Wainganga College of Engineering and Management Nagpur B.Tech {Lateral} Artificial Intelligence and Data Science: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Nagpur, MaharashtraEstd 2008 RTMNU, Nagpur NAAC Grade A 3.0
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Content Curator | Updated 3+ months ago

The Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) Lateral Entry program in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science is a 3-year full-time course offered by Wainganga College of Engineering and Management (WCEM), Nagpur. This program is designed for diploma holders and students who have completed their 10+3 education with a minimum of 50% marks. The lateral entry pathway allows students to join directly in the second year of the B.Tech program, providing a faster route to an engineering degree. The course focuses on cutting-edge technologies in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and analytics. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and industry applications, the program prepares students for careers in AI/ML development, data science, and emerging technology sectors. The course is popular among students seeking specialized knowledge in one of the most in-demand fields in technology.

Admissions for the 2026-27 academic year are expected to commence in July 2026, with the application deadline tentatively set for July-August 2026 based on previous year's schedule. The admission process follows the DTE Maharashtra guidelines for lateral entry, and candidates must register through the official DTE portal. Counselling and seat allotment typically occur in August 2026, with classes expected to begin in August-September 2026.

Key Points

  • Specialized curriculum in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science with industry-relevant projects
  • Hands-on laboratory experience with Python, R, TensorFlow, and other AI/ML frameworks
  • Direct entry in second year for diploma holders and 10+3 qualified students
  • Access to 400+ recruiting companies through the college's placement network
  • Industry-focused training with internship opportunities in AI/ML and data science roles
  • Strong placement support with average packages of 4.2 LPA across engineering programs
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WCEM B.Tech Lateral AI DS Fees

The B.Tech Lateral (Artificial Intelligence and Data Science) program at WCEM Nagpur charges a total fee of 3,78,000 (3.78 lakhs) for the entire 3-year duration. The fees are structured to be affordable and are paid in installments across semesters. The college offers fee concessions for SC/ST students and OBC students. Additionally, scholarships under the NSP (PM-USP) Yojana are available for eligible students from economically weaker sections.

Fee Structure

Fee ComponentAmount (INR)
Tuition Fee (3 years)3,78,000
Total Fees3,78,000
  • Fees are refundable.
  • SC/ST students are eligible for fee concessions.
  • OBC students receive reduced fees.
  • Scholarships available under NSP (PM-USP) Yojana for eligible candidates.
  • Fees are paid in installments across semesters.

WCEM B.Tech Lateral AI DS Admission 2026

Admission to the B.Tech Lateral (Artificial Intelligence and Data Science) program is merit-based and follows the DTE Maharashtra admission process for lateral entry. The college accepts applications from diploma holders and students who have completed 10+3 education with a minimum of 50% marks. The selection is primarily based on merit, and candidates may also appear for entrance exams as per state guidelines. The admission process includes application submission, document verification, counselling, and seat allotment through the DTE portal.

Important Dates

EventTentative Date (2026)
Online Registration & Document UploadJuly 2026
Document VerificationJuly-August 2026
Counselling Round 1August 2026
Seat AllotmentAugust 2026
Reporting to InstituteAugust 2026
Classes BeginAugust-September 2026

Entrance Exam Dates

Exam EventDate
Application StartJanuary 10, 2026
Application EndFebruary 24, 2026
Admit Card ReleaseApril 10, 2026
Exam Date (PCM Stream)April 11-19, 2026
Result DateJune 16, 2026 (Tentative)

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Diploma in Engineering from a recognized board/institution with minimum 50% marks
  • OR 10+3 (HSC/Intermediate) with minimum 50% marks in aggregate
  • Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects in 10+2
  • Indian citizen or eligible foreign national
  • Valid score in entrance exam as per state guidelines (if applicable)

Admission Process

  • Register on the official DTE Maharashtra portal during the lateral entry application window
  • Submit required documents including diploma/10+3 mark sheet, admit card, and identity proof
  • Appear for document verification at the designated center
  • Participate in counselling rounds as per merit and category
  • Accept the allotted seat and complete admission formalities at the college
  • Pay admission fees and register with the college

WCEM B.Tech Lateral AI DS Scholarships 2026

WCEM offers multiple scholarship schemes to support deserving students. The primary scholarships available for B.Tech Lateral students include government-sponsored schemes and college-specific awards. SC/ST students are eligible for scholarships up to 10,000 annually, while OBC students can avail scholarships around 5,000 annually. The NSP (PM-USP) Yojana provides scholarships of 82,000 per annum for eligible students from economically weaker sections.

Scholarship Details

Scholarship NameEligibilityAmountFrequency
NSP (PM-USP) Yojana50% in qualifying exam, parental income ‚â§ 4.5 lakhs82,000 per annumAnnual
SC/ST ScholarshipSC/ST category studentsUp to 10,000 per annumAnnual
OBC ScholarshipOBC category studentsAround 5,000 per annumAnnual
Merit ScholarshipTop performers in academicsVariesSemester-wise
  • Scholarship amounts are subject to eligibility criteria and government guidelines.
  • Students must maintain minimum 50% marks and 75% attendance to continue receiving scholarships.
  • Application deadlines typically align with admission timelines.
  • Scholarships are credited directly to student accounts or adjusted against fees.

WCEM B.Tech Lateral AI DS Placement 2026

WCEM has a strong placement record with over 5,000 students placed till date. The college's Training and Placement Cell actively coordinates with 400+ recruiting companies to provide placement opportunities. B.Tech students, including lateral entry students, benefit from the college's extensive industry connections and placement support. The average package offered across all engineering programs is 4.2 LPA, with the highest package reaching 19 LPA. The placement cell conducts skill development workshops, mock interviews, and career counselling to prepare students for recruitment drives. For AI/DS specialization, students have access to companies specifically hiring for data science, machine learning, and AI roles.

Placement Statistics

Placement MetricDetails
Total Students Placed (College-wide)5,000+
Number of Recruiters400+
Average Package4.2 LPA
Highest Package19 LPA
Placement Rate60-80%
Internship Opportunities300+ students completed internships
  • Placement statistics are college-wide figures.
  • B.Tech Lateral students benefit from the same placement infrastructure and industry connections.
  • The college conducts regular skill development workshops, technical training, and soft skills training to enhance employability.

WCEM B.Tech Lateral AI DS FAQs

Ques. What is the difference between B.Tech Regular and B.Tech Lateral Entry?

Ans. B.Tech Regular is a 4-year program for 10+2 students, while B.Tech Lateral Entry is a 3-year program for diploma holders and 10+3 qualified students. Both lead to the same B.Tech degree. Lateral entry allows faster completion and is ideal for students with technical background from diploma programs.

Ques. Why should I choose AI and Data Science specialization?

Ans. AI and Data Science is one of the fastest-growing fields with high demand across industries. Graduates can work as data scientists, machine learning engineers, AI specialists, and analytics professionals. The average salary for AI/DS professionals is significantly higher than other engineering fields, with opportunities in startups, tech companies, and enterprises.

Ques. What programming languages and tools are taught in this course?

Ans. The curriculum covers Python, R, SQL, and Java as primary programming languages. Students also learn machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, Keras, scikit-learn, and data visualization tools like Tableau and Power BI. The course emphasizes practical implementation through projects and internships.

Ques. Can I pursue higher studies after B.Tech Lateral?

Ans. Yes, B.Tech Lateral graduates can pursue M.Tech, MBA, or specialized postgraduate programs in AI/ML, Data Science, or related fields. Many students also pursue research opportunities or doctoral programs in top institutions.

Ques. What is the fee structure and are there payment options?

Ans. The total fee for 3 years is 3,78,000 (3.78 lakhs), paid in installments across semesters. SC/ST students receive fee concessions, and the college offers flexible payment options. Scholarships are available for eligible students, making education more affordable.

Ques. What are the career prospects after completing this B.Tech Lateral program?

Ans. Graduates can work as Data Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers, AI Specialists, Business Analysts, and Analytics Professionals in companies like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Amazon, Google, and startups. The average starting salary ranges from 4 to 6 LPA, with significant growth potential based on skills and experience.

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