IIT Madras Launches 6-Month Internship Program for B.Tech Students in 2024-25

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has introduced an innovative six-month internship program for B.Tech students to increase their chances of securing pre-placement offers and providing valuable industry exposure. Starting in the 2024-25 academic year, students will have their sixth semester free of core courses, allowing them to pursue extended internships or other professional experiences. They can now complete elective courses in earlier or later semesters, providing unprecedented flexibility.

Honourable Mr. Prathap Haridoss, IIT Madras' Dean of Academic Courses, explained that all departments will ensure the sixth semester is free of core classes, enabling students to plan their course load better. "Students can take elective courses earlier or later, freeing up the sixth semester," Mr. Haridoss noted. Additionally, students will have eight months from mid-November to July for internships, during which they can complete one long internship or two shorter internships or work on research projects at universities or labs.

This program revamp responds to industry and placement office feedback, highlighting the need for longer internships. Traditionally, internships were limited to three months, but companies and students desired more immersive experiences. According to the Dean of Students, Mr Sathyanarayana N Gummadi, this extended internship period allows companies to evaluate students better, increasing the likelihood of pre-placement offers and reducing competition during campus placements. It also gives students more time to assess potential employers.

IIT Madras is also expanding support for PhD scholars in placements and internships. Mr Parasuraman Swaminathan, a dignitary and co-advisor for placements and internships, shared that they are gathering data on PhD scholars' skills and interests to inform companies about their availability. Unlike B.Tech students, PhD scholars can participate in placements year-round.

This curriculum redesign by IIT Madras enhances students' practical experience and aligns closely with industry needs, boosting placement prospects across the board.