NIT Rourkela launches 4 B.Tech, M.Tech programmes in AI, semi-conductors, computing

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela has introduced four new academic programmes for the 2026-27 session. The newly introduced programmes are designed to prepare students with industry-relevant, future-ready skills while catering to growing demand across key national priority sectors.

The programmes include B.Tech in mathematics and computing, B.Tech in engineering physics, M.Tech in semiconductor devices and technology, and M.Tech in machine learning and signal analysis.

Speaking about the new programmes, Ashok Kumar Turuk, dean academic at NIT Rourkela, said, “Aligned with the vision of NEP 2020, the future of higher education lies in multidisciplinary learning, flexibility, skill integration, and research-driven innovation.”

“At NIT Rourkela, we believe that subjects like Physics and Mathematics should no longer be viewed only through the lens of theory, but as foundational disciplines powering emerging technologies and industrial transformation. These programs represent an important step towards building a future-ready workforce for India’s growing deep-tech and knowledge economy,” he added.

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NIT Rourkela launches B.Tech in mathematics and computing

The department of mathematics at NIT Rourkela will offer the new B.Tech in mathematics and computing programme from the upcoming academic session. The course has been designed to blend mathematics, computing and data science with practical applications in technology-driven industries.

Students enrolled in the programme will study topics such as data structures and algorithms, theory of computation, machine learning, artificial intelligence, cryptography, numerical analysis, statistical modelling, and advanced computing.

The institute will admit 25 students in the first batch through JEE Main. Graduates are expected to explore careers in areas such as software development, AI and machine learning, data analytics, cybersecurity, quantitative finance and research.

Manas Ranjan Tripathy, head of the department of mathematics, said, “Mathematics today is far beyond conventional calculations and theoretical learning; it has become the foundation of artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, quantitative finance, cryptography, advanced computing, and digital technologies.”

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NIT Rourkela expands focus on physics and semiconductor research

NIT Rourkela’s department of physics and astronomy has introduced two new programmes: B.Tech in engineering physics and M.Tech in semiconductor devices and technology.

The B.Tech in engineering physics programme will cover areas such as quantum technologies, semiconductor devices, photonics, nanotechnology, materials science, cryogenics, optoelectronics, spintronics, astronomy and space technology, high-energy physics, and biophysics, among others. The institute said the course will combine theoretical learning with laboratory training, simulations and engineering applications.

Admissions to the programme will be conducted through JEE Main, with 25 seats available in the first batch.

The M.Tech in semiconductor devices and technology programme, meanwhile, has been launched in view of India’s growing semiconductor ambitions. The curriculum includes semiconductor devices, IC fabrication, semiconductor wafer technology, packaging technologies, modelling and simulation, device characterizations, and advanced materials for electronic applications.

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The programme will admit 15 students through GATE in its inaugural batch.

Jyoti Prakash Kar, head of the department of physics and astronomy, said, “The department aims to build a robust academic and research ecosystem in transformative technologies based on the principles of physics, including advanced materials, semiconductor devices, quantum technologies, and space technologies, in alignment with the objectives of the India semiconductor mission, national quantum mission, and national space mission."

“The program will prepare graduates for impactful careers in reputed academic institutes, advanced R&D laboratories, defence and space tech sectors, semiconductor and manufacturing industries, among others.,” she added further.

M.Tech in Machine Learning and Signal Analysis

The department of electronics and communication engineering has also launched a new M.Tech programme in machine learning and signal analysis.

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The programme will focus on interdisciplinary learning in artificial intelligence, signal processing and data science. Students will study areas including deep learning, speech and image processing, wireless communication, autonomous systems and biomedical signal analysis.

According to the institute, the programme is intended to strengthen research collaborations across engineering, computer science and applied mathematics while preparing students for emerging industry requirements. The inaugural batch will admit 12 students through GATE.

With the addition of these programmes, NIT Rourkela aims to further strengthen its position as a leading centre for technical education and research in emerging areas of science and engineering.