IITs Offering 11 Free Data Science and Analytics Courses
If you are looking to enhance your skills in data science and analytics, the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are offering an exciting opportunity. Starting in January 2026, 11 free courses are available through the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL). These courses cover a wide range of topics essential for anyone interested in data science, including graph theory, Bayesian modeling, Python programming, R, databases, and big data statistics.
Overview of the Courses
Each course is free to audit, and you only need to pay if you wish to receive a certification upon completion. The enrollment window for these courses closes on January 26, 2026. Below is a detailed guide to the courses being offered:
1. Algorithmic Graph Theory and Data Structures
Instructor: Prof. Sourav Mukhopadhyay, IIT Kharagpur
This course focuses on graph-based problem solving, which is fundamental to data structures and algorithms. Students will gain a thorough understanding of the mathematical principles behind popular graph algorithms, including greedy strategies and dynamic programming.
- Intended Audience: Computer Science Students
- Prerequisites: Data structures, graph theory, probability
- Industry Support: DRDO, ISRO, NTRO, SAG, WESEE, Stratign FZE
- Credit Points: 3
- Course Duration: January 19 – April 10, 2026
- Enrollment Ends: January 26, 2026
- Exam Date: April 19, 2026
2. Bayesian Data Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences
Instructor: Prof. Himanshu Yadav, IIT Kanpur
This course serves as an introduction to Bayesian inference, focusing on how to analyze behavioral and cognitive datasets using probabilistic modeling. It emphasizes the differences between Bayesian frameworks and classical statistics.
- Intended Audience: Data Science, Cognitive Science, Behavioral Analytics Students
- Prerequisites: Basic R; Class 12-level mathematics
- Industry Support: Data Science, Pharma Analytics, Behavioral Consulting
- Credit Points: 3
- Course Duration: January 19 – April 10, 2026
- Enrollment Ends: January 26, 2026
- Exam Date: April 24, 2026
3. Data Analytics with Python
Instructor: Prof. A Ramesh, IIT Roorkee
This popular course provides hands-on experience in analytics using Python, incorporating real industry stories and case studies to illustrate the application of Python tools across various domains.
- Intended Audience: Management, Industrial Engineering, CSE Students
- Prerequisites: Basic Python (recommended but not mandatory)
- Industry Support: All Analytics Companies
- Credit Points: 3
- Course Duration: January 19 – April 10, 2026
- Enrollment Ends: January 26, 2026
- Exam Date: April 19, 2026
4. Database Management System
Instructors: Prof. Partha Pratim Das and Prof. Samiran Chattopadhyay, IIT Kharagpur
This course covers the theory and practical aspects of database management, including SQL, data modeling, normalization, and query optimization.
- Intended Audience: Students from all disciplines
- Prerequisites: Programming (C/C++/Java/Python), data structures, algorithms
- Industry Support: Microsoft, Google, IBM, TCS, Infosys, Samsung, Yahoo
- Credit Points: 2
- Course Duration: January 19 – March 13, 2026
- Enrollment Ends: January 26, 2026
- Exam Date: March 29, 2026
5. Data Mining
Instructor: Prof. Pabitra Mitra, IIT Kharagpur
This beginner-friendly course simplifies the fundamentals of data mining, covering topics such as preprocessing, clustering, and practical visualization.
- Intended Audience: Engineering, Mathematics, Physics Students
- Industry Support: TCS, Infosys, Accenture, CTS
- Credit Points: 2
- Course Duration: January 19 – March 13, 2026
- Enrollment Ends: January 26, 2026
- Exam Date: March 29, 2026
6. Data Mining for Decision Making
Instructor: Prof. Varun Dutt, IIT Mandi
This practical course blends statistics and machine learning to help learners extract insights from complex datasets, focusing on decision trees, neural networks, and regression.
- Intended Audience: CSE, Data Science, EEE and Allied Branches
- Industry Support: Meta, Google, AppleDisclaimer: A Teams provides news and information for general awareness purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or reliability of any content. Opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily of A Teams. We are not liable for any actions taken based on the information published. Content may be updated or changed without prior notice.
