IIT Guwahati Launches Online BSc Hons in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
IIT Guwahati is set to launch an online Bachelor of Science (Hons) Degree Programme in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence on Coursera, the popular online learning platform. The applications for the BSc (Honours) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence programme will open on July 19, 2023, with classes commencing in October 2023. Prospective students who are interested can apply for the programme through the official website iitg.ac.in/acad/.
In line with the recommendations of NEP 2020, IIT Guwahati aims to provide access to the complete online degree programme through multiple admissions pathways. This means that anyone who has completed Class 12 or its equivalent, with mathematics as a compulsory subject, is eligible to apply. Students who are eligible and registered for JEE Advanced (in any year) will be granted direct admission, while those who are not can still gain entry by completing an online course and demonstrating their performance.
The online degree programme offers various exit options, allowing learners to convert their credits into a certificate, diploma, degree, and ultimately, an honors degree. The programme emphasizes flexibility and engagement by primarily delivering asynchronous online courses. This allows students to learn at their own pace, while optional campus visits provide opportunities for interaction with faculty and peers.
The curriculum of the programme starts by building a solid foundation in coding before progressing to specialized subjects such as generative AI, deep learning, computer vision, and data mining. To enhance their learning experience, students participate in group projects, real-world case studies, and internships. The programme also offers industry micro-credentials, which are recognized as prior learning and enable students to expand their job-relevant knowledge.
Prof. Parameswar K. Iyer, the Officiating Director of IIT Guwahati, highlights the importance of this programme in equipping students with the digital skills required to succeed in today's workforce. Graduates will have the knowledge to implement cutting-edge AI and data science techniques in any field, positioning them for success in their careers.
Upon completion of the programme, graduates can pursue over 400,000 open roles in India, including positions such as AI engineer, data engineer, ML engineer, and data analyst. IIT Guwahati provides job placement support to its students, and they also gain access to Coursera's skill-based recruitment platform, Coursera Hiring Solutions.
Marni Baker Stein, the Chief Content Officer of Coursera, acknowledges the transformative power of AI and emphasizes the need for professionals who can harness this technology. With multiple admissions pathways, the programme aims to enable more students to apply and seize control of their future career prospects.