Career in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science: Courses, Eligibility, Top Institutes, Recruiters & Salaries.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science are revolutionizing industries and reshaping the future of work. As India embraces the digital economy, skilled professionals in AI and data science are increasingly in demand across sectors—from tech and finance to healthcare and retail. Students from any academic background can now explore a career in AI and data science after 12th, making it one of the most futuristic and high-paying career choices today.

 

Eligibility for AI & Data Science Courses

One of the major benefits of pursuing a career in this field is its open eligibility to students from all academic streams. However, a basic understanding or interest in mathematics, logic, and computers is highly beneficial.

• Educational Qualification: 10+2 from a recognized board (Science stream preferred but not mandatory in all cases)
• Admission Criteria:
• For B.Tech programs: JEE Main/Advanced or state-level engineering entrance exams.
• For B.Sc/Data Science or diploma courses: CUET, institute-specific exams, or merit-based admission.

 

Top Courses in AI and Data Science After 12th

1. B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence / Data Science / Machine Learning
• Duration: 4 years
• Focus: Programming, deep learning, neural networks, big data analytics, robotics
2. B.Sc in Data Science / AI
• Duration: 3 years
• Focus: Statistical analysis, data mining, machine learning, data visualization
3. Diplomas and Certifications in AI/ML
• Duration: 6 months to 2 years
• Focus: Skill-based learning with real-world projects; ideal for upskilling
4. Integrated & Modular Programs
• Some institutes, like IIT Mandi, now offer flexible modular AI/data science programs through their continuing education departments.
  (Source: 360digitmg.com, Wikipedia, Indiatimes)

 

Top Institutes for AI & Data Science in India

Pursuing a degree from a reputable institute greatly enhances placement opportunities and career growth.

1. IIT Hyderabad

• B.Tech in AI/Data Science
• Fees: ₹9–10 Lakh
• Source: Times of India, Financial Express

2. IIT Delhi / IIT Bombay / IIT Kharagpur

• Specialized programs in AI, ML, and Data Analytics
• Fees: ₹6–9 Lakh
• Source: Formfees, IndCareer

3. DTU (Delhi Technological University)

• B.Tech in AI & Data Science
• Fees: ₹4.15 Lakh
• Source: fees

4. BITS Pilani

• AI/Data Science specialization under B.Tech
• Fees: ₹10–16 Lakh
• Source: GeeksforGeeks, Financial Express

5. KL University, Guntur

• Affordable and industry-aligned courses
• Fees: ₹2.6 Lakh total
• Source: CollegeDekho

These institutions offer hands-on training, industry internships, and placement support that prepare students for top-tier roles in AI and data analytics.

 

Top Recruiters & Job Roles in AI and Data Science

AI and data science professionals are in demand across global tech giants, Indian startups, and various non-tech sectors such as banking, healthcare, and e-commerce.

Top Recruiters:

• Google
• Amazon
• Microsoft
• IBM
• TCS, Infosys, Wipro
• Zomato, Swiggy, Byju’s
• Fintech and Healthtech Startups

Popular Job Roles:

• Data Scientist
• AI/ML Engineer
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Research Scientist
• Data Analyst
• NLP Engineer
• Robotics Programmer

 

Salary Scope in AI and Data Science

AI and data science careers are among the highest paying in India today. Salaries are influenced by educational background, technical skills, internship experience, and employer.

• Freshers: ₹8–12 LPA
• Top Tier Colleges (IITs, BITS, IIITs): ₹15–25 LPA
• Experienced Professionals or Specializations: Can exceed ₹30 LPA or more in global tech firms

The strong ROI (return on investment) from these courses, especially from premier institutes, makes it a compelling career option.

 

Why Choose a Career in AI and Data Science?

• Future-Ready Skills: AI and data are at the core of Industry 4.0.
• Cross-Industry Demand: Applications across finance, healthcare, logistics, agriculture, and education.
• Global Opportunities: Highly valued in global job markets.
• Lucrative Salaries: Among the highest starting salaries for graduates in India.
• Continuous Innovation: Ideal for students who enjoy technology, math, and problem-solving.

A career in artificial intelligence and data science after 12th offers a perfect blend of technology, innovation, and financial rewards. With accessible courses like B.Tech and B.Sc programs and high-paying jobs from companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, this is the right time to enter this booming sector. Whether you're aiming for research, development, or application of intelligent systems, AI and data science can shape a successful and future-proof career.