IIT Kanpur launches 6-month online course in data science, machine learning for business professionals

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has launched a six-month online certificate programme, "Advanced Data Science and Machine Learning for Business Analytics", to help working professionals build industry-relevant skills in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and business analytics. The programme will commence on October 3, 2026, while applications will remain open until mid-September 2026.

According to the IIT Kanpur press release, the online programme has been designed to enable professionals to use AI-driven technologies and data analytics for informed business decision-making across sectors such as finance, marketing, consulting, operations, product management, and business analytics.

Programme focuses on practical AI skills

The programme, developed jointly by faculty members from leading IITs and IIMs, will offer hands-on training in Python and R programming, data analysis, data visualisation, machine learning, business analytics, and generative AI.

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Developed in collaboration with faculty from leading IITs and IIMs, the programme will provide practical training in Python and R programming, data analysis, data visualisation, machine learning, business analytics, and generative AI. Participants will gain practical experience in using these technologies to solve real-world business challenges, automate routine processes, and derive actionable insights from data.

Speaking about the programme, Abhinav Tripathi, programme coordinator and faculty member in the Department of Management Sciences (DoMS), IIT Kanpur, said, "In today's rapidly evolving professional landscape, AI/ML and its tools have become essential career skills and capabilities. Young professionals must augment their domain expertise with AI/ML capabilities to innovate, solve complex problems with data-driven insights, and lead organisational transformation."

He added, "This programme has been designed to provide participants with practical, industry-relevant knowledge and hands-on exposure to AI, machine learning, and business analytics, enabling them to confidently apply these technologies to real-world business challenges."

Eligibility, fee and course details

The programme is open to graduates from any discipline with at least 55% aggregate marks from a recognised university or institution. Candidates with three or more years of relevant work experience can apply with a minimum of 40% aggregate marks.

The six-month programme will be delivered entirely online and will include 60 hours of instruction through weekend live classes of three hours per week.

The application fee is Rs 1,000 plus 18% GST, while the programme fee is Rs 85,000 plus 18% GST, payable in two instalments.

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Flexible exit option, IIT Kanpur certificate

The programme also offers a three-month exit option, allowing participants to earn a certificate of participation. Those who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate from the Department of Management Sciences (DoMS), IIT Kanpur.

Interested candidates can check the detailed curriculum, eligibility criteria, fee structure, application process and other programme details on the official IIT Kanpur online learning portal.