IIT Jodhpur Launches BSc/BS in Applied AI & Data Science for Future Talent

India, 09 September 2024- The Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur (IIT Jodhpur) has introduced a pioneering BSc./BS. in Applied AI & Data Science, in partnership with Futurense Uni. This cutting-edge program addresses the increasing need for professionals in the fast-evolving fields of AI and data science.

The degree is designed for both students and working professionals as it features a unique next-gen model. With an online format and a campus immersion component, it provides flexibility. Every year, students will have the chance to tour the IIT Jodhpur campus, which will enhance their education by providing them with firsthand knowledge of its prestigious academic setting. Students can obtain a Certification in the first year, a Diploma in the second, a BSc degree in the third, and a BS degree at the end of the fourth year thanks to the program’s stackable structure.

Prof. Avinash Kumar Agarwal, Director of IIT Jodhpur, emphasised on the need for a next-gen education model that addresses the global challenges. “Our present age requires creative solutions to pressing problems of human rights, sustainable development and global well-being. This means thinking out of the box and moving away from traditional models of school education, which reward rote learning and kill the innate creativity of children. Therefore, our vision is to equip learners enrolled for the BSc./BS. in Applied AI and Data Science program with the necessary modern skills and competencies to participate in a rapidly transforming global knowledge ecosystem that is being shaped drastically by technologies such as artificial intelligence,” says Prof. Agarwal.

Raghav Gupta, Founder and CEO of Futurense, highlighting the significant skill gap between industry and academia, says, “The pace of AI-driven transformation is reshaping industries, with estimates suggesting that 80% of jobs will experience significant changes due to AI. To stay ahead, India must innovate at the academic level. Our partnership with IIT is very pivotal for this intervention. The BSc./BS. Program by IIT Jodhpur combines their renowned academic rigour with our deep industry insights. This partnership ensures that students gain the expertise needed to excel in an AI-driven world.”

The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in AI, incorporating over 100 advanced AI tools and hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies such as Devin AI, Claude, etc.

“The current gap between industry needs and academics is about 4-5 years, with academia lagging behind industry developments. Because of IIT Jodhpur’s strong academic framework combined with our industry connect, this degree brings an extensive AI curriculum for the techies, covering everything from foundational concepts to practical use cases and tools. A key component of this approach is our Futurense Leadership Council, which comprises CXOs from Fortune 500 companies, AI and Analytics leaders, and other industry experts, who are also instrumental in designing the curriculum and mentoring students,” adds Raghav.

Students will engage in a mix of self-paced video lectures, quizzes, and assignments, complemented by live weekend lectures from faculty and industry leaders. Assessments and projects are integral to enhancing practical skills and knowledge.