IIT Madras Opens Doors to Aeronautics and Space Studies with New Online Degree
IIT Madras has launched a new Bachelor of Science programme in Aeronautics and Space Technology, on Feb 09, 2026. This programme aims to expand access to high-quality technical education and meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in emerging aerospace sectors. The programme is offered completely online and follows a skill-based undergraduate format.
The new course is open to students who have passed Class XII or an equivalent examination, as well as diploma holders. Notably, there is no enrolment cap and no requirement to qualify for IIT-JEE, making the programme accessible to a much wider pool of learners across the country.
Designed to equip students with industry-relevant design and analysis skills, the programme focuses on aeronautics, space systems, and allied fields. It seeks to address the skills gap in sunrise sectors such as Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), civil aviation, and space technologies, which are witnessing rapid growth.
The programme was launched in the presence of V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras. The event also saw virtual participation from D.K. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, and V. Sumantran, former Chairman of IndiGo Airlines, highlighting strong industry backing for the initiative.
Graduates of the programme are expected to have strong employment prospects across public sector undertakings, global aerospace companies, startups, and engineering analysis firms. With India expanding its domestic aircraft manufacturing capabilities and aiming to become a net exporter in defence and space, the demand for engineers proficient in modern design and analysis tools has increased significantly.
In line with its mission to democratise education, IIT Madras is offering fee waivers of up to 75 per cent for eligible learners from low-income backgrounds. The programme is designed to support careers not only in aerospace, but also in automotive, wind power, and energy industries, while also laying a strong foundation for research, development, and higher studies.
While the degree is delivered online, it blends rigorous theoretical instruction with hands-on training. Laboratory courses conducted on the IIT Madras campus provide students with exposure to advanced experimental facilities, including wind tunnels and mechanical testing labs.
The programme's flexible structure allows learners to customise their academic pathway based on their skills and career goals, making it a unique addition to IIT Madras' expanding portfolio of online degree offerings.