MUMBAI: IIT Madras is preparing to create global leaders in Artificial Intelligence through its B.Tech in AI Programme, with admissions for the second batch commencing in the academic year 2025-26. The NIRF #1-ranked institute has meticulously developed this undergraduate programme to provide students with essential competencies and expertise.The BTech programme, constructed to emphasise both AI fundamentals and application development, features strong industry connections through internships and undergraduate research opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers ranging from fundamental research at global technology firms to applied roles in manufacturing and healthcare sectors.The Wadhwani School of Data Science and AI, which delivers this B.Tech in AI course, strives to establish itself amongst the leading AI-focused educational institutions globally whilst providing guidance to government and policymakers on Data Science and AI policy matters.The programme, with course code 412L: Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, will accept 50 students through JEE. Eligible candidates must have cleared JEE (Advanced) and can select this programme during JOSSA Counselling.Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, “AI and Data Analytics is an emerging area. This BTech course has a carefully evolved curriculum that is perfectly aligned with both the industry and research community needs. Many interesting challenges are in front of us and I am sure students shall immensely benefit by pursuing this course and shape their prosperous future.”The programme offers substantial academic flexibility through various electives within and outside the department. Students can explore specialised areas such as Speech and Language Technology, Computer Vision, Applications in Control and Detection, and Time-Series Analysis based on their interests.Prof. B. Ravindran, Head, Wadhwani School of Data Science and AI, IIT Madras, said, “Artificial Intelligence is a transformative technology. It is going to be the defining technological development, perhaps for another generation to come. WSAI allows us to synergize all the different AI and Data Science activities. We are making sure the students know enough about the fundamentals of AI so that they can pick up things on their own if they want to get into a research career.“The curriculum aims to develop expertise across various AI and data analytics aspects, providing comprehensive exposure to industrial applications. It emphasises mathematical fundamentals, Data Science/AI/ML foundations, application development, and responsible design, incorporating interdisciplinary elements.Students must undertake courses from two core areas: traditional applications and system-oriented applications of Data Science and AI. The programme includes instruction on responsible design principles in AI.The programme focuses on practical problem-solving and ethical AI implementation. It teaches students to apply data analytics and AI techniques to real-world challenges whilst ensuring fair and responsible technology deployment.The core curriculum provides comprehensive training in AI and data analytics, including fundamental subjects like linear algebra and calculus, alongside specialised topics such as machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, foundation models and reinforcement learning.