Which is the best IISER for Computer Science?

You know that IISERs are very reputed for natural sciences. Be it physical sciences, chemical sciences, biological sciences or earth sciences, IISERs have excelled in every field. But have you ever wondered how are IISERs for Computer Sciences? And which is the best IISER for pursuing a career in computer science? Usually, IITs are well-known for courses related to computer science. But if you want to know which is the best IISER for computer science, this blog is a must for you.

In this blog, we will discuss:

• Computer Science in IISERS
• Which is the best IISER for Computer Science?
• How do IITs differ from IISERs in terms of Computer Science?

Computer Science in IISERs:

IISERs are popular for their curriculum and research outputs in basic sciences. This was the main goal behind their foundations. IISERs were established with the goal of providing quality education and promoting research in science-related fields. Traditionally, the emphasis has been on core scientific disciplines, and Computer Science has not been a primary focus across all IISERs. 

Computer science is used as a tool to help in research and industrial research. There is not much focus on computer science in IISERs as in IITs or other engineering colleges. Students learn languages and concepts they require in their scientific studies. Computer science and related courses like Python programming, C language and Data Structures are provided as electives. However, students can choose to minor in computer science by keeping it as an elective for all semesters along with their major subject. This surely helps in their career ahead.

However, there is one IISER you can look to if you want to pursue a career in computer science with an orientation toward research. IISER Bhopal is the only IISER providing a bachelor’s degree- BS/BS-MS in computer science.

Which is the Best IISER for Computer Science?

IISER Bhopal is the best IISER among all others if you are interested in computer sciences. Only IISER Bhopal has an EECS (Electrical Engg & Computer Science) department, where you can get a 4-year BS or a 5-year BS-MS (Dual Degree).

The Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (EECS) was started at IISER Bhopal in 2015 to promote interdisciplinary research and education between basic sciences and engineering. The four year BS program in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science is unique in that it exposes you to basic electrical engineering and computer science concepts, allowing both academic and industrial careers. You can get a BS degree after four years and if you want to continue for one more year, you can get a BS-MS dual degree. You need to devote one year to a research project and to making an MS thesis. Faculty members of this department are actively involved in research in various core areas of electrical engineering and computer science, as well as in a few interdisciplinary areas like biomedical engineering and embedded systems. 

Here are a few key specs of Computer Science provided by IISER-B:

• There are some standard courses in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Programming for the first two years. 
• You are allowed to choose an elective from the first semester itself.  You will also be trained in a few engineering-specific courses (like Engineering Design and Drawing). 
• During the next two years, the emphasis will be on advanced courses, computational laboratories, and research projects. 
• The curriculum lasts four years, but you may extend it by one year to get a BS-MS degree.
• To complete BSMS, you must finish your thesis in your extra year, i.e. 5th year.
• Professors here are very experienced in their fields. A few research areas are the Design and Analysis of Algorithms, Graph Algorithms, Cryptography, Number Theory, Theoretical Computer Science, Guidance and control of unmanned vehicles, Multi-robot systems, Sensors and Systems, Quantum Computing, and Quantum Machine Learning.

However, you should remember that this program is still young compared to BTech in CSE from IITs. This course is focussed on both CS and electrical engineering, equally. Hence, you might need more exposure in IISER-B to CS compared to IITs. If you want to know more about the engineering program at IISER Bhopal and its career opportunities, check out this blog.

How do IITs differ from IISERs in terms of Computer Science?

IITs and IISERs both differ in their objectives and aims. IITs are inclined toward industrial growth and technological development, whereas IISERs aim to enrich our country’s scientific knowledge and growth. Computer science plays a significant role in both industries and research. Hence, the difference arises in the approach of both types of institutes toward computer science. 

IITs focus on enhancing computer knowledge to strengthen technologies and services needed in industries and other engineering fields. There is more focus on AI, Robotics, Machine learning, etc. Students get jobs right after their BTech, and only a few pursue further studies. 

Meanwhile, IISERs focus on enhancing computer knowledge to help in research work and perform difficult calculations and simulations required for a better understanding of disciplines. Here, it is treated as a supplementary subject, unlike IITs, which have dedicated Computer Science courses.

Conclusion:

When choosing the best college for your undergraduate studies, you must prefer your interests and goals before anything else. If you are interested in research and want to make a career in it using CS, then IISER-B is an excellent place for you. On the other hand, if you are interested in industrial work and seeking a job, you must try engineering colleges. 

FAQs:

Ques: Which is the best IISER for Physics and Astronomy?

Ans: CESSI of IISER Kolkata is the best IISER for Astronomy. IISER Kolkata and Pune are considered the best for Physics.

Ques: Which is the best IISER for Mathematics?

Ans: IISER Mohali, Pune and Kolkata are regarded as the best IISERs for math. Check this blog to know in depth.

Ques: Which is the best IISER for Chemistry?

Ans: IISER Kolkata and Pune are regarded as the best IISERs in chemistry. Check out this blog to learn more.

Ques: How can I pursue a career in computer science after class XII?

Ans: Check out this blog to know in detail.

Ques: Does any IISER provide a bachelor’s program in Economics?

Ans: As of January 2024, only IISER Bhopal provides a BS in Economics. Check out this blog to learn more.

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