IITM Pravartak Launches Second Cohort of Applied Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning Programme
The IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, the Technology Innovation Hub of IIT Madras, has officially opened admissions for the second batch of its Advanced Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning. This initiative aims to accelerate industry adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning technologies, catering specifically to professionals who aspire to lead with data and develop production-grade AI solutions.
Programme Overview
This seven-month, live online programme is delivered in collaboration with TimesPro. It is designed to build hands-on capabilities in essential technologies such as Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and MLOps. The curriculum not only focuses on the theoretical aspects of machine learning and deep learning but also emphasizes practical skills necessary for real-world applications.
Importance of Deep Learning in Industry
Deep learning is rapidly transitioning from experimental phases to everyday deployment across various sectors. As organizations increasingly leverage AI to enhance decision-making processes, the demand for skilled professionals who can translate AI models into measurable business outcomes is growing. AI applications are being utilized in:
- Forecasting demand
- Personalizing customer experiences
- Detecting anomalies
- Automating quality checks
- Optimizing operations
Industries such as retail, banking, finance, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and government are at the forefront of this transformation, necessitating reliable, secure, and scalable AI solutions.
Curriculum Highlights
The Advanced Certificate programme equips learners with the following skills:
- Building strong foundations in machine learning and deep learning
- Applying statistical methods to analyze and manipulate data
- Gaining practical exposure to industry-standard tools like TensorFlow and PyTorch
- Understanding MLOps and cybersecurity essentials
- Engaging in hands-on instruction and case-based learning
Industry Demand for AI Skills
The urgency for structured capability-building in AI is underscored by recent industry reports. According to McKinsey’s latest State of AI survey, 88% of respondents reported using AI regularly in at least one business function, a notable increase from 78% the previous year. Furthermore, a report from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) forecasts that the global AI market will surge from USD 189 billion in 2023 to USD 4.8 trillion by 2033, representing a 25-fold increase over the next decade. In India, the AI market is projected to grow from USD 13.05 billion in 2025 to USD 130.63 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 39.00% during this period.
Expert Insights
Dr. Suchitra Veeravalli, a consultant at IITM Pravartak, emphasized the need for engineers who can transition from AI models to generating measurable value. She stated, “Through this Advanced Certificate, IITM Pravartak connects IIT Madras’ research strengths with hands-on training in machine learning, deep learning, and MLOps. Learners will build and validate solutions using Python, TensorFlow, and PyTorch, while sharpening responsible and secure AI practices for industry use, at scale with reliability.”
Sridhar Nagarajachar, Business Head at TimesPro, added, “This programme is ideal for professionals who wish to translate AI theory into practical solutions. The live format allows for consistent practice, guided assignments, and feedback loops, enabling learners to gain confidence across the model lifecycle—from data preparation to training, testing, and deployment readiness.”
Career Opportunities
Upon completion of the programme, participants can explore a variety of career opportunities across multiple industries. Potential roles include:
- Data Scientist
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Data Analyst
- AI/ML Research Scientist
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Engineer
- Deep Learning Engineer
- Quantitative Analyst
The inaugural cohort attracted a diverse group of learners from various sectors, including automotive, banking, computer software, customer service, education, healthcare, and research and development. Participants included senior professionals such as CTOs, VPs, directors, senior solution architects, technical leads, project leads, and general managers.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is open to graduates and postgraduates in engineering, mathematics, or computational sciences, as well as professionals looking to transition into AI-focused roles or enhance their careers with domain-aligned analytical capabilities.
Learning Format
The programme adopts a Direct-to-Digital (D2D) mode, featuring interactive online sessions led by IIT Madras faculty and experienced industry practitioners. Additional support is provided through webinars, assignments, and a campus immersion experience at the IIT Madras Research Park. Successful participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from IITM Pravartak, Technology Innovation Hub of IIT Madras.
Conclusion
The launch of the second cohort of the Advanced Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning by IITM Pravartak marks a significant step towards equipping professionals with the necessary skills to thrive in a data-driven world. As industries increasingly adopt AI technologies, the demand for skilled individuals who can implement these solutions effectively will only continue to grow.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the latest updates and reports available as of January 2026.
