B.Tech in AI vs Data Science in 2026: Which Course Offers Better Career Scope & Salary?

TL;DR

• A B.Tech in AI or Data Science is a four-year, eight-semester undergraduate programme offering industry-relevant technical skills.
• Career opportunities in AI exist across IT, healthcare, robotics and automation, while data science professionals are in demand in finance, marketing, eCommerce and government sectors.
• Top AI roles include AI architect, machine learning engineer, NLP engineer and robotics engineer.
• Top data science roles include data analyst, data engineer, machine learning scientist, business intelligence analyst and quantitative analyst.
• Average salaries are around ₹12.3 LPA for AI engineers and ₹8 LPA for data scientists, with senior professionals earning up to ₹30 LPA and ₹20 LPA respectively.
• Choose AI if you enjoy coding, algorithms, and complex systems, or Data Science if you prefer business-oriented, data-driven roles.

Introduction 

If you want to pursue one of the most trending careers in technology, you’ve probably asked yourself - should you choose artificial intelligence or data science? Both fields are transforming industries and creating exciting opportunities for future engineers. 

Deciding between pursuing a B.Tech in AI vs B.Tech in Data Science is a tough choice. While they share similarities, each focuses on different skills and applications. 

A report by the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics shows that job requirements in data science are expected to increase by 34% between 2024 and 2034. Another report indicates that demand for AI experts in India may reach a staggering 1 million by 2026. So, which one has a broader scope with high-paying job opportunities? Let’s find out.

B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence is one of the most powerful innovations in the tech industry. B.Tech with a specialisation in AI can help you learn how to build intelligent systems that mimic human cognition and can perform tasks like humans. 

These systems can improve decision-making, solve problems, recognise diseases based on your medical reports, automate driving, and make calculated predictions.

Think of it like teaching computers how to think, learn, and answer. B.Tech in AI is usually a four-year graduate programme structured into eight semesters. Here’s what the course covers:

• Machine learning
• Deep learning
• Robotics
• Neural networks
• Computer vision
• Natural language processing

Also Read: Top 10 AI Courses in India with Placement Support

B.Tech in Data Science

As a data scientist, your job is to work on large datasets to find hidden and useful information. In other words, you will extract data, clean it, find patterns, and report your findings to the business.

B.Tech in Data Science is generally a four-year undergraduate programme structured into eight semesters. The course covers essential subjects such as:

• Statistics and Mathematics
• Big Data Technologies
• Predictive Modelling
• Machine Learning
• Data Visualisation Tools
• Data Mining and Business Analytics

Also Read: What is the Scope of Data Science in 2026?

Career Scope of B.Tech in AI vs. Data Science

Suppose you are looking for the best B.Tech course in 2026, pursuing either AI or data science would lead to a good career. Both fields are shaping the future of technology and are expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. 

As more industries start depending on intelligent systems and data-driven decisions, experts in AI and data science will have plenty of exciting career opportunities in areas like IT, healthcare, finance, and even manufacturing.

Why Pursue B.Tech in AI?

Artificial Intelligence industry is in the hyper-growth phase. It’s projected to reach USD 28.8 billion by 2025. However, the industry reports a significant talent shortage with only one qualified engineer available for 10 GenAI positions. 

If you are interested in math-heavy subjects, a B.Tech course with AI specialisation is a smart move. 

Also Read: Your Complete Guide to AI Machine Learning Courses in 2026

Different Career Options

• AI Architect: Build AI models for business use.
• Machine Learning Engineer: Develop systems that learn from data.
• NLP Engineer: Create language processing systems.
• Robotics Engineer: Design robots for industrial and service applications.

Why Pursue B.Tech in Data Science?

Employment in the data science industry will grow at a significantly faster pace than other jobs. The demand is high in finance, marketing, healthcare, eCommerce, and government sectors. 

Different Career Options

• Data Analyst: Extract insights from datasets.
• Data Engineer: Build and maintain data systems.
• Quantitative Analyst: Apply statistical models to business problems.
• Machine Learning Scientist: Create predictive algorithms.
• Business Intelligence Analyst: Turn data into strategic insights.

AI vs Data Science: Salary Comparison

When it comes to data science vs AI salary, both fields offer some of the highest-paying roles in the technology industry.

• The median salary for an AI engineer is around 12.3 LPA, while senior machine learning engineers can earn up to 30 LPA.
• The starting salary for a data scientist is about 8 LPA, and experienced professionals with skills in predictive modelling can earn up to 20 LPA.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to AI and Data Science Course Options in 2025

Overview of B.Tech in AI Vs B.Tech in Data Science

Both courses cover different subjects and require varying skill sets. Here are the key differences:

Conclusion

If you have a knack for building innovative systems and have a solid maths background, a B.Tech in AI is a good choice. If you want more versatile, business-driven roles, data science is more suitable for you. While the two fields differ, they are intertwined in many ways. For example, AI needs data and data science projects rely on AI platforms. So, when comparing B.Tech in AI vs B.Tech in Data Science, whichever course you choose, you’ll gain valuable knowledge from both fields.

At Amity University Online, we offer both B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and B.Tech in Data Science. Our programmes are designed to help you develop practical, future-ready skills and gain the industry knowledge you need to succeed in the evolving world of technology.

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