The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has launched two new professional certificate programmes in Cybersecurity and Software Development through its Trust Lab, a research and teaching initiative under the Department of Computer Science & Engineering. The courses are now open for enrolment via a Google Form application, with the link available at the end of this article.These industry-relevant certification tracks aim to bridge the growing gap between academic knowledge and practical implementation in the fields of secure digital infrastructure, full-stack development, and trustworthy systems. Each course has been designed and delivered by IIT Bombay faculty and follows a modular structure that promotes depth, rigour, and applied learning.
Two distinct tracks, one goal
Participants can choose from two focused tracks:• Professional Certificate in Cybersecurity• Professional Certificate in Software DevelopmentTo earn a professional certificate, candidates must successfully complete any three approved courses within a single track. Each course is self-contained but complementary, allowing learners to tailor their academic progression without compromising on the credibility of the final credential.
Who can apply
The programmes are open to:• Working professionals with a recognised 3- or 4-year undergraduate degree in engineering or computer science.• Undergraduate (3rd or 4th year) and postgraduate students in relevant fields.• Faculty members from recognised institutions.Admission is on a course-wise basis and prioritises applicants who are either industry professionals or committed to completing the full certification.Direct link to register for the certificate programmes launched by IIT Bombay is here.
A career-aligned curriculum
The Cybersecurity track equips learners to understand cryptographic protocols, manage network and web security, and assess real-world threats. Key offerings include: Real world cryptography, network security, and web security.The Software Development track progresses from core system-level understanding to enterprise deployment, with a strong focus on version control, cloud infrastructure, and development workflows. Courses include:• Unix and Frontend Fundamentals• Full-Stack Web Development with MERN and Apache/Nginx• Full-Stack Cloud Development using Django, React, and DockerCourses such as Web Security are shared across both tracks and may count toward certification in either.
Teaching model and assessments
The programmes follow a blended model combining asynchronous video content with weekend live sessions and TA-supported lab work. Learners are expected to dedicate 8 to 10 hours per week across video lectures, lab work, and evaluations.Each course concludes with an in-person, proctored exam at IIT Bombay, which accounts for 75 percent of the final grade. The remaining 25 percent is based on continuous assessments.
Certification and flexibility
Learners will receive:• A Course Completion Certificate for each course passed• A Professional Certificate upon successful completion of three courses within the same trackParticipants can opt to enrol in a single course based on their professional or academic needs, with no obligation to commit to the full certification immediately. The recommended timeline for completing the certificate is one year, with a maximum limit of two years.The certificates are backed by IIT Bombay, carrying significant weight in both public and private sectors.
Selection process and required documents
Applications are to be submitted through a dedicated Google Form, with shortlisting based on Statement of Purpose (SOP), academic transcripts, and relevant work or study background. Required documents include:• Degree certificates or academic transcripts• Proof of programming proficiency• Statement of Purpose• Valid college or employee ID• Optional letters of recommendationCandidates are advised to refer to the individual course brochures for detailed information on fees and course prerequisites.TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here.
