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Which IIT First Introduced B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence?

Pratyasha Chaturvedi
Jan 23, 2026, 13:46 IST

Which IIT was the first to offer a B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence? The 2019-20 academic year marked the start of the program. It became the beginning of India’s shift to organised undergraduate AI education. 

IIT First Introduced B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence
IIT First Introduced B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence

For today’s undergraduate students, selecting an engineering branch is more than just ‘Computer Science vs Mechanical Science.’ Students’ perspectives on vocations, innovation, and future job security have completely changed as a result of the development of  Artificial Intelligence (AI). Artificial Intelligence is no longer a speciality; it is the foundation of contemporary technology, from self-driving cars and medical diagnostics to financial algorithms and generative AI tools.

Many engineering and JEE Exam aspirants must wonder about this one particular question,i.e., 

‘Which IIT first introduced B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence?’

A Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Artificial Intelligence was started in the academic year 2019-20 by this one IIT, which became the first IIT and the first institute in India to offer a standalone Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Artificial Intelligence.

Which IIT First Introduced B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence?

The first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) to introduce B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence was the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad.

When the institute announced its B.Tech. in Artificial Intelligence program, it made history. Up until then, Artificial Intelligence was mostly offered as an elective in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering programs in engineering schools in India. These courses did not give depth, a controlled path, or continuity that was exclusively focused on intelligence systems, even though they did offer exposure. 

The Department of Artificial Intelligence at IIT Hyderabad started a B.Tech in AI program in 2019, making it the first of its kind in India and only the third worldwide, following similar initiatives at MIT and CMU. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad, along with the Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Artificial Intelligence, also offers the following courses:-

  • Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Teaching Assistantship

  • Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Research Assistantship

  • PhD

The success and accessibility of IIT Hyderabad’s AI program caused a rippling effect throughout the IIT system. In the following years since the inception of this course, several additional IITs have introduced AI-related branches, multidisciplinary programs, and specialisations, frequently combining AI with Data Science or Mathematics.

Given below is the list of some of the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) which offer a four-year degree in Artificial Intelligence:-

What is the Curriculum of B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence by IIT Hyderabad?

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad’s Artificial Program’s effectiveness and clarity caused a domino effect throughout the IIT system. Several other Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) started offering Artificial Intelligence-related branches, specialisations, and multidisciplinary programs in the following years, when a standalone degree was introduced, often combining AI and Data Science, Electrical Engineering, or Mathematics.

Given below is the list of curriculum of the Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Artificial Intelligence offered by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad from 2025 onwards for the First year:-

First Year Curriculum of B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence

Odd Semester

Even Semester

Calculus I

Differential Equations

Calculus II (Science Basket)

Series of Functions (Science Basket)

Programming

Optimisation - I

Matrix Theory

Programming for AI

Discrete Math for Computer Science

Introduction to Classical AI

Introduction to Modern AI

Probability and Random Variables

Communication Skills

Introduction to Entrepreneurship

(Disclaimer:- This table has been taken from the official website of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad.)

How does a B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence differ from Computer Science with AI Specialisation?

A Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often thought of by students as being computer science with only a few additional machine learning modules. But in reality, the difference between a B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science with AI specialisation is significantly more strategic and profound.

By its very true nature, a traditional degree in computer science program is wide. Operating systems, databases, networks, compilers, and software engineering are all covered, whereas artificial intelligence is frequently included as an advanced or optional elective. In contrast, a B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence is based on intelligent systems (which include ML, NLP, Deep Learning, Robotics), allowing for direct entry into AI roles.

Given below are some of the key differences between B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence specialisation:-

Areas

B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence

B.Tech in Computer Science with AI Specialisations

Focus

Offers in-depth exploration of machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision, data science and robotics.

Offers a broad CSE basics ( software engineering, databases, OS) plus AI and ML electives.

Skills

The skills offered in this degree are Python, AI Ethics, TensorFlow Reinforcement Learning, and unique data handling.

The skills offered in this degree are core programming (C++, Java), software development, and elective courses covering AI topics.

Curriculum

The curriculum focus is on mathematical models, algorithms (deep learning), and actual AI application development.

Places a strong focus on core CS, with AI topics taught as specialised modules, and frequently, more general software development.

Careers

Offers various career opportunities in the following areas:-

  • AI and ML Engineer

  • Data Scientist

  • Robotics Engineer positions

  • AI Businesses

  • Healthcare Technology, etc

Offers various career opportunities in the following areas:-

  • IT services

  • Software development

But these roles may transition into AI and Data roles with further effort, offering long-term adaptability 

What are the Career Opportunities Available in a B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence?

From a student’s point of view, the most important question tends to be very simple: ‘Will this degree benefit my future?’ In the instance of  B.Tech in AI, the answer is yes. The curriculum prepares the students not only for software roles but also for AI-centric careers. Many students continue their education at prestigious global universities, while others take on high-impact roles in technology businesses, startups, and research laboratories.

A Bachelor's of Technology (B.Tech) offers a wide range of high-growth employment in IT, healthcare, banking e-commerce. Given below are some of the career opportunities available in Bachelor’s of Technology (B.Tech) in Artificial Intelligence:-

  • Machine Learning Engineer

  • AI or ML Software Developer

  • Data Scientist or Analyst

  • Robotics Engineer

  • Computer Vision Specialist

  • AI Research Scientist

  • NLP Engineer

  • AI Ethics Consultant

  • AI Product Manager

  • Data Engineer

  • Business Intelligence Developer

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More than just an academic achievement, IIT Hyderabad’s decision to offer India’s first B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence was a proactive step that changed how engineering students interact with emerging technologies.

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