The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has announced a new four-year Bachelor of Cybersecurity programme that will begin from the 2026–27 academic session. The programme will be offered through the Wadhwani School of AI and Intelligent Systems, with the inaugural batch expected to start classes in July 2026.

Alternative Admission Pathway

In a departure from the conventional IIT admission process, candidates seeking entry into this programme will not need JEE Advanced scores. Instead, the selection process will consider JEE Main performance along with demonstrated interest, experience, or involvement in cybersecurity-related activities.

Applicants shortlisted during the initial stage will be invited to IIT Kanpur for an on-campus assessment. This evaluation will include a hackathon and other exercises aimed at testing technical aptitude, creativity, and problem-solving abilities in cybersecurity-focused scenarios.

Programme Structure

The curriculum has been designed to provide a balance between academic learning and practical application.

During the first two years, students will build a strong foundation in cybersecurity concepts through classroom instruction and laboratory-based training. The emphasis will be on developing both theoretical understanding and technical expertise in a structured learning environment.

Industry and Government Exposure

The latter half of the programme will focus on hands-on experience through internships with government security and cybersecurity organizations. Students will work on live projects and tackle real-world challenges, gaining valuable exposure to operational cybersecurity environments.

According to the institute, this internship-driven approach aims to strengthen the connection between academic education and the evolving security requirements of India's digital ecosystem.

Growing Demand for Cybersecurity Talent

Institute leaders have emphasized the increasing significance of cybersecurity as digital technologies become deeply integrated into critical infrastructure and everyday life. The growing complexity of cyber threats has created a strong demand for professionals equipped with specialized security skills.

Officials from the Wadhwani School stated that the programme seeks to prepare graduates who can contribute effectively from the beginning of their careers by combining rigorous academic training with extensive practical experience.

A dedicated webpage containing detailed information about eligibility criteria, application procedures, and admission timelines is expected to be released in the near future.