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B-SC in Life Sciences at CHRIST (Deemed to be University)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Life Sciences at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) Bengaluru?
This B.Sc. Life Sciences program at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences. It integrates subjects like Biochemistry, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, and Biotechnology, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s rapidly expanding biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and practical skills.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates with a strong aptitude for biology and chemistry, aspiring for careers in life sciences research, healthcare, or related industries. It also suits individuals keen on pursuing higher studies (M.Sc., Ph.D.) in specialized fields like molecular biology, bioinformatics, or environmental science within India or abroad.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect career paths in pharmaceutical companies, clinical research organizations, food processing, environmental consultancies, and diagnostic labs in India. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5-4.5 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program also aligns with prerequisites for various competitive exams and professional certifications.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Biological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental concepts in biochemistry, cell biology, and organismal diversity from semesters 1-2. Utilize textbooks, reference materials, and online resources like NPTEL courses for deeper insights. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and prepare for continuous internal assessments and end-semester examinations.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Khan Academy, Biology textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for advanced courses and forms the basis for any specialization, making you a more competent candidate for entry-level scientific roles and higher studies.
Develop Essential Lab Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical sessions, meticulously follow protocols, and understand the scientific principles behind each experiment. Practice data recording, observation, and analysis. Seek opportunities to assist professors or senior students in their lab work to gain additional hands-on experience beyond the curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Virtual labs (e.g., Amrita Virtual Lab), Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Proficiency in laboratory techniques is highly valued in research, diagnostics, and industry, directly impacting internship and job prospects in India''''s burgeoning life science sector.
Enhance Communication and English Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving written and verbal English, especially scientific communication. Engage in debates, presentations, and group discussions regularly. Utilize the university''''s language labs or enroll in online courses to refine grammar and vocabulary, which are crucial for academic writing and professional interactions.
Tools & Resources
University language labs, Grammarly, Toastmasters (if available), English newspapers
Career Connection
Effective communication is paramount for publishing research, presenting findings, and excelling in corporate roles. It sets you apart in the competitive Indian job market.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Interdisciplinary Subjects and Skill Courses- (Semester 3-5)
Actively engage with Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) like Bioinformatics and Biostatistics. Learn to use software tools relevant to these fields. Consider online certifications from platforms like Coursera or edX in areas like R programming or Python for biological data analysis.
Tools & Resources
Bioinformatics tools (e.g., NCBI, BLAST), R/Python tutorials, Coursera/edX certifications
Career Connection
These interdisciplinary skills are highly sought after in modern biotech and pharma industries, opening doors to roles in data analysis, computational biology, and research support in India.
Seek Early Research Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Identify faculty members whose research aligns with your interests and express interest in assisting their projects. Even small contributions like literature review or data collection can provide invaluable experience. Attend departmental seminars and workshops to stay updated on current research trends.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research profiles, Departmental seminars, Research papers (PubMed)
Career Connection
Early research experience demonstrates initiative and a passion for science, enhancing your profile for master''''s programs, research internships, and R&D positions in Indian institutions.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3-5)
Attend conferences, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the department or other institutions. Connect with guest speakers, alumni, and industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Participate in inter-college competitions or science fairs to meet peers and expand your professional circle.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Conference calendars, Alumni network events
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for uncovering hidden job opportunities, mentorship, and collaboration prospects within the Indian life science ecosystem, facilitating better placements.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Impactful Internships and Projects- (Semester 5-6)
Utilize the internship opportunities provided in Semester 5 to gain significant industry or research lab experience. Choose projects or internships that align with your career goals. Focus on developing a strong report and presentation skills to showcase your work effectively. This is a critical component for your final placement.
Tools & Resources
Industry contacts, Research institutions, Guidance from project mentors
Career Connection
Practical industry exposure and a well-executed project are often the deciding factors for securing good placements in India''''s competitive job market, offering real-world problem-solving experience.
Target Specialization and Advanced Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Based on your interests, delve deeper into Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) like Plant Biotechnology, Animal Cell Culture, Nanobiotechnology, or Food Science. Consider advanced certifications in areas such as quality control, intellectual property rights, or specific instrumentation techniques, which are in high demand in India.
Tools & Resources
Specialized online courses, Industry-specific workshops, Advanced lab training
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and advanced skills make you a niche candidate for specific roles in R&D, manufacturing, or quality assurance within pharmaceutical, biotech, or food industries.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements/Higher Education- (Semester 6)
Start preparing for campus placements by refining your resume, practicing aptitude tests, and attending mock interviews. If aiming for higher education, prepare for entrance exams like GATE (Life Sciences), NEET PG (if applicable for medical paths), or international exams like GRE/TOEFL. Focus on developing strong problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, Aptitude test books, Online mock interview platforms, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Thorough preparation is vital for cracking competitive exams for higher studies or securing coveted positions in top Indian and multinational companies, ensuring a strong career launch.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 level with an aggregate of 50% marks, particularly in relevant main science subjects, from any recognised Board in India or abroad. Candidates pursuing their final year of 10+2 are also eligible to apply.
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 162 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BICH131 | Biomolecules and Cell Biology | Core | 4 | Biomolecules Structure and Function, Cell Ultrastructure and Organelles, Cell Cycle and Division, Membrane Transport Mechanisms, Enzyme Kinetics and Regulation |
| BOLS131 | Diversity of Organisms | Core | 4 | Microbial Diversity and Classification, Fungi: Structure and Reproduction, Algae and Bryophytes: Life Cycles, Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms, Animal Kingdom Classification |
| CBIS131 | Introduction to Chemistry and Biophysics | Core | 4 | Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure, Organic Reaction Mechanisms, Thermodynamics in Biological Systems, Bioenergetics and Redox Reactions, Principles of Spectroscopy |
| PSYC131 | Introduction to Psychology | Elective | 4 | Scope and Methods of Psychology, Biological Basis of Behavior, Sensation, Perception, and Attention, Learning Theories and Memory, Motivation and Emotion |
| AECC131 | English | Core | 2 | Communicative English, Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension Strategies, Academic Writing Skills, Presentation Techniques |
| AECC132 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Ecosystems and their Components, Biodiversity and Conservation, Pollution Types and Control, Climate Change and Global Warming, Sustainable Development Goals |
| BICH151 | Practical I (Biomolecules and Cell Biology) | Lab | 2 | Qualitative tests for Biomolecules, Quantitative estimation of Proteins and Carbohydrates, Microscopy and Cell Staining, Chromatographic Separation Techniques, Osmosis and Cell Permeability |
| BOLS151 | Practical II (Diversity of Organisms) | Lab | 2 | Microorganism Isolation and Culturing, Staining Techniques for Microbes, Observation of Fungal and Algal Forms, Study of Bryophytes and Pteridophytes, Collection and Preservation of Specimens |
| CBIS151 | Practical III (Chemistry and Biophysics) | Lab | 2 | pH Measurement and Buffers, Acid-Base Titrations, Spectrophotometric Analysis, Calorimetry Experiments, Viscosity Measurements |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BICH231 | Fundamentals of Biochemistry | Core | 4 | Amino Acid Structure and Properties, Protein Structure and Folding, Enzyme Action and Mechanism, Nucleic Acid Structure and Replication, Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism Overview |
| BOLS231 | Plant Anatomy and Physiology | Core | 4 | Plant Tissues and Meristems, Root and Stem Anatomy, Water Absorption and Translocation, Mineral Nutrition and Deficiency, Photosynthesis and Respiration |
| CBIS231 | Genetics and Evolution | Core | 4 | Mendelian Inheritance and Exceptions, Chromosome Structure and Aberrations, Gene Mapping and Linkage, Population Genetics and Hardy-Weinberg, Theories of Evolution |
| PSYC231 | Life Skills | Elective | 4 | Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence, Effective Communication Skills, Problem-Solving and Decision Making, Stress Management Techniques, Interpersonal Skills and Teamwork |
| AECC231 | MIL (Modern Indian Language) | Core | 2 | Grammar and Vocabulary of Chosen MIL, Reading and Understanding Texts, Conversational Practice, Cultural Context of Language, Basic Writing Skills |
| AECC232 | Value Education | Core | 2 | Ethical Principles and Moral Values, Human Rights and Responsibilities, Social Justice and Equality, Professional Ethics and Integrity, Spiritual Values and Holistic Living |
| BICH251 | Practical I (Fundamentals of Biochemistry) | Lab | 2 | Enzyme Assays and Specific Activity, DNA Isolation and Quantification, Protein Electrophoresis, Spectroscopic Techniques in Biochemistry, Buffer Preparation and pH Titration |
| BOLS251 | Practical II (Plant Anatomy and Physiology) | Lab | 2 | Microscopic Study of Plant Tissues, Demonstration of Photosynthesis, Measurement of Transpiration Rate, Osmosis in Plant Cells, Effects of Plant Hormones |
| CBIS251 | Practical III (Genetics and Evolution) | Lab | 2 | Preparation of Karyotypes, Pedigree Analysis Problems, DNA Extraction from Various Sources, Gel Electrophoresis of DNA, Solving Genetic Linkage Problems |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BICH331 | Metabolism and Clinical Biochemistry | Core | 4 | Glycolysis and TCA Cycle, Electron Transport Chain and Oxidative Phosphorylation, Lipid and Amino Acid Metabolism, Introduction to Clinical Biochemistry, Liver and Kidney Function Tests |
| BOLS331 | Animal Physiology and Immunology | Core | 4 | Digestive System and Nutrition, Circulatory and Respiratory Systems, Excretory System and Osmoregulation, Nervous and Endocrine Systems, Innate and Adaptive Immunity |
| CBIS331 | Molecular Biology | Core | 4 | DNA Replication Mechanisms, Transcription: Gene to RNA, Translation: RNA to Protein, Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes, Recombinant DNA Technology Basics |
| SEC331 | Bioinformatics Basics | Elective | 2 | Biological Databases and Retrieval, Sequence Alignment Algorithms, Phylogenetic Analysis, Protein Structure Prediction, Drug Discovery Tools |
| SEC332 | Biostatistics | Elective | 2 | Data Collection and Organization, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability and Distributions, Hypothesis Testing: T-test, ANOVA, Correlation and Regression Analysis |
| BICH351 | Practical I (Metabolism and Clinical Biochemistry) | Lab | 2 | Estimation of Glucose in Blood/Urine, Determination of Blood Cholesterol, Urine Analysis for Abnormal Components, Enzyme Activity Measurement, Separation of Amino Acids by Chromatography |
| BOLS351 | Practical II (Animal Physiology and Immunology) | Lab | 2 | Blood Grouping and Haemoglobin Estimation, Spirometry for Lung Function, Microscopic Study of Animal Tissues, Immunological Precipitation Reactions, Demonstration of Reflex Actions |
| CBIS351 | Practical III (Molecular Biology) | Lab | 2 | Plasmid DNA Isolation, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis of DNA, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Restriction Digestion of DNA, Bacterial Transformation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BICH431 | Cell and Developmental Biology | Core | 4 | Cell Signaling Pathways, Cell Adhesion and Extracellular Matrix, Gametogenesis and Fertilization, Early Embryonic Development, Stem Cells and Regeneration |
| BOLS431 | Environmental Biology and Biodiversity | Core | 4 | Ecosystem Structure and Function, Biogeochemical Cycles, Population and Community Ecology, Biodiversity Hotspots and Threats, Conservation Strategies and Policies |
| CBIS431 | Bioinstrumentation and Analytical Techniques | Core | 4 | Microscopy Techniques (Light, Electron), Centrifugation Principles and Types, Chromatography (HPLC, GC), Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE, Native), Spectrophotometry and Calorimetry |
| SEC431 | Research Methodology | Elective | 2 | Fundamentals of Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis in Research, Scientific Report Writing, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| SEC432 | Entrepreneurship Development | Elective | 2 | Concept of Entrepreneurship, Business Idea Generation, Market Analysis and Marketing Strategies, Financial Planning and Management, Legal Aspects of Business |
| BICH451 | Practical I (Cell and Developmental Biology) | Lab | 2 | Animal Cell Culture Techniques, Immunocytochemistry, Observation of Embryonic Stages, Microtomy and Histological Staining, Microscopy of Fixed and Live Cells |
| BOLS451 | Practical II (Environmental Biology and Biodiversity) | Lab | 2 | Water Quality Parameter Analysis, Soil Analysis for Nutrients, Quadrat and Transect Sampling, Biodiversity Index Calculation, Survey of Local Flora and Fauna |
| CBIS451 | Practical III (Bioinstrumentation and Analytical Techniques) | Lab | 2 | Operation of pH Meter and Centrifuge, Paper and Thin Layer Chromatography, Gel Electrophoresis Demonstration, Spectrophotometer Calibration, Refractometry and Polarimetry |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BICH531 | Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology | Core | 4 | Recombinant DNA Technology Tools, Gene Cloning and Expression Systems, Gene Therapy and CRISPR-Cas9, Transgenic Plants and Animals, Bioethical Issues in Biotechnology |
| BOLS531 | Microbial Technology | Core | 4 | Microbial Growth Kinetics, Fermentation Technology, Industrial Applications of Microbes, Food and Dairy Microbiology, Bioremediation and Biodegradation |
| CBIS531 | Pharmacology and Toxicology | Core | 4 | Principles of Drug Action, Pharmacokinetics: ADME, Pharmacodynamics: Receptor Theory, General Principles of Toxicology, Environmental and Food Toxins |
| DSE531 | Plant Biotechnology | Elective | 4 | Plant Tissue Culture Techniques, Genetic Transformation in Plants, Molecular Markers in Crop Improvement, Secondary Metabolites Production, Plant Disease Resistance |
| DSE532 | Animal Cell Culture Technology | Elective | 4 | Aseptic Techniques and Media Preparation, Primary Culture and Cell Lines, Cryopreservation of Animal Cells, Hybridoma Technology for Antibodies, Stem Cell Culture and Applications |
| BICH551 | Practical I (Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology) | Lab | 2 | Isolation of Genomic DNA and Plasmid DNA, Restriction Digestion and Ligation, Bacterial Transformation and Selection, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Agarose Gel Electrophoresis |
| BOLS551 | Practical II (Microbial Technology) | Lab | 2 | Sterilization Techniques, Microbial Growth Curve Determination, Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing, Production of Microbial Metabolites, Enumeration of Microorganisms in Food/Water |
| CBIS551 | Practical III (Pharmacology and Toxicology) | Lab | 2 | Dose-Response Curve Plotting, Study of Drug Absorption Factors, Toxicological Assays (e.g., Brine Shrimp), Evaluation of Drug Synergism/Antagonism, Pharmacological Screening Methods |
| DSE551 | Practical IV (Plant Biotechnology) | Lab | 2 | Aseptic Plant Tissue Culture Initiation, Micropropagation of Plants, Somatic Embryogenesis, Agrobacterium-mediated Transformation, DNA Isolation from Plant Samples |
| DSE552 | Practical V (Animal Cell Culture Technology) | Lab | 2 | Preparation of Cell Culture Media, Cell Counting and Viability Assays, Subculturing of Cell Lines, Cryopreservation of Cells, Detection of Mycoplasma Contamination |
| INT571 | Internship | Project/Internship | 2 | Practical Application of Life Science Knowledge, Industry Exposure and Professional Skills, Research Project Design and Execution, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Technical Report Writing and Presentation |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BICH631 | Human Genetics and Genetic Counselling | Core | 4 | Mendelian and Non-Mendelian Disorders, Chromosomal Abnormalities, Molecular Basis of Genetic Diseases, Genetic Screening and Diagnosis, Principles of Genetic Counselling |
| BOLS631 | Medical Microbiology and Mycology | Core | 4 | Bacterial Pathogens and Diseases, Viral Pathogens and Epidemiology, Fungal Infections and Mycoses, Diagnostic Methods in Microbiology, Antimicrobial Agents and Resistance |
| CBIS631 | Bioremediation and Waste Management | Core | 4 | Sources and Types of Pollution, Microbial Bioremediation Techniques, Phytoremediation and Mycoremediation, Solid Waste Management Strategies, Hazardous Waste Treatment |
| DSE631 | Nanobiotechnology | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Nanomaterials, Synthesis of Nanoparticles, Applications in Drug Delivery, Biosensors and Diagnostics, Nanotoxicology and Ethical Aspects |
| DSE632 | Food Science and Nutrition | Elective | 4 | Composition of Food, Macronutrients and Micronutrients, Food Processing and Preservation, Food Quality and Safety, Nutritional Disorders and Health |
| BICH651 | Practical I (Human Genetics and Genetic Counselling) | Lab | 2 | Preparation of Human Karyotypes, DNA Fingerprinting Techniques, Genetic Testing Methodologies, Construction and Analysis of Pedigree Charts, Case Studies in Genetic Counselling |
| BOLS651 | Practical II (Medical Microbiology and Mycology) | Lab | 2 | Bacterial Culture and Identification, Staining Techniques (Gram, Acid-fast), Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, Fungal Isolation and Identification, Serological Tests for Pathogen Detection |
| CBIS651 | Practical III (Bioremediation and Waste Management) | Lab | 2 | Microbial Degradation Assays, Bioreactor Design Principles, Composting and Vermicomposting, Wastewater Treatment Technologies, Environmental Impact Assessment Case Studies |
| DSE651 | Practical IV (Nanobiotechnology) | Lab | 2 | Synthesis of Gold/Silver Nanoparticles, Characterization Techniques for Nanomaterials, Drug Loading onto Nanocarriers, Cytotoxicity Assays of Nanoparticles, Biosensor Fabrication Principles |
| DSE652 | Practical V (Food Science and Nutrition) | Lab | 2 | Proximate Analysis of Food, Vitamin and Mineral Estimation, Detection of Food Adulterants, Sensory Evaluation of Food Products, Diet Planning and Nutritional Assessment |
| PRJL671 | Project/Dissertation | Project | 4 | Formulation of Research Question, Experimental Design and Execution, Data Collection and Statistical Analysis, Scientific Writing of Thesis/Dissertation, Oral Presentation and Defense of Project |
