Chennai: Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) on Monday launched a new Bachelor of Science (BS) programme in Aeronautics and Space Technology, an online undergraduate course aimed at widening access to industry-ready education in fast-growing aerospace sectors.

The flexible programme has been designed to equip learners with industry-relevant analysis and design skills in aeronautics, space systems and allied areas, while aligning with national priorities in aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and space manufacturing.

The programme was launched on campus in the presence of IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Chairman and Managing Director D K Sunil and former IndiGo Airlines chairman V Sumantran participating virtually.

Addressing the gathering, Kamakoti said aeronautics and space technology are rapidly expanding sectors that require specialised manpower. “This BS programme is another step by IIT Madras to democratise opportunities and enable more learners to enter these critical domains,” he said.

The institute said the programme responds to the growing demand for skilled professionals in sunrise sectors such as civil aviation, UAVs and space technologies. Placement and internship support will be facilitated through IIT Madras' Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE).

Open to candidates who have passed Class 12 or its equivalent, including diploma holders, the programme has no enrolment cap and does not require IIT-JEE qualification. Learners can progress at a flexible pace, making it suitable for working professionals and students pursuing parallel degrees. Examinations will be held on Sundays through a mix of centre-based and online proctored assessments.

Graduates are expected to find employment opportunities in public sector undertakings, global aerospace firms, startups and engineering analysis companies, including HAL, Bharat Dynamics Limited, GE Aerospace, Boeing, Airbus and Rolls-Royce. The programme also prepares students for GATE and higher studies at IITs and IISc.

Course coordinator H S N Murthy of the Department of Aerospace Engineering said the programme would help meet the demand for quality engineering graduates who can drive innovation in aeronautics, space and energy sectors. Co-coordinator Sriram Rengarajan said the graduates would be equipped to develop indigenous technologies for both domestic use and exports.

The curriculum combines theory with hands-on training, including laboratory courses conducted on the IIT Madras campus using advanced facilities such as wind tunnels. In line with the National Education Policy, multiple exit options are available at the foundation, diploma and BS degree levels.

IIT Madras said fee waivers of up to 75 per cent will be offered to eligible low-income learners as part of its commitment to widening access to high-quality education.