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M-TECH in Construction Engineering Management at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA)
Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Construction Engineering & Management at Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) Thanjavur?
This Construction Engineering & Management program at Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy focuses on equipping engineers with advanced knowledge and skills to lead complex construction projects. It integrates civil engineering principles with modern management techniques, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in India''''s rapidly expanding infrastructure and real estate sectors. The program emphasizes sustainable practices and technological advancements.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for civil engineering graduates seeking to specialize in project execution and management. It also caters to mid-career professionals in the construction industry looking to upgrade their skills for leadership roles, and those aiming for research or academic positions in construction management. A strong foundation in civil engineering concepts is a key prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths as Project Managers, Construction Managers, Quantity Surveyors, or Site Engineers in major Indian construction firms, government infrastructure projects, and real estate development companies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 5-8 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals. The program also aligns with certifications like PMP and RICS.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Construction Management Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong theoretical foundation in advanced concrete technology, project planning, and management. Engage actively in lectures, participate in discussions, and complete all assignments diligently to grasp the fundamental principles of construction engineering and project management.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on project management (e.g., PMBOK Guide), construction planning software manuals, relevant IS Codes, Online courses on Coursera/edX for foundational topics
Career Connection
A solid grasp of fundamentals is crucial for understanding advanced topics and forms the basis for effective project decision-making in future roles like project engineer.
Excel in Laboratory Skills and Practical Application- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to hands-on lab sessions for construction materials and software. Gain proficiency in testing concrete, aggregates, and utilizing project management software like Primavera P6 or MS Project. Document all experimental procedures and software applications meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Construction Materials Lab equipment, Primavera P6, MS Project, AutoCAD, BIM software, Lab manuals and online tutorials for software
Career Connection
Practical lab skills and software proficiency are highly valued by employers, directly enhancing employability for roles requiring hands-on experience in quality control or project scheduling.
Initiate Research and Critical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in the Research Methodology course, starting with identifying relevant research areas in construction. Practice critical analysis of existing literature and develop problem-solving approaches for real-world construction challenges. Attend departmental seminars.
Tools & Resources
J-Gate, Scopus, Web of Science for literature search, SASTRA central library resources
Career Connection
Developing strong research skills early is vital for thesis work and positions in R&D or advanced consultancy, fostering an analytical mindset essential for any managerial role.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Industry through Internships and Visits- (Semester 2-3 (during vacation or short-term projects))
Seek out summer internships at leading construction firms, real estate developers, or infrastructure companies in India. Actively participate in site visits organized by the department to understand practical aspects of construction, safety, and equipment management firsthand.
Tools & Resources
SASTRA placement cell, LinkedIn, company career portals, Industry contact networks
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable industry exposure, networking opportunities, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting career entry and progression.
Specialize through Electives and Certifications- (Semester 2-3)
Strategically choose elective subjects that align with specific career interests (e.g., Sustainable Construction, Infrastructure Planning). Consider pursuing external certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) or LEED Green Associate to enhance specialization and marketability.
Tools & Resources
PMI, USGBC, IGBC websites for certification details, Online learning platforms for specialized courses
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and recognized certifications differentiate you in a competitive job market, opening doors to niche roles and higher compensation packages in the Indian construction sector.
Participate in Technical Competitions and Workshops- (Semester 2-3)
Join university-level or national technical competitions focused on construction management, structural design, or sustainable building. Attend workshops and seminars on emerging technologies like BIM, AI in construction, or advanced materials to stay updated.
Tools & Resources
IEI, ICI, RICS student chapters, Event announcements from SASTRA and professional bodies
Career Connection
Participation hones problem-solving skills, teamwork, and presentation abilities, making you a more confident and well-rounded candidate for challenging roles in construction.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Industry-Relevant Major Project- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate significant effort to your M.Tech project (Phase I & II), ensuring it addresses a current problem in the construction industry. Work closely with your faculty mentor and, if possible, collaborate with an industry partner for data or case studies.
Tools & Resources
Academic research databases, specialized software for analysis (e.g., ANSYS, ABAQUS), Industry reports and case studies
Career Connection
A strong, industry-relevant project demonstrates your capability to solve complex problems, which is highly attractive to potential employers and can lead to immediate employment or further research opportunities.
Develop Leadership and Communication Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in student clubs, lead team projects, and practice public speaking through presentations and seminars. Focus on improving written and verbal communication, crucial for managing diverse teams and stakeholders in construction projects.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International, SASTRA''''s communication skills workshops, Mock interviews and group discussions
Career Connection
Excellent leadership and communication skills are essential for career progression into managerial and executive positions, enabling effective team coordination and client interaction.
Strategize for Placements and Career Planning- (Semester 3-4)
Start placement preparation early by attending career counseling sessions, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops offered by SASTRA''''s career development cell. Network with alumni and industry professionals to explore job opportunities and gain insights into career paths.
Tools & Resources
SASTRA placement cell, LinkedIn, Naukri.com, Alumni network platforms, professional associations like ICI
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and preparation maximize your chances of securing a desirable placement in top Indian construction companies immediately after graduation, aligning with your long-term career aspirations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E. / B.Tech in Civil Engineering / Construction Technology / Architectural Engineering with a minimum aggregate of 60%. Valid GATE score is desirable but not always mandatory for admission.
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 74 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEN501 | Advanced Concrete Technology | Core | 4 | Concrete materials and properties, Admixtures and special cements, High-performance and self-compacting concrete, Durability of concrete structures, Green concrete concepts, Non-destructive testing |
| CEN503 | Construction Planning and Scheduling | Core | 4 | Project life cycle and organization, CPM and PERT network analysis, Resource allocation and leveling, Time-cost optimization, Project monitoring and control, Computer applications in scheduling |
| CEN505 | Project Management Techniques | Core | 4 | Project scope and integration management, Cost estimation and budgeting, Quality planning and control, Risk identification and mitigation, Procurement and contract administration, Project delivery systems |
| CEN507 | Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Introduction to research and problem formulation, Literature review and hypothesis generation, Data collection methods and sampling, Statistical analysis techniques, Technical report writing and presentation, Ethical considerations in research |
| CEN509 | Construction Materials Lab | Lab | 2 | Tests on cement and aggregates, Fresh and hardened concrete tests, Tests on bitumen and asphalt mixes, Tests on masonry units and steel, Mix design for concrete, Introduction to NDT techniques |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEN502 | Construction Equipment and Automation | Core | 4 | Earthmoving and excavating equipment, Lifting, conveying, and hoisting equipment, Concrete production and paving equipment, Dewatering and pile driving equipment, Construction automation and robotics, Equipment maintenance and safety |
| CEN504 | Quality and Safety Management in Construction | Core | 4 | Concepts of quality control and assurance, ISO standards in construction, Total Quality Management principles, Safety hazards and risk assessment, Construction safety legislation and regulations, Accident prevention and first aid |
| CEN506 | Legal Aspects in Construction | Core | 4 | Indian Contract Act, 1872, Types of construction contracts, Tender and bidding procedures, Arbitration and dispute resolution, Environmental laws and regulations, Labor laws and industrial relations |
| CEN5XX | Elective I: Sustainable Construction | Elective | 3 | Green building concepts and rating systems (LEED, GRIHA), Sustainable materials and construction practices, Energy efficiency in buildings, Waste management and recycling, Life cycle assessment of buildings, Climate change adaptation |
| CEN5XX | Elective II: Infrastructure Planning and Management | Elective | 3 | Urban infrastructure development, Transportation planning and traffic management, Water supply and wastewater treatment systems, Solid waste management techniques, Smart city concepts, Funding and financing infrastructure projects |
| CEN508 | Construction Software Lab | Lab | 2 | Project management software (Primavera, MS Project), Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, Quantity surveying and estimation software, Structural analysis software (SAP2000, STAAD.Pro), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), CAD applications in construction |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEN601 | Financial Management in Construction | Core | 4 | Principles of engineering economics, Project financing and investment appraisal, Cash flow management and working capital, Cost control and value engineering, Budgeting and financial forecasting, Risk analysis in financial decisions |
| CEN6XX | Elective III: Disaster Resistant Structures | Elective | 3 | Seismic design principles and codes, Wind effects on structures, Fire resistance of materials and structures, Retrofitting and rehabilitation techniques, Disaster preparedness and mitigation, Structural health monitoring |
| CEN6XX | Elective IV: Geo-Environmental Engineering | Elective | 3 | Soil and groundwater contamination, Hazardous waste management, Landfill design and remediation techniques, Geosynthetics in environmental applications, Environmental impact assessment, Site characterization and monitoring |
| CEN699 | Project Work - Phase I | Project | 6 | Identification of research problem, Extensive literature survey, Formulation of objectives and methodology, Preliminary data collection and analysis, Report writing and presentation of interim findings |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CEN799 | Project Work - Phase II | Project | 16 | Detailed experimental work or numerical simulation, Advanced data analysis and interpretation, Development of models or solutions, Comprehensive thesis writing, Project defense and viva-voce, Publication of research findings |
