Placement Record of the MSc Data Science Program at VIT Vellore

When considering a Masters in Data Science (MSc DS) program, the placement record of the university plays a critical role. At Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) Vellore, the placement record is nothing short of impressive. Forbes, Fortune 500 companies, and globally recognized organizations such as Boeing and Marvel Studios have actively sought out MSc DS students, offering them lucrative packages.

On average, MSc DS students are securing offers at a starting package of around 22 LPA (Lakhs Per Annum), with a few standout offers reaching up to 32 LPA. This influx of super dream offers is particularly rampant among MBA and MSc Data Science programs, further highlighting the quality and demand for these students in the job market.

However, the shadow of this success looms over bachelor's students in VIT and other institutions. Many bachelor's graduates continue to face daunting challenges in securing comparable job offers, leading to a stark disparity in the job market. This gap often breeds a sense of frustration and inadequacy among young professionals who aspire to be part of the MSc DS success.

Placement Success at VIT Vellore

At VIT Vellore, the placement record is continuously improving, driven by a curriculum that equips students with both technical skills and industry-relevant experience. Students with a CGPA as low as 9 have been landing significant job offers, much to their surprise. The institute also offers off-campus job opportunities, ensuring that even those not secured through formal placements still have avenues for employment.

Insight from the Tech Industry

After a decade in the tech industry, I can confidently provide context on the perception of Data Science degrees in the market. The truth is that many Data Science programs in the market, regardless of their pedigree, often lack actual industry value. The dearth of skilled, employable Data Science professionals in India is largely due to the 40-year-old curriculum that fail to meet current industry standards.

According to industry needs, it would take a young Indian with no prior experience about 3 years to master the English language, followed by approximately 7 years of intensive computer programming practice, to become a competitive Data Scientist in the tech sector. This regimen is a significant barrier for many Indian graduates aspiring to enter the field.

In the context of Indian engineering colleges, the placement scenario for MSc Data Science graduates is mixed. While a significant number of graduates secure job offers, others face more challenging paths. Many remain jobless, while others prepare for competitive government exams like bank and railway jobs. Some are even forced to work as low-paying teachers in schools and coaching institutions.

Conclusion

The placement record of the MSc Data Science program at VIT Vellore is one of the most impressive in the country. However, the reality for many students in alternative pathways and degrees remains less favorable. For prospective students, it is important to consider not only the placement records but also the overall skill set and practical experience offered by the program. Increasingly, employers are seeking graduates who can not only achieve high GPAs but also demonstrate practical, industry-relevant skills.

Keywords: VIT Vellore, MSc Data Science, Placement Record