4-year data science degree from IIT-Madras for all

NEW DELHI: If you have studied English and mathematics at Class X and have completed Class XII, how about a four-year degree in programming and data science from Indian Institute of Technology, Madras and that too without competing in the cut-throat JEE(Advanced)? The IIT announced that its BSc in programming and data science now comes with a four-year BSc degree option with multiple entry and exit options. And there is no age or geographic limit to pursue this programme. Though the course will be delivered online, the exams will be conducted in person in 116 centres across 111 cities in India. IIT-M has also opened examination centres in the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Sri Lanka. The IIT will also facilitate internships and placements for the students who complete till diploma level.

According to the IIT, following demand from aspirants this programme is now being offered as a four-year degree course and is designed to offer students multiple entry and exit options where the learner can earn a certificate, diploma or degree. Students can do an eight-month apprenticeship or a project with companies or research institutes.

Aspirants who are currently in Class XII can also eligible apply and secure admission to the programme. Admitted students will start the programme after successfully completing their Class XII. Students from any stream can enrol. And the classes are conducted online.

Currently, more than 13,000 students are enrolled in the programme, with the maximum number of students from Tamil Nadu, followed by Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.

V Kamakoti, director, IIT-M said: “IIT Madras is happy to offer this well-designed, contemporary data science and applications degree, which provides access to IIT quality education in an inclusive manner to learners across the country. Data science is one of the emerging topics. This is a highly employment-oriented program in a domain where the demand is high for skilled resources.”

In this programme students will learn to manage data, visualize patterns to gain managerial insights, model uncertainties, and build models that assist in producing forecasts to make effective business decisions.

Professor Andrew Thangaraj, professor in-charge of the programme, said: “As data science is a multidisciplinary domain, this degree from IIT-M is open for students from all backgrounds. Students who are pursuing commerce or humanities can also earn a degree from IIT Madras. As content delivery is online and the in-person exams are conducted on Sundays, this degree can also be pursued while attending an on-campus degree or while working full-time.”

According to the IIT, this programme will directly benefit the students from rural areas and economically disadvantaged backgrounds for whom attending JEE coaching classes would be a significant hurdle. The program also offers up to 100% scholarships for deserving students in financial need.

The last date to apply for the September 2022 term of this programme is August 19, 2022. Candidates can apply through the website – https://onlinedegree.iitm.ac.in