Delhi Technological University (DTU) will introduce a new BTech Computer Science and Engineering programme with Artificial Intelligence specialisation from the 2027-28 academic session, adding 60 seats to meet the growing demand for AI-focused engineering education, Vice-Chancellor Prof Prateek Sharma told ETEducation.
Speaking to ETEducation on whether the university planned to expand AI-focused computer science programmes or revise its BTech fee structure, Sharma said the new AI-specialised CSE stream would mirror last year’s expansion of 60 seats in the Electronics (VLSI) programme. The proposed intake is in addition to DTU’s existing BTech programmes in Data Science and AI & Data Science.
The announcement comes as engineering institutions across the country continue to introduce specialised programmes in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Data Science to align with changing industry demand.
Sharma also outlined an ambitious roadmap to strengthen DTU’s research ecosystem, arguing that significantly higher investment is needed if universities are to compete globally. Referring to the university’s ongoing ₹3 crore MeitY-funded project, he said research grants of that scale were insufficient and called for funding to increase manyfold. He said DTU is preparing a long-term institutional development plan to attract larger government grants and greater CSR investment.
The Vice-Chancellor said the university recently secured an Advanced Research Grant from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), adding that expanding high-quality research remains one of DTU’s key priorities.
Making a case for stronger public investment in research, Prof Sharma said universities are better positioned than industry to undertake long-term, high-risk research, as private companies often find it difficult to invest in projects with uncertain outcomes or maintain dedicated research teams over extended periods.
On the university’s broader research strategy, Prof Sharma said that DTU is working on a “quadruple helix” model that brings together academia, industry, government and society to create greater impact through research and innovation.
Defence technology is emerging as another major focus area for the university. Prof Sharma said DTU is currently executing two Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) projects worth a combined ₹1.5 crore, with students actively involved in developing solutions.
He said the university intends to leverage its strengths in mechanical, electronics and computer science engineering to develop technologies that enhance the operational life of defence equipment while supporting the country’s drive towards technological self-reliance. He also identified cyber warfare as a critical area for future research, saying DTU aims to work closely with defence stakeholders to build capabilities in cybersecurity and emerging digital threats.
The announcements were made as DTU unveiled a series of new academic programmes, international collaborations and research initiatives as part of its plans for the 2026-27 academic year.
