BITS Pilani, RMIT University launch dual-degree Bachelor of Computer Science programme from 2026

The Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, has launched a Bachelor of Computer Science programme in partnership with Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University, Melbourne. The programme will commence from the 2026 academic session through the BITS-RMIT Higher Education Academy.

Under this 2+2 study model programme, students will study the first two years at BITS Pilani in India and the final two years at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. On successful completion, students will receive two degrees- a B.E. Computer Science from BITS Pilani and a Bachelor of Computer Science from RMIT University.

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The new programme expands the BITS-RMIT Higher Education Academy’s portfolio to six programmes and marks its fourth student intake since the academy was established in 2023 under National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Focus on emerging technologies

The programme has been designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the digital economy. The curriculum includes subjects such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cybersecurity, cloud computing, software engineering and data science.

Students will also participate in industry projects, programming studios, innovation bootcamps and capstone projects aimed at providing practical learning experience and industry exposure.

Dual qualifications, global recognition

The institutions said graduates will benefit from internationally recognised qualifications. RMIT University's Bachelor of Computer Science is accredited by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) under the Seoul Accord, allowing graduates to gain recognition across several countries and economies.

The programme also includes academic mentoring, cultural orientation and a fully funded immersion visit to Melbourne during the first year to help students prepare for their international study experience.

Officials speak

Speaking on the launch, V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice-Chancellor of BITS Pilani, said the programme aligns with the institution’s vision of preparing students for global careers.

“This programme reflects our vision to create globally relevant and future-focused learning pathways. In partnership with RMIT, we are equipping students with cutting-edge technical skills, international exposure, and industry experience needed to thrive in the digital economy. It is an important step towards nurturing globally competent technology leaders,” Rao said.

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Alec Cameron, Vice-Chancellor and President of RMIT University, said the partnership combines the strengths of both institutions in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

“The continued growth of the BITS-RMIT partnership draws on our combined strength in STEM training and our commitment to giving students access to outstanding, industry-connected education in one of the world’s most in-demand fields,” Cameron said.

Expanding global education opportunities

BITS Pilani said the new programme reinforces its commitment to offering globally integrated and industry-aligned education opportunities. The institution added that the BITS-RMIT Higher Education Academy will continue to create pathways that combine academic excellence, international mobility, and industry relevance to prepare students for careers in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.