Updated on Aug 5, 2025 11:02 IST
Vidhi Jain

Vidhi JainContent Writer

Computer Science Engineering (CSE Full Form) is one of the topmost choices for engineering aspirants because of its demand in the job market given the skyrocketing technological trends and digital innovations taking place on a daily basis. Computer Science Engineering courses basically deal with both the hardware and software sides of things related to computer software and information systems.

The CSE syllabus allows the students to analyze, design, and maintain computing systems and related systems used for running various important business applications. The Computer Science Engineering syllabus includes important CSE subjects like Computer Programming Languages, Data Structures, Digital Systems Design, Computer Organization, Design and Analysis of Algorithms, Database Management, etc.

The Computer Science Engineering syllabus semester-wise division is a perfect combination of core CSE subjects along with a lot of elective choices, hands-on lab training, internship opportunities, advanced technical skill development, and a final year research project.

The CSE 1st year syllabus imparts important skills to students, such as critical thinking, programming and coding proficiency, cloud computing, problem-solving, web development, etc. Students can even choose a particular subject from the BTech CSE syllabus and specialize in the same at the postgraduate level such as Machine Learning and AI, Web Development, Cyber Security, Cloud Computing, and Internet of Things (IoT).

The Computer Science Engineering syllabus is structured in accordance with the course level and the college offering the CSE course.

Useful Links for CSE 1st Year Syllabus:

BTech Syllabus in Detail

MTech Subjects & Syllabus

Engineering Subjects in Detail

 

Q:   What are the important subjects covered in B.Tech CSE coursework?
A:

The important subjects covered in BTech CSE are:
Engineering Mathematics
• Engineering Physics
• Python Programming
• Data Structures
• Database Management Systems
• Computer Networks and Quantum Computing
You also get to choose from a variety of elective subjects in the third year as per your interests and career goals.

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Q:   Does the BTech CSE syllabus give more importance to theory? Or practical application is given more importance?
A:

The BTech in CSE syllabus is a perfect combination of both theoretical knowledge and practical lab work. You will be taught about the basic fundamentals of computer application that includes both the hardware and software side of things. Plus, you will get to research and engage in hands-on projects that will make you familiar with the practical side of the Computer Science Engineering field.

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Q:   Are there any hands-on labs or internships included in the BTech CSE coursework?
A:

The BTech CSE syllabus is incomplete without regular lab classes and internship programs because of the importance of programming, software development, and AI and ML knowledge required in the CSE field, which cannot be taught only through theory classes.

Premier institutes often collaborate with leading industrial partners to provide their students with the best internship exposure and training opportunities, which may act as an entry point to excellent earning opportunities later.

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Q:   What is the curriculum for B.Tech CSE course?
A:

BTech CSE curriculum usually covers core computer Science topics like programming, algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, operating systems, networking, software engineering, and database management. Additionally, there may be electives and specializations offered in areas like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, or Cloud Computing.

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Q:   Do we study maths in the BTech CSE syllabus? How much?
A:

Maths is one of the most important parts of the BTech CSE syllabus, where you encounter subjects like Calculus, Linear Algebra, etc. in the CSE 1st year syllabus and get introduced to the mathematical concepts applicable in CSE.

From second year onwards, you have to basically apply that mathematical knowledge to make sense of complex CSE subjects like Data Structures, Database Management, Computer Networks, etc., which makes Mathematics a core component for the BTech CSE coursework across all semesters, be it introductory lectures or application in other core subjects.

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Q:   Are new subjects added to the BTech CSE syllabus based on industry demands?
A:

New subjects are added to the BTech CSE course curriculum every now and then to meet the ever evolving industry demands and the digital revolution taking place at present. Specialized programme electives are revised at popular colleges, with subjects like AI, Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity being added to the list that equip the students with the right set of skills needed to excel at the workplace.

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Table of content
  • Popular Computer Science Engineering Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Computer Science Engineering Colleges in India
  • Detailed CSE Syllabus
  • CSE Syllabus: Core and Elective Subjects
  • CSE Syllabus vs Information Technology Syllabus
  • Top Colleges CSE Syllabus
  • CSE Syllabus FAQs
View More

Popular Computer Science Engineering Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Computer Science Engineering Colleges in India. Learn more about these Computer Science Engineering colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
7 Courses
1.23 L - 7.4 L
4.6

#9 India Today

5 Courses
1.1 L - 3.08 L
6.5 - 9.75 LPA

#14 India Today

3 Courses
10.38 L - 61.49 L
16.15 LPA
5 Courses
2.03 L - 10 L
17.92 - 18.5 LPA

#1 India Today

16 Courses
1 L - 7.8 L
4.3
3 L - 17 L
4.53 LPA

Popular Private Computer Science Engineering Colleges in India

3 Courses
3.56 L
3.5
1.2 L - 5.2 L
15 LPA

Computer Science Engineering Applications open. Apply Now

4 Courses
7 L - 10 L
4.1
20.14 L
4.0

Computer Science Engineering Applications open. Apply Now

3 L - 17 L
4.53 LPA
6 Courses
1.3 L - 4.4 L
4.5 LPA

Detailed CSE Syllabus

The Computer Science Engineering syllabus for the diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate level courses differs from one college to another depending on the level at which one is pursuing the CSE course. Students can go through the general CSE syllabus for the diploma, BTech, MTech, and PhD levels in the section below.

BTech CSE Syllabus

The B Tech CSE 1st year syllabus semester-wise is given in the table below for students’ reference:

Semester 1

Calculus 

Chemistry-1

-

Discrete Structures

Semester 2

Linear Algebra and Ordinary Differential Equations 

Modern Physics

Digital Systems Design

Computer Organization

Semester 3

Numerical Analysis 

-

Circuit Theory and Networks

Digital Electronics and Logic Design

Semester 4

Design and Analysis of Algorithms

Logic Design

Operating Systems

Computer Architecture

Semester 5

Database Management Systems

Computer Networks

Introduction to AI and Machine Learning

Embedded Systems Architectures

Semester 6

Microprocessor and Microcontrollers

Control System 

Software Engineering

Cloud Computing

Semester 7

Distributed Database 

Parallel Programming

Web Technology

Computer Graphics

Semester 8

Robotic Control

Mobile Computing

Viva-Voice

Final Research Project

Note - This information is taken from multiple sites and can vary.

MTech CSE Syllabus

You can also choose to specialize in any of the elective subjects like VLSI Design, Embedded Systems, Cyber Security, Cloud Computing, etc. as per their interest areas.

Semester 1

Data Structure & Algorithms Laboratory

Data Structure & Algorithms

Systems Programming & Operating Systems

Networks & System Programming Laboratory

Semester 2

Advanced Database Management System

Theoretical Foundations of Computer Science

Distributed Computer Systems

VLSI System Design

Semester 3

Elective V

Elective VI

Programming Laboratory II (for Elective V chosen)

Project Work (Phase-I)

Semester 4

Project Work (Phase-II) & Seminar

Viva-voce

Note - This information is taken from multiple sites and can vary.

Diploma CSE Syllabus

You can go through the basic Diploma CSE syllabus in the table given below:

Semester 1

Calculus

Basic Electronics and Communication

-

-

Semester 2

-

-

Digital Logic Design

Computer Organization and Architecture

Semester 3

Operating Systems

Computer Networks

Database Management Systems

Web Technologies

Semester 4

Software Engineering

Elective I

Microprocessor and Microcontroller

Data Science

Semester 5

Network Security

Elective II

Embedded Systems

Project Work Phase I

Semester 6

 

-

-

Industrial Training

Project Work Phase II

Note - This information is taken from multiple sites and can vary.

PhD CSE Syllabus

Since the PhD CSE course duration is 3 to 6 years, students can find the main subjects covered in the course below:

PhD in Computer Science and Engineering Syllabus

Mathematical Modelling

Data Structures and Algorithms

Computer Architecture

Networks and Security

Database and Information Systems

Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing

Software Engineering

Advanced Computer Vision

Machine Learning Theory and Practice

Research Methodology

Computational Algebra and Coding Theory

Final Thesis

Note - This information is taken from multiple sites and can vary.

 

Q:   Can I customize the BTech CSE syllabus as per my interests?
A:

The BTech CSE syllabus is a mix of core subjects and elective subject choices where the core subjects are mandatory for you to study as they provide a basic foundation for the CSE field, leaving no scope for customization.

Talking about the elective subject choices, you can definitely pick the ones you find interesting, aligned with your career goals, and fun to study. This allows some room for customization in the BTech CSE syllabus.

Read more: Computer Science Engineering Syllabus

Q:   What is covered in the CSE 1st year syllabus?
A:

In the CSE 1st year syllabus, you will be studying basic subjects like Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Physics, Engineering Chemistry, Basics of Programming Languages, Basic Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Introduction to Data Structure and Algorithms, etc.

The first year in the CSE curriculum is meant to make you familiar with the foundations of engineering in general and introductory lectures on basic CSE-related concepts. From the second year onwards, you enter into the intricacies of the field and get to explore the more technical side of CSE.

Q:   Does the M.Tech CSE syllabus focus more on theory or practical application?
A:

The M.Tech CSE syllabus lays emphasis on both the theoretical aspect and the practical understanding of important CSE concepts. In the first year you'll be exposed to the foundational knowledge needed to excel at the workplace while the second year focuses more on the practical side of things like research projects and informative seminars. All in all, it would be a fun ride for you if you have the right attitude and passion towards the CSE field.

Relevant Link: Detailed CSE Syllabus

Q:   What are the core subjects for PhD in CSE course?
A:

Here are some core subjects covered under PhD in CSE course:

  • Computer Architecture
  • Computational Algebra and Coding Theory
  • Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing
  • Database and Information Systems
  • Data Structures and Algorithms
  • Research Methodology
  • Final Thesis

You have to conduct detailed research on any chosen topic and present the research findings in the form of your thesis at the end of the course duration to get your PhD degree completion certificate.

CSE Syllabus: Core and Elective Subjects

Though the Computer Science and Engineering syllabus varies on the basis of the course level and the institute offering the course, the coursework structure some general core as well as elective subjects. The core subjects are compulsory for students to study in every semester that provide a strong foundation for some key CSE concepts. This section talks about a few basic core and elective subjects that are a part of the vast CSE 1st year syllabus.

Core Computer Science Engineering Subjects

The core subjects included in the CSE syllabus are meant to give students a brief overview of the CSE field and the major aspects that are crucial for one to excel at the workplace in the future. The subjects might vary from college to college, but the basic concepts taught in the Computer Science Engineering classes are more or less similar. Students may go through some of the core CSE subjects that are a part of the coursework.

Core CSE Subjects

CSE Subject Details

Software Engineering

This subject provides an insight into the designing, analysis, development, and upkeeping of software applications for various business models to enhance productivity.

Programming Languages

This subject gives an overview of the programming and coding languages like C++, Python, Java, etc., used in software development and to ensure smooth computer system operations.

Operating Systems

Students get to learn about the operating system that is the primary software installed on the computer. 

Data Structures and Algorithms

This subject introduces the students to object-oriented programming. Students learn how to store and manipulate data in different ways using computational methods and complex algorithms.

Computer Networks

This subject focuses on the knowledge of interconnecting computing devices like computer servers, routers, switches, and network interface controllers (NICs) to initiate data communication and resource sharing across networks.

Note - This information is taken from external sites and may vary.

Elective Computer Science Engineering Subjects

Students have the opportunity to choose the elective subjects to study as per their interests and future goals, something they resonate with more and enjoy experimenting with. The CSE syllabus offers a plethora of electives to choose from. Some of the common and popular elective subjects in the Computer Science and Engineering syllabus are given in the table below:

Elective CSE Subjects

CSE Subject Details

Artificial Intelligence

This subject includes in-depth analysis of various key factors essential for AI, like problem-solving, search techniques, automated planning, knowledge representation and reasoning using logic, machine learning, neural networks, soft computing, etc.

Cloud Computing

This subject gives an overview of the processes and techniques involved in Cloud Computing. These concepts include SaaS applications, Serverless Computing and  Database, Data Configuration and Manipulation, etc.

Machine Learning

This subject provides an overview of the concepts involved in machine learning. Some topics like Statistical Relational Learning, Reinforcement Learning, dealing with very high-dimensional data, learning data under distributed architecture, etc.

Computer Graphics

This subject provides knowledge about the creation of images with the help of computer technologies. Core concepts include 2-D Design, 3-D Design, Image Processing, Computer Animation and Modelling, etc.

Note - This information is taken from external sites and may vary.

 

CSE Syllabus: Popular Books and Authors

There are a lot of books recommended for studying the Computer Science Engineering subjects. These textbooks act as a reliable source of knowledge for the CSE coursework providing an insight into the field in a more engaging and informative manner. The books followed for the CSE syllabus would differ depending on the course level and the college offering the course; however, students can go through some of the important textbooks to refer for the CSE subjects.

CSE Subjects

Book Title

Author Name

Introduction to Computer Science & Engineering

Computer System Architecture

 

 

M. Morris Mano

Data Structures

Data Structures, Algorithms, and Applications in C++

 

 

Sartaj Sahni

Operating Systems

Operating System Concepts

 

 

Abraham Silberschatz, Greg Gagne, and Peter Baer Galvin

Principles of Programming Languages

Programming Languages: Concepts and Constructs

 

 

Ravi Sethi

Software Engineering

Software Engineering

Ian Somerville

Note - This information is taken from external sites and may vary.

 

Q:   Which is the toughest subject in BTech CSE course?
A:

Hi, hope you're doing well.

This depends on your interest and learning potential. The subject that is tough for you might be the easiest one out there for your friend, who finds it interesting and intriguing. For example, you may find Data Structures and Algorithms very tough because of the various technicalities and computer and data theory that it deals with. But, for some other person, it might be fun to study, as it gives you a channel to learn, explore, and experiment with something different.

Q:   What are the core subjects covered in M.Tech CSE program?
A:

The important subjects might vary slightly depending on the university as every university follow a certain set of guidelines when it comes to their coursework, but common topics covered in the course usually remain almost the same that include:
Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures
• Software Engineering Principles
• AI and ML
• Computer Networks and Distributed Systems
• Database Management Systems
• Computer Architecture and Organization
You also get to choose from a variety of elective subjects in the second year as per your interests and career goals.

Q:   Are there any elective subjects in M.Tech Computer Science and Engineering course?
A:

The MTech in Computer Science and Engineering course offers a pool of electives for you to opt in the 3rd and 4th semesters where you get the chance to pick a subject that interests you more and is enjoyable for you.
You can choose to pick a subject according to the career pathway and industry that you would like to enter into in the future, where you see yourself as a well-established Computer Science Engineering professional. There are a variety of choices like Mobile Computing, Internet Technology, Advanced Windows Programming, AI and ML, VLSI Technology, etc..

Q:   How many reference books shall I follow for each BTech CSE subject?
A:

Well, the exact number of reference books for each subject in the BTech CSE syllabus cannot be said with any certainty, it is recommended to have not more than 2 resourceful books per subject. It is better to prioritize core concepts and search for well-regarded reference books for the same. 

CSE Syllabus vs Information Technology Syllabus

This comparison explores how the CSE 1st year syllabus differs from the IT syllabus in terms of core subjects, program electives, and top books, for your reference.

MTech CSE Syllabus vs MTech IT Syllabus

This brief comparison table helps students make the right choice when it comes to making a choice between CSE and IT at the PG level:

Parameters

MTech CSE 

MTech IT 

Core Subjects

Advanced Database Management Systems, Systems Programming & Operating Systems, VLSI System Design, Distributed Computer Systems, etc.

Advanced Algorithms, Advanced Database Systems, Web and Social Computing, Computer Networks, Cloud Computing, Advanced Network Security, etc.

Electives

AI & ML, Data Science and Big Data, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Software Engineering, Embedded Systems, etc.

Advanced Networking, Digital Image Processing, Data Science, Internet Technology, Mobile Computing, etc.

Popular Books

  • Fundamentals of Wireless Sensor Networks –Theory and Practice by W. Dargie and C. Poellabauer
  • Cryptography and Network Security by W. Stallings
  • Distributed Computing, Fundamentals, Simulations and Advanced topics by Hagit Attiya and Jennifer Welch
  • Advanced Digital Signal Processing by Shaila D. Apte
  • Advanced Computer Organization Architecture by Ikvinderpal Singh
  • Control in Robotics and Automation: Sensor-Based Integration by Ghosh

Note - This information is taken from external sites and may vary.

 

Q:   What are the important subjects taught in BTech in Information Technology?
A:

The BTech in IT syllabus includes important subjects such as Data Structures and Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Basics of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Database Management Systems, Computer Networks, Web Development, etc.. There are a lot of interesting elective subjects as well for students to choose from like Control System Engineering, Internet and Web Security Protocols, Wireless Sensor Network, Cloud Computing, etc. The BTech IT syllabus and differs from college to college but the general concepts taught in the BTech IT classes are usually similar.

Q:   Can you suggest some important textbooks for BTech Information Technology?
A:

Here are some of the important books for BTech IT you should consider reading:

Book Name

Author Name

Analog and Digital Communication

T. L. Singal

C Programming Language

Brian W.

Computer System Architecture

M. Mano

Digital Logic and Computer Design

M. Morris Mano

Introduction to the Theory of Computation

Michael Sipser

Database System Concepts

Abraham Silberschatz and S Sudarshan

Computer Networks

Andrew S. Tanenbaum

Software Engineering

Ian Sommerville

 

Top Colleges CSE Syllabus

There are more than 6,700 CSE colleges in India that offer excellent learning environment, practical exposure and even earning opportunities. The Computer Science Engineering syllabus of each college is different from each other and also depending on the CSE course level. The subjects might be similar but the pattern and structure of the course would be different. 

Top Colleges BTech CSE Syllabus

Candidates can see the BTech CSE syllabus in top colleges below: 

Best BTech CSE Colleges

BTech CSE Syllabus

IIT Bombay

BTech Syllabus

IIT Delhi

BTech CSE Syllabus

VIT Vellore

BTech CSE Syllabus

IIT Madras

BTech CSE Syllabus

DTU

BTech CSE Syllabus

Top Colleges MTech CSE Syllabus

Candidates can see the MTech CSE syllabus in top colleges below: 

Best MTech CSE Colleges

MTech CSE Syllabus

IIT Hyderabad

MTech CSE Syllabus

IIT Delhi

MTech CSE Syllabus

VIT Vellore

MTech CSE Syllabus

IIT Madras

MTech CSE Syllabus

NIT Surathkal

MTech CSE Syllabus

Distance CSE Syllabus

Candidates can see the Distance CSE syllabus in top colleges below: 

Distance BTech CSE College

Tuition Fee

Distance Learning Centre – Karnataka State Open University

INR 12,500

Proactive – Sandip University

INR 1.08 lakh

Karnataka State Open University

NA

Shivani College of IT and Management

NA

R&R Education Foundation

NA

 

UG Courses

Q:   Is the BTech CSE syllabus the same across all colleges?
A:

The BTech CSE syllabus differs on the basis of the college offering the course. Every college follows a particular coursework pattern set by the college committee. Though the subjects might vary, the overall conceptual framework is more or less similar for students to get hold of the important concepts of the CSE field.

The syllabus includes core subjects, elective subject choices, practical lab work, workshops, and a final year research project.

Q:   Is the JEE Main syllabus enough for BTech CSE admission?
A:

The JEE Main syllabus is not sufficient for BTech CSE admission. Though it covers PCM concepts from Class 11 and 12, along with logical reasoning and quantitative aptitude, which are definitely included in the syllabus of other entrance tests, it is always better to check the detailed exam syllabus of other national/state/university exams for BTech CSE.

The top IITs need JEE Advanced scores for admission, and various other colleges take into account scores of state-level/college-level exams. So, you must keep the backup window open without relying solely on one exam where the competition is too high.

Q:   How important is calculus for BTech CSE entrance exams?
A:

Calculus is a very important part of the BTech CSE entrance exam syllabus, with a lot of focus on complex mathematical concepts that are foundational for the CSE field in general. Top BTech CSE colleges keep a heavy portion of the exam syllabus to calculus which surely improves your reasoning and analytical skills.

CSE Syllabus FAQs

Here are a few frequently asked questions about Computer Science Engineering syllabus and subjects:

 

PG Courses

Q:   Is the BTech CSE syllabus tough?
A:

If you are someone who loves coding, has an interest in computer programming languages, and enjoys playing with computers, you will find the CSE syllabus for the BTech course quite fun and interesting to study. Having said that, in general, the coursework for B Tech in Computer Science Engineering can be tricky and not-so-easy to tackle initially, but with time, as you gain some basic knowledge, you can handle it comfortably.

Q:   Is the PhD CSE coursework very tough?
A:

This depends on your interest and passion for the field of computer and technology and everybody will have different viewpoints regarding the same. The syllabus that you find tough might be very easy to understand for the other person, who has a lot of learning potential and interest for computer technology, hardware and software system applications. For example, you may find Computational Algebra and Data Structures very tough because of the high mathematical aptitude and analytical approach that it deals with. But, for some other person, it might be easy to study.

Having said that, going for a PhD in any discipline has to be a very conscious decision as it takes up a lot of your time and energy. You should be very sure about your future plans and have a strong research aptitude to be able to get through the entire doctoral course duration.

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With 86.9 percentile in MHT-CET and aiming for CSE, you can get admission in good private colleges but not top government ones. Possible options include DY Patil College of Engineering Pune, MIT-WPU, PCCOE, Sinhgad College of Engineering, and Sanjivani College of Engineering. You may also get CSE in

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Abhishek Kumar

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month ago

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rashmi gupta

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month ago

Though the university is recognised as a top institution in engineering education, and with quite a uptake with regards to placements, there have been efforts, and keep on putting efforts, by the university, to connect students with such prestigious employers within the country and around the globe.

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Vandana Aggarwal

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a month ago

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MANVI KHOSLA

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a month ago

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GAURAV JOSHI

Guide-Level 13

Answered a month ago

Good morning!

CU's on-campus recruitment for CSE students is quite favourable.

The university has equipped students with labs, project work, and IBM-sponsored certifications, which helps them during the hiring process. Because CSE with specialisations (like Data Science, AI/ML, Cloud) is offered, recr

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Jas

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a month ago

This concern is common among most engineering students: getting placed after engineering. And computer Science placements at Chandigarh University are indeed reputed for the huge number of recruiters that come to campus. As a matter of fact, this year's placement season registered over 3750 selectio

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MANPREET KAUR

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month ago

The CSE freshers salary in India differs on the basis of various factors like your academic history, skill set, internship experience at college (if any), job profile, recruiter, company location and market demand scenario. Fresher CSE jobs usually pay around INR 5 LPA to INR 7 LPA mid level job rol

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Vidhi Jain

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The highest package for B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering at Sri Ramswaroop Memorial University (SRMU) Lucknow varies according to different sources. Here are some recent figures:

- *the highest Package (2024):* INR 16 Lacs per annum, as reported in some placement statistics.

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CHAITHAN GUDIPUDI

Beginner-Level 1