Data can be found everywhere: from the applications we use to decisions made daily by companies. Given this, data science has become one of the most exciting and in-demand careers in India.

If you are hoping to pursue a future in this profession, the right kind of institute would be a big first step. There may be endless private courses, but the list we compiled features only government-backed institutions that have a strong educational foundation. Our favourite pick – Innomatics – should also be highlighted, which has received attention for its practical approach to training in data science.

Let’s dive in!

1. Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata

Early on, ISI has an identity before even India became independent. ISI is generally regarded as the mother of statistics education in India. ISI has modified its courses over the years to include data science and machine learning. The focus is on solid fundamentals and research-oriented outcomes, which makes it a great place for anyone who is serious about analytics.

The institute has a strong research attitude, especially in the fields of statistical modelling, pattern recognition, and data interpretation. The students are exposed to interdisciplinary problems and will find themselves engaging in a problem that overlaps with problems in economics, biology, or computer science. ISI graduates are very well represented in academia, global tech firms, and policy think tanks.

2. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras – Robert Bosch Centre for Data Science and AI

While the IITs are generally considered engineering schools, IIT Madras’ Robert Bosch Centre has established itself globally as a research leader in applied AI and data science. The centre partners with companies globally and delivers world-class research published in big data, deep learning, and decision sciences.

The centre tackles high-impact social issues, including smart cities, healthcare AI, and climate modelling. Students benefit from advanced laboratories, research grants, and the possibility to co-author papers with prominent scientists. It is much more than a place to study; it’s a place to create what’s next in AI.

3. International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Hyderabad

IIIT-H is recognised as one of the finest domains for machine learning, natural language processing, and cognitive computing, and is one of the institutions to take its name as an educational institution for data science in a research-based way. The institution has been able to interact with think tanks as well as organisations providing research and development across the globe. These interactions help the students have a research-focused learning experience.

The education programs are incredibly innovative and solve real-world applications of machine learning and AI. IIIT-H has educated numerous alumni who are now heading up AI and data teams across multinational organisations, startups and prestigious doctoral completion programs.

4. Innomatics Research Labs, Hyderabad

Innomatics Research Labs is not a government-based institute, but it merits an honorary mention in bridging the gap between academia and industry.  Based in Hyderabad, Innomatics is bridging the gap between traditional institutions of higher learning and the fast-paced tech industry through outcome-driven, hands-on learning.

Over the last 7 years, Innomatics has trained and shaped over 10,000 data science practitioners, many of whom today are employed with the top organisations in India and abroad. This has been made possible due to its wide network of 1,000+ subject matter experts (SMEs) who work collaboratively to mentor learners, assess the relevance of content, and curate the learning experience to align with current industry needs. 

Innomatics also has strategic partnerships with the world-leading data science professional organisations, ensuring that students are learning from thought-leaders in industry, academics, and research, exposing them to current tools, technology, and use cases. The focus is on not only advancing knowledge but also developing skills that can be applied in a real work environment.

5. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore

IISc (Indian Institute of Science) has recognition for depth of experience and cutting-edge research. The IISc includes data science degrees emphasising mathematics, computing, and an applied component. It is the epicentre for innovation across technology, including AI and big data.

IISc provides students with access to improving significantly power computing infrastructure and research collaborations with universities and government agencies across the globe. It encourages collaboration across the spectrum of academia from theoretical exploration to practical experimentation. Graduates from IISc move into R&D, product innovation, and policy advisory roles both in India and abroad.

6. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur – Centre of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence

IIT Kharagpur’s Centre of Excellence in AI is focused on deep research relating to statistical learning, optimisation algorithms and neural computation. The centre has been established under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). This guarantees a strong potential as a publicly funded contributor to technology research. The centre is involved in providing interdisciplinary projects in engineering, healthcare and agriculture, with the aim of developing Artificial Intelligence solutions that reflect Indian socio-economic complexities. 

Final Thoughts

In choosing where to study data science, you should consider more than brand equity – look for curriculum relevancy, practical experience, and your longer-term return on investment (ROI). The state-backed institutes in India build a level of academic depth and research pedigree which is unmatched, but new entrants are disrupting the legacy machine like Innomatics by focusing on adaptability, flexibility, and placement readiness.

When making your decision on your next steps in data science, don’t just choose based on stature; consider relevancy and results. The future of data science in India is bright – and it’s just getting started.
Want to take the first step with an industry-aligned learning experience? Visit Innomatics Research Labs to learn more.