As data-driven decision-making becomes central to every industry, higher education is evolving to equip students with hybrid skillsets. The Indian Institute of Technology Madras has introduced a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Management and Data Science, an undergraduate programme that blends business strategy with analytics to prepare learners for emerging career roles.In a recent update on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, IIT Madras has shared important information about the program, including that it follows an open-access policy with no age bar and no seat limit. The inaugural batch will begin in June 2026, and applications will be accepted until May 31, 2026.Management meets analytics for the Data AgeDesigned by the Department of Management Studies (DoMS), the programme combines core management areas such as finance, marketing, economics, supply chain and business strategy with strong training in statistics, computational thinking and data analysis.The program has been structured to equip students with skills to interpret data for management insights and making business decisions. This is a competency that is becoming highly desirable in various sectors.The graduates will receive a Bachelor of Science degree from IIT Madras and have a wide range of choices for their career such as consulting, finance, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, government, and non, government organizations.Flexible format for students and working learnersThe program is delivered in a hybrid mode so as to be accessible to the maximum number of people. The lectures, tutorials, assignments, and doubt clearance sessions will be conducted online via recorded videos and live classes. Quizzes and term exams will be held in person at designated centers, usually on Sundays.Students can select the number of courses to take in a term according to their convenience and can thus simultaneously work towards this degree and another college program, professional engagement, or a competitive exam. The BS degree requires completion of 142 credits.The institute’s X post emphasised that this flexible design enables learners from diverse backgrounds to access IIT-quality education without relocating.Eligibility, admission and key datesAnyone who has passed Class 12 or an equivalent examination can apply, irrespective of academic stream. Students currently in Class 11 may also apply and join after completing Class 12.Admission is granted through a four-week qualifier process that includes foundational coursework in English, Mathematics for Data Science, Statistics and Computational Thinking, followed by an in-person examination. Candidates eligible for JEE Advanced in 2025 or 2026 can directly enter the foundation level.Applications for the May 2026 qualifier opened on February 21, 2026.Fees and application detailsThe application fee for the qualifier process is Rs 4,000 for General and OBC candidates, Rs 2,000 for SC/ST and PwD candidates, and Rs 1,000 for SC/ST candidates who are also PwD (40% or more disability). A re-attempt fee is applicable for candidates who wish to appear for the qualifier again in the same term.Tuition fees are to be paid on a term-by-term basis according to the number of courses enrolled in, giving the student control over expenses in relation to their rate of study.The applicant must have access to a stable internet connection and a laptop or computer to study online, as well as be able to travel to the nominated examination centers for face-to-face exams.Career focused learning for a changing job marketExperts with a blend of business and analytical skills are in demand as the companies are increasingly focusing on such talents. A Bachelor of Science in Management and Data Science is one of the ways a university could help students close the skills gap. By providing a challenging and at the same time flexible program, the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT Madras) is positioning these courses as a very accessible option for any student who is looking for a future career in the data economy.
