AI vs Machine Learning | Same or different?

The modern world is dominated by automation, robotics, and intelligent systems, and students who are interested in computer science are commonly intrigued by the terms Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). These are not only playing a part in leading the future of technology but also writing whole new chapters in higher education, including B Tech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.

But wait, are AI and Machine Learning the same thing, or are they entirely separate subjects? If you are a prospective student looking to further your career in computer science, especially if you are planning to study B Tech in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, then this article is a must-read for you.

The article will clear the confusion by discussing what sets AI and ML apart, how they are related, and how to achieve successful careers through appropriate educational paths in India.

What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

Artificial Intelligence is a large subset of computer science, which is focused on developing intelligent machines that work and react like humans. AI does this by integrating logic-based algorithms along with heuristics, probability, natural language processing, and computer vision to achieve intelligent behavior. These intelligent systems perform various functions such as:

Solving Complex problems
Learning from data
Understanding languages
Making decisions
Recognising images and speech

Then there are AI systems which exhibit similar behaviour to that of a human, which can include:

Navigating autonomous vehicles
Powering virtual assistance such as Alexa and Siri
Playing chess
Offering recommendations

What is Machine Learning (ML)?

Machine Learning is a subset of AI that focuses on developing systems with the ability to learn and improve from experience. ML achieves this by feeding the computer a lot of data, which is used for statistical analysis for:

Identify patterns
Make predictions
Get smarter over time

To better understand the difference between AI and ML, know that AI is the brain, and ML is the piece that learns how to identify a cat in a photo after being shown thousands of cat images.

There are three types of ML:

1. Supervised Learning: This technique is trained on labelled data.

2. Unsupervised Learning: This technique trains on finding patterns in unstructured data.

3. Reinforcement Learning: This technique learns from rewards and penalties.

Why Consider Studying B.Tech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning after 12th?

If you are fascinated by the latest technology and always wonder how Alexa talks and how Netflix provides recommendations, then the B. Tech in AI and Machine Learning is the ideal course for you. B.Tech Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is a 4-year undergraduate engineering program offered by top Indian universities and institutions.

It offers integrated learning of strong theoretical and practical knowledge in both the AI and ML fields. There are several reasons why B.Tech CSE with AI and ML should be your top priority after completing 12th.

1. AI & ML Experts are in Demand across Industries

The recent technology and AI boom brings a dire need for AI and ML professionals. With every industry booming and setting new standards for human convenience, from driverless cars to tech-assisted home planning, the need for professionals in the field of AI and machine learning is in high demand.

2. Excellent Career Growth and Salary Potential

As the old saying goes, if there is demand for a job, then the price of that job goes up. New findings indicate that those who are already part of the booming AI and ML careers are well compensated. The initial packages offered after a BTech in AI and ML program are higher than engineer designations.

3. Get to Work on Real and Meaningful Projects

AI and ML make it possible for people to work on projects that affect our daily lives. These include facial recognition, fast transactions, and instant medical analysis. These AI and ML systems affect us in a profound way and motivate young students to take it up as a career.

4. Use of AI in Fields such as healthcare, Finance and Retail

Every field is being revolutionised with AI, and its global acceptance is making lives easier. As AI and ML get adopted in traditional sectors such as healthcare and finance, the potential for careers in the field looks extremely bright.

5. Internship and Placement with Top Tech Firms

Since AI and ML are fast-evolving areas, you have a good chance to get a job in an MNC who are constantly seeking AI/ML specialists. Their new ventures, integrated with the latest technologies, can give students practical experience.

Top colleges for B.Tech in AI and Machine Learning

There are numerous quality and prestigious institutions that offer BTech Artificial Intelligence and machine learning courses. These include:

Indian Institute of Technology (IITs): The most remarkable group of engineering institutes across the country that offer dedicated B Tech CSE with AI and ML courses.
SRM Institute of Science and Technology: Engineering College based in Kattankulathur, Tamil Nadu, India.
IIIT Hyderabad: Renowned for its AI research.
Amity University: Excellent global exposure through its BTech in AI and machine learning program.
KCC Institute of Technology and Management: One of the most prestigious private institutions for B.Tech CSE with AI and ML based in Greater Noida.
Shiv Nadar University: Another Delhi NCR-based institution that equips students with strong computer science knowledge.

Course curriculum of BTech in Artificial Intelligence and machine learning

Core Computer Science Subjects:

Data Structures and Algorithms
Operating Systems
Computer Networks
Database Management Systems
Object-Oriented Programming

AI & ML Specific Subjects:

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning Algorithms
Deep Learning
Computer Vision
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Neural Networks
Reinforcement Learning
Ethics in AI

Tools & Technologies Covered:

Python, R, TensorFlow, Keras
OpenCV, Scikit-learn
Power BI, Tableau
MATLAB, Google AI tools

The students will also be provided with industrial internships, a capstone project, and assignments that will help them apply AI and ML in real-world scenarios to gain hands-on experience.

How to get admission in B.Tech Artificial Intelligence and machine learning?

Choosing to pursue B.Tech in AI and Machine Learning is not the only important decision after 12th. Securing admission in the right college and in a timely manner is just as important. Follow the steps below to get started.

1. Prepare for and attend entrance exams

Depending on the institution you are targeting, you will be required to give entrance exams. These can be:

JEE Mains/Advanced: To secure admissions in top B.Tech colleges such as IITs and NITs.
State-level entrance exams: These include MHT-CET, WBJEE, and KCET to get admission in state-specific engineering colleges.
University-specific exams: VITEEE, SRMJEEE, BITSAT are some entrance exams, which help in getting admission in universities such as VIT Vellore, BITS Pilani, SRM, Amrita University, etc.

2. Eligibility criteria

Ensure that you have successfully completed 12th with chemistry, mathematics, and physics as your core subjects.
Secure at least 50% aggregate score in 10+2. Some Institutions may require the highest score.
Get a good score in the entrance exams to achieve the cut-off.

3. Register and apply online

Visit the official portal of the institute based on your eligibility criteria and entrance exam scores.
Fill out the application form and upload essential documents.
Pay the registration fee.

Attending BTech CSE in AI and ML can open a lot of doors for you to successfully pursue a promising career in technology. You can acquire various high-paying job opportunities, such as a data scientist, a machine learning engineer, a robotics engineer, an AI research scientist, a natural Language Processing engineer, and an automation engineer. All you need to do is find the right college as per your geographical preferences, affordability, and other criteria.