How to Get a BTech in Computer Science Engineering? (+ Careers to Explore)

Now is one of the best times if you are looking to get a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Computer Science and Engineering. The tech sector continues its growth, with experts anticipating it will reach 254 billion USD in fiscal year 2024, an increase of 9 billion USD from the year before [1]. As the technology industry grows, so does the job outlook, which suggests promising job demand. Experts expect a hiring growth of 80 percent in fiscal year 2025 compared to 2024 [1].

Explore your options for getting a BTech to help prepare for the future. Additionally, consider the possible career paths open to you once you have a BTech in computer science to decide if this is the right degree option for you. 

What is a BTech in computer science?

A BTech in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) is a four-year degree that specialises in computer hardware and software. It focuses on various computing fields, such as web development, software development, computer hardware and processing, programming languages, etc. It is a comprehensive degree with many career paths after graduating. With the rise of the BTech degree, you may wonder what BTech computer science is and how it differs from a traditional BSc in CSE.

BTech vs. BSc in CSE

The main difference between a BTech and a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in CSE is that a BTech is a four-year degree while a BSc is a three-year degree. A BTech is often a much more comprehensive degree in CSE, whereas a BSc gives good fundamentals. A BTech focuses on every aspect of computing, including hardware, computer architecture, database management, and data structures. A BSc differs from a BTech as it is often only offered as a computer science degree, leaving out many of the engineering aspects of computing. A BSc in computer science typically centres on programming concepts, operating systems, and disk operations. 

Requirements to get into a BTech in CSE programme

Now that you know the difference between a BTech in CSE and a BSc, it is important to familiarise yourself with the requirements of a BTech in CSE programme. Requirements can vary from institution to institution, so you must check the specific requirements of the university you are most interested in. Here is a brief overview of the general requirements. 

Completion of 10 + 2 schooling

One of the most important requirements is the completion of 10 + 2 schooling with high marks. Class 12 marks are very important when it comes to admissions and are considered by school admissions. The minimum passing marks for class 12 are typically 50 percent, though some schools have a higher requirement. This is one of the most important factors for admissions. 

Science stream student

Another important aspect to consider during 10 + 2 schooling is focusing on a science stream with physics, chemistry, and maths classes. This will give you a scientific foundation for a BTech and show your scientific and technical understanding to admission staff. 

Entrance exams

Another way to get into a BTech in CSE is through engineering entrance exams. Some common exams universities may accept include: 

• JEE main

• JEE advanced

• VITEEE

• BITSAT

Other state-level exams, such as MHT CET and KCET, may be accepted depending on the region your university is in. 

Most universities typically require 10 + 2 schooling and one of the entrance exams, in addition to any school-specific exams and interviews. It is important to note how in-demand a seat in a BTech CSE programme is, and the higher the score you have on your exams, the better your chances of getting into a top programme.

What to expect while in a BTech CSE programme

Though every BTech programme differs, you’ll find various things to expect and prepare before entering a programme. The curriculum for a BTech programme covers many disciplines related to and informing the degree's central computer science engineering aspect. 

First year

In your first year, you will take mostly foundational courses in mathematics, engineering, programming, physics, and chemistry. You will also take other fundamentals in social subjects such as engineering law, business, logic theory, and sociology. 

Second year

Your second year consists of deepening your knowledge in subjects such as programming, engineering, and mathematics. You will take courses such as computer organisation, data communications, and engineering mathematics. You will also learn about computing processes, data systems, algorithms, and computer networking. 

Third year

Your third year will often focus on internet and web programming, artificial intelligence, graph theory, calculus, and software engineering. As you progress in your degree, you can also begin taking elective courses to learn more about subjects that interest you inside CSE or outside your specialisation. 

Fourth year

In your fourth year, you will find your specialisations and niche by taking more elective courses such as mobile computing and pattern recognition. Most importantly, your fourth year will focus on your projects and a dissertation that you will have to defend before earning your degree. 

Careers for people with BTech in CSE

Given the overall demand in the tech industries, you will find various jobs for BTech computer science majors. You may also further your education in machine learning, artificial intelligence, deep learning, and data science. Here are a few careers with their average annual salary: 

All salary information is annual and provided by Glassdoor as of July 2024. 

• Computer hardware technician: ₹2,64,000

• Software developer: ₹8,00,000

• Web developer:  ₹4,00,000

• Senior data architect ₹34,25,000

• Cloud engineer: ₹6,35,678

Careers with BTech and experience in the field

More experience opens even more opportunities for people who have a BTech. Once you have eight or more years of experience, you may be ready to upskill in machine learning, data mining, or cybersecurity. 

All salary information is annual and provided by Glassdoor as of July 2024.

• Database administrator: ₹8,00,000

• Machine learning engineer: ₹10,34,000

• Cybersecurity consultant: ₹9,00,000

• Business intelligence analyst: ₹8,80,000

• Data scientist: ₹11,70,000

Next steps

A BTech in computer science opens up many career paths for you. To gain computer science fundamentals before entering a BTech programme, try Computer Science: Programming With a Purpose from Princeton University, available on Coursera.