Master of Science (M.Sc.) Biology: Courses, Admission, Syllabus, Colleges, Eligibility, Entrance Exam, Career Scope and Salary

  • course years 2 Years
  • type of course Post Graduate
  • course stream Science
  • course type Full Time
Written By universitykart team | Last Updated date Oct, 09, 2024

About Master of Science in Biology: Admission Process, Salary, Eligibility Criteria, Entrance Exams, Skills Required, Fee Structure, Top Colleges, Career/Scope, Job Profile

This program delves into the intricate study of living organisms, focusing on their growth, structure, evolution, and ecology, with additional emphasis on disciplines like taxonomy and the origin of species. Participants explore the profound structural transformations driven by various factors affecting living organisms, bridging insights from both human and plant-based foundations to conclude.

Eligibility for this program requires applicants to hold a Bachelor’s degree in Science with a minimum aggregate of 60% marks. Admission to the MSc Biology course is determined by the candidate's performance in the Bachelor’s degree exam or through entrance exams conducted by admission authorities.

The average annual tuition fees for colleges offering MSc Biology range from INR 40,000 to INR 4,00,000, varying depending on the institution chosen. Additionally, students have the option to pursue this course through distance learning, with average annual fees ranging from INR 10,000 to INR 70,000.

Upon completion of the Program, MSc Biology Graduates can pursue various career paths, including roles such as Biology Content Developer, Biochemist, Health Educator, Physician's Assistant, Nurse Practitioner, Medical and Health Services Manager, Geneticist, Biological Technician, and Medical Product Sales Representative.

Typically, individuals with an MSc Biology degree can expect an average salary ranging from INR 2,00,000 to 5,00,000 per annum, contingent upon their job roles and level of experience.

MSc in Biology Course Highlights

Course Level

Post-graduation

Full form

Master of Science in Biology

Duration

Two years

Type of Examination

Semester-type

Eligibility

Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a reputable university

Admission Process

Entrance/ Merit-Based

Average Annual Fees

INR 40,000 to 4,00,000

Average Annual Salary

INR 2,00,000 to 5,00,000

Top Recruiting Companies

Johnson and Johnson, GlaxoSmithKline, Abbott Laboratories, Merck, Biocon, CTS life sciences Dr. Reddy's labs, etc.

Job Positions

Biological Research Associates, Teachers, Biochemist, Healthcare Professionals and Practitioners, Health Services Managers Ecologist, etc.

MSc Biology What's it all about?

Details and information about information about MSc Biology course are as follows.

This course is focused on practical and theoretical knowledge in studying living organisms and their evolution in time as they undergo continuous changes to their surroundings.

MSc biology is a specialization in researching these transformations and transitions that occur in living organisms after they are exposed to different environmental conditions and how these changes impact their growth, ecology, and development.

This course teaches students the basics of biology. It gives them the information needed to carry out such thorough research.

Students are taught of the latest techniques in biology including DNA sequencing, the analysis of metabolic networks, genetic variation as well as physiological measures for humans and field studies on animals and plants, etc.

Why Study MSc Biology?

There are a myriad of reasons to take the MSc Biochemistry course. Students can pursue this course due to these advantages that the program offers:

Anyone who wants to better understand genetic changes and who is intrigued by watching the structural changes and anomalies that occur in living organisms and to research these concepts in depth is invited to take this course.

The graduates of this field can work for prominent pharmaceutical companies like GlaxoSmithKline Biocon and GlaxoSmithKline as researchers or famous individuals to contribute their research and analysis to the creation of medicines to treat diseases of our bodies.

Aspirants looking to use their knowledge in the industry of plants and botany are employed as research assistants within the agricultural industry in which they study different species of plants and their applications to help make organic farming more sustainable as well as their applications in modern medicine for the treatment of health and disease issues.

Students who want to research animal and plant genomes and genetic variations can be botanists agrochemicals or horticulturists. They research species of plants by conducting experiments and generating conclusions that can be used to improve or offer aid to modern medicine as well as organic farming.

Biology graduates with an MSc are highly sought-after in the field of education as they are sought-after and demanded by universities and institutions in teaching posts to provide their knowledge to students who want to pursue the subject for higher education and receive exclusive benefits and cash for doing the same.

Following the completion of the course students can find a job that pays an average annual wage that ranges between INR 2,00,000 and 5,00,000.

What are the MSc Biology Eligibility Criteria?

The Eligibility criteria required for MSc Biology aspirants are not complex and follow. Be aware that the eligibility requirements will vary from one institute to the next.

Any applicant who holds an undergraduate diploma in Biology or a related subject from a recognized institution can apply.

The applicant must have at minimum 60% marks on their degree.

A 5 per cent relaxation on aggregate marks is provided to candidates who belong to the SC/ST category.

Master of Science in Biology Admission Process

Admission to this course is typically determined by the score achieved by the candidate on an exam for entrance. The most important all-India entrance exams conducted for this purpose include BHU PET the IIT JAM exam, DuET and so on. Some colleges also allow admission on a merit-based basis. The various steps during the process of admission are described below.

Selection based on merit

Contact the universities or colleges you're interested in.

Keep a high score during your Bachelor's degree examinations.

As time goes by colleges publish their list of cutoffs. Make sure you're suitable for admission to your desired program.

If you are eligible, go to the college and present all required documents.

Entrance-based selection

The application procedure for admission based on an entrance exam will be as follows.

• Registration: Candidates need to sign up for the entrance exam.

• Formulation for application: Fill out the application form and fill in all the necessary information carefully.

• Submit documents: Scan and upload all the required documents such as mark sheets. Documents must be submitted in a certain format, as defined through the portal for application.

• Application fee: The small application fee is paid online at the time of filling out the online application. Payment is accepted through any online payment method.

• Admission admit cards can be downloaded: Admission cards are issued after all applicants are deemed to be of their eligibility. The admit card has to be downloaded, and printed to be used at the time of the test.

• Exam Preparation: The exam is a test that you must prepare for following the syllabus and previous exams. Examine on the day that is set.

• Results: Based upon candidates' success in the entrance test the results will be released.

MSc Biology Entrance Examinations

In the majority of institutions, MSc Biology acceptances will be conducted according to the scores of the entrance examinations. The application forms for entrance tests are usually released during January and December and the exams are conducted within a short time after. This year, however, the dates are being delayed due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Some of the most well-known MSc Biology entrance exams are given in the following table

Entrance Exams

Registration

Exam Dates

CUET PG

December 27, 2023

11th March to 28th March, 2024

BITSAT

The last week of January 2024

The week that ended May 2024

NEST

February 2023

June 2023

IIT JAM

September 5, 2023

February 11, 2024

DUET

February 2024

15th - 31st May 2024

TISS NET

February 2024

11th March to 28th March, 2024

Top 10 M.Sc Biology Colleges in India

Students can enrol in a variety of M.Sc Biology institutions across the nation. These institutions aim to ensure that students have access to the necessary infrastructure, teachers and facilities needed to study the subject thoroughly and in-depth. Here are the top 10 universities in India where students can be admitted to:

SI.No

Name of College

1

UPES, Dehradun

2

Hindu College, Delhi

3

Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab

4

Miranda House, Delhi NCR

5

St Stephens College, New Delhi

6

NIMS University, Jaipur

7

Parul University, Gujarat

8

Madras Christian College, Chennai

9

Hansraj College, Delhi NCR

10

Loyola College, Chennai

MSc Biology vs MSc Life Sciences

MSc Biology as well as MSc Life Sciences are quite alike, but there's a small distinction between the two. Also, make sure to check the top MSc Life Sciences Colleges in India. In this case, we've contrasted the two courses:

Parameters

MSc Biology

MSc Life Sciences

Qualification

Master of Science in Biology

Master of Science in Life Sciences

Course Overview

This course focuses on the function, structure, and growth of the organism, its origin, evolution and taxonomy for living organisms.

This course provides a thorough analysis of the different living processes that occur in animals, plants, and humans, as well as microorganisms such as algae, fungi and viruses.

Eligibility Criteria

Bachelor's degree in the relevant discipline from an accredited university.

Bachelor's degree in the relevant discipline from an accredited university.

Admission Process

Merit/ Entrance-Based

Merit/ Entrance-Based

Average Annual Fees

INR 40,000 to 4,00,000

INR 15,000 to 1,00,000

Average Annual Salary

INR 2,00,000 to 5,00,000

INR 2,80,000 to 6,00,000

Top Recruiting Companies

Abbott Laboratories, Baxter, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Johnson & Johnson, Merck and Pfizer and others.

Abbott Laboratories, Baxter, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Johnson & Johnson, Merck Pfizer etc.

Top Job Profiles

A Biochemist, Biology Content Designer Health Education Specialist, Physician's Assistant, Nurse Practitioner Medical and Health Services Manager etc.

Product Manager, Food Scientist, Immunologist etc.

M.Sc. in Biology in colleges in India

The number of colleges is 150 that provide Biology with a complete-time course of studying. There is a divide in colleges by ownership. Private: 62, public/ the government: 52, and public private 4.

The location is important.

The majority of the nation's major cities and states offer an array of Biology that includes India and others. All cities and states that offer the top colleges in Biology are located in Tamil Nadu. Below is a table that shows India with the lowest number. of colleges.

Location Details

Colleges

Tamil Nadu

24 Colleges

Karnataka

21 Colleges

Maharashtra

16 Colleges

Kerala

15 Colleges

Bangalore

12 Colleges

Chennai

10 Colleges

Punjab

9 Colleges

Uttar Pradesh

9 Colleges

Delhi/NCR

9 Colleges

Coimbatore

8 Colleges

Rajasthan

8 Colleges

Mumbai (All)

8 Colleges

Andhra Pradesh

6 Colleges

Gujarat

6 Colleges

Jaipur

6 Colleges

Uttarakhand

6 Colleges

Madhya Pradesh

5 Colleges

Orissa

5 Colleges

Delhi

4 Colleges

Kerala - Other

4 Colleges

M.Sc in Biology Fee Structure

The cost amount for the M.Sc Biology course isn't fixed, and it varies based on things like the campus, faculty and facilities. The typical course cost is in India to study M.Sc Biology is about INR 50,000 to 1 LPA. The following are the M.Sc Biology tuition fees in India:

Sl.No.

Name of the Institute

Average Annual Fees

1

UPES, Dehradun

INR 1.7 PA

2

Hindu College, Delhi NCR

INR 39,420 PA

3

Chandigarh University

INR 80,000 PA

4

Miranda House, Delhi NCR

INR 29,600 PA

5

NIMS University, Jaipur

INR 1.2 LPA

MSc Biology Job Profile

Job Title

Description

The Salary Average (per annum)

Research Scientist

Conducts independent research at government, academic or private research institutions.

INR 300,000 - INR 800,000

Biotechnologist

Apply biological principles to design technologies and products in areas like agriculture and medicine.

INR 300,000 - INR 700,000

Environmental Scientist

Researches the effects of the environment and its effect on living organisms. in areas such as conservation or pollution control.

INR 300,000 - INR 700,000

Pharmacologist

Examines the effects of drugs or other compounds on living creatures. usually in research related to pharmaceuticals.

INR 400,000 - INR 900,000

Microbiologist

Investigate microorganisms, and their effects on living organisms and their environment.

INR 300,000 - INR 700,000

Wildlife Biologist

Study the behaviours, habits and populations of wild animals. They are frequently involved in conservation efforts.

INR 300,000 - INR 700,000

Bioinformatics Specialist

Analyzes biological data by using computer-aided techniques and tools specifically in genomics and genetics.

INR 400,000 - INR 900,000

Forensic Scientist

Utilizes biological methods to solve criminals, identify victims and prove evidence in court cases.

INR 400,000 - INR 800,000

Career Options After M.Sc Biology

Biology provides a wide range of job possibilities for students. The subject is a part of socio-cultural studies, in which students learn about ecological, geological and environmental systems by their studies of the past. The available jobs are as follows:

• Microbiologist

• Forensic Scientist

• Online Tutoring

• Biotechnology

• Marine Biology

• Pharmacist

• Genetics

• Environmental Scientist

Future Scope of MSc Biology

As a very well-known discipline, the MSc in Biology course offers a wide range of possibilities for future success. The students are exposed to many ways they can advance their careers:

PhD If you want to pursue a career in the same area of education, the primary option is a PhD in Biology. It's a three to five-year course, and the criteria for admission are having an MSc qualification in Biology or any other related discipline.

FAQs about Master of Science in Biology

1. What is the admission process for a Master of Science in Biology program?

Q. Admission processes vary among institutions but generally involve submitting an application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and sometimes standardized test scores like the GRE. Some programs may also require interviews or additional assessments.

2. What are the eligibility criteria for applying to an MSc in Biology program?

Q. Eligibility criteria typically include a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field from a recognized institution. Some programs may have specific GPA requirements and prerequisites in biology, chemistry, or other related subjects.

3. Are there any entrance exams required for admission to MSc in Biology programs?

Q. Some universities may require standardized test scores like the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) for admission. However, requirements vary between institutions, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of each program you're interested in.

4. What skills are required for success in a Master of Science in Biology program?

Q. Strong analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are essential. Proficiency in scientific research methods, laboratory techniques, data analysis, and communication skills are also highly valued. Additionally, a passion for the subject and a willingness to stay updated with advancements in the field are beneficial.

5. What is the fee structure for MSc in Biology programs?

Q. Fee structures vary widely depending on factors such as the institution, location, and program duration. Additionally, international students may have different fee structures compared to domestic students. It’s advisable to directly contact the universities or visit their websites for detailed information on fees.

6. What are the top colleges or universities offering Master of Science in Biology programs?

Q. Some top institutions known for their strong biology programs include Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), University of California Berkeley, and University of Cambridge. However, the best choice depends on individual preferences, research interests, and career goals.

7. What is the salary potential for graduates with an MSc in Biology?

Q. Salaries for graduates with an MSc in Biology vary depending on factors such as job role, location, experience, and industry. Careers in research, academia, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and healthcare sectors offer competitive salaries, with the potential for growth over time.

8. What career scope does a Master of Science in Biology offer?

Q. Graduates with an MSc in Biology have diverse career opportunities in fields such as research, education, healthcare, environmental conservation, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and government agencies. They can work as research scientists, biotechnologists, environmental consultants, science writers, and educators, or pursue further studies.

9. What are some common job profiles for MSc in Biology graduates?

Q. Job profiles for MSc in Biology graduates include research scientist, laboratory technician, environmental biologist, pharmacologist, bioinformatician, science educator, quality control analyst, and healthcare consultant, among others. The specific job role depends on individual interests, specialization, and career goals.

10. How can I prepare myself for a Master of Science in Biology program?

Q. To prepare for an MSc in Biology program, focus on strengthening your foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, and related subjects. Gain research experience through internships or laboratory work, improve your analytical and critical thinking skills, and stay updated with current developments in the field by reading scientific literature and journals. Additionally, networking with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and opportunities.

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