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M-TECH in Vlsi Design Embedded System at Visvesvaraya Technological University
Belagavi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is VLSI Design & Embedded System at Visvesvaraya Technological University Belagavi?
This VLSI Design & Embedded System program at Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) focuses on the synergistic blend of integrated circuit design and its application in intelligent embedded systems. It addresses the growing need for specialized engineers in India''''s semiconductor and electronics manufacturing sectors, emphasizing advanced design methodologies and system-level integration. The program''''s strength lies in its comprehensive coverage of both hardware and software aspects, preparing graduates for high-tech roles in the nation''''s burgeoning tech industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering graduates, particularly from ECE, EEE, and Instrumentation backgrounds, seeking to specialize in cutting-edge semiconductor and embedded technologies. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for entry-level design, verification, or embedded firmware roles in product development companies. Experienced professionals looking to upskill in areas like SoC design, RTOS, or low-power VLSI will also find it beneficial for career advancement in the Indian electronics industry, enhancing their expertise.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as VLSI design engineers, embedded software developers, verification engineers, or SoC architects in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-8 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in R&D, manufacturing, and product development in companies like Intel India, Texas Instruments, Wipro, and TCS. The program also prepares students for relevant professional certifications in EDA tools and embedded platforms, boosting their market value.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Deepen Core Concepts in VLSI and Embedded Systems- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering fundamental subjects like Digital VLSI Design, Analog and Mixed Mode VLSI, and Advanced Embedded Systems. Utilize online resources, standard textbooks, and peer discussion to solidify understanding of critical engineering principles.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Coursera/edX for related specializations, Standard textbooks (e.g., Weste & Harris for CMOS, Frank Vahid for Embedded Systems), Design manuals and white papers
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for excelling in technical interviews for design and verification roles, and for understanding advanced concepts required for innovative product development.
Hands-on Lab Proficiency and Industry Tool Familiarity- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in all lab sessions (Digital VLSI Design Lab, Advanced Embedded System Lab, Analog and Mixed Mode VLSI Lab, SoC Design Lab). Learn to use industry-standard EDA tools like Cadence Virtuoso, Synopsis VCS/VCS, Mentor Graphics QuestaSim, and embedded development environments (e.g., Keil uVision, IAR Embedded Workbench) to gain practical expertise.
Tools & Resources
University lab licenses, Tool-specific tutorials and documentation, Online forums for troubleshooting (e.g., Stack Overflow, EDA forums), Open-source embedded platforms (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi) for personal projects
Career Connection
Practical experience with industry-standard tools is a key requirement for entry-level positions in VLSI and embedded domains, significantly improving employability in design and verification firms across India.
Cultivate Research and Technical Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage the Research Methodology & IPR course and Technical Seminar to develop robust literature review, report writing, and presentation abilities. Actively participate in department seminars and local conferences to observe and practice effective technical communication, preparing for academic and industrial reporting.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, LaTeX for technical documentation, PowerPoint/Keynote for presentations, IEEE Xplore/ACM Digital Library for research papers, Toastmasters International for public speaking
Career Connection
Essential for project documentation, thesis writing, and presenting complex technical ideas effectively in industrial R&D, academic roles, and client-facing engineering positions.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Selection and Specialization- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose Professional Electives (Elective 3 and 4) based on individual career aspirations, whether leaning more towards VLSI (e.g., Low Power VLSI Design, Testing and Verification) or Embedded Systems (e.g., Embedded Linux, Automotive Embedded Systems). Deep dive into the chosen area through self-study and mini-projects to build niche expertise.
Tools & Resources
Advanced textbooks and research papers, Industry white papers and technology blogs, Specialized online courses (e.g., on specific EDA tools or RTOS platforms), Consultations with faculty and industry experts/mentors
Career Connection
Specializing early helps in tailoring skillsets to specific job roles and showcasing expertise during placement drives for focused positions in leading Indian tech companies.
Proactive Internship and Project Work Phase 1 Engagement- (Semester 3)
Treat the Internship and Project Work Phase 1 as critical opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. Actively seek challenging industry internships and dedicate significant effort to problem identification, literature review, and initial design/simulation for the project, aiming for practical impact.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell and career services, LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms for internship search, Project management tools (e.g., Trello, Jira), Simulation and prototyping software relevant to the project domain
Career Connection
Internships often lead to pre-placement offers (PPOs), and a strong project portfolio is invaluable for demonstrating practical skills and problem-solving abilities to recruiters in India''''s competitive job market.
Networking and Professional Development- (Semester 3)
Attend industry webinars, workshops, and local tech events in major Indian tech hubs. Connect with alumni and professionals in VLSI and embedded domains through online and offline channels. Participate in coding competitions (for embedded software) or design contests (for VLSI) to enhance problem-solving and showcase skills to a wider audience.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn and professional networking platforms, Industry associations (e.g., IEEE, IETE student chapters), University alumni network portals, Platforms like HackerRank, Kaggle, CodeChef for skill testing and competitions
Career Connection
Networking can open doors to internships, mentorship, and job opportunities, while success in technical competitions provides tangible evidence of technical prowess and critical thinking.
Advanced Stage
Exemplary Project Work Phase 2 and Thesis Preparation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate the final semester to the successful implementation, rigorous testing, and detailed analysis of the project. Focus on generating high-quality results, writing a comprehensive thesis that meets academic standards, and preparing for a strong project defense. Strive for innovative solutions and potentially publishable quality work.
Tools & Resources
Advanced simulation/emulation platforms and lab equipment, Statistical analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python with NumPy/SciPy), Academic writing guides and thesis templates, Continuous faculty guidance and peer review sessions
Career Connection
A well-executed and documented final project is the strongest credential for securing positions in R&D, design, and product development, demonstrating independent research and advanced engineering capabilities to employers.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Interview Skills- (Semester 4)
Begin intensive preparation for campus placements well in advance. Practice technical questions related to VLSI design (digital, analog, verification), embedded systems (RTOS, microcontrollers, data structures), and general aptitude. Conduct mock interviews with peers and career counselors to refine communication, problem-solving skills, and behavioral responses.
Tools & Resources
GeeksforGeeks, LeetCode, InterviewBit for coding and technical problems, Previous year placement papers and interview experiences, University career services and counseling for resume building and mock interviews, Peer groups for simulated interview scenarios
Career Connection
Strategic and focused preparation significantly increases the chances of securing desirable job offers from top-tier companies visiting campus for placements, ensuring a smooth transition into the professional world.
Continuous Learning and Emerging Technology Awareness- (Semester 4)
Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in VLSI (e.g., advanced node technologies, AI accelerators) and Embedded Systems (e.g., IoT, edge AI, cybersecurity). Read technology blogs, industry news, and attend webinars/online courses to broaden knowledge beyond the curriculum and anticipate future industry demands.
Tools & Resources
TechCrunch, EE Times, Semiconductor Engineering for industry news, Specific company blogs (e.g., ARM, Intel, NXP), Industry conferences (e.g., DAC, embedded world, Semicon India) for cutting-edge developments, Online learning platforms for micro-certifications in niche areas
Career Connection
Demonstrating awareness of emerging technologies showcases initiative, adaptability, and a proactive learning mindset, making graduates more valuable and future-ready in a rapidly evolving Indian and global technology landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must have passed B.E./B.Tech. in ECE/EIE/Telecommunication/Electrical & Electronics/Biomedical Instrumentation Engineering or M.Sc. in Physics/Electronics or AMIE in appropriate branch, or its equivalent, with not less than 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/Category-I candidates). Candidates must have appeared for PGCET/GATE examination for admission.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 88 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE11 | Advanced Engineering Mathematics | Core | 4 | Linear Algebra and Numerical Methods, Probability and Statistics, Calculus of Variations, Optimization Techniques, Difference Equations |
| 22EVE12 | Design of Analog and Mixed Mode VLSI Circuits | Core | 4 | MOSFET I-V Characteristics and Modeling, Single Stage Amplifiers, Current Mirrors and Bandgap References, Differential Amplifiers and Op-Amp Design, Data Converters |
| 22EVE13 | Digital VLSI Design | Core | 4 | MOS Transistor Theory, CMOS Inverter Characteristics, Combinational MOS Logic Circuits, Sequential MOS Logic Circuits, Memory and Array Structures |
| 22EVE14 | Advanced Embedded System | Core | 4 | Embedded System Architecture, ARM Processor Architecture, Interrupts and Exception Handling, Real-Time Operating Systems, Embedded System Interfacing |
| 22EVEL15 | Digital VLSI Design Lab | Lab | 2 | HDL Based Design Entry, CMOS Inverter and Logic Gate Simulation, Combinational Circuit Implementation, Sequential Circuit Design, Layout Design Fundamentals |
| 22EVEL16 | Advanced Embedded System Lab | Lab | 2 | ARM Processor Programming, Interfacing Peripherals, RTOS Task Management, Sensor Integration, Embedded C Programming |
| 22EVE17 | Research Methodology & IPR | Core | 4 | Research Formulation and Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Intellectual Property Rights, Patenting and Commercialization |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE21 | Advanced Computer Architecture | Core | 4 | Pipelining and Instruction Level Parallelism, Vector Processors, Multiprocessors and Thread-Level Parallelism, Memory Hierarchy Design, Cache Coherence Protocols |
| 22EVE22 | SoC Design | Core | 4 | SoC Architecture and Components, IP Core Integration, Verification Methodologies, Design for Testability, Low Power SoC Design |
| 22EVE23 | Professional Elective - 1 | Elective | 4 | Real Time Operating Systems, Advanced Digital Signal Processing, Device Modeling |
| 22EVE24 | Professional Elective - 2 | Elective | 4 | CMOS RF Circuit Design, Hardware Software Co-design, Advanced Microcontrollers |
| 22EVEL25 | Analog and Mixed Mode VLSI Design Lab | Lab | 2 | Analog Circuit Simulation, Mixed-Signal Circuit Design, Data Converter Design, Layout Design Practices, Performance Analysis of AMS Circuits |
| 22EVEL26 | SoC Design Lab | Lab | 2 | IP Core Integration, SystemC Modeling, Verification using UVM, FPGA Prototyping, Performance Optimization |
| 22EVE27 | Technical Seminar | Core | 4 | Literature Survey and Topic Selection, Technical Presentation Skills, Effective Report Writing, Current Research Trends, Communication and Discussion |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE31 | Professional Elective - 3 | Elective | 4 | Low Power VLSI Design, Testing and Verification of VLSI Circuits, Embedded Linux |
| 22EVE32 | Professional Elective - 4 | Elective | 4 | Advanced Verilog HDL, Automotive Embedded Systems, Cryptography and Network Security |
| 22EVE33 | Project Work Phase – 1 | Project | 6 | Problem Identification and Formulation, Extensive Literature Survey, Design Methodology and Specifications, Initial Simulations and Results, Report Generation |
| 22EVE34 | Internship | Internship | 2 | Industrial Training and Exposure, Practical Skill Development, Application of Engineering Principles, Problem Solving in Industry, Internship Report and Presentation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22EVE41 | Project Work Phase – 2 | Project | 24 | Detailed Implementation and Execution, Rigorous Testing and Validation, Analysis of Results and Performance, Comprehensive Thesis Writing, Final Project Defense and Viva Voce |
