IIT Bombay makes AI and Data Science Mandatory for Undergraduate Students

IIT Bombay has decided to make Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (AI-DS) a required subject for undergraduate students - both BTech and BS - beginning this academic year. "Previously, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology were required courses for all students." AI-DS has just been added to our curriculum. "Whether they use it or not, everyone will get a taste of it by being equipped with the knowledge to use it," said Professor Deepankar Choudhury, director of the civil engineering department and chair of a team formed to review the BTech curriculum reform. The group offered several suggestions, including the use of AI-DS.

AI-DS will be offered as a common subject in IIT Bombay

While AI-DS will be offered as a common subject with required credit in the first semester of the second year, interested students can pursue more advanced courses in the field afterward. The decision comes when AI and DS become more popular as specialty courses at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

IIT Bombay included a basket of non-engineering disciplines in a major curriculum reform last year to address the shifting patterns of students pursuing non-core engineering employment. Humanities, Arts, Social Science, Management, Entrepreneurship, and Design courses are becoming more popular.

What is the Importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science?

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science have emerged as transformative forces in the modern technological landscape. AI, dedicated to creating intelligent machines, has paved the way for devices to simulate human-like thinking and decision-making. This technology has found applications in various domains, from self-driving cars and virtual personal assistants to healthcare and finance, revolutionising how we live and work.
• On the other hand, data science is the art of extracting valuable insights and knowledge from vast amounts of data. It encompasses data mining, machine learning, and statistical analysis to uncover patterns and trends that inform business decisions and enhance efficiency. In today's data-driven world, organisations rely on data scientists to turn data into actionable information, optimising processes and creating a competitive edge.

The synergy between AI and Data Science is undeniable. AI algorithms thrive on data, and data science provides the tools and techniques to harness the power of AI. Together, they enable us to build intelligent systems capable of making sense of the immense data generated daily. Whether it's personalising recommendations on streaming platforms, predicting disease outbreaks, or optimising supply chain logistics, AI and Data Science continue to redefine possibilities and shape our future. Their potential for innovation and problem-solving is limitless, and their impact on society grows as we unlock new ways to leverage their capabilities.