Management

Indian Institute of Technology Madras has opened admissions for its BS programmes in Data Science and Applications and Electronic Systems without requiring JEE Main or JEE Advanced scores, creating a new pathway for students to access IIT education.

Applications for the programmes are open until June 5, 2026, through the institute’s official admission portal. The initiative is aimed at expanding opportunities for students who may not have pursued or qualified through the highly competitive JEE route.

Instead of entrance through national-level engineering examinations, applicants will undergo a four-week online foundation course that covers basic mathematics, English and coding skills. Students who successfully clear the qualifying examination after the course will gain direct admission into the BS programmes.

The institute has also stated that there is no cap on the number of seats, making the programme significantly more accessible compared to traditional IIT undergraduate admissions.

The initiative aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasises flexible, inclusive and multidisciplinary higher education models. The programme structure allows multiple exit options depending on the duration of study completed.

Students can receive a foundation certificate after one year, a diploma after two years, a bachelor’s degree after three years, or continue for the complete four-year BS programme that grants IIT Madras alumni status.

Eligibility extends to all Class 12 graduates from recognised boards, while even Class 11 students can apply in advance and begin the preparatory process early. The BS in Electronic Systems requires students to have studied Physics and Mathematics, whereas the Data Science programme is open to students from all streams with a basic mathematics background.

Education experts believe the initiative could significantly diversify the student demographic at IIT Madras by attracting learners from smaller towns, remote regions and non-traditional academic backgrounds. The flexible online structure is also expected to benefit working professionals and students unable to relocate for conventional campus-based programmes.

Observers note that if the model proves successful, it may encourage other IITs to introduce similar non-JEE admission pathways in emerging technology domains such as artificial intelligence, electronics and data science.

At the same time, traditional JEE-based admissions are expected to remain the primary route for flagship BTech engineering programmes across the IIT system.

The Indian Institute of Information Technology Nagpur has achieved a major milestone in campus placements, with its Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) branch recording 100 per cent placements for the 2024-25 academic session. The institute reported that the highest package offered to a CSE student stood at ₹60 lakh per annum, reflecting growing industry demand for skilled technology graduates.

According to official data released by the institute, the Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) branch also posted strong results with a placement rate of 97 per cent. The highest salary package offered to ECE students reached ₹42.26 lakh annually.

The institute further reported impressive average salary figures across both branches. While CSE students secured an average annual package of ₹15.41 lakh, ECE students received an average package of ₹14.19 lakh, indicating a significant improvement over previous academic years.

Established in 2015 with approval from the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development, IIIT-Nagpur initially functioned from the campus of Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology before shifting to its permanent 100-acre campus at Waranga near Nagpur.

Data accessed through an RTI application filed by activist Sanjay Thul showed that during the 2023-24 academic session, placement rates stood at 91.09 per cent for CSE students and 89 per cent for ECE students. During that cycle, the highest package recorded was ₹47 lakh for CSE and ₹20 lakh for ECE students, highlighting sharp year-on-year growth in recruiter interest and salary offerings.

The ongoing 2025-26 placement season has also begun on a positive note. So far, 30.25 per cent of CSE students and 15.38 per cent of ECE students have already secured placements. The highest package offered in the current cycle has reached ₹32.6 lakh for CSE students, while ECE students have received offers up to ₹80 lakh per annum. Average salary for ECE students has also climbed to ₹19.11 lakh.

Apart from placements, the institute has expanded academically. For the 2025-26 session, 619 admissions were recorded against an approved intake of 648 seats. Faculty shortages have also reduced, with vacancies declining from 18 to eight. Additionally, the Board of Governors has approved 47 new teaching posts, pending final clearances from the Union Finance Department and the Ministry of Education.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is preparing for a major transformation of Chartered Accountancy education by integrating artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, ESG reporting, sustainability, and emerging technologies into its curriculum, signalling a significant shift in how future finance professionals will be trained in India.

The proposed reforms are being driven through the newly constituted Committee for Review of Education and Training (CRET), which has been tasked with reviewing the CA syllabus, practical training structure, soft skills development, and examination methodologies. ICAI President Prasanna Kumar D said the committee is expected to finalise its recommendations by December, after which the proposals will be placed in the public domain for stakeholder feedback.

The curriculum overhaul comes at a time when the accounting profession is rapidly evolving due to automation, AI-driven auditing tools, digital compliance systems, forensic accounting, and non-financial reporting frameworks such as ESG disclosures. ICAI believes the traditional accounting skillset alone may no longer be sufficient for future Chartered Accountants operating in increasingly technology-driven financial ecosystems.

Speaking about the need for reform, Kumar emphasised that AI should not be viewed as an optional subject for accountants but as an essential professional capability. “Without AI, no chartered accountant can survive,” he said while explaining that technology is becoming central to both employment and professional practice in the accounting sector.

Under the proposed changes, ICAI is expected to embed AI, data analytics, forensic auditing, sustainability reporting, and technology-driven financial systems directly into the CA learning framework. The revised structure is also likely to place greater emphasis on analytical thinking, digital literacy, and global compliance practices to align Indian CA education with international professional standards.

Industry experts believe the move reflects the growing demand for finance professionals who can work alongside intelligent automation systems rather than compete against them. The reforms are also expected to strengthen India’s position as a global financial and advisory services hub, particularly as multinational firms increasingly seek professionals skilled in AI-assisted auditing, predictive analytics, and regulatory technology.

ICAI had earlier introduced its New Scheme of Education and Training in 2023. The latest reforms under CRET are expected to be implemented from 2028 onwards, potentially impacting lakhs of CA aspirants across the country.

New-age programmes in mathematics, public policy, robotics and sustainable engineering aim to prepare students for emerging industries and interdisciplinary careers.

Indian Institute of Technology Madras has unveiled 14 new undergraduate, postgraduate, and web-enabled academic programmes for the 2026-27 academic session, significantly expanding its offerings in emerging and interdisciplinary fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductor technology, sustainable engineering, and public policy.

The expansion reflects a growing push among leading Indian institutions to align higher education more closely with rapidly evolving industry demands and future workforce requirements.

New Programmes Target High-Growth Sectors

Among the key additions introduced by Indian Institute of Technology Madras are:

• BS in Mathematics
• MTech in Semiconductor Materials Technology
• MTech in Robotics
• MSc in Offshore and Maritime Engineering
• MSc in Sports Analytics
• MSc in Sustainable Engineering
• MA in Public Policy

The institute said the programmes are designed to combine strong theoretical foundations with practical and industry-oriented applications.

Several courses focus on sectors currently witnessing major global demand, including semiconductors, automation, AI-driven systems, data analytics, and sustainable technologies.

BS In Mathematics Offers AI And Finance Pathways

One of the flagship additions is the BS in Mathematics programme, which will allow students to specialise in areas such as:

• Cryptography
• Computational mathematics
• Quantitative finance
• Data analytics
• AI-enabled manufacturing

The programme will also offer a dual BS-MS pathway aimed at students interested in advanced research and interdisciplinary applications.

Education experts note that mathematics-driven careers are increasingly expanding beyond academia into finance, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and industrial automation.

Flexible Online And Hybrid Learning Models

Building on its existing digital education initiatives, Indian Institute of Technology Madras will also offer some programmes through hybrid and online learning formats.

The institute stated that these flexible models are intended to make advanced technical education accessible to learners across India, including students already pursuing other degrees or working professionals seeking upskilling opportunities.

The online BS structure includes:

• Self-paced learning
• Multiple exit options
• Certificate and diploma pathways
• Flexible academic progression

Applications for the BS programmes are currently open, with the deadline set for May 31, 2026.

Focus On Industry-Relevant Skills

The new programmes highlight the increasing shift in higher education toward interdisciplinary and industry-aligned learning.

For instance:

• Robotics programmes integrate AI, automation, and mechanical systems.
• Semiconductor courses address India’s growing chip manufacturing ambitions.
• Sustainable engineering programmes focus on climate-responsive technologies and green infrastructure.
• Public policy studies combine governance with technology and economic planning.

Experts say such curriculum diversification is becoming essential as industries seek graduates with hybrid skill sets capable of working across technology, policy, and applied sciences.

Expanding IIT Madras’ National Role

The expansion may also strengthen Indian Institute of Technology Madras’s role in India’s broader skill development and innovation ecosystem.

Analysts believe programmes in semiconductors, AI, and sustainable technologies could help deepen industry collaborations while supporting national priorities linked to advanced manufacturing, digital transformation, and clean technology development.

The move also reflects a wider trend among globally ranked universities, where curriculum redesign is increasingly driven by evolving labour market demands rather than traditional disciplinary boundaries alone.

Preparing Students For Emerging Careers

With industries rapidly transforming due to automation, AI integration, and sustainability goals, institutions are under pressure to prepare students for careers that may not have existed a decade ago.

Education experts say programmes that blend technical depth with interdisciplinary flexibility are likely to become increasingly important in the coming years.

By introducing courses across multiple high-growth domains, Indian Institute of Technology Madras appears to be positioning itself at the centre of this transition, offering students broader pathways into emerging sectors shaping the future economy.

The Ministry of Education has released the NIRF 2025 management rankings, featuring India’s leading MBA institutions based on academic excellence, placements, research output, and graduate outcomes.

The latest rankings include premier Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), and leading private business schools, offering fresh insights into salary trends, return on investment (ROI), and emerging opportunities for students from science backgrounds.

Top MBA Colleges In NIRF 2025

According to the NIRF 2025 rankings, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad retained its position among the country’s top management institutions, followed closely by Indian Institute of Management Bangalore and other leading IIMs.

The rankings evaluate institutions using parameters such as teaching quality, research performance, graduation outcomes, placement records, diversity, and industry perception.

Among the notable salary figures reported:

• Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad reported a median salary package of approximately ₹33 lakh.
• Indian Institute of Management Bangalore recorded median salaries of around ₹32.5 lakh.
• Indian Institute of Technology Delhi reported median salaries of about ₹22.05 lakh.

The rankings also highlighted institutions offering strong ROI, where students receive competitive salary outcomes relative to tuition costs.

IITs Emerging As Strong ROI Choices

While IIMs continue to dominate in terms of brand value, leadership networks, and global recognition, IIT-based MBA programmes are increasingly attracting attention for their affordability and placement strength.

Institutions such as Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur were identified as strong ROI performers due to comparatively lower programme fees combined with robust salary outcomes.

For many aspirants, particularly those prioritising financial returns and quicker cost recovery, these institutions are becoming attractive alternatives to traditional MBA routes.

Why The Rankings Matter For Science Graduates

The latest NIRF rankings are particularly relevant for BSc and other science graduates looking to transition into management careers.

Experts note that science students often bring strong analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and problem-solving capabilities — skills increasingly valued across sectors such as healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, consulting, operations, and analytics.

An MBA from a top-ranked institution can help science graduates combine technical expertise with managerial capabilities, opening pathways into leadership and strategic roles.

Best MBA Specialisations For Science Students

Several MBA specialisations are emerging as particularly suitable for students with scientific and technical backgrounds:

Healthcare And Hospital Management

This specialisation is well suited for graduates from biology, biotechnology, microbiology, pharmacy, and life sciences backgrounds. Growing healthcare infrastructure and hospital expansion are driving demand for professionally trained managers in the sector.

Data Analytics

Students with backgrounds in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or physics may find strong opportunities in analytics-driven industries. Businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making across finance, technology, retail, and consulting.

Operations Management

Operations and supply-chain roles often align well with the structured problem-solving skills developed during science education. Manufacturing, logistics, e-commerce, and production industries continue to recruit management professionals in this area.

Marketing And Finance

For science graduates seeking a broader career transition, marketing and finance offer opportunities to move into mainstream business domains such as banking, consulting, FMCG, and corporate strategy.

Agri-Business Management

Students with agricultural science backgrounds may benefit from specialised MBA programmes focused on food systems, rural management, agri-tech, and supply-chain operations.

What MBA Aspirants May Prioritise In 2026

Education experts believe MBA aspirants in 2026 may increasingly balance institutional prestige with ROI considerations while shortlisting colleges.

While top IIMs continue to offer powerful alumni networks, leadership pipelines, and global visibility, institutions with lower fees and strong placement outcomes are likely to gain further attention amid rising education costs.

At the same time, growing industry demand for professionals who can bridge scientific expertise with business strategy may drive increased interest in hybrid MBA specialisations tailored for science graduates.

Jawaharlal Nehru University is set to begin the second phase of admissions for the MBA programme offered by its Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship, with the registration window scheduled to close on May 15.

The university had opened applications for the current academic session in the first week of April.

According to university officials, the next stage of the admission process — comprising group discussions and personal interviews — is expected to begin shortly after the registration deadline.

“The entire admission process is likely to conclude by the end of May, and classes are expected to commence by the second week of July,” an official said.

Admissions to the MBA programme will be based on a three-stage evaluation process. Candidates’ Common Admission Test scores will carry the highest weightage at 70 per cent, while group discussions and personal interviews will account for 10 per cent and 20 per cent respectively.

During the application process, General, EWS, and OBC category candidates are required to pay an application fee of Rs 2,000 through online payment modes. Candidates belonging to SC, ST, and Divyang categories need to pay Rs 1,000.

The Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship launched its first MBA batch in 2019 as part of Jawaharlal Nehru University’s expansion into management and entrepreneurship education.

University officials said the school, along with the Atal Incubation Centre, was established to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry-oriented learning through practical training, case studies, and startup-focused initiatives aligned with the objectives of National Education Policy 2020.

The MBA programme is designed to integrate academic learning with entrepreneurial exposure, reflecting the growing emphasis on innovation and interdisciplinary education in Indian higher education institutions.