Kamaldeep
28 June, 2024
Table of Contents
“There’s nothing I believe in more strongly than getting young people interested in science and engineering, for a better tomorrow, for all humankind.” – Bill Nye.
Have you ever wondered who’s behind every exciting innovation, the gigantic bridges, the fast internet, and whatnot? It’s the Engineers. Engineering indeed helps students in their career growth, and not only that, it also assists the nation’s economy. For decades, engineering has been students’ most popular career path, especially in India. However, students often find themselves in a dilemma about the right course to choose, B.Tech or BE.
Do you know the difference between a B.Tech. and a BE? Choosing an engineering degree can feel like picking your lightsaber colour in Star Wars – a crucial decision that sets the course for your galactic, well, engineering career. Fear not, aspiring Padawan engineers, Yoda, are here to solve your queries.
B.Tech full form is Bachelor of Technology and BE full form is Bachelor in Engineering. Many students get confused between B.Tech and BE because they seem similar. In contrast they are not the same.
B.Tech and BE have their own differences and importance. The main difference between B.Tech and BE courses is the approach towards the studies. B.Tech(Bachelor of Technology) focuses more on practical application, while BE focuses more on theoretical knowledge applied to real-world problems.
Let’s get to the bottom of this and find out everything about B.Tech and B.E.
The full form of B.Tech is a Bachelor of Technology. B.Tech is a four-year undergraduate programme covering engineering and technology principles and applications. It is among the most popular professional courses in India. The coursework prepares you for lucrative career options in various engineering fields such as Computer Science, Information Technology, Mechanical, Electrical, Construction, and Petroleum. Although the curriculum is different for every BTech specialisation, the initial Semesters(Sem I and Sem II) are generally the same. Mathematics, physics, chemistry, engineering mechanics, and civil engineering are some of the common subjects taught in Btech’s first year. In addition to the core subjects, soft skills and communication skills are also covered in this programme.
Bachelor of Engineering or BE is an undergraduate programme that provides a solid understanding of engineering principles and skills similar to that of B.Tech. This course is designed to develop your knowledge and expertise to tackle real-world engineering challenges. The course structure of the BE programme focuses on theoretical concepts and is not only limited to engineering subjects. Moreover, it covers the business and management aspects of various engineering fields. Furthermore, the eligibility criteria for admission in BE and B.Tech may be different.
In a BE course, you will learn about specialisations such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or computer engineering similar to a B.Tech course.
You must be wondering, if both of them are similar, then what’s the difference? Let’s find out in an easy way.
You will not find many differences between BE and B.Tech; here are a few for your better understanding.
Bachelor of Engineering (BE) | Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) |
The focus is on theory and research-based areas of engineering | The focus of the B.Tech programme is more on practical applications of the field or specialisations |
In the BE curriculum, internship and training are essential but not mandatory | Internships, industrial training and visits are mandatory |
It is more knowledge-oriented | This degree is more technology-related and skill-based |
As it is knowledge-based, the curriculum is not frequently updated, though it follows the AICTE guidelines | As it is a skill-based course, the curriculum is regularly updated and improved as per the latest norms |
May have an edge in core engineering jobs | May have an advantage in IT and software jobs |
The orientation of both programmes may differ, but the subjects covered are more or less similar. From the 3rd Semester, the subjects will be different as per the specialisation you choose. Here is the list of some common subjects covered in the first two Semesters of these degrees.
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
English | Basics of Mechanics |
Engineering Maths 1 | Physics/Engineering Chemistry |
Engineering Chemistry | Environmental Studies and Disaster Management |
Electric and Electronics Engineering | Calculus |
Computer Systems and Programming | Mathematics 2 |
Engineering Thermodynamics | Control Systems |
As mentioned above, the syllabus starts varying from 2nd year of the B.Tech and BE programme depending upon the specialisation you are enrolled for.
B.Tech and BE programmes cover a wide range of subjects, from advanced maths to detailed programming. There’s a specialisation for everyone, whether you are passionate about solving complex problems or interested in the intricacies of technology design. B.Tech and B.E programmes are paving paths for the development of students and for the country, too.
Specialisation | Details |
Aeronautical Engineering | This specialisation focuses on aircraft designs, navigation, and aerodynamics. |
Automobile Engineering | It concentrates on automotive technology, manufacturing design and vehicle design. |
Biotechnology | You will be involved in the application of biology and technology. |
Civil Engineering | You learn about construction, infrastructure, and urban planning. |
Computer Science and Engineering | You learn about software development and computer systems. |
Electrical and Electronics Engineering | This specialisation is focused on dealing with electricity, electronics, and automatic control systems. |
Mechanical Engineering | It focuses on machinery, mechanics, and manufacturing. |
Electronics & Communication Engineering | This involves electronic circuits and communication systems. |
Specialisation | Details |
Civil Engineering | It focuses on the construction, design, and maintenance of the physical and natural built environment |
Computer Engineering | It combines computer science and electrical engineering. |
Mechanical Engineering | You will be dealing with mechanics principles, machinery, and manufacturing processes. |
Chemical Engineering | This involves the study of chemicals, processes, and materials. |
Electrical Engineering | You will learn about electricity, electronics, and power systems. |
Aerospace Engineering | This is focused on aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. |
Environmental Engineering | You will learn about solving environmental issues using engineering. |
Biomedical Engineering | It combines biology, medicine, and engineering principles. |
Admission requirements for B.Tech and BE programmes may vary depending on the subject specialisation and the university. However, there are usually common standards that need to be met, including:
University | Fee |
Amity University (B.Tech) | INR 83,000 – 1,28,000* (per year depending upon the specialisation) |
IIT Bombay (B.Tech) | INR 1,23,350* (complete fee) |
IIT Hyderabad (B.Tech) | INR 1,43,076*/ Semester |
IIT BHU (B.Tech) | INR 1,05,950*/ Semester |
BITS Pilani (BE) | INR 2,58,475*/ Semester |
Manipal University (B.Tech) | INR 13,10,000 to INR 19,58,000* (full course fee) |
VIT (Vellore Institute of Technology) | INR 1,76,000 to INR 1,98,000* (per year and depending on the specialisation) |
*The fee structure provided above is for informational purposes only, and it might change.
One thing is for sure B.Tech and BE are on the same level, the choice depends on individual needs and aspirations. Based on your personal preferences, you can consider the following points.
Go for BTech:
B.E might be a better fit:
From multinational companies and PSUs to Unicorn companies, engineers are leaving their mark in every industry. Depending upon the area of expertise you choose, there are countless career opportunities for you to explore. As there are numerous specialisations available in B.Tech and BE, career prospects in every field are different. Some of the highest-paying jobs after B.Tech and BE are listed below:
Job Roles | Average Salary |
Mechanical Engineer | INR 4.5 to 8.8 LPA |
Civil Engineer | INR 4.5 to 7.2 LPA |
Automotive Engineer | INR 4 to 9 LPA |
Chemical Engineer | INR 4 to 9 LPA |
Software Engineer | INR 5 to 18 LPA |
Construction Manager | INR 8 to 18 LPA |
Product Manager | INR 9 to 25 LPA |
Testing Engineer | INR 4 to 8 LPA |
Plant Engineer | INR 4 to 7 LPA |
Design Engineer | INR 4 to 9 LPA |
Researcher | INR 5 to 11.7 LPA |
Robotics Engineer | INR 4 to 8 LPA |
Development Engineer | INR 5 to 10 LPA |
Engineers enjoy one of the lowest unemployment rates. It has been seen that B. Tech and BE are secure fields of study with limitless career opportunities. So, whichever route you take, a B.Tech or BE degree can lead to exciting and rewarding career opportunities in engineering. You will be well on your way to being a competent engineer by thinking about your objectives and investigating your possibilities. The future is all set for engineers since they are a part of a growing economy.
While BTech is more industry-oriented and practical-based, the BE course covers theoretical aspects of engineering and is suitable for candidates who are seeking a career in research. Therefore, it depends on your personal choice, otherwise both hold the same value.
Yes, BTech is a 4-year undergraduate course offered in various specialisations by a number of colleges in regular mode.
There is no significant difference in the salary for BTech and BE graduates. If you have the skill, knowledge and potential, you can definitely earn a lucrative package.
A BE course graduate with zero work experience can receive the highest salary of INR 8,00,000 to 12,00,000(depending on various factors like skills, company, specialisation demand).
The highest salary for a BTech graduate with no experience ranges between INR 8,00,000 to INR 15,00,000. It depends on the job role, your skills and the company also.
BTech and BE courses differ in structure and motive, but they are equally valuable.
Doing an MBA after BTech can be the right move for career growth since it gives a wider picture of how industries and companies work. After completing an MBA, your chances of getting higher salary packages increase.