Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy

Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA), commonly known as SASTRA University, is a distinguished deemed university located in Thirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India. Established in 1984 as Shanmugha College of Engineering, it was conferred deemed-to-be-university status in 2001 by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The institution boasts a sprawling 232-acre rural campus and is renowned for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and innovation. SASTRA's educational philosophy is based in its motto: "Think Merit, Think Transparency, Think SASTRA".

SASTRA offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes across various disciplines, including Engineering, Science, Education, Management, Law, and the Arts. The university also operates the Srinivasa Ramanujan Centre (SRC) in Kumbakonam, an MHRD-notified off-campus facility. SASTRA's teaching programmes are complemented by robust research engagements, consultancy assignments, training, and extension activities. Notably, twelve of its engineering programmes have been internationally accredited by the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET), UK, for a period of nine years, underscoring its academic excellence.

In terms of rankings and recognitions, SASTRA has consistently performed well. It is re-accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with a maximum grade of 'A++' (3.76/4.00) and is classified as a Category I Institution under the UGC's Graded Autonomy Regulations, 2018. The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) has consistently placed SASTRA among the top 40 universities in India, with a commendable rank of 22 in 2022. Additionally, it is recognised as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation by the Government of India, and it achieved a ranking of 51-100 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject in 2015.

Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy, commonly known as SASTRA University, began its journey in 1984. It was originally called Shanmugha College of Engineering and was set up in Thirumalaisamudram, near Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, India. The college aimed to provide quality education in engineering and technology. Over the years, it grew significantly and gained a reputation for its high academic standards and strong educational programmes.

In 2001, Shanmugha College of Engineering was granted the status of a deemed-to-be-university by the University Grants Commission (UGC). This new status allowed the institution greater autonomy in its operations and led to its renaming as Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA). The name change reflected the expansion of its academic offerings beyond engineering to include programmes in science, education, management, law, and the arts. SASTRA's goal has always been to provide a comprehensive education that promotes the overall development of its students.

A significant milestone in SASTRA's history was the establishment of the Srinivasa Ramanujan Centre (SRC) in Kumbakonam. This centre, named after the famous mathematician, was recognised as an off-campus facility by the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD). The SRC focuses on advanced research and education in mathematics and related fields. SASTRA has also achieved high standards in accreditation and rankings. It has been re-accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) with an ‘A++’ grade and recognised as a Category I Institution by the UGC. Furthermore, twelve of its engineering programmes have received international accreditation from the Institution of Engineering & Technology (IET), UK, for nine years, highlighting its academic excellence.

SASTRA is also recognised as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (SIRO) by the Government of India. This recognition allows the university to engage in high-quality research and collaborate with industries and other institutions on innovative projects. The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) consistently places SASTRA among the top 40 universities in India. In 2022, it ranked 22nd among Indian universities, demonstrating its commitment to excellence in education and research. Additionally, SASTRA was ranked within the top 51-100 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject in 2015, indicating its strong global reputation.

Life at SASTRA is vibrant, with a focus on extracurricular activities and student development. The university hosts various cultural, technical, and sports events throughout the year. One of the most prominent events is Kuruksastra, an annual cultural festival that draws participants from all over India. SASTRA’s mission is built on transparency, merit, and inclusivity, and it continues to grow and adapt to new challenges and opportunities in higher education. From its humble beginnings as a small engineering college, SASTRA has evolved into a premier multidisciplinary university, committed to educating, innovating, and inspiring future leaders.

SASTRA Deemed University offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes across various fields of study, catering to the diverse interests and career aspirations of its students. The courses are designed to provide a robust educational foundation, combined with practical skills and research opportunities, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.

Undergraduate Programmes

The university's undergraduate offerings include a range of Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) programmes in cutting-edge and traditional engineering disciplines. Students can choose from Aerospace Engineering, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and several specialisations in Computer Science & Engineering, such as Artificial Intelligence & Data Science, Cyber Security & Blockchain Technology, IoT & Automation, and Networks. Other notable programmes include Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Robotics & Artificial Intelligence, and Mechatronics. Additionally, students have the option to pursue minor specialisations in areas like Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cyber Security & IoT, and Sustainability Engineering, which complement their major fields of study.

In collaboration with the Elite School of Optometry, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, SASTRA offers B.Optom and M.Optom programmes, providing specialised training in optometry.

Postgraduate Programmes

At the postgraduate level, SASTRA offers Master of Technology (M.Tech.) programmes in various advanced and interdisciplinary areas. Students can specialise in fields such as Aerospace Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, Big Data Biology, Cyber Security, Digital Manufacturing, Embedded Systems, Industrial Biotechnology, IoT and Automation, Medical Nanotechnology, Power & Energy Systems, Structural Engineering, Wireless Smart Communications, and VLSI Design. The M.Tech. (5-Year Integrated) programmes in Biotechnology and Medical Nanotechnology offer an integrated approach, combining undergraduate and postgraduate studies into a cohesive curriculum.

The Master of Science (M.Sc.) programmes are available in disciplines including Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Physics, and Data Science. There are also 5-year Integrated M.Sc. programmes in Biotechnology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Data Science, designed for students aiming for a seamless transition from undergraduate to postgraduate education.

Law and Management

For those interested in law, SASTRA provides five-year integrated BA LLB, BBA LLB, and B.Com LLB programmes. These courses are structured to impart a strong foundation in legal principles alongside a comprehensive understanding of business and commerce.

The university's Management programmes include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Computer Applications (MCA), focusing on developing leadership, strategic thinking, and technical expertise.

Fine Arts and Education

SASTRA also offers Bachelor and Master of Fine Arts (BFA and MFA) programmes in Music and Bharatanatyam, nurturing artistic talents and promoting cultural heritage. For aspiring educators, integrated B.Sc. B.Ed. programmes in Physics and Maths, and a BA B.Ed. in English, are available, equipping students with both subject matter expertise and teaching skills.

Doctoral Programmes

The Ph.D. programme at SASTRA Deemed University helps scholars dive deep into their chosen fields. They take specific courses and work on a research thesis, which are the main parts of their academic journey. The programme focuses on supporting researchers and encouraging new ideas through thorough research and study. To get in, candidates go through a strict evaluation based on their academic records, interests, and potential contributions. Each scholar gets a supervisor, and there's a committee to oversee their progress. The programme includes tough coursework and research activities, promoting independent thinking and honesty. Its goal is to make scholars successful academically and influential in their fields.

• 51-100 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2015.
• Secures a notable global standing, positioned at 1514 among the Best Global Universities.

According to the Siksha data, the placements report for SASTRA University in 2023 indicated that 1,617 students from the BTech program, 79 from the MTech program, and 135 from the BA LLB/ BCom LLB/ BBA LLB programs secured placements. The median package offered to students in the BA LLB/ BCom LLB/ BBA LLB programs was INR 4.60 LPA, while for BTech and MTech courses, it was INR 7.60 LPA and INR 5.50 LPA, respectively.

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