In recent years, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) have emerged as two of the most dynamic and rapidly growing fields within the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) domain. Their growth is driven by the global demand for technology that can analyse vast amounts of data, automate complex tasks, and build intelligent systems, sparking innovation across multiple sectors.
In India, engineering remains one of the most popular academic choices, with AI and data science standing out as some of the most promising and in-demand specialisations within this field. Many leading institutions have introduced or expanded programs in AI and data science, responding to the growing need for expertise in these areas.
IIT Madras’s New BTech Course in Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics
Reflecting this trend, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has introduced a new Bachelor of Technology (BTech) program in Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, which has quickly become one of the most popular choices among students. Launched in June, the program offers a strong foundation in mathematics, data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, application development, and ethical AI design, with an interdisciplinary approach that aims to produce well-rounded graduates.
The appeal of this new course was evident as it became the third most popular program at IIT Madras this academic year. According to the Joint Implementation Committee (JIC) Report 2024, a total of 20,323 students expressed interest in the Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics program.
This high level of interest placed the program just behind IIT Madras’s four-year Computer Science and Engineering program, which attracted 23,741 students, and the Electrical Engineering program, with 20,350 interested candidates.
Top Indian Institutions for AI and Data Science, as per QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
India’s commitment to excellence in engineering and technology is demonstrated by the high rankings achieved by several IITs in the QS World University Rankings 2024 for subjects like AI and Data Science. These rankings include an Academic Reputation (AR) score, which evaluates the global academic standing of institutions based on a survey of over 7,000 academic experts. This score measures not only the quality of an institution’s research but also the strategic impact, educational innovation, and societal contributions of its programs.
The following table lists the top five Indian engineering institutes offering AI and Data Science courses, as per the QS 2024 rankings, along with their Academic Reputation scores:
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Maharashtra
Ranked 30th worldwide, IIT Bombay’s AI and Data Science programs boast an Academic Reputation score of 67.7, signifying strong industry ties and research capabilities. The program’s annual fees range from ₹2.2 – 2.5 lakh, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge in AI.
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, New Delhi
With a global ranking of 35, IIT Delhi’s AI and Data Science program has a high AR score of 63.8. The program integrates cross-disciplinary applications across fields like healthcare and environmental science. It costs between ₹2.1 – 2.4 lakh per year, reflecting its value for students aiming for a career in data-driven industries.
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
IIT Kanpur, ranked 36th, is well-known for its robust AI and Data Science curriculum and high Academic Reputation score of 63.5. With annual fees of around ₹2.1 – 2.3 lakh, IIT Kanpur’s program emphasizes deep analytical and mathematical foundations, equipping students with the advanced skills needed in AI-driven roles.
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, West Bengal
IIT Kharagpur’s AI program ranks 44th globally with an AR score of 62.5, emphasizing responsible AI development alongside technical training. At an annual cost of ₹2 – 2.2 lakh, this program is designed to equip students with both the expertise and ethical insights needed to drive positive societal impacts through AI.
Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, Karnataka
The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, ranked 45th, has an Academic Reputation score of 60.4 and is renowned for its cutting-edge AI and data science research. With an annual course fee of ₹2 – 2.1 lakh, IISc Bangalore provides a curriculum grounded in technological innovation, focusing on research-intensive training that appeals to students pursuing advanced AI studies and a career in academia or industry research.
BTech Admissions in India’s Top Institutions
The popularity of engineering courses like AI and data science is also mirrored in the demand for BTech admissions across India, particularly at prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Admission to BTech programs in IITs is highly competitive, with thousands of students vying for limited seats.
The selection process typically involves the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), a nationwide test where only the top percentile of students gain admission. Cut-off scores vary each year, influenced by the difficulty of the exam, the number of applicants, and seat availability. For highly sought-after programs such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Science, the cut-offs are generally among the highest, reflecting the popularity and career potential of these fields.
