The Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (IIT Bombay) has introduced a new BTech program in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research (IEOR) starting this academic year. This innovative course integrates applied mathematics, computing, technology, and management to address real-world challenges through effective decision-making models.
This BTech program, encompassing the core areas of Operations Research (OR) and Industrial Engineering (IE), is ideal for students interested in data science, computing, and decision analysis. OR examines complex human-technical systems and their structures, utilising mathematical and decision models such as optimisation, simulation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. These models address planning, scheduling, and control issues across various fields. IE focuses on designing, analysing, improving, and managing industrial and service systems to sustainably enhance their efficiency and effectiveness.
The BTech IEOR curriculum aims to provide a solid foundation in applied mathematics and computing while emphasising practical problem-solving skills. The program includes core courses in basic sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology), humanities and social sciences (economics, design thinking, HASMED), and engineering and technology (computer programming, Makerspace). These foundational courses are generally completed in the first and second years.
The program starts with “Introduction to IE and OR” (IE101) in the first semester, covering essential IEOR themes and developing problem-solving and systems-thinking skills. Other core courses include probability and statistics, optimisation (linear and non-linear), data structures and algorithms, control systems, artificial intelligence/machine learning, stochastic processes, simulation, risk and uncertainty, industrial systems, operations analysis, and logistics and supply chain management. Most of these courses are scheduled for the second year, with some extending into the third year. Probability and statistics are introduced in the second semester to provide a foundation for many decision models.
The program includes six core labs to complement the coursework: four computational labs focusing on algorithms and programming, optimisation, data analytics and AI/ML, and simulation, and two hardware labs dedicated to industrial engineering and digital enterprise systems. The computational labs will enhance modelling and analysis skills using various tools, while the hardware labs will teach data collection methods and modern tools, including IoT and AR/VR experiences.
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Students can explore additional subjects through the department and STEM electives and may pursue an Honors degree in IEOR by completing extra courses and a capstone project. Minors in other disciplines are also available.
Graduates of the IEOR program can pursue careers in diverse sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, business analytics, e-commerce, production, agriculture, financial services, healthcare, security, information and telecommunications, and more. The program aligns with India’s initiatives like Make in India, Gati Shakti, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The skills acquired are highly valued in industries, technology innovation centres, research labs, and academia. IEOR graduates are equipped to analyse underlying processes and offer forward-looking solutions, distinguishing them in data science roles. The program also prepares graduates for advanced studies such as Master’s, MBA, or PhD programs at top global institutions.
