Artificial Intelligence Course Syllabus: Subjects, Courses and Books in 2026

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Shahrukh Qureshi

Updated 3+ months ago

Artificial intelligence is one of the emerging and in-demand fields in computer science. The artificial intelligence syllabus focuses on providing you with a strong understanding of AI principles and tools and how they can be applied to solve real-world problems. Artificial Intelligence courses are offered at various levels with BTech courses being one of the most popular choices.

In the artificial intelligence syllabus, you will learn about topics like data structures, programming, algorithms, machine learning, deep learning, neural networks and more. The curriculum is also updated regularly to include the latest advancements. The syllabus generally consists of core and elective subjects along with practical learning through laboratories and internships.

Table of Contents
  1. What is the syllabus of Artificial Intelligence?

    1.1 Is AI a hard subject?

    1.2 What is the best way to learn Artificial Intelligence for a beginner?

  2. What is the syllabus for UG courses in Artificial Intelligence?

    2.1 What is the syllabus for a BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science?

    2.2 What is the syllabus of the BTech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Course?

    2.3 What is the syllabus of a BE in AI and ML?

    2.4 How much is the difference between the syllabus of CSE and CSE (AI and ML) BTech?

  3. What is the syllabus for Artificial Intelligence in IIT?
  4. What is the syllabus for PG courses in Artificial Intelligence?

    4.1 What is the syllabus for an MTech in Artificial Intelligence?

    4.2 What is the syllabus of the MTech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Course?

    4.3 What is the syllabus of the MBA Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Course?

  5. What are the best books for Artificial Intelligence Courses?
  6. Artificial Intelligence Course Syllabus: FAQs

What is the syllabus of Artificial Intelligence?

The artificial intelligence syllabus covers basic and advanced topics related to AI and its related specialisations like machine learning, data science, data analytics and more. During the initial years, you will learn about core subjects like programming, algorithms, DBMS and data structures. The following years build upon the knowledge and will introduce advanced topics like NLP, deep learning and more to provide you with a comprehensive education in artificial intelligence.

Is AI a hard subject?

Artificial Intelligence is considered to be challenging because of its complex topics and reliance on mathematical concepts. You should have a strong foundation in computer science to understand different programming languages and handle topics like machine learning, deep learning, neural networks and more. With proper dedication, resources and effective strategy, you can easily manage the course and understand topics effectively.

What is the best way to learn Artificial Intelligence for a beginner?

To learn artificial intelligence as a beginner, you must start by learning programming languages like Python, Java and C. You are also required to have a thorough understanding of mathematical concepts like linear algebra, probability, calculus and more. You can also explore introductory courses on online platforms like Udemy, Coursera and edX. These courses also include project-based learning that can help you build a strong foundation in artificial intelligence. There are also AI books aimed at beginners. 

What is the syllabus for UG courses in Artificial Intelligence?

The undergraduate courses for artificial intelligence generally cover topics related to computer science and artificial intelligence. Computer science topics include data structures, algorithms, programming languages, and mathematics, which form the core of the curriculum. Topics related to artificial intelligence include machine learning, deep learning, neural networks and more. You can check the syllabus of some of the top undergraduate courses covering artificial intelligence in the following sections.

What is the syllabus for a BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science?

BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science is one of the most popular courses in the field. The general curriculum remains the same in all colleges. Differences can occur in the coverage of some topics or the availability of electives. You can check the syllabus below.

BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science syllabus
Ist Semester IInd Semester
Physics General Biology
Chemistry Problem Solving by Programming
Fundamentals of Programming Languages Computational Statistics
Basic Electronics and Electrical Engineering Engineering Graphics and Design
Mathematics Engineering Mechanics
Communication Skills Project-Based Learning - I

 – 

Laboratory - Workshop and Manufacturing Practices
IIIrd Semester IVth Semester
Data Structures and Algorithms Foundations of Data Science
Software Engineering and Project Management R Programming
Discrete Structure Computer Networks
Database Management Systems Artificial Intelligence
Project-Based Learning - I Digital Logic Design and Processor Architecture
Universal Human Values

 – 

Vth Semester VIth Semester
Machine Learning Deep Learning
Big Data Analytics Advanced Databases
Web Technology Machine Learning and Network Security
Design and Analysis of Algorithm Information Retrieval
Elective I Elective II
Skill Enhancement Course I Skill Enhancement Course II
VIIth Semester VIIIth Semester
Skill Enhancement Course III Skill Enhancement Course IV
Project I/Internship Project II/Internship

What is the syllabus of the BTech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Course?

The syllabus of BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is mostly the same as most of the artificial intelligence curriculum. The differences occur in specialisation like data science, machine learning and more. You can check the syllabus in the following table.

BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning syllabus
Ist Semester IInd Semester
Engineering Physics I Engineering Physics II
Engineering Chemistry Mathematics II
Mathematics I Engineering Graphics
Python Programming and Problem Solving C Programming
Technical English I Environmental Science and Engineering
Basic Civil and Mechanical Engineering Professional Skills I

 – 

Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering
IIIrd Semester IVth Semester
Data Structures in Python Artificial Intelligence I
Object Oriented Programming Machine Learning I
Computer Organisation and Architecture Operating System Concepts
Design and Analysis of Algorithms Software Engineering
Digital Principles and Systems Design Database Design and Management
Linear Algebra and Discrete Mathematics Probability and Statistics
Professional Skills II Professional Skills III
Vth Semester VIth Semester
Artificial Intelligence II Data Exploration and Visualisation
Machine Learning II Big Data Management
Data Mining and Analytics Web Technology
Optimisation Techniques Healthcare Analytics
Data Communication and Networking Professional Elective II
Professional Elective I Professional Elective III
Professional Skills IV

 – 

VIIth Semester VIIIth Semester
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Software Project Management
Natural Language Processing Professional Elective V
Deep Learning Techniques Open Elective II
Professional Elective IV

 – 

Open Elective I

 – 

What is the syllabus of a BE in AI and ML?

BE courses are also offered in the artificial intelligence discipline with different specialisations. You can check the BE Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning syllabus in the table below.

BE in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning syllabus
Ist Semester IInd Semester
Engineering Physics Elements of Civil Engineering and Mechanics
Engineering Chemistry Engineering Visualisation
Advanced Calculus and Numerical Methods Elements of Mechanical Engineering
Calculus and Differential Equations Communicative English
Problem Solving through Programming Basic Electrical Engineering
Basic Electronics and Communication Engineering Scientific Foundations of Health/Innovation and Design Thinking
Ability Enhancement Course I Ability Enhancement Course II
IIIrd Semester IVth Semester
Data Structures and its Applications Biology for Engineers
Computer Organisation and Architecture Operating System
Analog and Digital Electronics Design and Analysis of Algorithms
Transform Calculus, Fourier Series and Numerical Techniques Mathematical Foundations for Computing
Object Oriented Programming with Java Microcontroller and Embedded Systems
Ability Enhancement Course III Python Programming

 – 

Ability Enhancement Course IV
Vth Semester VIth Semester
Computer Networks Machine Learning
Database Management Systems Data Science and its Applications
Automata Theory and Compiler Design Software Engineering and Project Management
Principles of Artificial Intelligence Professional Elective I
Environmental Studies Open Elective I
Research Methodology and Intellectual Property Rights Mini Project
Ability Enhancement Course V

 – 

VIIth Semester VIIIth Semester
Cloud Computing Research Internship/Industry Internship
Advanced AI and ML Technical Seminar
Professional Elective II

 – 

Professional Elective III

 – 

Open Elective II

 – 

Project Work

 – 

How much is the difference between the syllabus of CSE and CSE (AI and ML) BTech?

BTech CSE and BTech CSE (AI and ML) have common topics during the initial years. Core subjects like data structures, databases, operating systems, programming languages and mathematical concepts are covered in both the curriculum. 

Differences occur during the later years when BTech CSE (AI and ML) courses will cover specific topics related to the specialisation. You will learn about machine learning, NLP, deep learning, reinforcement learning and more. With BTech CSE, you will be introduced to broader topics like software engineering and more.

What is the syllabus for Artificial Intelligence in IIT?

IITs are known for their rigorous curriculum and quality education. Many IITs have included artificial intelligence courses in their curriculum in recent years. IIT Madras, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Roorkee, IIT Hyderabad and IIT Guwahati are some of the top IITs for pursuing artificial intelligence courses. You can check the syllabus of the BTech Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics course which was introduced by IIT Madras in 2025 below.

BTech in AI and Data Analytics syllabus
Ist Semester IInd Semester
Programming and Data Structures Probability and Statistics for Engineers
Programming Laboratory Introduction to Computational Chemistry
Basics of Engineering Principles Optimisation for Engineers
Foundations of Linear Algebra Computational Methods for DS
Calculus for Engineers Life Skills II
Ecology and Environment Recreation II
Workshop I NSO/NCC/NSS
Life Skills I Optimisation Lab
NSO/NCC/NSS

 – 

Recreation I

 – 

IIIrd Semester IVth Semester
Introduction to Computational Physics Artificial Intelligence
Introduction to Computational Biology Introduction to Computer Systems
Machine Learning I Algorithms for Data Science
Data Curation and Visualisation Physics Elective
Entrepreneurship Course Free (Unallotted) Elective
Machine Learning Lab AI Lab
Vth Semester VIth Semester
Machine Learning II Humanities Course
Databases Free (Unallotted) Elective
Deep Learning Free (Unallotted) Elective
Core Basket I Free (Unallotted) Elective
Dept. Elective Free (Unallotted) Elective
ML ops Lab

 – 

DL Lab

 – 

VIIth Semester VIIIth Semester
Responsible AI Project II/Elective
Online and Reinforcement Learning Elective
Core Basket II Professional Ethics
Dept. Elective Humanities Elective
Humanities Elective

 – 

Project I

 – 

What is the syllabus for PG courses in Artificial Intelligence?

Postgraduate courses in artificial intelligence have more advanced and complex syllabi compared to undergraduate courses. Emphasis is given to research and projects often include the use of AI in real-world applications. Advanced machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), advanced computer vision and deep learning are some of the common core topics. You can check the syllabus of some of the top postgraduate courses covering artificial intelligence in the following sections.

What is the syllabus for an MTech in Artificial Intelligence?

MTech in Artificial Intelligence builds upon the foundation you gained during your undergraduate artificial intelligence course. It will introduce you to advanced topics along with covering some of the previous topics in more detail. You can check the MTech AI syllabus below.

MTech Artificial Intelligence syllabus
Ist Semester IInd Semester
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Deep Learning
Machine Learning Applied Statistics and Probability
Mathematical Foundations for Machine Learning Optimisation Techniques for Machine Learning
Python Programming Elective II
Elective I Deep Learning Lab
Machine Learning Exploratory Data Analysis Lab
Python Programming Lab

 – 

IIIrd Semester IVth Semester
Advanced Deep Learning Dissertation Phase II
Deep Reinforcement Learning

 – 

Research Methodology

 – 

Elective III

 – 

Elective IV

 – 

Dissertation Phase I

  – 

What is the syllabus of the MTech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Course?

MTech in Artificial Intelligence with a specialisation in Machine Learning is a popular course amongst postgraduate students. Mentioned below is the syllabus as offered by the BITS Pilani.

MTech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning syllabus
Ist Semester IInd Semester
Machine Learning Deep Neural Networks
Artificial and Computational Intelligence Deep Reinforcement Learning
Introduction to Statistical Methods Elective I
Mathematical Foundations in Machine Learning Elective II
IIIrd Semester IVth Semester
Elective III Dissertation
Elective IV

 – 

Elective V

 – 

Elective VI

 – 

Electives include topics from deep learning specialisation, natural language processing (NLP) specialisation and general electives.

What is the syllabus of the MBA Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Course?

Artificial intelligence courses are also offered in MBA format. It will provide you with the knowledge and skills to leverage artificial intelligence tools for business growth, better performance and problem-solving. The course combines business principles with artificial intelligence technologies. You can check the MBA Artificial Intelligence and Data Science syllabus in the following table.

MBA Artificial Intelligence and Data Science syllabus
Ist Semester IInd Semester
Marketing Management Operations Management
Managerial Economics and Indian Economy Policy Human Resources Management
Organisational Behaviour and Design Corporate Finance
Financial Reporting, Statement and Analysis Legal and Business Environment
Information Management Indian Ethos and Corporate Strategy
Statistics and Quantitative Techniques Entrepreneurship
Managerial Skills and Communication Business Analytics
Professional Upskilling I Research Methods in Business

 – 

Professional Upskilling II
IIIrd Semester IVth Semester
Introduction to Machine Learning Advanced Machine Learning
Artificial Intelligence and its Application Deep Learning II
Natural Language Processing Big Data Management and Security
Data Visualisation Business Intelligence
Analytics Toolkit for Decision Sciences Project
Deep Learning I

 – 

Summer Internship

 – 

What are the best books for Artificial Intelligence Courses?

There are many books that you can consider for your artificial intelligence courses. These can be helpful in course preparation as they cover the foundational as well as advanced topics. You can check some of the top books in the following table.

Book Author
Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach Hennesey and Patterson
Computer Networks Forouzan
Database Systems Elmasri and Nawathe
Digital Design Morris Mano
Introduction to Algorithms Thomas Cormen, Charles Leiserson, Ronal Rivest, Clifford Stein
Introduction to Automata Theory, Languages and Computation John Hopcroft, Rajeev Motwani, J D Ullman
Modern Operating Systems Andrew Tanenbaum
Operating Systems Concepts Galvin and Gagne
Artificial Intelligence: A Modern Approach Stuart Russell, Peter Norvig
Hands-On Machine Learning with Scikit-Learn, Keras and TensorFlow Aurelien Geron,
Cognitive Computing and Big Data Analytics Hurwitz, Kaufman, Bowels
Embedded Systems and Robots S Ghoshal
Neural Networks Siman Haykin
Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems NP Padhy
Artificial Intelligence: A Guide for Thinking Humans Melanie Mitchell

Artificial Intelligence Course Syllabus: FAQs

Ques. Do I have to learn programming languages for artificial intelligence courses?

Ans. Learning programming languages is essential for artificial intelligence courses. Python and Java are some of the popular languages that are generally included in artificial intelligence courses. Programming languages will help you implement AI solutions with ease and is an important part of AI development.

Ques. Do artificial intelligence courses need maths?

Ans. Artificial intelligence has topics like machine learning, deep learning, neural networks and more which require a strong grasp of mathematical concepts. A good knowledge of mathematics can help you understand complex algorithms allowing you to generate more effective algorithms. Linear algebra, calculus, statistics and probability are some of the most commonly used mathematical concepts in AI.

Ques. I am from a non-computer science background. How can the AI syllabus help me to understand topics?

Ans. Most of the artificial intelligence courses cover the foundational topics during the initial years. You will learn about data structures, algorithms, operating systems and more that can help build a strong base. This ensures that you have a good knowledge of core concepts before moving to advanced topics.

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