING | Core | 4 | DSP Review, Adaptive Filters, Multirate DSP, Wavelet Transforms, DSP Processors |
| MCC202 | COMMUNICATION NETWORKS | Core | 4 | Network Architectures, TCP/IP, Routing Protocols, Quality of Service, Network Security |
| MCC203 | RF CIRCUIT DESIGN | Core | 4 | RF Components, Amplifier Design, Oscillator Design, Mixer Design, Power Amplifiers |
| MCE201 | INFORMATION THEORY AND CODING | Elective | 3 | Information Theory Fundamentals, Channel Capacity, Error Control Coding, Linear Block Codes, Cyclic Codes |
| MCC204 | ADVANCED DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING LAB | Lab | 2 | FIR/IIR Filter Design, Adaptive Filtering, Multirate Processing, Spectrum Analysis, MATLAB/DSP Tools |
| MCC205 | COMMUNICATION NETWORKS LAB | Lab | 2 | Network Simulation Tools, TCP/IP Protocol Analysis, Routing Protocol Implementation, Network Security, QoS |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCI301 | INTERNSHIP | Project/Internship | 6 | Project Planning, Literature Review, System Design, Implementation, Reporting and Presentation |
| MCC301 | PROGRAMME PROJECT - PHASE I | Project | 6 | Problem Identification, Scope Definition, Methodology, Initial Research, Project Proposal |
| MCE302 | INTERNET OF THINGS | Elective | 3 | IoT Architecture, IoT Protocols, Sensors and Actuators, Data Analytics for IoT, Security and Privacy in IoT |
| MCE308 | CRYPTOGRAPHY AND NETWORK SECURITY | Elective | 3 | Classical Ciphers, Symmetric Key Cryptography, Asymmetric Key Cryptography, Hash Functions, Network Security Protocols |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC401 | PROGRAMME PROJECT - PHASE II | Project | 18 | System Implementation, Testing and Validation, Performance Analysis, Thesis Writing, Project Defense |




