In a revolutionary move to democratize high-end engineering education, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has launched a brand-new online Bachelor of Science (BS) program in Aeronautics and Space Technology. Launched on February 9, 2026, this program aims to bridge the skill gap in India’s rapidly growing aerospace and drone sectors. The standout feature of this course is that it does not require a JEE score for admission and has no fixed seat limit, making it accessible to thousands of aspiring engineers.

Bridging the Gap in Aerospace Excellence IIT Madras Director, Professor V. Kamakoti, emphasized that the coming years will see an exponential demand for trained professionals in civil aviation and space exploration. This course is designed to meet that industrial need. Top officials from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and various aerospace startups virtually attended the launch, highlighting the program’s relevance to the current job market. The flexibility of the course allows students to learn at their own pace without the pressure of traditional campus constraints.

Eligibility and Curriculum Highlights The program is open to anyone who has cleared Class 12th, and diploma holders are also encouraged to apply. The learning model includes recorded video lectures, live tutorial sessions, and online discussion forums. Students will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Method (FEM). In the final stages, students will work on a capstone project focused on the design of aircraft or spacecraft, ensuring they are industry-ready upon graduation.

Career Prospects and Placement Support The IIT Madras Center for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE) will provide comprehensive internship support and career guidance. Graduates can explore opportunities in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) like HAL, private space startups, and engineering analysis firms. Moreover, this BS degree serves as a solid foundation for those aiming for the GATE exam or higher studies at premier institutes like IISc. High-achieving students will even get the opportunity to visit the IIT Madras campus and explore advanced degree options.