In a landmark move that signals a significant expansion of its academic portfolio, the prestigious Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B) is set to launch two innovative undergraduate programs starting from the 2026-27 academic year.
Breaking New Ground in Bachelor's Education
The premier business school, traditionally known for its postgraduate management education, will introduce Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees in both Economics and Data Science. This strategic expansion represents IIM-B's first venture into undergraduate education beyond the management domain.
According to official sources, the programs have received the green light from the institute's Board of Governors, with detailed curriculum development currently underway. The decision marks a significant shift in IIM-B's educational approach, diversifying beyond its established management programs.
Program Structure and Admission Process
The four-year BSc programs will maintain IIM-B's reputation for academic rigor while incorporating contemporary educational methodologies. Students will have the opportunity to exit after three years with a basic degree, while those completing the full four-year program will receive an honors degree.
Admission to these pioneering programs will be based on standardized test scores:
- Class 12 board exam results
- Scores from either CUET, SAT, or ACT examinations
- Potential additional selection criteria to be announced
Strategic Educational Expansion
This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy 2020's vision of providing multidisciplinary education and creating more flexible learning pathways. By venturing into undergraduate education with these specialized programs, IIM-B aims to:
- Bridge the growing demand for skilled professionals in economics and data science
- Provide early exposure to cutting-edge analytical frameworks
- Create new pathways for young talent to access IIM-B's academic excellence
The introduction of these programs positions IIM-B at the forefront of educational innovation in India, combining its established expertise in analytics and economics with undergraduate education.
Future Implications and Opportunities
This expansion comes at a crucial time when both economics and data science are becoming increasingly vital across various sectors. The programs are expected to attract high-caliber students seeking to build strong foundational knowledge in these critical fields from one of India's most respected educational institutions.
The launch of these BSc programs in 2026 represents not just an institutional milestone for IIM-B, but also a significant development in India's higher education landscape, potentially setting new standards for interdisciplinary undergraduate education.
