IIT Madras launches new postgraduate programs in public policy, robotics and semiconductors

IIT Madras has introduced a set of new postgraduate programs, including an MA in Public Policy and three MTech degrees, aimed at expanding interdisciplinary training in emerging technology and governance domains.

The newly announced programs include an MA in Public Policy offered by the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences and an MTech in Semiconductor Materials Technology from the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering.

They also include an MTech in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Computational Engineering for Mechanical Systems and an MTech in Robotics under the Department of Engineering Design.

The institute said these programs are structured to equip students with skills relevant to evolving industry and policy challenges.

Prof V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, said, “At IIT Madras, we strive to align education with industry needs and national priorities. This year, we are introducing four highly interdisciplinary programs to create skilled manpower in emerging fields.”

“These programs integrate modern tools with traditional core engineering, preparing students for impactful careers in technology, manufacturing, and governance,” Kamakoti added.

According to the institute, the MA in Public Policy program focuses on policy design and implementation across sectors such as environment, healthcare, education, energy, and international relations. It aims to build competencies in governance, policy analysis, communication, and leadership.

The MTech in Semiconductor Materials Technology is designed to support India’s semiconductor sector by offering training in materials, manufacturing processes, and related research areas.

The Computational Engineering for Mechanical Systems program combines classical mechanical engineering with numerical methods, machine learning, and high-performance computing, preparing students for simulation-driven design and advanced engineering applications.

The MTech in Robotics program emphasizes intelligent automation and includes practical training in designing and deploying robotic systems, with applications across manufacturing and autonomous technologies.

IIT Madras said the new offerings are intended to strengthen interdisciplinary education and contribute to national priorities in technology development, manufacturing, innovation, and governance.

Further details on admissions are available on the institute’s official portal.