The Indian Institute of Technology Patna (IIT Patna) has witnessed a clear trend in student preferences for the 2025 academic session, with computing and interdisciplinary programmes leading the charge. Fresh data from the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) counselling process reveals that Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) continues its undisputed reign as the most sought-after branch.
Tech and Core Engineering Dominate Preferences
The choice count for CSE surged to 17,579 in 2025, marking a significant 13.54% increase from the 15,482 choices recorded in 2024. This solidifies the sustained, high demand for computing-led education at the premier institute.
However, the spotlight also shines brightly on emerging fields. Artificial Intelligence and Data Science registered the sharpest year-on-year growth among major programmes, with choices jumping by 14.67% to reach 15,108. This underscores the growing appetite for specialisations at the forefront of technological innovation.
Other core engineering branches maintained strong momentum. Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) attracted 14,784 choices (up 13.24%), while Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) saw 12,850 choices (up 12.71%). Traditional disciplines like Civil and Mechanical Engineering also posted healthy growth of over 10%, indicating a robust and broad-based interest in engineering fundamentals at IIT Patna.
Rising Popularity of Integrated and Dual-Degree Programmes
A notable trend from the 2025 data is the increasing appeal of integrated and interdisciplinary courses. The five-year BTech (CSE) and MTech in CSE programme received 8,891 choices, an 11.04% increase. Similar integrated BTech-MTech programmes in streams like VLSI, Mechatronics, and Mathematics & Computing saw growth between 8% and 12%.
Programmes that blend engineering with management education through collaborations with IIM Bodh Gaya and IIM Mumbai recorded notably higher preference counts. The BTech (Chemical Engineering) – MBA in Hospital and Health Care Management programme led this segment with an impressive 15.14% growth. Other popular combinations included BTech in Civil Engineering with MBA (up 14.64%) and BTech in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering with MBA (up 14.28%).
The BS in Economics with MBA programme, another interdisciplinary offering, also saw increased interest, registering 4,364 choices, a 9.7% rise from the previous year.
What the Trends Signal for Aspirants
The choice data for IIT Patna in 2025 paints a clear picture for future JEE Main aspirants. The dominance of CSE and the explosive growth in AI & Data Science highlight the market's continued focus on software, data, and intelligent systems. Simultaneously, the steady demand for core engineering branches assures students of their enduring value.
The significant uptake of dual-degree and integrated programmes, especially those partnering with IIMs, points to a strategic shift among students. They are increasingly seeking a competitive edge by combining deep technical expertise with managerial acumen, aiming to prepare for leadership roles in the industry.
Overall, the preferences reflect a student body that is both ambitious and pragmatic, chasing cutting-edge specialisations while valuing foundational engineering knowledge and versatile skill sets that integrated programmes provide.
