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Professor in Mechanical Engineering

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

A Mechanical Engineering Professor teaches, researches, and mentors students. They advance mechanical engineering knowledge through publications and academic contributions.

Average Salary

₹9,00,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements to Become a Mechanical Engineering Professor

To become a professor in Mechanical Engineering in India, a structured educational path is essential. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • A Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (e.g., Aerospace Engineering, Production Engineering) is the first step.
    • Many universities and engineering colleges offer this program.
  • Master's Degree:
    • Following the Bachelor's, a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering is crucial.
    • Specializations can include Thermal Engineering, Design Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, etc.
  • Doctorate (Ph.D.):
    • A Ph.D. is typically required to secure a professorship. This involves:
      • In-depth research in a specialized area of Mechanical Engineering.
      • Publishing research papers in reputed journals.
      • A doctoral thesis that contributes significantly to the field.
  • Postdoctoral Experience (Optional but Recommended):
    • Postdoctoral research experience can enhance your profile, especially if you aim for top-tier institutions.
  • National Eligibility Test (NET):
    • Clearing the NET exam, conducted by the UGC, is often required for teaching positions in Indian universities and colleges.

Key Skills

  • Strong understanding of core mechanical engineering principles.
  • Excellent research and analytical skills.
  • Effective communication and teaching abilities.
  • Ability to mentor and guide students.

Important Considerations

  • GPA and Grades: Consistently high grades throughout your academic career are essential.
  • Research Publications: Focus on publishing in high-impact journals.
  • Networking: Attend conferences and workshops to build connections with other academics.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges for Mechanical Engineering in India

To pursue a career as a Mechanical Engineering professor, it's essential to get your education from reputable institutions. Here are some of the top colleges in India for Mechanical Engineering:

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs):
    • IIT Madras: Known for its strong research programs and faculty.
    • IIT Delhi: Offers a wide range of specializations in Mechanical Engineering.
    • IIT Bombay: Renowned for its industry collaborations and innovation.
    • IIT Kanpur: Focuses on fundamental research and development.
    • IIT Kharagpur: One of the oldest IITs with a comprehensive Mechanical Engineering program.
  • National Institutes of Technology (NITs):
    • NIT Trichy: Highly ranked for its Mechanical Engineering department.
    • NIT Warangal: Offers excellent academic and research opportunities.
    • NIT Surathkal: Known for its strong industry connections.
  • Other Reputed Institutions:
    • BITS Pilani: A private institution with a strong focus on engineering education.
    • Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT): Offers a wide range of engineering programs.
    • College of Engineering, Pune (COEP): A prestigious engineering college with a long history.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a College

  • Faculty Expertise: Look for colleges with experienced and well-qualified faculty.
  • Research Opportunities: Check for research facilities and funding opportunities.
  • Industry Connections: Consider colleges with strong ties to the industry.
  • Accreditation: Ensure the college is accredited by relevant bodies like NBA and NAAC.
  • Placement Record: Review the placement statistics to understand career opportunities after graduation.
Fees

Fee Structure for Courses to Become a Mechanical Engineering Professor

The cost of pursuing a career as a Mechanical Engineering professor varies depending on the institution type (government vs. private) and the level of the program (Bachelor's, Master's, Ph.D.). Here’s an overview:

  • Bachelor's Degree (B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering):
    • Government Colleges: ₹20,000 - ₹75,000 per year
    • Private Colleges: ₹80,000 - ₹3,00,000 per year
  • Master's Degree (M.Tech in Mechanical Engineering):
    • Government Colleges: ₹30,000 - ₹1,00,000 per year
    • Private Colleges: ₹1,00,000 - ₹4,00,000 per year
  • Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering:
    • Government Colleges: ₹10,000 - ₹50,000 per year (often includes a stipend)
    • Private Colleges: ₹50,000 - ₹2,00,000 per year (stipends may vary)

Additional Costs

  • Application Fees: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per exam/application.
  • Accommodation and Living Expenses: ₹5,000 - ₹15,000 per month (depending on the location and type of accommodation).
  • Books and Study Materials: ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 per year.
  • Exam Fees (GATE, NET, etc.): ₹1,500 - ₹2,500 per exam.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

  • Government Scholarships: Various scholarships are offered by the central and state governments for meritorious students.
  • Private Scholarships: Many private organizations and trusts offer scholarships to students pursuing higher education in engineering.
  • Research Fellowships: Ph.D. students often receive stipends or fellowships to cover their living and research expenses.
Related Exams

Exams to Become a Mechanical Engineering Professor

To become a Mechanical Engineering professor in India, several exams and qualifications are essential. Here’s a breakdown:

  • GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering):
    • GATE is a national-level exam for postgraduate engineering admissions and PSU recruitment.
    • A good GATE score is essential for securing admission to top M.Tech and Ph.D. programs in Mechanical Engineering.
    • It tests the candidate's comprehensive understanding of undergraduate engineering subjects.
  • UGC NET (National Eligibility Test):
    • NET is conducted by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for determining the eligibility of candidates for Assistant Professor positions.
    • Clearing NET is often mandatory for teaching positions in Indian universities and colleges.
    • It tests teaching aptitude, research aptitude, and subject knowledge.
  • Ph.D. Entrance Exams:
    • Many universities conduct their own entrance exams for Ph.D. admissions.
    • These exams typically consist of a written test and an interview.
    • The written test assesses subject knowledge, and the interview evaluates research aptitude and interests.

Exam Preparation Tips

  • GATE:
    • Focus on core mechanical engineering subjects.
    • Solve previous years' question papers.
    • Take mock tests to assess preparation levels.
  • UGC NET:
    • Study teaching and research aptitude.
    • Understand the latest syllabus and exam pattern.
    • Practice with sample question papers.
  • Ph.D. Entrance Exams:
    • Thoroughly review your master's level coursework.
    • Stay updated with the latest research in your area of interest.
    • Prepare a strong research proposal.
Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Intellectual Stimulation and continuous learning.
  2. Opportunity to shape future engineers.
  3. Job security and stability.
  4. Research opportunities and funding.
  5. Respect and recognition in academia.
  6. Flexible work schedule.
  7. Contributing to society through education.
  8. Opportunities for professional development.
  9. Chance to publish research and gain recognition.
  10. Mentoring students and fostering innovation.

Cons

  1. High educational requirements (Ph.D. mandatory).
  2. Competitive job market.
  3. Pressure to publish research regularly.
  4. Administrative responsibilities.
  5. Limited industry exposure.
  6. Lower salary compared to industry jobs.
  7. Dealing with student issues and evaluations.
  8. Grant writing for research funding.
  9. Bureaucracy in academic institutions.
  10. Time commitment for research and teaching.