Bachelor of Science Honours (B.Sc. Hons.) Microbiology
-
3 Years
-
Under Graduate
-
Science
-
Full Time
3 Years
Under Graduate
Science
Full Time
The full form of B.Sc. (Hons.) is Bachelor of Science Honours. B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology is a three-year undergraduate course that deals with the study of microscopic living organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and algae. The course is interdisciplinary, covering various aspects of biology, chemistry, and physics. Admission to B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology is based on the candidate's marks in the Class 12 examination. The eligibility criteria for admission to the course are that the candidate must have passed the Class 12 examination or equivalent from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects.
The admission process may involve merit-based or entrance exam-based selection, depending on the university or college. Some of the popular entrance exams for the course include CUET, BHU UET, MAHE MET, AMUEEE, IISET IAT, and JEE Main. The average fees for B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology program across the top microbiology colleges in India range from INR 20,000 to 2 Lakhs.
The B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology course syllabus covers various topics such as microbial genetics, microbial physiology, microbial ecology, molecular biology, and microbial biotechnology. The course provides students with a solid foundation in microbiology, enabling them to pursue higher studies or a career in various fields such as pharmacy, medicine, clinical research, nanotechnology, agriculture, dairy industry, and chemical technology.
After completing the graduation in Microbiology, institutions generally provide internships in different organizations such as laboratories, clinics, and hospitals, with different job profiles like bacteriology, virology, mycology, and biology. The average salary ranges around INR 2-4 Lakhs per annum depending on the job and company. Some of the top colleges for B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology are St. Xavier’s College, Madras Christian College, Fergusson College, Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira, Gargi College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Jamia Millia Islamia, Loyola College, and Christ University.
B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology graduates are in high demand nowadays in the field of medical research, quality control, and the biotechnology industry. Candidates can also go ahead with laboratory-based careers in clinical or technical roles not involving research. Some of the well-known professional positions that B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology graduates can pursue are bacteriologist, virologist, mycologist, food microbiologist, biotech product analyst, lecturer, marketing manager, research analyst, and research scientist.
The highlights of the Bachelor of Science Honours (B.Sc. Hons.) Microbiology course details presented in a below:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Bachelor of Science Honours (B.Sc. Hons.) Microbiology |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Eligibility | Successful completion of 10+2 with Science stream (Biology/Maths) or equivalent |
| Admission Process | Entrance exam conducted at national, state, or university level followed by counseling and document verification |
| Core Subjects | Microbial Physiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology |
| Practical Training | Laboratory sessions, fieldwork |
| Career Opportunities | Microbiologist, Research Scientist, Lab Technician |
| Higher Study Options | M.Sc. Microbiology, PhD in Microbiology, PG Diploma in Microbiology etc. |
| Average Salary | INR 3-6 lakh per annum |
| Job Opportunities | Microbiologist, Research Scientist, Lab Technician, Pharmaceutical Sales, etc. |
| Top Recruiters | Pharmaceutical Companies, Research Institutes, Biotechnology Firms, Hospitals, etc. |
| Key Skills | Laboratory techniques, Data analysis, Research skills |
Studying B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology offers several benefits and opportunities for students. Here are some reasons why one should consider studying this course:
Understanding the microbial world: B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology provides a comprehensive understanding of the microbial world, including the study of bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Students learn about the molecular and cellular principles of microbiology, infectious diseases, and environmental and industrial microbiology.
Specialization options: The course offers the opportunity to specialize in Bacteriology, Parasitology, or Virology, allowing students to focus on their area of interest.
Practical training: The course includes practical training in various aspects of microbiological techniques, including the study of the molecular basis of infection and immunity and pathogen ecology during fieldwork.
Research opportunities: Students have the opportunity to undertake a research project under the supervision of a researcher, either within the university or in a research institute. This provides hands-on experience in conducting research and developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Career opportunities: A degree in B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology prepares students for a wide range of careers, including scientific and technical roles, teaching, and science journalism. Graduates can work in academic and industrial research laboratories, government and public health organizations, and pharmaceutical companies.
Flexible degree program: The course is flexible, allowing students to choose from a range of specialized advanced courses and optional courses, depending on their interests and career goals.
Accreditation: The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, which recognizes the quality of the course and its alignment with industry standards.
Industry experience: Students have the opportunity to gain industry experience through work placements, which provide exposure to real-world applications of microbiology and help develop employability skills.
Virtual Reality and mobile app technologies: The course uses virtual reality and mobile app technologies to enhance learning and provide a more immersive learning experience.
International opportunities: Students have the opportunity to study abroad, providing exposure to different cultures and learning environments.
There are several types of B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology programs available to students based on their preferences and schedules:
Full-Time B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology: This is the traditional mode of study where students attend classes on campus for a specified number of hours per week over a period of three or four years. They have access to laboratory facilities, libraries, and other resources provided by the university.
Part-Time B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology: In this mode, students take fewer courses per semester than those in full-time programs and typically complete their degree requirements over a longer period, usually five or six years. This option allows students to work while pursuing their studies.
Distance Education B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology: This type of program enables students to complete their coursework online at their own pace. The curriculum includes video lectures, assignments, quizzes, and exams that can be accessed remotely. Students may also need to visit the campus occasionally for practical training.
Online B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology: Similar to distance education, an online program offers flexibility to students who cannot physically attend classes. However, it differs from distance education as it does not require any visits to the campus. All course materials, assessments, and interactions with instructors occur online.
Accelerated B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology: Some universities offer accelerated programs that allow students to finish their degrees in less time than usual. These programs often involve taking more credits per semester, attending summer sessions, or both.
Combined Degree Programs: Universities sometimes offer combined degree programs such as B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology / M.Sc. Microbiology, which enable students to earn two degrees within a shorter time frame compared to completing them separately.
Joint Honours B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology: A joint honours program combines microbiology with another discipline, allowing students to gain expertise in two fields simultaneously. Examples include B.Sc. (Hons.) Biochemistry and Microbiology or B.Sc. (Hons.) Genetics and Microbiology.
The eligibility criteria for B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology typically include the following points:
Candidates must have completed class 12 in the science stream from a recognized board or university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.
It is essential to have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects, with Zoology or Botany as an optional subject.
Some colleges may conduct entrance exams or have specific requirements for admission, varying from college to college.
Mathematics is usually not required for enrollment in the B.Sc. Microbiology program, which is primarily designed for PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) students.
The program focuses on subjects like Immunology, Analytical Biochemistry, Enzyme Technology, Virology, Biostatistics, and more.
Admission to the B.Sc. Microbiology program is typically based on the candidate's performance in the Class 12 examination, and no entrance exam is usually required.
The entrance exams accepted by universities in India for admission to the Bachelor of Science Honors program in Microbiology are presented in below:
| Entrance Exam | Conducting Body | Universities accepting scores |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Entrance Examination - Main (JEE Main) | National Testing Agency (NTA) | Many central and state universities, including Delhi University, Banaras Hindu University, Aligarh Muslim University, etc. |
| All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE) | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) | Now merged with JEE Main; see above |
| Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination (UCEED) | Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB) | IITs offering undergraduate programs in microbiology, such as IIT Roorkee and IIT Kharagpur |
| Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) | Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi | Admission to M.Sc./M.Tech. programs in biotechnology-related fields at various institutions across India |
| Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) | Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs) | Some universities consider GATE scores for direct admissions or scholarships in postgraduate courses like M.Sc., M.Tech., or Ph.D.; not typically used for UG admissions |
| State-level engineering entrance examinations | Various state governments | Specific state universities may accept these scores for admission to their UG programs in microbiology; check individual university websites for details |
A B.Sc. (Hons.) in Microbiology equips students with a strong foundation in the field of microbiology, along with the necessary skills to succeed in this field. Here's a table outlining the key skills required for this degree:
| Skill | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific Knowledge | A strong understanding of biological principles, including biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and immunology. |
| Laboratory Skills | Proficiency in aseptic technique, culturing microorganisms, performing microscopy, and other microbiological techniques. |
| Data Analysis Skills | The ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data from experiments. |
| Problem-Solving Skills | The ability to troubleshoot problems encountered in the laboratory and develop solutions. |
| Critical Thinking Skills | The ability to evaluate scientific information and form logical conclusions. |
| Communication Skills | The ability to communicate scientific findings effectively, both verbally and in writing. |
| Computer Skills | Proficiency in using software for data analysis, presentation creation, and scientific writing. |
| Time Management Skills | The ability to manage time effectively to complete laboratory work, meet deadlines, and juggle multiple tasks. |
| Teamwork Skills | The ability to work effectively with others in a laboratory setting. |
| Attention to Detail | The ability to pay close attention to detail in order to ensure the accuracy of scientific data. |
The fees structure for a B.Sc.(Hons.) Microbiology program in India can vary widely depending on the college or university you are considering. Here is a general breakdown of some of fees that may be included:
Application Fee: This is typically a one-time fee paid when applying to the college or university. It may range from INR 500 to INR 2000.
Admission Fee: This is a one-time fee paid upon acceptance into the program. It may range from INR 5,000 to INR 50,000.
Tuition Fee: This is the main fee charged for the course and covers the cost of instruction, resources, and faculty salaries. For a B.Sc.(Hons.) Microbiology program, tuition fees can range from INR 50,000 to INR 3 lakhs per year.
Hostel Fee: If you plan to live on campus, you will need to pay a hostel fee. This fee can range from INR 60,000 to INR 1.5 lakhs per year, depending on the facilities provided by the college.
Mess/Cafeteria Fee: Some colleges charge a separate mess or cafeteria fee to cover the cost of meals. This fee can range from INR 2,000 to INR 5,00,000 per year.
Library Fee: A library fee may also be charged to cover the cost of books, journals, and other research materials. This fee can range from INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 per year.
Laboratory Fee: Since microbiology involves practical experiments, there might be additional laboratory fees ranging from INR 5,000 to INR 20,000 per year.
Transportation Fee: Colleges located outside city limits may charge a transportation fee to help students commute daily. This fee can range from INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 per year.
Examination Fee: An examination fee may be charged separately each semester or annually. This fee can range from INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 per exam.
The top private colleges for B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology program in India are presented in below:
| Rank | College Name | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | St. Xavier's College | Kolkata |
| 2 | Fergusson College | Pune |
| 3 | Mount Carmel College | Bengaluru |
| 4 | Kristu Jayanti College | Bangalore |
| 5 | Kishinchand Chellaram College | Mumbai |
| 6 | Ramnarain Ruia Autonomous College | Mumbai |
| 7 | Ramaiah College of Arts Science and Commerce | Bengaluru |
| 8 | Patna Womens College | Patna |
| 9 | Ethiraj College for Women | Chennai |
| 10 | Madras Christian College | Chennai |
| 11 | St Joseph College | Bangalore |
| 12 | Gargi College | New Delhi |
| 13 | Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College | Rahara |
| 14 | PSG College of Arts and Science | Coimbatore |
| 15 | Thiagarajar College | Madurai |
India's top government colleges for B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology are as follows in table:
| Rank | College Name | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | St. Xavier's College | Kolkata |
| 2 | Ramakrishna Mission Vidyamandira | Howrah |
| 3 | RamaKrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College | Rahara |
| 4 | Gargi College | New Delhi |
| 5 | Madras Christian College | Chennai |
| 6 | PSG College of Arts and Science | Coimbatore |
| 7 | Thiagarajar College | Madurai |
| 8 | Sri Krishna Arts and Science College | Coimbatore |
| 9 | Andhra Loyola College | Vijayawada |
| 10 | Fergusson’s College | Pune |
| 11 | Ethiraj College for Women | Chennai |
| 12 | Mount Carmel College | Bengaluru |
| 13 | Kristu Jayanti College | Bangalore |
| 14 | Kishinchand Chellaram College | Mumbai |
| 15 | Dav College | Chandigarh |
After completing a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Microbiology, there are several job opportunities available in various sectors. Here are some of the most common job roles and industries for microbiology graduates:
Microbiologist: Microbiologists study microorganisms, their characteristics, and their interactions with humans, animals, and the environment. They can work in various industries, including healthcare, food, pharmaceuticals, and environmental protection.
Biomedical Scientist: Biomedical scientists work in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics, conducting tests and analyzing samples to diagnose and monitor diseases.
Clinical Research Associate: Clinical research associates work in the pharmaceutical industry, conducting clinical trials and studies to develop new drugs and treatments.
Food Technologist: Food technologists work in the food industry, developing and testing new food products, ensuring food safety and quality, and implementing new technologies in food processing and packaging.
Water Quality Scientist: Water quality scientists work in environmental agencies and water treatment facilities, monitoring and testing water quality, and developing strategies to protect water resources.
Pharmacologist: Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs and other chemical compounds on living organisms, developing new drugs and treatments, and testing the safety and efficacy of existing drugs.
Nanotechnologist: Nanotechnologists work at the microscopic level, combining engineering and biology to develop new technologies and solutions for various industries, including healthcare, energy, and electronics.
The top recruiters after B.Sc (Hons.) Microbiology program are presented in below:
| Recruiter | Industry | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Lupin | Pharmaceuticals | Microbiologist |
| Metropolis Pathology | Healthcare | Medical Coder |
| Parle Agro | Food & Beverage | Quality Control Analyst |
| Britannia Industries Limited | Food & Beverage | Researcher |
| Cipla | Pharmaceuticals | Biomedical Scientist |
| Novartis | Pharmaceuticals | Clinical Research Associate |
| Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. | Pharmaceuticals | Environmental Consultant |
| Biocon | Biotechnology | Software Developer |
| Infosys | Information Technology | Data Scientist |
| Pfizer | Pharmaceuticals | Biotechnology Researcher |
| Wipro | Information Technology | Environmental Analyst |
| The Gene Box | Biotechnology | Technical Support Specialist |
| Genista Biosciences | Biotechnology | Laboratory Technician |
| Astellas | Pharmaceuticals | Research Assistant |
| Procter & Gamble | Consumer Goods | Microbiologist |
The average salary for a B.Sc (Hons.) Microbiology graduate in India is INR 5 LPA (Source: Payscale). This is based on various job roles and sectors, as shown in the table below:
| Job Role | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|
| Microbiologists | 3.5 LPA |
| Biomedical Scientist | 5 LPA |
| Food Technologists | 4 LPA |
| Medical Coder | 4.2 LPA |
| Biochemical Scientist | 7 LPA |
The salary for B.Sc (Hons.) Microbiology graduates in India can range from INR 2 LPA to INR 10 LPA, depending on the job position, company, and location.In the private sector, the average salary for a Microbiologist in Cipla Pharmaceuticals is INR 4.1 LPA, while in SGS it is INR 3.5 LPA. In the government sector, the average salary for a Microbiologist in T&M Service Consulting is INR 5 LPA, while in Union Public Service Commission it is INR 5.5 LPA. The salary for B.Sc (Hons.) Microbiology graduates can also vary based on their skills and experience.
After completing a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Microbiology, there are several career opportunities available in various fields such as healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and research institutions. Here are some of the top career paths and job roles:
Research Scientist: Research scientists conduct experiments, analyze data, and interpret results. They can work in various settings, including universities, government agencies, and private companies, focusing on areas such as immunology, virology, or bacteriology.
Medical Technologist: Medical technologists perform diagnostic tests on patient samples in a laboratory setting. They use various techniques to identify microorganisms that cause diseases. A B.Sc. in Microbiology is a great foundation for becoming a medical technologist.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: A B.Sc. in Microbiology can be an asset for pharmaceutical sales representatives, as it provides knowledge of how drugs work and their impact on microorganisms. They promote and sell drugs to healthcare providers, requiring excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Quality Control Microbiologist: Quality control microbiologists ensure that products, such as food and drugs, meet quality and safety standards. They perform tests on samples to identify any microorganisms present that could affect the product's safety.
Public Health Microbiologist: Public health microbiologists monitor and control infectious diseases in the community. They collect and analyze samples from people and the environment to identify the presence of infectious agents and develop strategies to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Biomedical Scientist: Biomedical scientists work on improving human health, designing studies, testing, and developing new treatment plans for various health problems. They work in conjunction with healthcare sciences.
Clinical Research Associate: Clinical research associates manage, prepare, and organize clinical trials. They work with healthcare professionals, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions to ensure the safety and effectiveness of new treatments and medications.
Healthcare Scientist, Immunology: Healthcare scientists in the immunology department diagnose, monitor, and treat patients with various immune system problems or disorders.
Nanotechnologist: Nanotechnologists work at the microscopic level, combining the principles of engineering and biology to provide accurate and effective solutions to problems in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare.
Pharmacologist: Pharmacologists study the effects of different chemical compounds on the body. They develop and study new medications and investigate the interactions between other compounds.
back