As witnessed in recent years, the remarkable capabilities of AI and large language models have transformed business expectations.
For example, a KPMG report this year revealed that 72% of 225 executives surveyed believed generative AI could significantly boost productivity. Additionally, 66% anticipated a future shift in work practices, and 62% believed it could foster innovation, leading to the development of more products and services.
However, this unprecedented demand for AI expertise has created a skills shortage that traditional education models struggle to address.
Against this backdrop, O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) has introduced India’s first one-year master’s programme in artificial intelligence and data science through its Jindal Centre for Digital Sciences. The programme is developed in collaboration with upGrad, one of Asia’s largest integrated skilling and lifelong learning majors. It is also offered in true upGrad tradition, enabling flexible schedules for working professionals.
This offers a concise yet thorough curriculum tailored for professionals looking to benefit from the AI revolution without lengthy time commitments.
While upGrad has partnered with international universities such as Golden Gate University, Edgewood College, Paris School of Business, International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B), Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Business School to facilitate their postgraduate programmes, this collaboration signifies a deeper Bharat penetration with one of India’s top-tier academic institutions.
JGU was also ranked as India’s top private university by the QS World University Rankings 2023, maintaining this position for three consecutive years. This means students not only have the chance to upskill and participate in the ongoing AI revolution, but they can also do so as alumni of a prestigious institution.
Breaking the 2-Year Tradition
Given that AI transformation of your profession isn’t a matter of “if” but “when,” there’s an urgent need to accelerate your career development and upskilling journey. This is where JGU’s program provides a distinct competitive advantage.
The program’s one-year duration represents a unique advantage in the Indian higher education system. Additionally, it is one of only four private institutions to be awarded the Institution of Eminence status by the Ministry of Education. The curriculum that is being offered is also approved by the AICTE/UGC.
This programme has been crafted under the active guidance of Professor Dinesh Singh, former Vice Chancellor, University of Delhi.
Professor Dinesh Singh is a distinguished mathematician and educationist. He serves as the Chairman of the Executive Committee as well as Vice Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Council. He is also a Distinguished University Professor at O. P. Jindal Global University where he heads the Centre for Digital Sciences as its founding Director. His mathematical work has been recognised internationally and he has been conferred several honours including the Padma Shri and honorary doctorates from leading global universities. He has been instrumental in shaping India’s National Education Policy 2020 and holds/has held academic appointments in some of the top universities globally. He has been President of India’s leading mathematical body, the Ramanujan Mathematical Society. He is a prolific writer, scholar and is pioneering new technology and AI based ideas in education and research. Singh has also served as AICTE Distinguished Chair Professor.
What truly sets this program apart is the world-class faculty. The programme will be taught by instructors from renowned universities, such as the University of Houston and the University of Waterloo, as well as industry experts from companies that have successfully implemented AI, ML, and data science on a large scale.
The curriculum is based on the ‘Zero to One’ principle, beginning with fundamental mathematical concepts and progressing to technical skills and business applications. There is no requirement for prior coding experience, making this program truly accessible to graduates from any academic background.
It also offers straightforward eligibility criteria. Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree to be eligible; even those with less than 50% marks in their graduation have a fair opportunity to participate in the programme by appearing for an online entrance examination.
Whether you’re a recent graduate or a working professional seeking to pivot into the digital future, this program is your gateway to a high-impact career in AI, ML, and data science.
A 3-Trimester Structure With a ‘SMART’ Approach
The program spans three trimesters, with the first focusing on foundational elements. These include probability and statistics, linear algebra, Python programming for data science, and database management.
The second trimester advances to machine learning fundamentals, deep learning applications, big data analytics, and data visualisation techniques. The final trimester concludes with classical machine learning models, modern AI technologies for business, and a 12-credit capstone project covering various industries.
Students have the option to choose from five specialised capstone projects, involving practical applications across various sectors such as finance, e-commerce, marketing, healthcare, customer service, and more.
During the three trimesters, students will also learn to apply their knowledge in a practical environment by utilising over 15 industry tools and frameworks.
Moreover, the programme has dedicated modules on generative AI technologies, keeping pace with the latest industry trends. By learning to harness GenAI for coding efficiency and data science applications, students gain the cutting-edge skills that graduates need.
What’s more important is that the three-trimester programme uses a ‘S.M.A.R.T’ learning approach, covering all the key aspects of an effective upskilling process.
The S.M.A.R.T framework combines Study (30%), Make (25%), Attempt (25%), Revise (10%), and Test (10%) to enhance learning through hands-on practice, skill-building exercises, and ongoing assessment.
AI as a technology of the future is a narrative of the past — we’re living in its era today.
Every day spent without upskilling allows competitors to gain exponential ground in a market that highly rewards early adopters.
JGU’s one-year Master’s in AI and Data Science cuts through the clutter of endless online courses and purely theoretical programmes. It delivers precisely what today’s market demands: real expertise that can be acquired in relatively short timelines.
The question has evolved beyond whether you need AI skills; it’s whether you’ll master them before your competitors do. In a world where technology advances at breakneck speed, human hesitation remains the only genuine risk.
Learn more about the program here.
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