Exploring AI Courses and Job Opportunities in India After 12th

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a future reality but a booming sector transforming different industries in India. As AI has grown in leaps and bounds, numerous students take it up as a professional career immediately after 12th grade. This article discusses AI courses offered all over India, the eligibility requirements, and the firms with promising job opportunities for fresh graduates.

1. AI Courses in India After 12th

AI courses are typically available in three formats: undergraduate degrees, diploma programs, and certification courses. Here’s a breakdown of the top options:

a) Undergraduate Degree Programs

• B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science: A 4-year program focusing on AI algorithms, data analytics, and machine learning. Notable institutions offering this course include:
  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs): IIT Hyderabad and IIT Delhi have specialized AI programs with strong placement records.
  • Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT): Offers a comprehensive AI curriculum with industry tie-ups.
  • Amity University, Noida: Provides AI specialisation with hands-on labs and projects.
• B.Sc. in Computer Science with AI: Ideal for students from a science background with a focus on AI applications.
  • Christ University, Bangalore and Jain University, Bangalore offer this course with internship opportunities.

Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th (Science stream) with Mathematics as a core subject. Admission is generally based on JEE Main, BITSAT, or institutional entrance exams.

b) Diploma and Certification Programs

• Diploma in Artificial Intelligence: A 1-year course covering Python programming, machine learning, and AI ethics.
  • CDAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing): Known for its practical approach and affordable fees.
  • NIIT: Offers a placement-assisted AI diploma.
• Online Certifications: Ideal for those seeking flexibility. Popular platforms include:
  • Coursera: Offers IBM’s AI Engineering Professional Certificate.
  • edX: Provides AI certifications from Harvard and MIT.
  • Simplilearn: In collaboration with Purdue University, offering job guarantees for select AI courses.

Eligibility: Open to all 12th pass students with basic programming knowledge.

c) Integrated Programs (B.Tech + M.Tech in AI)

• Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore: Offers a 5-year integrated program with advanced AI and data science modules.
• Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab: Known for its extensive AI labs and industry collaborations.

Eligibility: Requires clearing JEE Main or institutional entrance exams with a strong performance in Mathematics.

2. AI Scholarships for Indian Students

• Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF): For students pursuing AI at IITs or IISc.
• Google Venkat Panchapakesan Memorial Scholarship: Supports AI aspirants with financial aid.
• NVIDIA Scholarship Program: For those interested in AI and machine learning research.

3. Companies Offering AI Jobs After 12th in India

While most AI roles require a degree, several companies are now opening entry-level positions for students with relevant certifications and skills.

a) Tech Giants

• Tata Consultancy Services (TCS): Through its Ignite program, TCS hires 12th-pass students for AI trainee roles, providing in-house training.
• Wipro’s SIM Program: Offers a work-integrated AI learning opportunity with a stipend.
• Infosys: Through its Bridge Program, it hires students post-12th for roles in AI support and testing.

b) Startups and Mid-Sized Companies

• Fractal Analytics: Known for hiring data annotation specialists and junior AI analysts.
• GreyAtom: A Mumbai-based startup focusing on AI training with internships.
• Mad Street Den: An AI startup that recruits for entry-level data tagging and AI model testing roles.

c) Internships and Freelancing Opportunities

• Internshala and LinkedIn: Regularly list AI internship opportunities for students with certification.
• Upwork and Freelancer: Offer short-term projects in data labeling and basic AI programming.

4. Essential Skills to Land an AI Job Post-12th

• Programming Languages: Proficiency in Python, R, or JavaScript.
• Mathematics: Strong foundation in linear algebra and statistics.
• Soft Skills: Problem-solving and communication.

Free resources to develop these skills include:

• Khan Academy: For mathematics and statistics.
• Codecademy: For Python programming.

5. Salary Expectations for AI Freshers in India

• Entry-level positions: ₹3–5 LPA for roles like AI Data Annotator or Junior AI Analyst.
• With certifications: ₹6–8 LPA for AI software testing and model training roles.

6. Challenges in Pursuing AI After 12th

• Cost: AI degrees can be expensive, ranging from ₹2–5 lakhs per year.
• Competition: High cut-offs and limited seats in top institutions.

Promising Career Path

AI presents a promising career path for students right after 12th grade, provided they choose the right courses and develop relevant skills. With the increasing demand for AI professionals in India, investing in a structured learning program and gaining practical experience through internships can significantly boost career prospects.

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