Four of the nine undergraduate branches at Maria are computing branches, and prospective students reasonably struggle to tell them apart. The overlap in the first two years is real. The divergence afterwards is also real.

A decision path from interest to branchWhat holds you?Building thingsSystems & dataCivilMechanicalCSE / ITAI & DSStart from the work you want to do, not the cut-off you can reach
The names overlap far more than the curricula do. Here is what separates them in practice.

Computer Science and Engineering

The broadest of the four and the most foundational. It covers the machine from the bottom up: data structures, algorithms, operating systems, computer networks, database systems, compilers, software engineering and distributed systems.

Choose it if you want maximum optionality. A CSE graduate can move into almost any computing role, including the AI roles, because the specialisations are built on these foundations.

Information Technology

Closer to systems in use than systems in theory. It shares the core with CSE but leans towards applied information systems, web and application development, networking, cloud infrastructure and cybersecurity.

Choose it if you are drawn to making systems work in production, to integration, and to the operational side of computing.

Artificial Intelligence and Data Science

A B.Tech programme built around data from the start. Alongside programming and data structures it carries probability and statistics, data visualisation, machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision and big data analytics.

The distinguishing content is statistical. If you dislike mathematics, this is the branch where that will cost you most.

Computer Science and Engineering (AI and ML)

A CSE degree with an AI and machine learning specialisation. The computing core is the CSE core, with the specialisation layered on top rather than replacing it.

The practical difference from AI and DS is one of centre of gravity. CSE (AI and ML) is a computer scientist who specialises in intelligent systems. AI and DS is a data specialist who programmes.

A simple way to decide

  • You want the widest door and the strongest foundation: CSE.
  • You want to build and run real systems: IT.
  • You are genuinely comfortable with statistics and want data at the centre: B.Tech AI and Data Science.
  • You want computer science depth with AI specialisation: CSE (AI and ML).

What to take away

  • The first two years overlap heavily. Semesters three to six are where these four separate.
  • CSE gives the broadest optionality; the AI branches trade some breadth for specialisation.
  • AI and Data Science is the most mathematics-heavy of the four.
  • All four are four-year programmes affiliated to Anna University and approved by AICTE.

Thinking about engineering at Maria?

Our admission office can talk you through branches, eligibility and the counselling process for 2026–27. No obligation.