Chandigarh University Bachelor of Engineering [BE] {Hons.}{Lateral} Computer Science and Engineering (Data Science): Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The BE {Lateral} CSE (Data Science) is offered under the Apex Institute of Technology (AIT), which is CU's industry-sponsored institute running programs in collaboration with IBM. The regular BE CSE programs are offered under the University Institute of Engineering (UIE). Both institutes share the same campus, placement cell, and CU degree. The AIT programs have IBM-collaborated curriculum and IBM certifications embedded in the course, which can be an added advantage. For placements, both AIT and UIE students participate in the same campus placement drives, so the institute name does not create a disadvantage.

Ans. The curriculum covers a comprehensive range of Data Science tools and technologies including Python, R, SQL, Hadoop, Spark, Tableau, Power BI, TensorFlow, Scikit-learn, and IBM Watson Studio. Core subjects include Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Big Data Analytics, Data Visualization, Statistical Modeling, Natural Language Processing, and Business Intelligence. The IBM collaboration ensures that students also get exposure to IBM's enterprise-grade data science tools and earn IBM certifications, which are recognized globally by employers.

Ans. Yes, the BE {Lateral} degree awarded by Chandigarh University is a full-fledged Bachelor of Engineering degree recognized by UGC and AICTE. It is equivalent to a regular 4-year BE degree for all purposes including job applications, government exams, and higher studies (ME/M.Tech/MBA). The only difference is the duration (3 years vs 4 years) due to direct entry into the 2nd year. Employers and universities treat it as equivalent to a regular BE degree.

Ans. Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Data Scientists, Data Analysts, Machine Learning Engineers, Business Intelligence Analysts, Data Engineers, AI Researchers, and Analytics Consultants. The demand for data science professionals is extremely high across sectors including finance, healthcare, e-commerce, manufacturing, and technology. CU's placement cell actively connects students with top MNCs. The highest package in engineering from CU reached Rs. 59.9 LPA in 2025, with major recruiters including Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, TCS, Wipro, HCL, Google, and Flipkart.

Ans. Yes, the eligibility for this lateral entry program states Three-year Diploma in any stream of Engineering/Technology with at least 60% marks. This means diploma holders from Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Electronics, or any other engineering branch are eligible. However, since the program is specialized in Data Science and CSE, students from non-CSE backgrounds may find the initial semesters more challenging. The university may assign bridge courses to cover prerequisite topics. It is advisable to build basic programming and mathematics skills before joining.

Ans. The BE CSE (Data Science) program at AIT, CU is developed in collaboration with IBM and includes IBM-recognized certifications as part of the curriculum. These typically include certifications in IBM Data Science Professional Certificate, IBM AI Engineering, and other IBM-badged credentials on platforms like Coursera and IBM SkillsBuild. IBM certifications are globally recognized and highly valued by employers, especially in data science and AI roles. Having an IBM certification alongside a BE degree significantly strengthens a student's resume and can lead to better placement opportunities and higher starting salaries.