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M-TECH in Vlsi Design at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is VLSI Design at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This VLSI Design program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on advanced concepts in integrated circuit design, fabrication, and verification. It is crucial for the thriving semiconductor industry in India, driving innovation in embedded systems, AI hardware, and consumer electronics. The program emphasizes hands-on experience with industry-standard EDA tools and advanced research methodologies to prepare future chip designers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates with a strong foundation in ECE, EEE, or allied fields seeking to enter the high-growth semiconductor industry. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill in cutting-edge VLSI technologies like advanced chip design, verification, and physical design. Aspiring researchers in microelectronics and chip design will find advanced topics and project work highly beneficial for their career trajectory.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue lucrative careers as ASIC Design Engineers, Verification Engineers, Physical Design Engineers, or Embedded System Designers in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience in leading design houses and product companies. Opportunities exist in R&D, design, and manufacturing roles within both Indian startups and multinational corporations, contributing to India''''s ''''Make in India'''' initiative for electronics.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master VLSI Fundamentals with EDA Tools- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in digital and analog circuit design principles. Actively use industry-standard EDA tools like Cadence Virtuoso, Synopsis VCS, and Xilinx Vivado for simulation and synthesis. Complete all lab assignments meticulously, experimenting with different design parameters and understanding their impact.
Tools & Resources
Cadence Virtuoso, Synopsis VCS, Xilinx Vivado, NPTEL lectures on VLSI Design, Online tutorials
Career Connection
Proficiency in foundational EDA tools and design principles is crucial for securing entry-level design and verification roles in the semiconductor industry. This hands-on experience differentiates candidates.
Engage in Peer Learning and Technical Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex topics, solve problems collaboratively, and prepare for exams. Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to broaden your understanding of current industry trends and emerging technologies in VLSI from experts.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Departmental seminars, Technical clubs, Online forums (e.g., StackExchange, Reddit r/VLSI)
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving skills, promotes teamwork, and keeps you updated on industry advancements, making you a more valuable and well-rounded candidate for technical roles.
Build Strong Programming and Scripting Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Develop strong proficiency in hardware description languages (Verilog/VHDL) and essential scripting languages (Python, Perl) commonly used in VLSI design flow automation. Practice coding challenges related to digital logic implementation and automate design tasks.
Tools & Resources
LeetCode, HackerRank, GeeksforGeeks, Online courses on Python/Perl scripting, HDL textbooks
Career Connection
Essential for roles in verification, design automation, and developing custom tools, which are increasingly in demand in the Indian semiconductor ecosystem for efficiency and innovation.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Projects and Strategic Elective Choices- (Semester 3)
Apply theoretical knowledge by working on self-driven mini-projects using FPGA platforms or exploring aspects of ASIC design flows. Choose electives strategically to specialize in areas like Analog IC Design, VLSI Testing, or Low Power VLSI, aligning with specific career interests and industry demand.
Tools & Resources
FPGA development boards (e.g., Xilinx Basys, Nexys), Open-source EDA tools (e.g., SkyWater PDK, OpenLane), Project guides and faculty mentors
Career Connection
Demonstrates practical application skills and helps build a specialized portfolio, critical for showcasing expertise to potential employers in niche VLSI domains and securing relevant internships.
Seek Industry Internships and Practical Exposure- (Semester 3 (during/after))
Actively search for and apply to internships at leading semiconductor companies or design houses in India (e.g., Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, Texas Instruments, Wipro VLSI, HCL Technologies). Gain real-world exposure to chip design, verification, or physical design processes, observing industry best practices.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Internshala, Company career portals, College placement cell
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable industry experience, often leading to pre-placement offers, and help build a professional network within the Indian semiconductor ecosystem, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Participate in Design Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 3)
Engage in national-level VLSI design competitions, hackathons, or project expos. Attend specialized workshops on advanced topics like Machine Learning for VLSI, Quantum Computing in VLSI, or emerging fabrication technologies to stay ahead of the curve and gain exposure to cutting-edge research.
Tools & Resources
IEEE VLSI conferences, D-Day events, University-organized workshops, Industry-sponsored design challenges
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving under pressure, fosters innovation, and provides networking opportunities with industry experts and peers, significantly bolstering your CV and demonstrating proactive learning.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Capstone Project Work and Research- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your M.Tech thesis or capstone project. Choose a challenging and industry-relevant topic, conduct thorough research, design, implement, and rigorously test your solution. Aim for publication in a reputed conference or journal to establish your research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Advanced EDA tools, Research databases (IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library), Faculty advisors, Specialized lab equipment
Career Connection
A strong, well-executed project is the centerpiece of your M.Tech, demonstrating advanced skills and research capabilities, critical for securing R&D, specialized design roles, or pursuing further academic endeavors.
Prepare Systematically for Placements- (Semester 4)
Begin placement preparation early by rigorously revising core VLSI concepts, practicing aptitude tests, and undergoing mock interviews. Tailor your resume and cover letters to specific job descriptions, highlighting your project work and internship experiences effectively to align with company requirements.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell, Career counselling, Online aptitude test platforms (e.g., Indiabix), Interview preparation guides, Company-specific previous year questions
Career Connection
Maximizes chances for securing high-paying positions in top semiconductor companies and design services firms across India, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to a professional career.
Develop Professional Network and Soft Skills- (Semester 4)
Actively network with alumni, industry professionals, and faculty members. Attend industry events, career fairs, and professional body meetings (e.g., IEEE EDS/CAS chapters). Simultaneously, hone your presentation, communication, and leadership skills, which are vital for career progression in technical and managerial roles.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni associations, Professional conferences (e.g., VLSI Design Conference), University career fairs, Toastmasters International
Career Connection
A strong professional network provides mentorship, job leads, and industry insights, while well-developed soft skills are crucial for leadership roles and effective collaboration in corporate environments.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.E. / B.Tech. in Electronics & Communication Engineering / Electrical & Electronics Engineering / Electronics & Instrumentation Engineering / Computer Science & Engineering / Information Technology / Instrumentation & Control Engineering / Mechatronics Engineering / Biomedical Engineering or equivalent degree with minimum aggregate marks as per university norms.
Duration: 2 years (4 Semesters)
Credits: 76 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (Theory), 60% (Practical), External: 50% (Theory), 40% (Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVD2101 | Advanced Digital System Design | Core | 4 | Review of Digital Logic, CMOS Logic Design, HDL for Digital Systems, Synthesis and Optimization, Asynchronous Design |
| PVD2102 | VLSI Technology | Core | 4 | IC Fabrication Principles, CMOS Process Technology, Lithography and Etching, Diffusion and Ion Implantation, Metallization and Packaging |
| PVD2103 | Analog IC Design | Core | 4 | MOS Device Characteristics, Current Mirrors and References, CMOS Amplifiers (CS, CD, CG), Differential Amplifiers, Operational Amplifiers and Stability |
| PVD21L1 | Digital VLSI Design Lab | Lab | 2 | HDL Simulation and Synthesis, FPGA Prototyping, ASIC Design Flow, Timing Analysis, Logic Synthesis Tools |
| PVD21E1 | System Verilog for VLSI Design | Elective | 3 | System Verilog Constructs, Verification Methodologies, Universal Verification Methodology (UVM), Functional Coverage, Assertion Based Verification |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVD2104 | Design of Mixed Signal Integrated Circuits | Core | 4 | Data Converters (ADC, DAC), Sample-and-Hold Circuits, Phase-Locked Loops (PLL), Delay-Locked Loops (DLL), Voltage Controlled Oscillators |
| PVD2105 | VLSI Testing and Testability | Core | 4 | Fault Models and Simulation, Automatic Test Pattern Generation (ATPG), Scan Design Techniques, Built-In Self-Test (BIST), Design for Testability (DFT) Architectures |
| PVD2106 | Embedded System Design | Core | 4 | Embedded Processors (ARM/RISC-V), Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS), Interfacing Techniques and Peripherals, Device Drivers and Firmware, Embedded System Applications |
| PVD21L2 | Analog & Mixed Signal Design Lab | Lab | 2 | SPICE Simulation of Analog Circuits, Layout Design Fundamentals, CMOS Amplifier Design and Characterization, Data Converter Design, PLL Design and Simulation |
| PVD21E2 | Low Power VLSI Design | Elective | 3 | Power Dissipation in CMOS Circuits, Static and Dynamic Power Reduction, Leakage Power Minimization, Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS), Adiabatic Logic Design |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVD21E3 | Physical Design Automation | Elective | 3 | Partitioning and Floorplanning, Placement Algorithms, Routing Techniques (Global/Detail), Timing Closure and Optimization, Clock Tree Synthesis (CTS) |
| PVD21E4 | ASIC Design | Elective | 3 | ASIC Design Flow, Gate Array and Standard Cell Design, Full Custom Design Methodologies, Design Libraries and IP Cores, Logic Synthesis and Verification |
| PVD21P1 | Project Work - Phase I | Project | 6 | Literature Survey and Problem Identification, System Architecture Design, Methodology and Block Level Implementation, Simulation and Initial Results, Project Proposal and Presentation |
| PVD21SR | Seminar / Technical Paper Review | Seminar | 2 | Technical Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Research Methodology, Contemporary VLSI Topics, Critical Analysis of Research Papers |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVD21P2 | Project Work - Phase II | Project | 12 | Detailed Implementation and Testing, Performance Analysis and Optimization, Result Validation and Comparison, Dissertation Writing and Defense, Potential for Publication/Patent |
