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B-TECH in Aeronautical Engineering With Aerospace Defence at Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology
Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Aeronautical Engineering with Aerospace & Defence at Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology Thiruvallur?
This Aeronautical Engineering program at Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of aircraft and aerospace systems. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to meet the evolving demands of the Indian aerospace and defence sectors, providing a robust foundation in aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, and avionics, making graduates industry-ready for crucial roles in national and international projects.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring engineers with a strong aptitude for physics and mathematics, seeking entry into the dynamic aerospace and defence industry in India. It also suits individuals passionate about aircraft design, space exploration, and advanced manufacturing. Fresh 10+2 graduates looking for a challenging engineering career and professionals aiming to specialize in cutting-edge aerospace technologies would find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in HAL, DRDO, ISRO, and private airlines or MROs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for roles like design engineer, stress analyst, propulsion engineer, and aviation maintenance specialist, with opportunities for growth into leadership and R&D positions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Mathematical and Scientific Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on mastering core engineering mathematics, physics, and chemistry concepts. These subjects form the bedrock of aeronautical engineering and a weak foundation can hinder understanding in later semesters. Regularly practice problem-solving and seek conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Specific textbooks recommended by faculty, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid grasp of fundamentals is crucial for passing core engineering exams, understanding complex aerospace theories, and excelling in technical interviews for aerospace companies.
Cultivate Basic Programming and CAD Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage introductory Python and C++ courses to build strong programming logic. Simultaneously, engage with basic engineering graphics and CAD software (like AutoCAD or SolidWorks). These digital tools are indispensable for modern engineering design and analysis.
Tools & Resources
HackerRank, LeetCode (for programming logic), Official software tutorials, Online CAD courses
Career Connection
Proficiency in programming is essential for data analysis and simulation, while CAD skills are mandatory for design and manufacturing roles in aerospace.
Engage in Early Engineering Project Exposure- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in mini-projects, departmental clubs (e.g., Aero-modeling club), or college technical festivals. This early exposure to practical application, even on a small scale, helps connect theoretical knowledge with real-world engineering challenges.
Tools & Resources
College workshops, Departmental labs, Faculty mentors, Project ideas from online communities
Career Connection
Builds problem-solving skills, teamwork, and provides initial hands-on experience which can be highlighted in resumes for internships and future job applications.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Core Aeronautical Subjects- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on specialized subjects like Aerodynamics, Aircraft Structures, Propulsion, and Flight Mechanics. Beyond classroom learning, engage with research papers, industry journals, and online courses specific to these fields to gain deeper insights.
Tools & Resources
AIAA Journal, NASA technical reports, Specific NPTEL courses on Fluid Mechanics or Aircraft Structures, Advanced textbooks
Career Connection
Mastery of these core subjects directly qualifies students for specialized roles in aerospace design, analysis, and R&D, often a prerequisite for positions at ISRO, DRDO, or HAL.
Seek Practical Industrial Exposure through Internships- (Semester 4-5 (during summer breaks))
Actively pursue internships in aerospace companies, MRO facilities, or research organizations during summer breaks. Even short-term internships provide invaluable real-world experience, expose you to industry practices, and help build a professional network.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Company career pages (e.g., HAL, Air India Engineering), Online internship portals
Career Connection
Internships are often a direct path to pre-placement offers, enhance resume credibility, and provide a competitive edge in the job market, especially for Indian defence and aerospace PSUs.
Develop Advanced Simulation and Analysis Skills- (Semester 4-5)
Gain proficiency in industry-standard software for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), such as ANSYS, ABAQUS, or Nastran. Practical application of these tools is critical for modern aerospace engineering.
Tools & Resources
Licensed software available in college labs, Online tutorials, Specialized workshops, Projects involving simulation
Career Connection
These skills are highly sought after by aerospace design and analysis firms, significantly improving employability for roles requiring advanced engineering analysis.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Capstone Project- (Semester 7-8)
Dedicate significant effort to the final year project, ideally one that addresses a real-world aerospace problem or involves novel research. This project should integrate knowledge from various courses, demonstrate problem-solving abilities, and produce tangible results.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Departmental research facilities, Access to advanced software, Project funding opportunities
Career Connection
A strong project is a powerful talking point in interviews, showcases technical depth, and can lead to publications or patent opportunities, opening doors to R&D roles and higher studies.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 6-8)
Actively participate in industry seminars, conferences, and alumni meet-ups. Build a professional network through platforms like LinkedIn. Mentorship from experienced professionals can provide career guidance, job leads, and insights into industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Industry events (e.g., Aero India, MRO India), Professional associations (e.g., Aeronautical Society of India)
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for discovering hidden job opportunities, getting referrals, and staying updated on the evolving demands of the Indian aerospace job market.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 7-8)
Beyond technical skills, hone soft skills like communication, presentation, and critical thinking. Prepare for aptitude tests, technical interviews, and group discussions. For those interested in higher studies, focus on competitive exams like GATE or GRE/TOEFL and prepare strong statements of purpose.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell workshops, Mock interviews, Online aptitude platforms, GATE coaching, University admission portals
Career Connection
Direct impact on securing placements in top aerospace companies, PSUs, or gaining admission to prestigious national and international universities for M.Tech/Ph.D. programs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects along with one of the Chemistry/Biotechnology/Biology/Technical Vocational subject. Obtained at least 45% marks (40% for reserved category) in the above subjects taken together. Appeared for JEE (Main) / VTUEEE.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 175 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17MA101 | Engineering Mathematics I | Core | 4 | Matrices, Eigenvalue Problems, Sequences and Series, Differential Calculus, Functions of Several Variables |
| U17PH101 | Engineering Physics | Core | 3 | Crystal Physics, Quantum Physics, Lasers and Fiber Optics, Superconducting Materials, Nanomaterials |
| U17CH101 | Engineering Chemistry | Core | 3 | Water Technology, Electrochemistry, Corrosion, Fuels and Combustion, Polymer Chemistry |
| U17CS101 | Problem Solving using Python Programming | Core | 3 | Introduction to Python, Data, Expressions, Statements, Control Flow, Functions, Basic Algorithms |
| U17EE101 | Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering | Core | 3 | DC Circuits, AC Circuits, Electrical Machines, Semiconductor Devices, Digital Electronics |
| U17GE101 | Engineering Graphics | Core | 2 | Projections of Points, Lines, Planes, Projections of Solids, Section of Solids, Development of Surfaces, Orthographic Projections |
| U17EN101 | English Language Skills | Core | 2 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Listening Skills, Speaking Skills |
| U17PH1L1 | Engineering Physics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Laser parameters, Thermal conductivity, Young''''s Modulus, Rigidity modulus, Band gap determination |
| U17CH1L1 | Engineering Chemistry Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Water analysis, Potentiometry, Conductometry, Flame photometry, Colorimetry |
| U17CS1L1 | Problem Solving using Python Programming Lab | Lab | 1 | Conditional statements, Loops and functions, Lists and tuples, Dictionaries, File handling |
| U17GE1L1 | Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering Lab | Lab | 1 | Ohm''''s Law, Kirchhoff''''s laws, PN junction diode characteristics, Zener diode characteristics, Transistor characteristics, Logic gates |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17MA201 | Engineering Mathematics II | Core | 4 | Multiple Integrals, Vector Calculus, Ordinary Differential Equations, Laplace Transforms, Analytic Functions |
| U17GE201 | Environmental Science and Engineering | Core | 3 | Natural Resources, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Human Population and the Environment |
| U17ME201 | Engineering Mechanics | Core | 3 | Statics of Particles, Equilibrium of Rigid Bodies, Properties of Surfaces and Solids, Dynamics of Particles, Kinematics of Rigid Bodies |
| U17ME202 | Material Science | Core | 3 | Engineering Materials, Crystalline Solids, Mechanical Properties of Materials, Phase Diagrams, Heat Treatment |
| U17CS201 | Object Oriented Programming using C++ | Core | 3 | C++ Fundamentals, Classes and Objects, Constructors and Destructors, Operator Overloading, Inheritance and Polymorphism |
| U17AEL01 | Design Thinking | Core | 2 | Introduction to Design Thinking, Empathize and Define, Ideation Techniques, Prototyping, Testing and Implementation |
| U17ME2L1 | Engineering Practices Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Carpentry and Fitting, Welding and Plumbing, Sheet Metal Work, Machining Processes, House Wiring |
| U17CS2L1 | Object Oriented Programming using C++ Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Classes and Objects implementation, Inheritance and Polymorphism, Function Overloading, File Handling, Templates |
| U17HU2L1 | Language and Communication Lab | Lab | 1 | Public Speaking, Group Discussions, Presentation Skills, Interview Skills, Resume Writing |
| U17AEL02 | NSS/NCC/YRC/Sports | Core | 2 | Community Service, Leadership Development, Physical Fitness, Disaster Management, Social Awareness Programs |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17MA305 | Transforms and Partial Differential Equations | Core | 4 | Fourier Series, Fourier Transforms, Z-Transforms, Partial Differential Equations, Boundary Value Problems |
| U17AE301 | Aerodynamics I | Core | 3 | Airfoil Theory, Inviscid Flow, Compressible Flow, Shock Waves and Expansion Waves, Prandtl-Meyer Expansion |
| U17AE302 | Aircraft Production Technology | Core | 3 | Manufacturing Processes, Joining Processes (Welding, Riveting), Sheet Metal Forming, Composites Manufacturing, Quality Control in Aircraft Production |
| U17AE303 | Aircraft Structures I | Core | 3 | Stress and Strain Analysis, Beam Theory, Torsion of Thin-Walled Sections, Shear Flow in Open and Closed Sections, Failure Theories |
| U17AE304 | Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer | Core | 3 | Laws of Thermodynamics, Entropy and Exergy, Power Cycles, Heat Conduction, Convection and Radiation |
| U17AE305 | Fluid Mechanics | Core | 3 | Fluid Properties, Fluid Statics, Fluid Dynamics (Euler''''s, Bernoulli''''s), Boundary Layer Theory, Flow Measurement |
| U17AE3L1 | Aerodynamics Laboratory I | Lab | 1 | Wind tunnel testing, Pressure distribution measurements, Lift and Drag measurement, Boundary layer studies, Flow visualization techniques |
| U17AE3L2 | Aircraft Production Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Riveting and fasteners, Welding techniques, Sheet metal bending and forming, Composite fabrication, Machining operations |
| U17AE3L3 | Fluid Mechanics and Machinery Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Venturimeter and Orificemeter, Pipe flow losses, Centrifugal pump characteristics, Reciprocating pump characteristics, Flow through nozzles |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17MA405 | Numerical Methods | Core | 4 | Solution of Algebraic Equations, Interpolation and Curve Fitting, Numerical Differentiation, Numerical Integration, Numerical Solution of ODEs |
| U17AE401 | Aerodynamics II | Core | 3 | High-Speed Aerodynamics, Hypersonic Flow, Airfoil Design and Optimization, Wing Theory (Finite Wings), Introduction to CFD |
| U17AE402 | Aircraft Propulsion I | Core | 3 | Gas Turbine Cycles, Turbojet and Turbofan Engines, Thrust Generation, Engine Components (Compressors, Turbines), Propeller Theory |
| U17AE403 | Aircraft Structures II | Core | 3 | Buckling of Columns, Panel Instability, Cutouts in Aircraft Structures, Fatigue and Creep, Fracture Mechanics |
| U17AE404 | Aircraft Systems | Core | 3 | Flight Control Systems, Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems, Landing Gear Systems, Fuel Systems, Environmental Control Systems |
| U17AE405 | Machine Drawing and CAD | Core | 3 | Orthographic Projections, Sectional Views, Assembly Drawings, Limits, Fits and Tolerances, Introduction to CAD Software |
| U17AE4L1 | Aerodynamics Laboratory II | Lab | 1 | Supersonic jet characteristics, Flow visualization in supersonic flow, Pressure measurement in high-speed flow, Data acquisition systems, Experiments with different airfoil sections |
| U17AE4L2 | Aircraft Structures Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Tension, Compression, Bending tests, Torsion tests, Buckling tests on columns, Strain measurement techniques, Vibration analysis of beams |
| U17AE4L3 | CAD / CAM Laboratory | Lab | 1 | 2D Drafting using CAD software, 3D Solid Modeling, Assembly Modeling, CAM programming for CNC machines, Product simulation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17AE501 | Aircraft Design | Core | 3 | Conceptual Design, Configuration Layout and Sizing, Weight Estimation, Performance Analysis, Stability and Control Aspects |
| U17AE502 | Flight Mechanics I | Core | 3 | Aircraft Performance, Drag Polar and Thrust Available, Range and Endurance, Climb and Descent Performance, Take-off and Landing Performance |
| U17AE503 | Aircraft Propulsion II | Core | 3 | Rocket Propulsion Fundamentals, Solid Propellant Rockets, Liquid Propellant Rockets, Ramjets and Scramjets, Nozzle Theory |
| U17AE504 | Avionic Systems | Core | 3 | Navigation Systems (GPS, INS), Communication Systems (VHF, HF), Radar Systems, Flight Management Systems, Displays and Cockpit Integration |
| U17AE505 | Experimental Stress Analysis | Core | 3 | Strain Gauges and Rosettes, Photoelasticity, Brittle Coatings, Moire Fringe Method, Non-Destructive Testing Principles |
| U17AE9XX | Professional Elective I (e.g., Wind Tunnel Techniques) | Elective | 3 | Wind tunnel types, Measurement techniques, Flow visualization, Data reduction, Calibration of wind tunnels |
| U17AE5L1 | Aircraft Design and CAD Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Aircraft conceptual design exercises, Component design using CAD, Aerodynamic analysis of airfoils, Structural analysis of simple components, Performance estimation using software |
| U17AE5L2 | Aircraft Propulsion Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Jet engine performance testing, Rocket motor testing principles, Compressor characteristics, Turbine characteristics, Fuel injection systems |
| U17AE5L3 | Experimental Stress Analysis Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Strain gauge calibration, Photoelastic stress analysis, Brittle coating application, Non-destructive testing (ultrasonic, eddy current), Vibration measurement |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17AE601 | Computational Fluid Dynamics | Core | 3 | Finite Difference Method, Finite Volume Method, Grid Generation Techniques, Turbulence Modeling, Applications in Aerodynamics |
| U17AE602 | Vibration and Aeroelasticity | Core | 3 | Single Degree of Freedom Systems, Multi Degree of Freedom Systems, Flutter Phenomena, Divergence, Control Surface Reversal |
| U17AE603 | Flight Mechanics II | Core | 3 | Static Stability, Dynamic Stability, Longitudinal Stability and Control, Lateral Stability and Control, Directional Stability and Control |
| U17AE604 | Finite Element Methods | Core | 3 | Basics of FEM, 1D Elements (Bars, Trusses), 2D Elements (Beams, Plates), Isoparametric Formulation, Applications in Structural Analysis |
| U17AE9XX | Professional Elective II (e.g., Aeroacoustics) | Elective | 3 | Sound generation mechanisms, Aerodynamic noise sources, Jet noise and Fan noise, Noise reduction techniques, Measurement of acoustic parameters |
| U17GE9XX | Open Elective I (e.g., Entrepreneurship Development) | Elective | 3 | Business idea generation, Market research and analysis, Business plan development, Funding opportunities, Startup ecosystem in India |
| U17AE6L1 | Computational Fluid Dynamics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | CFD software usage (e.g., ANSYS Fluent), Flow simulation for various geometries, Grid generation for complex shapes, Post-processing and visualization, Analysis of aerodynamic problems |
| U17AE6L2 | Avionics Laboratory | Lab | 1 | Navigation systems (GPS, INS) experiments, Communication systems (VHF) setup, Radar principles demonstration, Flight control simulation, Sensor integration |
| U17AE6L3 | Mini Project | Project | 1 | Problem identification, Literature survey, Design and methodology, Implementation and testing, Technical report writing |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17AE701 | Aircraft Maintenance Engineering | Core | 3 | Maintenance Practices and Philosophy, Airworthiness Requirements, Aviation Regulations (DGCA), Inspection Techniques (NDT), Repair and Overhaul Procedures |
| U17AE702 | Industrial Aerodynamics | Core | 3 | Wind Engineering, Vehicle Aerodynamics, Sports Aerodynamics, Bluff Body Aerodynamics, Atmospheric Boundary Layer |
| U17AE9XX | Professional Elective III (e.g., Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) | Elective | 3 | UAV types and classifications, Aerodynamics of UAVs, Control systems for UAVs, Payloads and applications, UAV regulations |
| U17AE9XX | Professional Elective IV (e.g., Non-Destructive Testing) | Elective | 3 | Ultrasonic testing, Eddy current testing, Radiography (X-ray, Gamma-ray), Liquid penetrant inspection, Magnetic particle inspection |
| U17GE9XX | Open Elective II (e.g., Total Quality Management) | Elective | 3 | Quality concepts and definitions, Quality control tools, TQM principles and philosophies, ISO standards, Six Sigma methodology |
| U17AE7L1 | Aircraft Design Project | Project | 2 | Aircraft conceptual design, Detailed component design, Performance analysis and estimation, Stability and control analysis, Design documentation and presentation |
| U17AE7P1 | Internship / Inplant Training | Project | 2 | Industrial exposure, Practical application of engineering principles, Problem solving in an industry setting, Report preparation, Presentation of learning outcomes |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U17AE8P1 | Project Work | Project | 16 | Research methodology, Problem definition and scope, Design, analysis, and development, Experimentation and validation, Thesis writing and defense |
| U17AE9XX | Professional Elective V (e.g., Rockets and Missiles) | Elective | 3 | Rocket equation and staging, Solid propellants and liquid propellants, Ballistic missiles, Guided missiles and trajectories, Rocket launch systems |
