IIT Madras Celebrates First Batch Graduation of BS Data Science and Applications Program

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has celebrated a significant milestone in data science education with the graduation of its first batch of students from the BS in Data Science and Applications program. The ceremony, held on May 30th, 2024, saw 177 graduates receive their degrees and diplomas, marking the successful completion of this innovative program.

This groundbreaking program, launched in 2020, was the first of its kind in the world, offering a dedicated 4-year BS degree in data science and applications. It has attracted widespread interest due to its unique features, including:

Flexibility: The program allows students to exit at different levels, earning diplomas or a BSc in Programming and Data Science based on their chosen path.

Online Learning: The program is delivered entirely online, making it accessible to learners across India and beyond.

Rigorous Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in data science fundamentals, including programming, statistics, machine learning, and data analysis.

Industry Relevance: The program integrates real-world projects and case studies, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in the data-driven economy.

The graduation ceremony saw 122 students receive their Diplomas in Data Science, 19 students receive their Diplomas in Programming, and 10 students receive both diplomas. Additionally, 411 students received provisional Double Diplomas, indicating their progress towards the degree level.

The program's success is further highlighted by the high demand it has generated. With over 29,000 students currently enrolled and more than 25,000 applications received for the May 2024 term, the BS in Data Science and Applications program is clearly addressing a critical need for skilled data professionals in India.

IIT Madras's commitment to providing high-quality, accessible education through this innovative program is paving the way for a future workforce equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the data-driven world. The graduates of this program are well-positioned for exciting careers in various fields, including data analysis, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and more.