IIT Bombay branches: What programs are offered and which one suits you?

When people talk about IIT Bombay, India’s top engineering institute known for its rigorous academics and strong industry ties. Also known as Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, it is one of the few institutions where getting in can change your career path overnight. But what happens after you get in? The real question isn’t just about getting admitted—it’s about choosing the right branch. IIT Bombay doesn’t offer just one path. It has over a dozen departments, each with its own focus, workload, and job outcomes.

Some branches like Computer Science and Engineering, the most popular program at IIT Bombay, focused on software, AI, and systems design draw thousands of applicants every year because of high salaries and global demand. Others, like Mechanical Engineering, a broad field covering design, manufacturing, and thermal systems, are still highly respected and open doors in aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors. Then there are specialized ones like Chemical Engineering, focused on processes, materials, and industrial production, which don’t get as much attention but often lead to high-paying roles in pharma, petrochemicals, and sustainability. Each branch has its own curriculum, lab requirements, and internship patterns. And while the brand name of IIT Bombay opens doors, your branch shapes the kind of doors you walk through.

Students often wonder if choosing a less popular branch is a mistake. It’s not. Many top recruiters—like Google, Goldman Sachs, and Tesla—hire from all departments, not just CS. What matters more is what you build while you’re there: projects, internships, coding skills, or research. The best branch is the one you’re willing to work hard in, not the one everyone else wants. If you’re good at math and love solving real-world problems, Electrical Engineering might suit you better than a flashy name. If you enjoy building things with your hands, Mechanical or Civil could be your fit. IIT Bombay gives you the platform. Your choice of branch decides how you use it.

Below, you’ll find real insights from students who’ve been through the system—what they studied, how they prepared, and which branch actually led to the jobs they wanted. No fluff. No hype. Just what works.