Self-propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) is a novel method for fabrication of composites. Al 2 O 3 -WC composite has gained diverse applications in manufacturing of cutting tools and wear resistant coatings due to its interesting properties such as high strength and hardness, chemical and thermal stability and so on. Given the importance of this particular composite and the necessity to find a cost effective approach for production of this composite and reducing the energy consumption, this study was performed. In the present study, first the calculations regarding possibility of reaction between WO 3 , Al and C and manufacturing Al 2 O 3 -WC composites by self-propagating synthesis method were done. Then the required appropriate time for activation and mixing of the powders was determined by trial and error method and milling at different times. After initial pressing of resulted mixed powders, raw bulk samples were put in an apparatus capable of exerting pressure during SHS. The special die of this apparatus creates a pseudo isostatic condition for exerting pressure. After treatment in the aforementioned apparatus, samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and electron microscopy with elemental analysis. Obtained XRD patterns confirm the presence of WC and Al 2 O 3 . By decreasing the particle size, reaction rate increased significantly. Key words : alumina–tungsten carbide composite, Self Propagating High Temperature Synthesis, Pseudo Hot Isostatic Pressing