IIT Madras Certification Program in Construction Technology & Management
IIT Madras is set to launch an innovative certificate program aimed at senior undergraduate students, graduate students, and professionals in structural design and construction. This program is designed to equip participants with the latest construction technology and management practices, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.

Why Take This Course: Staying updated with the latest technological and managerial advancements is essential for anyone aiming for a career in construction. This course, taught by renowned IIT Madras professors, provides practical knowledge and tools necessary for excelling in the field. Participants will gain insights from leading experts, learn cutting-edge techniques, and enhance their skills to meet the evolving demands of the construction industry.
Modules Covered
1. Engineering Economics
Instructor: Prof. Ashwin Mahalingam
This module focuses on the economic and financial aspects of construction projects. Students will learn to evaluate investment returns and make sound economic choices. Prof. Mahalingam states, "Understanding the time value of money and conducting cost-benefit analyses are crucial for making informed decisions about project alternatives."
2. Concrete Technology
Instructors: Profs. Ravindra Gettu, Manu Santhanam, and Keerthana Kirupakaran
Concrete is a fundamental material in construction, and this module delves into its properties and innovations. Students will gain hands-on experience in applying concrete technology and troubleshooting common issues. Prof. Gettu says, "Our focus is on sustainable practices and the use of advanced materials like superplasticizers."
3. Road and Pavement Technology
Instructor: Prof. Surender Singh
This module covers the design and construction of roadways and pavements. Topics include mixture design, construction techniques, and rehabilitation methods. Prof. Singh states, "We teach the latest techniques in pavement material characterization and construction quality control, ensuring durable and safe road infrastructure."
4. Construction Planning and Control
Instructors: Profs. Sivakumar Palaniappan and Ashwin Mahalingam
Effective project management is crucial for successful construction. This module equips students with tools for project control, such as earned value analysis, to keep projects on track. Informs Prof. Palaniappan, "We teach advanced scheduling techniques to optimise the resource requirements and accelerate project progress."

5. Construction Processes & Productivity
Instructor: Prof. Koshy Varghese
Productivity is a key factor in construction efficiency. Case studies illustrate practical applications and collaboration strategies. Prof. Varghese emphasizes, "Understanding project production processes and using tools for productivity measurement can significantly enhance project outcomes."
6. Quality
Instructor: Profs. Piyush Chaunsali, Sivakumar Palaniappan & Keerthana Kirupakaran
Maintaining high-quality standards is essential in construction. This module covers quality assurance practices and the importance of high-quality workmanship. Prof. Chaunsali comments, "Quality management principles and adherence to BIS standards ensure that projects meet stringent requirements."
7. Durability and Repair
Instructor: Prof. Radhakrishna Pillai
Durability is a critical aspect of construction materials. Students will learn about service life design and methods to enhance the longevity of structures. Prof. Pillai explains, "We focus on the mechanisms of deterioration and techniques for repair using durable materials and systems.
8. Safety
Instructor: Prof. Nikhil Bugalia
Safety in construction is paramount. This module aims to instil a safety-first mindset, covering risk management and safety protocols to ensure a secure working environment. Prof. Bugalia states, "Occupational health and safety practices are vital for minimizing workplace hazards."
9. Construction Contracts
Instructor: Profs. KN Satyanarayana & Murali Jagannathan
Understanding the legal aspects of construction projects is crucial. This module provides a comprehensive overview of contract management. Prof. Jagannathan explains, "We cover contract formation, execution, and dispute resolution to help students navigate the legal complexities of construction."
10. Resource Constrained Schedule Optimization
Instructor: Prof. Benny Raphael
Efficient resource management is key to project success. Students will learn advanced scheduling methods to maximize efficiency. Prof. Raphael comments, "We teach optimization techniques for scheduling under resource constraints, ensuring projects meet deadlines despite limited resources."
Mode: This course comprises 120 hours of recorded videos and 30 hours of Online Interactive Sessions with the faculty. The course is structured as follows:
- Participants need to watch around 6 hours of video content (not more than 3 hours in a particular module) every week.
- A live interaction session will be scheduled every Saturday with the corresponding faculty to discuss the module content and answer queries. The duration of this session will be 1 hour.
Eligibility and Fees:
- Preferred backgrounds: Architecture, civil, mechanical, electrical, or management.
- Course fee: ₹1,00,000 + 18% GST.
Registration:
- Last Day for Registration: October 20, 2024
- Register before August 31, 2024 (4 pm IST) to avail a 30% discount
Certification: It will be awarded to participants who:
- Attend all Live sessions with active participation.
- Submit assignments and final evaluations for all modules.
- Submit feedback forms for all modules.
Course Duration:
- Start date: November 1, 2024
- End date: April 1, 2025
- Pre-recorded lectures will be released on Fridays and online live sessions on Saturdays (IST).
Conclusion:
India is investing significantly in developing infrastructure and buildings, with expectations of continued growth in the coming years. It is crucial to build on time, within budget, using new technologies, and to the highest standards of quality in construction processes, workmanship, finishing, and mechanical durability.
This course addresses these aspects and provides specific tools and guidelines to enhance the skills of aspiring or practicing graduate civil/structural engineers, construction technologists, and managers. It offers a unique opportunity to learn from some of the brightest minds in the field and acquire the skills needed to lead in construction technology and management.