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    IIT Madras Data Science vs BITS Pilani WILP Data Science: Comparing Top Technical Online Degrees
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    • IIT Madras Data Science vs BITS Pilani WILP Data Science: Comparing Top Technical Online Degrees

    IIT Madras Data Science vs BITS Pilani WILP Data Science: Comparing Top Technical Online Degrees

    Pranjali MathurUpdated on 25 Sep 2026, 11:21 AM IST

    Online degree courses are an easy learning option for students and working professionals to complete their higher education while managing their jobs or other duties. IIT Madras offers a BS Degree in Data Science and Applications, which is a four-year online course. The course also offers a flexible learning option that allows students to leave at different stages based on the credits they complete.

    IIT Madras Data Science vs BITS Pilani WILP Data Science: Comparing Top Technical Online Degrees
    IIT Madras Data Science vs BITS Pilani WILP Data Science

    BITS Pilani Work Integrated Learning Programmes (WILP) also offers many online degrees, including M.Tech, B.Tech, M.Sc and MBA programmes for working professionals. Among its technical fields, the M.Tech in Data Science & Engineering.

    This article compares the IIT Madras BS in Data Science and BITS Pilani WILP M.Tech in Data Science & Engineering on factors such as eligibility, fees, curriculum, learning format, practical learning and career opportunities.

    IIT Madras BS in Data Science vs BITS Pilani WILP: Quick Comparison

    Both IIT Madras and BITS Pilani offer technical online courses in the field of data and technology. However, the two of them are different in terms of programme level, eligibility, duration, fees and learning format. The table below provides a quick comparison of these two:

    ParticularsIITMadras BS in Data ScienceBITS WILP M.Tech in Data Science & Engineering

    Institute

    IIT Madras

    BITS Pilani

    Programme Level

    Undergraduate

    Postgraduate

    Duration

    4 years; up to 8 years to complete

    2 years

    Eligibility

    Class 12 or equivalent; Class 11 students can also apply; Mathematics and English are expected in Class 10

    B.E./B.Tech/M.Sc/MCA or equivalent with at least 60% marks; working professionals

    Work Experience

    Not required

    Required

    Learning Mode

    Online learning with in-person assessments

    Live online classes with recorded sessions and virtual labs

    Practical Learning

    Programming, projects and hands-on learning

    Virtual/cloud labs, case studies and guided capstone project

    Examinations

    In-person quizzes and exams at designated centres

    Online continuous assessments and in-person mid-term and end-term exams

    Total Fee

    Rs 3,86,000 to Rs 4,50,000

    Rs 3,34,400

    Target Learners

    Students after Class 12 and learners interested in data science

    Working professionals looking to advance their technical careers

    Which Course Is Suitable for You?

    IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications course is for those students who have completed Class 12 and want to build a career in data science, programming and related technology fields. It is an undergraduate degree and does not require prior work experience.

    BITS Pilani WILP M.Tech in Data Science & Engineering is for those working professionals who already hold a relevant degree and want to learn advanced skills in data science and data engineering. The programme includes live classes, virtual labs, industry-based case studies and a final project or dissertation.

    Both IIT Madras and BITS Pilani WILP courses are good options for students and working professionals who want to study online. However, they are meant for different learners. Students can choose based on their education level, career plans, fees and learning preferences before deciding which programme works better for them.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: Is the IIT Madras BS in Data Science an undergraduate degree?
    A:

    Yes. The IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications is an undergraduate degree programme. Students can join after completing Class 12 or an equivalent qualification.

    Q: Is the BITS Pilani WILP M.Tech in Data Science a postgraduate programme?
    A:

    Yes. The BITS Pilani WILP M.Tech in Data Science & Engineering is a postgraduate course designed for working professionals.

    Q: Can Class 12 students apply for the IIT Madras BS in Data Science?
    A:

    Yes. Students who have passed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification can apply. School students who have appeared for their Class 11 final exams can also apply and join after passing Class 12

    Q: Does the BITS Pilani WILP M.Tech require work experience?
    A:

    Yes. The programme is designed for working professionals, and applicants must be currently employed. The eligibility also includes a relevant degree with at least 60% marks.

    Q: What are the career options after these programmes?
    A:

    The IIT Madras BS can help learners build skills for careers in areas such as data science, programming, machine learning and analytics. The BITS Pilani WILP M.Tech can lead to roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Data Engineer and Data Architect.

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