Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Digital Business: Inside the new IIM degrees

For decades, IIMs were known mainly as destinations for MBA aspirants. But a new chapter is emerging as IIMs enter undergraduate education with degrees focused on artificial intelligence, data science, digital business and entrepreneurship.A new chapter is emerging as IIMs enter undergraduate education with degrees focused on artificial intelligence, data science, digital business and entrepreneurshipFor generations of students, IIMs represented one dream: pursuing an MBA after graduation. But that image is changing.Several IIMs are now opening their doors to students immediately after Class 12, introducing undergraduate programmes that combine management education with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data science, analytics and digital entrepreneurship.These IIMs are now using JEE Main or JEE Advanced scores as part of their admission process for undergraduate programmes.The shift comes at a time when industries are looking for professionals who understand both technology and business. Instead of choosing between engineering and management, students can now explore programmes that bring both worlds together. FROM MBA CAMPUSES TO UNDERGRADUATE CLASSROOMSThe move towards undergraduate education marks a significant expansion for IIMs, which traditionally focused on postgraduate management education.Institutes such as IIM Bangalore, IIM Mumbai, IIM Sambalpur, IIM Kozhikode and IIM Lucknow now offer undergraduate programmes in specialised areas. These courses are designed around the changing demands of the job market, where skills in AI, digital transformation, entrepreneurship and data-driven decision-making are becoming increasingly important.WHICH IIMS ACCEPT JEE SCORES?Here are the IIM undergraduate programmes where JEE performance can boost your chances of admission:IIM MumbaiCourse: BS in Digital Science and Business ManagementAdmissions are based only on JEE Main Paper 1.The first batch has 70 seats.Shortlisted candidates must appear for a Personal Interview, which carries 30% weightage in the final merit list.The programme combines management with digital technologies, data science and business analytics.IIM BangaloreCourse: BBA in Digital Business and EntrepreneurshipCandidates can apply through JEE Main, CUET or the institute's entrance test.Applicants can choose any one of these admission routes.The three-year online programme focuses on entrepreneurship, innovation and digital business.IIM SambalpurCourse: BS in Data Science and Artificial IntelligenceJEE Main scores are used for shortlisting.Final selection is based on a Personal Interview.The upper age limit is 20 years, with relaxations for reserved categories.IIM KozhikodeCourse: Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS)A JEE Main percentile of 80 or above exempts candidates from the institute's aptitude test.Students must still complete the remaining admission stages, including the institute's selection process.JEE acts as a test waiver, not a direct admission route.IIM LucknowCourse: BS in Artificial Intelligence and Business AnalyticsLaunched in 2026, this is currently the only IIM undergraduate programme accepting JEE Advanced scores.Applicants must meet the institute's academic eligibility criteria.SC/ST candidates receive a 5% relaxation in qualifying marks.Maximum age limit is 21 years.WHY IIMS ARE BUILDING UG PROGRAMMES NOWThe expansion reflects a broader change in higher education. With the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 encouraging multidisciplinary learning, institutions are increasingly combining different fields of study.The new IIM degrees are aimed at students who want careers at the intersection of technology and management: from AI-driven businesses and startups to analytics and digital innovation.For Class 12 students, getting into an IIM is no longer only about preparing for an MBA years later. The route now begins much earlier.- EndsPublished By: Princy ShuklaPublished On: Jul 21, 2026 15:36 IST