Top AI Courses by Indian Universities (Free + Paid) in 2025

Artificial Intelligence is changing the way we live, work, and interact with technology. From ChatGPT to self-driving cars, AI is at the core of innovation. If you’re in India and want to build a career in AI or simply understand how it works, the good news is that many Indian universities now offer both free and paid AI courses. These courses are designed for students, working professionals, and even beginners with no tech background.

In this blog, we’ll cover the top AI courses by Indian universities, explain what each offers, and guide you on how to choose the right one based on your career goals.

Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are well-known for offering high-quality tech education. IIT Madras, for example, has an online BS Degree in Data Science and Applications that includes AI and Machine Learning modules. The course is flexible, allowing you to study at your own pace. If you're looking for a long-term program with strong academic backing, this is a solid choice.

IIT Hyderabad offers a full-time MTech in Artificial Intelligence, which is one of the most respected postgraduate AI programs in India. It’s competitive and ideal for those who already have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or related fields. This course covers deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing in detail.

For those who want a free option, the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) is a government initiative that offers AI-related courses taught by professors from top IITs and IISc. These include courses like “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence,” “Machine Learning,” and “Deep Learning.” You can watch the lectures for free and pay a small fee if you want a certificate. These courses are great for self-paced learning and building a strong foundation in AI.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore offers advanced-level courses in AI through its Centre for Continuing Education. These are typically short-term certificate courses targeted at working professionals and researchers. Topics include applied machine learning, AI in healthcare, and robotics. Although they are not free, the quality of teaching is world-class and worth the investment.

IIIT Hyderabad, another leading institute, offers a specialized Post Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in collaboration with online learning platforms like UpGrad. This course is ideal for working professionals who want to shift to AI roles. It includes live sessions, mentorship, and hands-on projects with industry relevance.

Amity University, BITS Pilani, and Chandigarh University also offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in AI and Data Science. These programs are a good option for students looking to study AI as a core subject and not just a short-term skill. Their fees vary, and many offer installment options or scholarships.

If you’re a student on a tight budget, don’t worry. Many Indian universities have started collaborating with online platforms like SWAYAM, Coursera, and edX to offer AI courses at affordable prices or even for free. For example, SWAYAM offers AI-related content created by IIT professors and is backed by the Government of India. It’s a great way to start learning without spending anything upfront.

Apart from universities, government initiatives like AICTE and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) offer AI training modules that are both affordable and job-focused. These programs often include industry partnerships and are designed to help you land a job or internship after completion.

While choosing an AI course, it’s important to understand your goals. If you want a strong academic foundation, go for a university-backed degree or diploma. If you’re already working and want to shift to AI, consider a certificate course with placement support. If you're just curious and want to explore AI, start with free courses on NPTEL or SWAYAM.

AI is a vast field, so make sure the course you choose covers topics like machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, and real-world applications. It’s even better if the course includes projects, assignments, and case studies, as this helps you apply what you learn.

Also, check for certification. Having a certificate from a reputed university like IIT or IISc adds weight to your resume. Even if the course is free, spending a small amount for certification can help you during job applications or interviews.

With the rise of generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Bard, and Copilot, companies are looking for skilled professionals who understand both theory and application. Indian universities have recognized this trend and are updating their courses regularly. Many even provide placement assistance and guidance for building a career in AI.

In 2025, the demand for AI talent in India is higher than ever. Sectors like healthcare, finance, education, agriculture, and cybersecurity are hiring AI specialists for roles like AI engineer, data scientist, ML developer, and research analyst. Learning AI from a reputed Indian university can be your first step towards a future-proof career.

In conclusion, whether you’re a college student, recent graduate, or a working professional, there’s an AI course for you offered by Indian universities. From free online lectures to full-time degree programs, the options are flexible, affordable, and high quality. So don’t wait. Choose a course that fits your schedule and career goal, and start your journey into the exciting world of artificial intelligence today.