BSc Data Science is an undergraduate program designed for students interested in analyzing, interpreting, and managing large amounts of data. With the rise of technology, businesses and organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decisions, making data science one of the most in-demand fields today.
The course covers topics like statistics, programming, machine learning, data visualization, and big data analytics, preparing students for careers in IT, finance, healthcare, and research. In India, several top colleges offer this program with varying fees and eligibility criteria.
In this blog, we will provide a complete guide on BSc Data Science 2026, including course details, top colleges, syllabus, fees, and career opportunities.
BSc Data Science is a 3-4 year undergraduate program combining Statistics, Computer Science, and Mathematics to provide a comprehensive understanding of data analysis and interpretation. The program develops skills in data visualization, statistical modeling, and programming languages like Python and R, as well as machine learning. The demand for skilled data scientists is rising, with the data science market projected to reach $14 Billion by 2025 and an estimated 1.1 Million job openings. IIT Madras offers a popular online program in Data Science with over 36,000 students enrolled, using tools such as Python, R, SQL, and Machine Learning.
The BSc Data Science program provides a strong foundation in statistical theory, data analysis, and computer programming. Key subjects include Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, and Machine Learning, with hands-on experience using tools and technologies like Tableau and Cloud Computing. The program focuses on developing skills in data visualization, statistical modeling, and programming.
The BSc Data Science program emphasizes real-world applications and provides a range of career paths, including Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, and Machine Learning Engineer. With strong industry connections and experienced faculty, the BSc Data Science program is a solid choice for students aiming to succeed in the field.
The following table compares the BSc Data Science program with related programs, such as BTech Computer Science and BSc Statistics, highlighting key features, skills gained, and career paths.
Feature
BSc Data Science
BTech Computer Science
BSc Statistics
Focus
Data analysis, machine learning, statistics, real-world applications
Software development, web applications, mobile applications
Healthcare, Finance, Government, Research
BSc Data Science Eligibility
To be eligible for BSc Data Science programs in India, students typically need to have completed their 10+2 education with a minimum of 50% marks in mathematics. Institutions accept various entrance exams, including CUET-UG and the IIT Madras qualifier. IIT Madras offers an open entry process with a 4-level qualifier exam. Other institutions may accept JEE Advanced, MET CET, KR Mangalam Entrance Test, SSU CET, and Jain University Entrance exams. Some colleges also offer direct admission based on merit.
IIT Madras: Open entry based on qualifier process
JEE Advanced: Considered by some institutions for admission to BSc programs with a data science specialization
MET CET, KR Mangalam Entrance Test, SSU CET, and Jain University Entrance: Accepted by MET, KR Mangalam University, Sharda University, and Jain University respectively
Direct Admission: Some colleges offer direct admission based on merit (marks in qualifying examinations)
BSE Institute Ltd: Offers direct admission to its BSc Data Science program
University of London (LSE academic direction): Offers BSc Data Science program
Gisma University of Applied Sciences, Berlin Campus: Offers BSc Data Science program
Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Romania: Offers BSc Data Science program
Entrance Modes – IIT Madras
CUET
Direct.
Open entry based on qualifier process
Expected to be available by May 2026
Some colleges offer direct admission based on merit
Diploma holders in programming or data science from IIT Madras may also be eligible for lateral entry
Mathematics is a mandatory subject for most programs
BSE Institute Ltd offers direct admission to its BSc Data Science program
IIT Madras has a strong presence with 36K+ students
CUT-UG is a national-level exam
Direct admission is based on marks in qualifying examinations
The Data Science market is projected to reach $14B by 2025
CUT-UG is expected to be available by May 2026
Some colleges offer fee waivers for students with a family income below ₹5L
IIT Madras offers fee waivers for students with a family income below ₹5L
JEE Advanced is considered by some institutions for admission to BSc programs with a data science specialization
Private colleges typically charge between ₹3-9L in total fees
Choosing between BSc and BTech depends on individual goals
MET CET, KR Mangalam Entrance Test, SSU CET, and Jain University Entrance are accepted by respective universities
IIT Madras graduates can expect an average salary of ₹7-12 LPA
Deep Learning skills can add a 30% premium
TCS, Infosys, and Wipro are top recruiters
Data Scientist, Data Engineer, and Database Architect are in-demand roles
IIT Madras is gaining credibility in the Data Science field
BSc Data Science program is structured into 4 levels
Key tools include TensorFlow, Tableau, and AWS
Top BSc Data Science Colleges
Top BSc Data Science colleges in India offer comprehensive curricula and experienced faculty. Prominent institutions include IIT Madras, IIT Jodhpur, Christ University, NMIMS, VIT, and SRM. Fees vary, with IIT Madras charging ₹9.39L, IIT Jodhpur charging ₹4.8L, and Christ University charging ₹3.6L. Programs are delivered online and offline. Graduates enjoy robust placements with companies like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro recruiting from these institutions.
The table below provides an overview of the top BSc Data Science colleges, their fees, mode of delivery, and placement statistics.
The BSc Data Science syllabus provides a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and computer science. The course is typically divided into six semesters, each focusing on specific skills and knowledge. Core subjects include machine learning, big data, deep learning, natural language processing, and database management systems. Students learn tools such as TensorFlow, Tableau, and AWS, gaining hands-on experience working with data and developing predictive models. Projects and assignments help students apply their knowledge to real-world problems. The total credits for the course are typically around 120-140.
The syllabus prepares students for a career in data science by providing a comprehensive understanding of the field.
Year-wise – Tools
Projects
Credits
1st Year – Python, R, SQL
Data Visualization, Statistical Analysis
20
1st Year – Machine Learning, Deep Learning
Predictive Modeling, Data Mining
25
2nd Year – TensorFlow, Tableau, AWS
Big Data Analytics, Natural Language Processing
30
2nd Year – Database Management Systems, Data Warehousing
Data Governance, Data Quality
25
3rd Year – Advanced Machine Learning, Cloud Computing
Capstone Project, Research Paper
35
3rd Year – Data Security, Ethics, and Privacy
Case Studies, Group Projects
20
Final Year – Specialization in AI, ML, or Data Science
Dissertation, Final Project
40
Final Year – Internship, Industry Collaboration
Placement Preparation, Career Development
10
BSc Data Science Fees
BSc Data Science program fees vary significantly across institutions in India. IIT Madras charges ₹9.39L, with fee waivers for students with a family income below ₹5L. Government colleges typically charge between ₹20-50K per year, while private colleges range from ₹1-3L per year. Some private colleges have specific fees: AAFT (₹2.88L), Kishinchand Chellaram College (₹29,460), Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology (₹2.03L), Christ University Bangalore (₹3.54L), and BSE Institute Ltd (₹3L). Consider these fees when choosing a college for BSc Data Science.
IIT Madras: ₹9.39L (waiver <₹5L income)
Govt: ₹20-50K/yr
Private: ₹1-3L/yr
AAFT: ₹2.88L
Kishinchand Chellaram College: ₹29,460
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology: ₹2.03L
Christ University Bangalore: ₹3.54L
BSE Institute Ltd: ₹3L
Fees – IIT Madras
Govt
Private
₹ 1,50,000 per year (includes tuition, lab fees, and library charges)
₹20,000 per year (Maharashtra government colleges)
₹2,88,000 (AAFT)
₹ 2,25,000 per year (hostel separate: ₹80,000/year)
₹30,000 per year (Kerala government colleges)
₹29,460 (Kishinchand Chellaram College)
₹ 1,39,000 – ₹ 8,00,000 (depending on level and scholarships)
₹40,000 per year (Tamil Nadu government colleges)
₹2,03,000 (Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology)
₹ 1,50,000 – ₹ 3,00,000 (depending on the program)
₹50,000 per year (Delhi government colleges)
₹3,54,000 (Christ University Bangalore)
Career After BSc Data Science
A BSc in Data Science from a reputable institution in India, such as IIT Madras, leads to exciting and well-compensated career paths. The field is rapidly growing, with the market projected to reach $14B by 2025, creating 1.1M job opportunities. Top recruiters in India, including Google, Amazon, and TCS, seek data science graduates for roles such as Data Scientist, Data Analyst, and Machine Learning Engineer. Salaries range from ₹4-8 LPA for Data Analysts to ₹8-20 LPA for Data Scientists.
The table below provides an overview of potential roles, salaries, required skills, and top recruiters in the field of data science in India.
Data Mining, Data Interpretation, Excel, R, SQL, NoSQL, Data Warehousing, ETL Tools
Microsoft, IBM, Accenture, Wipro
₹4-8 LPA average
Quantitative skills, Statistical Analysis, Data Visualization, Python, R, SQL, Tableau, Power BI
Cognizant, Capgemini, Deloitte, EY
₹10-15 LPA average
Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision, Python, R, SQL, TensorFlow, Keras
Flipkart, Ola, Uber, Paytm
₹8-12 LPA average
Database Design, Data Modeling, SQL, NoSQL, Data Warehousing, ETL Tools, MongoDB, Cassandra
SAP, Oracle, Cisco, HP
₹6-10 LPA average
Statistics, Data Science, Mathematics, Analytical Skills, Python, R, SQL, Excel
Indian Railway, ISRO, DRDO, NIC
₹4-8 LPA average
Data Analysis, Data Visualization, Python, R, SQL, Tableau, Power BI, Excel
Genpact, Convergys, WNS, EXL
₹10-15 LPA average
Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision, Python, R, SQL, TensorFlow
Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Facebook
₹8-12 LPA average
Data Science, Statistical Modeling, Data Visualization, Python, R, SQL, Tableau, AWS
TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Cognizant
₹6-10 LPA average
Quantitative skills, Statistical Analysis, Data Visualization, Python, R, SQL, Excel
Accenture, Capgemini, Deloitte, EY
BSc Data Science Salary
Salaries for BSc Data Science graduates in India vary based on experience and role. Freshers can expect ₹4-8L per annum, while those with 3-5 years of experience can earn ₹12-25L per annum. Senior data scientists can command ₹25-50L per annum. IIT Madras graduates tend to have higher average salaries, with entry-level positions offering ₹7-12L per annum and senior roles offering ₹25-50L per annum.
The table below provides a breakdown of salaries by role and experience.
Salary by Role
Experience
Junior Data Analysts
Entry-level
Data Science professionals
More than 20 years of work experience
INR 20,00,000 per annum
Avg. Salary: $56k — $129k (Bachelor of Science (BS / BSc), Computing & Information Systems (CIS))
Salary: $71k (Associate of Applied Technology (AAT), Microcomputer Specialist Studies)
Salary: $71k (Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS), Information Technology Management)
Avg. Salary: $53k – $100k (Bachelor of Science (BS / BSc), Business Data Analysis)
Salary: $72k (Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Business Management)
Salary: $72k (Master of Professional Studies (MPS), Fashion & Retail Management)
Salary: $72k (Graduate Certificate, Sales & Business Marketing)
Avg. Salary: $56k — $87k (Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Office Management)
INR 8 to 14 LPA (Average salaries offered by top recruiters)
₹16,000 – ₹29,000 Per Month (BSc Computer Science Jobs Salary for entry-level roles)
INR 11,48,252 (The National Average Salary for Data Scientist)
USD 113,436 (International Average Salary for Data Scientist)
Rs 5 LPA to 8 LPA (Starting salary for freshers in IT)
INR 3.5 lakh and 6 lakh per annum (Starting packages for Entry-level roles)
BSc Data Science vs BTech
The choice between a BSc in Data Science and a BTech depends on individual goals. The BSc program focuses on data analysis, machine learning, and statistics. BTech offers a broader education in computer science. IIT Madras offers a 3-year BSc Data Science program for ₹9.39L, structured into 4 levels, using tools like TensorFlow, Tableau, and AWS. BSc Data Science graduates can expect an average salary of ₹7-12 LPA, with senior roles commanding ₹25-50 LPA. BTech programs typically last 4 years and offer a more comprehensive computer science education with a broader range of career paths.
The table below highlights the key differences between BSc Data Science and BTech programs in terms of duration, fees, and placement.
BSc Data Science: 3 Years, ₹3,00,000 per year
BTech Computer Science: 4 Years, ₹2,25,000 per year
BSc Data Science and Business Analytics: 3 Years, ₹1,85,000 per year
BSc Data Science, AI and Digital Business: 3 Years, ₹2,55,000 per year
BSc Data Science: 3 Years, ₹1,50,000 per year
BTech Data Science: 4 Years, ₹2,05,000 per year
BSc Data Science: 3 Years, ₹3,20,000 per year
BTech Computer Science: 4 Years, ₹3,38,000 per year
BSc vs BTech – Duration
Fees
Placement
3 Years
Rs 3,00,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹7-12 LPA
4 Years
Rs 2,25,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹10 LPA
3 Years
Rs 1,85,000 per year
Placement: 77% of graduates reported an annual salary ranging from €55,000 to €60,000
4 Years
Rs 2,55,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹4 LPA
3 Years
Rs 1,50,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹3.5 LPA
4 Years
Rs 2,05,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹4 LPA
3 Years
Rs 3,20,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹7-12 LPA
4 Years
Rs 3,38,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹10 LPA
3 Years
Rs 2,70,000 per year
Placement: 77% of graduates reported an annual salary ranging from €55,000 to €60,000
4 Years
Rs 2,00,000 per year
Placement: Average salary ₹4 LPA
FAQs
1. What is BSc Data Science and its importance in India? BSc Data Science is an undergraduate program focusing on data analysis, programming, and machine learning. It is highly important in India as industries increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making for growth and innovation.
2. What are the eligibility criteria for BSc Data Science 2026? To pursue BSc Data Science, candidates must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, and sometimes Computer Science. Most colleges require a minimum of 50–60% marks, though criteria vary across institutions.
3. Which are the top colleges offering BSc Data Science in India? Top colleges for BSc Data Science in India include Christ University, Symbiosis Institute, Amity University, Manipal University, and Jain University. These institutes offer quality curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong placement opportunities.
4. What is the duration and structure of the BSc Data Science course? BSc Data Science is a 3-year undergraduate program divided into six semesters. The curriculum includes subjects like statistics, Python programming, machine learning, data visualization, database management, and big data analytics.
5. How much is the average BSc Data Science fee in India? The average fee for BSc Data Science in India ranges from ₹1 lakh to ₹4 lakh for the full course, depending on the college, infrastructure, and facilities offered to students.
6. What are the core subjects in the BSc Data Science syllabus? Key subjects include Data Analytics, Python and R Programming, Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Data Mining, Big Data, Probability, and Data Visualization, preparing students for real-world data science challenges.
7. What career opportunities are available after BSc Data Science? Graduates can pursue careers as Data Analysts, Data Scientists, Business Analysts, Machine Learning Engineers, AI Specialists, and Database Administrators in IT, finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and research sectors.
8. Is BSc Data Science suitable for students without programming knowledge? Yes, BSc Data Science welcomes beginners, as programming basics are taught in initial semesters. Students gradually develop coding, statistical, and analytical skills essential for handling large datasets.
9. Can BSc Data Science graduates pursue higher studies in India? Yes, graduates can pursue MSc Data Science, MBA in Data Analytics, or certifications in AI, Big Data, and Machine Learning. These courses enhance career prospects in research, technology, and management roles.
10. How is the placement scenario for BSc Data Science students in India? The placement scenario is strong, with graduates offered roles in top IT, finance, and analytics companies. Average starting salaries range from ₹4 lakh to ₹8 lakh per annum, depending on skills and college reputation.
Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.
