As job market remains challenging, Computer Engineering continues to be the most preferred branch by aspirants in Maharashtra

This year, there are a total of 1,60,346 seats for first year engineering admissions in the state and a total of 1,92,398 candidates have registered. As one candidate can select multiple branches of engineering while filling option forms at the time of confirming admission applications; total number of option forms filled by students is – 72,91,832.

Even as Computer Engineering is seen most in demand by students, various other branches of engineering related to computers have received considerable applications. Some of these branches are Computer Science Engineering (CSE), CSE in AI-DS, CSE in Cyber Security among all.

According to engineering colleges in the city, this is no surprise as Computer Engineering has been in demand for quite some time, considering the job market. Dr Suresh Ukarande Principal K J Somaiya College of Engineering, said, “Students’ choices for engineering branches are largely driven by the job market trends. As Computer Engineering has the highest number of applications that means a greater number of students are hoping for admission to that branch. But if not, they want to take admission to related branches or even in AI-DS as all of these branches are 80-90 percent similar in overall course content. Moreover, AI-DS as well as Machine Learning are expected to play a major role in changing industry; students want to be ready for the job market four years ahead.”

Dr. Gopakumar Thampi, principal of Thadomal Shahani Engineering College said that this sector is constantly evolving which is a great attraction for students. “Almost every enterprise is looking at building their own AI systems. And when it comes to the job market, students are looking at global situations as India’s manpower currently is in demand. Whereas the more conventional branches of engineering have a limited scope. Even automobile companies are hiring more Computer Engineering students than mechanical students because of automated cars etc.”

Thampi also added that the growing semiconductor industry is the reason behind good demand for the Electronics and Telecommunication branch of engineering.

Engineering branches which received highest option forms

Branch                                                            No. of Option forms received

Computer Engineering                               1927485

Information Technology                            134233

Electronics & Telecommunication           1056160

AI-DS                                                              602092

Mechanical engineering                             370577

Electrical Engineering                                229940

Civil Engineering                                        203133