The Post Graduate Programs in Data Science (PGPDS) is a renowned professional program lasting 1 - 2 years, structured to provide practical knowledge and resources to graduates and working professionals who want to engage in the areas of big data, analytics, machine learning, and decision-making with AI capabilities. The PGPDS is an ideal journey for graduates whose career aspirations are based on a data-technology-business collaboration.
The PG Program in Data Science usually runs for 2 - 4 semesters, studying full-time or in an online/hybrid mode. Students can select their specialty in areas such as Business Analytics, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Engineering, depending on the options provided in the curriculum.
Eligibility criteria for a PGPDS program usually require a graduate or bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), but will often include graduates in commerce and business fields. A number of programs specify and prefer applicants with programming experience, or work experience is a requirement.
Admissions to the PGPDS programs may require entrance tests, achieved academic performance, or working experience. Top PGPDS programs are available from institutes such as IIT Madras, BITS Pilani, and Aegis School Of Data Science. Following completion of a PGPDS program, graduates may consider such roles as Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Analyst, Data Engineer across finance, retail, health care, ICT, and consulting sectors.
Table of Contents
- PGP in Data Science Highlights
- What is PGP in Data Science?
- Why Study a PGP in Data Science?
- Who should study a PGP in Data Science?
- PGP in Data Science Eligibility Criteria
- PGP in Data Science Top Colleges in India
- PGP in Data Science Admission Process 2025
- PGP in Data Science Syllabus
- PGPDS Vs. MCA
- PGP in Data Science Job Opportunities in India
- PGP in Data Science FAQs
PGP in Data Science Highlights
To get a better understanding of the PG Program in Data Science, here’s a snapshot of the course structure, eligibility, career outcomes, and more:
What is PGP in Data Science?
The Post Graduate Program in Data Science is a professionally crafted course that brings all learners together in all aspects of data analytics, big data processing, AI, and statistical methods that provide the skills to enable students to derive insights from both structured and unstructured data and help organizations make data-led decisions.
The curriculum combines theory with practical training in frameworks, meaning learners will use real tools, such as Python, R, SQL, Power BI, Tableau, TensorFlow, or Hadoop. Sometimes, a curriculum will merge real projects, capstones, case studies, or even internships to develop job-ready graduates.
Why Study a PGP in Data Science?
A PGP in Data Science will prepare you with the tools and techniques necessary to work in today's data-driven economy. The PGPDS is a direct and relevant advance for those pursuing careers in data-centric functions. Here are the key reasons why it is important:
- Highly demanded industry: Industries are increasingly needing people who can turn unfinished data into something useful.
- Skills that will not expire: You will learn tools that are trending in the industry, like Python, SQL, Tableau, Tensorflow, as well as cloud technology.
- Multi-disciplinary learning: You will be learning concepts from programming, statistics, business strategy, and machine learning in an integrated course.
- Application-based learning: Most programs are designed to engage live projects, case studies, internships, and capstone projects as a way to prepare you for practical and real-world use.
- Career progression: Broaden your potential role horizons: You may consider roles such as Data Scientist, ML Engineer, BI Analyst, AI Consultant, as well as Product Analyst roles.
- Global experience: Several programs team up with global organisations and platforms like AWS, IBM, or Microsoft will define your experience, as well as give you the opportunity for certified representation and project work.
Who should study a PGP in Data Science?
If you're passionate about numbers, problem-solving, and creating models to forecast trends or automate decisions, this is the program for you! PG Program in Data Science is ideal for:
- New graduates from a STEM, economics, or commerce education
- Working professionals in IT, finance, marketing, operations, or engineering
- Someone with basic programming and analytical thinking
- A professional hoping to go into AI, data science, or analytics leadership
Although prior experience is not required, previous exposure to programming, statistics, or databases would be helpful. The course will accommodate every level beginner to intermediate, depending on the institute.
PGP in Data Science Eligibility Criteria
While eligibility varies by college, most institutions follow these standard requirements:
- A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, such as B.A in Mathematics/Statistics/ Economics/Computer Science, or related fields
- Minimum 50-60% in undergraduate degree (may vary for general/reserved categories)
- Some colleges require basic knowledge in programming or math
- Work experience of 1-3 years is preferred in many executive-level programs (not mandatory for all)
- No national-level entrance test is mandatory, but some colleges may conduct their own aptitude test or interview
PGP in Data Science Top Colleges in India
Here is a list of top institutions offering PG Program in Data Science, along with their NIRF 2024 rankings where applicable:
PGP in Data Science Admission Process 2025
To gain admission into the Post Graduate Program in Data Science at BITS Pilani, candidates need to follow the step-by-step process outlined below. The process includes eligibility verification, document submission, fee payment, and batch allocation.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Check if you meet the minimum eligibility requirements. All Applicants must be working professionals with either a four-year B.E./B.Tech. degree or M.Sc. in Mathematics/Statistics or equivalent from a recognized institution.
Step 2: Register Online
The official BITS Pilani Application Centre. Create an account. Make sure all informational details are correct on the application form—your personal details, educational details, professional details, etc.
Step 3: Upload Documents Required
Prepare and upload self-attested copies of your academic documents (containing: mark sheets, degree certificates, ID proof and any other listed documents from the official checklist) to the application portal. Applications with missing or incomplete documents will be rejected.
Step 4: Initial fee Payment (Blocking Amount)
Make your initial block amount payment to confirm your seat in the programme. The block amount is non-refundable (to confirm your intent to join the batch).
Step 5: Remaining Balance and Payment after Scholarship
If eligible for a scholarship, the remaining balance is to be paid within 2 weeks of making the block amount payment or before batch commences—whichever comes first.
Step 6: Enrollment Confirmation
Once your documents are verified and the full payment is made, you will receive an official confirmation of enrollment along with batch details and login credentials for the learning platform.
Required Documents:
- UG Mark Sheets and Certificate
- 10th and 12th Mark Sheets
- ID proof (Aadhar/PAN)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
PGP in Data Science Syllabus
The curriculum consists of Practical labs, workshops, and assignments as part of each module to support practical learning. While the curriculum will differ slightly depending on the institute, below is a summary of the modules in the PG Program in Data Science at IIT Madras.
PGPDS Vs. MCA
The PG Program in Data Science (PGPDS) and the Master of Computer Applications (MCA) are postgraduate programs for technical individuals seeking to start careers in the digital and IT fields. Both programs consider data and computing; however, they have some fundamental differences in their focus areas, core skills, and resulting careers.
The PGPDS is more in the area of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and decision science than the MCA, which is more about software development, application design and architecture. The main differences are explained in the table below:
PGP in Data Science Job Opportunities in India
PGPDS graduates are in high demand across sectors. The table below highlights common job roles, key recruiters, experience level, and average salary:
PGP in Data Science FAQs
What is the difference between a PGP in Data Science and a Master's in Data Science?
A PGP is shorter, more industry-focused and practical; whereas a Master's is longer, more research-focused and academic.
Do I need coding experience to join a PGPDS?
No. Most PGPDS programs will start off with the very basics. However, having some exposure to coding, preferably in Python or SQL, can be useful.
Is PGPDS better than an MBA - Data Analytics?
PGPDS is a more technical program than an MBA; PGPDS will include coding and ML, whereas an MBA Analytics will typically be more managerial. You should examine both and decide according to your long-term goals.
Is a PGPDS program accredited?
Many programs are accredited by either industry partners or global education partners, but they do not have to be UGC approved unless they are offered at a university.
I have no tech experience, can I change to a data science career?
Yes, many students come from varied backgrounds and successfully complete a PGPDS program if they are committed to the learning experience and complete the industry projects.
