BSc Biotechnology Syllabus

7 minute read
BSc Biotechnology Syllabus

You will be fascinated to know that Biotechs use fermentation and harness biocatalysts such as yeast, enzymes, etc. to become microscopic manufacturing plants, helping to fuel the world! From breakthroughs in stem cell engineering to disease diagnosis through point-of-care devices, Biotechnology opens the doors to all kinds of new discoveries. The BSc Biotechnology degree program includes a blended curriculum that encompasses the elements of Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics combined with lab work, Computer Applications, and Research. But ever wondered what all is covered in this course? Let us take you through a detailed list of the BSc Biotechnology syllabus so that you can understand every aspect of the program.

Course NameBSc Biotechnology 
Full Name Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology 
Course levelGraduation
Eligibility Criteria (Abroad)10+ 2 qualification from BiPc Subjects and mathematics -A good score in IELTS/ TOEFL-Minimum required score in SAT/ ACT exam  
Eligibility Criteria (India)10+ 2 qualification from PCB Subjects and mathematics with at least 50 % marks 
Duration3-4 Years 
Average Salary3,20,000 – 4,20,000 Per Annum
Popular Job Profiles Biotechnology Expert, Laboratory Instructor, Senior Research Associate, etc
Majors Employers National Institute of Immunology, Tata Energy Research Institute, National Botanical Research Institute, Centre of Cellular and Molecular Biology, etc

What is Biotechnology?

Biotechnology is one of the branches of Biology that harnesses cellular and biomolecular methods to develop products and technologies that help improve our lives and the overall health of the planet. The concept of this field dates back to the times when biological processes of microorganisms were utilized to make and store useful dairy products such as cheese and bread. But how far has this reached? With the growth in Genetic Engineering and the advancement of research in Biotechnology, the scope of altering DNA to change the characteristics and functions of organisms has increased the chances of finding new alternatives. Not just this, Biotechnology has spread to different disciplines like Biochemistry, Genetics, Molecular Biotechnology, etc where new discoveries are being made through this natural science field. Before we move on to explain the BSc Biotechnology syllabus, let us first understand the degree in general and how has the study of Biotechnology lead to discoveries in medicine, agriculture or industrial biotechnology.

Also Read about a career in Food Biotechnology!

What is BSc Biotechnology?

Biotechnology combines engineering technologies with biological sciences to regulate systems and living organisms. This undergraduate degree program aims to teach advanced lessons in the biological processes meant for industrial and other purposes. Usually, the course spans over 3 to 4 years, however, at some universities the program duration may stretch to 5 years. Students with a scientific aptitude and keen interest in Biology are ideally suited for a career in Biotechnology.

BSc Biotechnology Syllabus

The BSc Biotechnology syllabus generally covers several aspects of Applied Biochemistry and biotechnology industries including entrepreneurship, commercializing technology and intellectual property. Students are exposed to lectures and case studies from business academics and leaders. In the later part of the degree, students can choose to conduct research in an industrial, medical, or biotechnological setting within the campus or a partnered institution. 

BSc Biotechnology Course Structure

Before diving into the BSc Biotechnology syllabus, let’s first get familiar with the course structure of the same. The Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology is a 3-year undergraduate degree divided into six semesters that provides an in-depth understanding of biomolecular and cellular processes as well as information on the different technologies used to study them. It covers a wide range of topics, including genetics, molecular biology, and chemistry. The course is structured as follows:

  • VI semesters
  • Practical
  • Project Submission
  • Lab experiment

BSc Biotechnology Syllabus

With an aim to create products and technologies that reduce the environmental footprint; combat rare diseases; feed the hungry; use cleaner energy and efficient industrial manufacturing processes, Biotechnology courses impart knowledge in core subjects that helps students prepare for and meet pressing challenges. Here is a semester-wise division of the BSc Biotechnology syllabus and Biotechnology subjects:

Semester 1

  • Cell Biology and Genetics
  • Biophysical Chemistry 
  • Fundamentals of Microbiology
  • Introduction to Biotechnology and Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Physical and Chemical aspects

Semester 2

  • Microbial Chemistry and Physiology
  • Fundamentals of Biochemistry, Biocomputing, and Biostatistics
  • Biomolecules-Organic Mechanisms in Biology
  • Biomathematics
  • Cytogenetic Techniques

Semester 3

  • Microbial Diversity
  • Basic Aspect of Cellular Metabolism
  • Fundamentals of Molecular Biochemistry
  • Plant Biotechnology
  • Principles of Immunology
  • Microbial Genetics

Semester 4

  • Analytical Techniques and Bioinformatics
  • Environmental Biotechnology
  • Genes and Genomics-Integrative Cell Biology
  • Protein Science
  • Biodiversity & taxonomy
  • Animal Biotechnology
  • Molecular Biology Techniques

Semester 5

  • Bioprocess and Biochemical Engineering
  • Genetics & Molecular Biotechnology
  • Immunology
  • Recombinant DNA Technology
  • DNA Typing, Proteomics & Beyond-Environmental Biotechnology

Semester 6

  • Medical Biotechnology
  • Biotechnology
  • Social, Legal & Ethical issues
  • Principal of Biotechnology Applied to Plants and Animals 
  • Analytical Techniques in Biotechnology
  • Advanced Molecular Techniques & Bioinformatics

BSc Biotechnology Subjects

The blog on the BSc Biotechnology syllabus is incomplete without revealing the core subjects of the course along with lab subjects and electives: 

Core Subjects 

The following is a list of core subjects covered in the BSc Biotechnology syllabus:

  • Introductory Biological Chemistry
  • Animal and Plant Physiology
  • Recombinant DNA Technology
  • DNA Typing, Proteomics and Beyond
  • Biodiversity and Taxonomy
  • Microbiology and Macromolecule
  • Biostatistics

Lab Subjects 

The following is the list of lab subjects for the BSc Biotechnology syllabus: 

  • Plant tissue culture lab
  • Sterilization techniques for glassware
  • Genomic DNA isolation from plants
  • Paper Chromatography
  • Estimation of purity of DNA

Elective Subjects

The following is the list of elective subjects for the BSc Biotechnology syllabus: 

  • Nanotechnology
  • Biofertilizer Technology
  • Ecology
  • Biotechnology for Forensics
  • Scientific Writing

BSc Biotechnology Syllabus by UGC

Refer to the given PDF to know about the BSc Biotechnology syllabus as per the UGC:

As indicated in the table below, the following are the most recommended books for a BSc Biotechnology syllabus:

Name of the BookLinks to buy
Biotechnology by B. D SinghBuy here 
A Problem Approach by Pranav Kumar & Usha MinaBuy here
Gene Cloning and DNA Analysis by T. A. BrownBuy here
Principles of Gene Manipulation and Genomics by Sandy B. Primrose, Richard M. TwymanBuy here
Molecular Biology of the Gene by J D WatsonBuy here
Molecular Cell Biology by Harvey LodishBuy here
Kuby’s Immunology by Barbara A. Osborne and Janis KubyBuy here
Biochemistry by Lubert StryerBuy here

Scope of Biotechnology

BSc Biotechnology is one of the most prominent courses in Biology after 12th except MBBS. After completing your graduation, you can definitely go for an MSc in Biotechnology. The program is best for students who have a strong inclination to learn through practical education and explore new possibilities in the field of Biotechnology. From being employed as research agents and qualified professors to genetic engineers in clinical research and diagnostics; there are ample opportunities for students to consider after completing BSc Biotechnology.

Career Scope and Salary

Jobs for BSc Biotechnology graduates are available in medicine, bioinformatics, and computer-aided research. There are several job prospects for BSc Biotechnology graduates in both the public and private sectors. Just a few of the top job options for graduates of this course are biophysicist/biochemist, research associate, epidemiologist, lab technician, and others. The following are the available BSc Biotechnology job opportunities for graduates, along with their average salary:

Job Prospects Average Estimated Salary in INR
Biochemist5.2 lakhs per annum 
Lab Technician3 lakhs per annum 
Biotech Analyst6 lakhs per annum 
Epidemiologist6 lakhs per annum 
Biostatistician5.5 lakhs per annum 
Clinical Research Manager9 lakhs per annum 
Medical Coder4.5 lakhs per annum 
Research Associate3.5 lakhs per annum 
Associate Biotechnologist3.2 lakhs per annum 
Biotechnology Instructor5.4 lakhs per annum 

Explore more Biotechnology Jobs and Career Scope here!

Top Areas of Recruitment

Research and development positions are among the most rewarding for BSc Biotechnology graduates. They must cope with a variety of new challenges and innovate on a regular basis. Jobs after a BSc Biotechnology can be found in a variety of sectors. Some of the top areas of recruiting includes:

  • Research firms
  • Hospitals
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Food production firms
  • Clinical research firms
  • Laboratories
  • Consultation agencies
  • Chemical manufacturers
  • Educational institutes
  • Fertilizer manufacturers
  • Soil biology
  • Animal husbandry
  • Cosmetics
  • Ecology

FAQs

Is it possible to do BSc Biotechnology without taking Mathematics in 12th?

Yes. The minimum eligibility criterion for BSc Biotechnology is a passing grade in Xth and XIIth with Physics, Biology, and Chemistry as core courses, with a minimum of 50% overall (45% for SC/ST students) and 60% in each core subject. Because it is a BSc course, students who completed PCM or PCB in XIIth are eligible for admission.

Can I do MTech Biotechnology after completion of this course?

Yes. Candidates who have completed a BSc Biotechnology with a grade point average of at least 50% are eligible to apply for MTech Biotechnology. Admission to MTech programmes is often based on the candidate’s GATE score.

What are the core subjects in the BSc Biotechnology syllabus?

The following is a list of core subjects covered in the BSc Biotechnology syllabus:
Introductory Biological Chemistry
Animal and Plant Physiology
Recombinant DNA Technology
DNA Typing, Proteomics and Beyond
Biodiversity and Taxonomy
Microbiology and Macromolecule
Biostatistics

Is it better to work or continue studies after completion of BSc Biotechnology course?

Although there are several potential employment prospects for BSc graduates, it is always recommended that they continue their education because it offers up many more chances. Candidates will also be able to obtain positions at higher levels once they have entered the industry.

This was all about the BSc Biotechnology syllabus, course structure and scope. It’s time to find you the perfect study abroad destination and what it’s like to learn in one of the top universities in the world! Take the opportunity to talk to our experts at Leverage Edu and we can help you with the course information and career advice in choosing the right university that can provide a base to sharpen your research and development skills. 

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13 comments
    1. Hi, Rishabh!
      You need to have passed 10 + 2 in science stream with PCM or PCB for BSc Biotechnology.
      Contact us for further queries at 1800 57 2000!

  1. This information is surly useful , mostly for the one who is confused to choose this course after their 10+2 ….regards 😺

    1. Hi, Tanveer! The biotechnology field is an emerging one. This field provides you with immense career opportunities both in biology and technology!
      We hope you have understood our blog on BSc Biotechnology and the details mentioned in it. We are also listing down some more related topics for you: Courses after BSc Biotechnology
      Animal Biotechnology – Career in Bioscience
      Scope of Biotechnology
      MSc Biotechnology
      Biotechnology Courses
      Biotechnology Courses in Canada
      PhD in Biotechnology
      Biotechnology Engineering
      We hope this helps you in a better way and simplify your doubts! Also, if you are interested in making you career in Biotechnology abroad or any other related course, we are here to assist you, just reach us at 1800 57 2000!!

    1. Hi, Kashish!
      The course has been thoroughly explained and we would suggest reading it again for your better understanding. You can pursue BSc Biotechnology from the below mentioned universities:
      Harvard University
      Stanford University
      University of Cambridge
      Cornell University
      The University of Oxford and many more!
      If this excites you, give us a call on 1800 57 2000 and start with your application process today!
      We are also providing some other blogs for your to read: Courses after BSc Biotechnology
      BSc Biotechnology
      Biotechnology Courses in Canada

  2. Hello sir from last 2 week I was busy in search of notes & e books for optional biotechnology’s first semester
    But now I get happy to see it

  3. I want know about all about bsc in biotechnology+gentics+biochemistry waht are the pros and cons and all which is best university in India

    1. Hi, Rishabh!
      You need to have passed 10 + 2 in science stream with PCM or PCB for BSc Biotechnology.
      Contact us for further queries at 1800 57 2000!

  1. This information is surly useful , mostly for the one who is confused to choose this course after their 10+2 ….regards 😺

    1. Hi, Tanveer! The biotechnology field is an emerging one. This field provides you with immense career opportunities both in biology and technology!
      We hope you have understood our blog on BSc Biotechnology and the details mentioned in it. We are also listing down some more related topics for you: Courses after BSc Biotechnology
      Animal Biotechnology – Career in Bioscience
      Scope of Biotechnology
      MSc Biotechnology
      Biotechnology Courses
      Biotechnology Courses in Canada
      PhD in Biotechnology
      Biotechnology Engineering
      We hope this helps you in a better way and simplify your doubts! Also, if you are interested in making you career in Biotechnology abroad or any other related course, we are here to assist you, just reach us at 1800 57 2000!!