In a major development, the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) has introduced two new four-year undergraduate programs: BSc Honours in Economics and BSc Honours in Data Science. The programs were officially launched on July 15, 2025, at a press conference held at IIMB's Bannerghatta Road campus. These new courses reflect IIMB’s commitment to providing high-quality education, with a focus on interdisciplinary learning that blends business, economics, and data science. This article covers everything you need to know about these exciting new programs, from their curriculum to eligibility and admission details.
The Programs at a Glance
The BSc Honours in Economics and BSc Honours in Data Science are full-time, four-year residential undergraduate programs under the School of Multidisciplinary Studies. The courses will be taught at IIMB's upcoming Jigani campus, located about 27 km from the main campus. The programs are designed to give students an interdisciplinary education by combining economics, data science, business principles, and ethical decision-making.
- BSc Honours in Economics (with a minor in Data Science and Business)
- BSc Honours in Data Science (with a minor in Economics and Business)
Both programs aim to provide students with a strong foundation in both technical and theoretical skills necessary to navigate the modern data-driven world.
Why These Programs Matter
IIMB has designed these programs to fill a gap in India’s higher education system, particularly in non-technical disciplines. With the rise of data science and the increasing importance of economics in shaping global markets, these programs aim to prepare students for leadership roles across industries.
The key goals of these programs are:
- To produce graduates who can analyze and solve complex problems using data.
- To equip students with an understanding of economic systems and business environments.
- To foster skills in critical thinking, communication, and ethical decision-making.
The combination of economics and data science ensures that students are ready to work in industries such as finance, business consulting, technology, and government policy-making.
Program Highlights
Here are some of the exciting features of these programs:
- Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The curriculum integrates economics, data science, business education, and philosophy with an emphasis on ethical and context-sensitive learning.
- Two Internship Cycles: Students will gain hands-on experience through two internship cycles, providing real-world exposure to their field of study.
- International Exchange Term: An international exchange opportunity will allow students to broaden their global perspective by studying abroad.
- Flexible Exit Option: Students can choose to exit after three years with a degree, offering them flexibility based on their academic and career goals.
- Contextual and Life Competencies: The programs are grounded in context sensitivity and individual transformation, ensuring that students are not only equipped with technical skills but also with life competencies necessary for leadership roles.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for these programs, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be under 20 years of age (for general category) or under 22 years (for reserved category) as of August 1, 2025.
- Educational Qualification: You must have completed Class 12 (or equivalent) from a recognized board. You should have studied Mathematics in Class 12 and secured at least 60% marks. Additionally, you should have a minimum of 60% in Class 10.
- Selection Process: The admission process will include:
- A national entrance test that assesses your academic aptitude.
- A personal interview to evaluate your suitability for the program.
Fee Structure and Financial Aid
The fee for the programs is set at ₹8.5 lakh per year. To ensure accessibility for deserving students, financial aid of up to 20% has been built into the program, so students can receive the support they need to pursue their studies.
Industry Connections and Employability
IIMB’s strong industry ties and global network will help students gain valuable exposure to real-world challenges. The placement support provided by the institute will ensure that students are well-prepared for their careers. Key features include:
- Internships and industry collaborations to gain practical experience.
- Structured placement support to assist students in securing jobs after graduation.
- International partnerships with over 100 institutions globally to enhance the learning experience.
The combination of Data Science and Economics ensures that students are highly competitive in both academic and industry careers, positioning them to succeed in a variety of fields including business, technology, government policy, and more.
Campus Infrastructure
The programs will be taught at the Jigani campus, which is currently under development. The campus will offer state-of-the-art infrastructure designed to support the academic needs of students. The initial intake will be 40 students per program, for a total of 80 students per year. Over time, the program will expand to accommodate 640 students by 2031, in line with campus infrastructure development.
IIMB’s Vision for the Future
These programs are part of IIMB’s broader vision to contribute to undergraduate education in India with the same academic rigor and excellence that define its postgraduate and executive education programs. As Prof. Rishikesha T. Krishnan, Director of IIMB, said during the press conference, "Our vision is to nurture critical thinkers and problem solvers capable of driving positive change." By launching these undergraduate programs, IIMB aims to equip young learners with the necessary tools to understand emerging markets, analyze data, and make informed decisions in both the private and public sectors.
How to Apply
- Application Start Date: Applications for these programs will open in September 2025.
- Program Start Date: The first batch will begin in August 2026.
Interested students can register their interest and stay updated through the official IIMB website.
Conclusion
IIMB’s launch of the BSc Honours in Economics and BSc Honours in Data Science is an exciting step forward in undergraduate education in India. These programs offer a unique combination of technical skills, business education, and ethical decision-making, preparing students to succeed in a rapidly changing global economy. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary learning, industry exposure, and global partnerships, these programs offer an excellent foundation for anyone interested in pursuing a career in economics, data science, or business.
If you're someone who enjoys problem-solving and has an interest in both economics and data, these programs at IIMB could be the perfect opportunity to kick-start your career. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to study at one of the most prestigious institutions in the country!
