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.
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.
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:
| Particulars | IITMadras BS in Data Science | BITS 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 |
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)
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.
Yes. The BITS Pilani WILP M.Tech in Data Science & Engineering is a postgraduate course designed for working professionals.
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
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.
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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