

B-SC-HONOURS in Chemistry at Khudiram Bose Central College


Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Chemistry at Khudiram Bose Central College Kolkata?
This B.Sc. (Honours) Chemistry program at Khudiram Bose Central College focuses on foundational and advanced aspects of inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry. The curriculum, aligned with the University of Calcutta''''s CBCS framework, emphasizes both theoretical understanding and extensive practical skills. It prepares students for diverse roles in India''''s rapidly growing chemical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological industries, along with research and academic pursuits.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates with a strong aptitude for scientific inquiry and problem-solving, particularly those passionate about the molecular world. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into the chemical sector, aspiring researchers eyeing higher studies like M.Sc. and Ph.D., and individuals aiming for careers in quality control, R&D, and analytical roles within various Indian industries.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in areas like pharmaceutical manufacturing, agrochemicals, material science, and environmental analysis. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs annually, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities abound in companies like Dr. Reddy''''s, Reliance, and Biocon, alongside options in government labs or teaching positions, supporting India''''s scientific and industrial growth.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Concepts and Lab Techniques- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding core principles of General, Inorganic, Organic, and Physical Chemistry. Simultaneously, dedicate significant effort to mastering basic laboratory skills like titration, qualitative analysis, and organic synthesis. Regular practice, maintaining meticulous lab notebooks, and understanding the theoretical basis of experiments are crucial.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks for basics, Standard reference books (e.g., Atkins, Clayden, Housecroft), Chemistry lab manuals, Online tutorials for basic techniques (e.g., YouTube channels for lab demos)
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures academic excellence, provides the bedrock for advanced topics, and builds essential practical skills valued in all entry-level scientific roles in R&D or QA/QC labs.
Active Participation in Peer Learning & Problem Solving- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex topics, solve numerical problems, and review lecture material. Engage actively in tutorial classes and ask questions. Practice solving a wide variety of problems, especially those from previous year question papers, to strengthen conceptual clarity and exam preparation.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Previous year question papers (Calcutta University), Chemistry Olympiad problems (for advanced challenge), Online forums like Reddit''''s r/chemistry for discussions
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, collaborative skills, and enhances problem-solving abilities, which are indispensable for research, data analysis, and technical roles in the chemical industry.
Develop Scientific Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond academics, focus on improving written and verbal communication. Practice writing clear, concise lab reports and prepare short presentations on scientific topics. This includes effective data representation and interpretation. Read scientific articles and summarize them to enhance comprehension and articulation.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), University library resources for scientific journals, Departmental seminars and workshops
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for explaining research findings, presenting project proposals, and collaborating in professional scientific environments, making graduates more employable in R&D and academic roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Departmental Projects and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to participate in small research projects under faculty mentorship, even if they are short-term or introductory. Attend departmental seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to gain exposure to specialized areas of chemistry and current research trends. This expands practical knowledge beyond the curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research interests page, Departmental notice boards for opportunities, National/local chemistry conferences (e.g., RSC, ACS student chapters if available)
Career Connection
Hands-on project experience differentiates resumes, builds research aptitude crucial for higher studies (M.Sc./Ph.D.), and offers valuable insights into potential career paths in specialized chemical fields.
Explore Interdisciplinary Subjects and Skill Enhancement Courses- (Semester 3-5)
Strategically choose Generic Electives (GEs) and Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) that complement Chemistry, such as Mathematics for Chemists, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, or Basic Analytical Chemistry. Learn basic programming or data analysis tools if offered, as these are increasingly relevant in modern chemical research and industry.
Tools & Resources
Course handbook for GE/SEC options, Online courses (NPTEL, Coursera) for additional skills like Python for Science, University career counseling for guidance on elective choices
Career Connection
Diversifies skill sets, making graduates versatile for interdisciplinary roles in fields like bioinformatics, computational chemistry, or applied industrial chemistry, enhancing employability in a dynamic job market.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 3-5)
Actively network with faculty, alumni, and visiting professionals during college events. Seek informal mentorship to understand career trajectories, industry expectations, and opportunities for internships or projects. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your areas of interest.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Departmental faculty office hours, Industry contact lists from career services
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, industry insights, and potential job referrals, which are critical for securing positions in competitive fields like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and materials science.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Industrial Internship or Research Project- (Semester 6 (during summer break or final semester))
Secure a summer internship (4-8 weeks) at a chemical company, pharmaceutical firm, research institute, or a university lab. This provides invaluable real-world experience, exposure to industrial practices, and helps in applying theoretical knowledge. If internships are unavailable, pursue a substantial final-year research project under faculty supervision.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship platforms (Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct applications to companies/research labs (e.g., CSIR labs), Faculty connections
Career Connection
Internships are often a direct pathway to placements, build a professional network, and provide practical experience that greatly strengthens a resume for both employment and higher education applications.
Prepare for Higher Education and Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
For those aiming for M.Sc. in Chemistry or related fields, start preparing for entrance exams like IIT JAM, JEST, or university-specific tests. Focus on strengthening conceptual understanding and problem-solving speed. Consider GRE/TOEFL if planning to study abroad.
Tools & Resources
IIT JAM/JEST study materials, Coaching institutes (if preferred), Online test series, Previous year''''s exam papers, Mentorship from seniors who cleared these exams
Career Connection
Successful performance in these exams is crucial for admission to top-tier M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs in India and abroad, paving the way for advanced research and academic careers.
Refine Resume/CV and Interview Skills- (Semester 6)
Develop a professional resume/CV highlighting academic achievements, project work, lab skills, and internships. Practice common interview questions, particularly those related to chemistry concepts and problem-solving scenarios. Participate in mock interviews offered by the college''''s career services.
Tools & Resources
College career services/placement cell, Online resume builders, Mock interview sessions, Career guidance workshops
Career Connection
Polished resumes and strong interview performance are critical for securing placements, whether in industry, research institutions, or for admission to prestigious higher education programs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 examination or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology/Statistics as subjects, with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks and 45% in Chemistry for Honours, as per University of Calcutta norms for affiliated colleges.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (Internal Assessment/Attendance), External: 75% (End-Semester Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM-A-CC-1-1-TH | Inorganic Chemistry I: Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, General Principles of Extraction | Core | 4 | Atomic Structure (Bohr, wave mechanics), Chemical Bonding (VBT, MOT), Ionic & Covalent Solids, Metallurgy: Principles & Applications, Periodic Properties, Acid-Base Chemistry |
| CHEM-A-CC-1-1-P | Inorganic Chemistry I Lab | Lab | 2 | Qualitative Inorganic Analysis, Volumetric Analysis (Acid-base, Redox), Gravimetric Estimation (BaSO4, Ni-DMG), Preparation of Inorganic Compounds, Use of Analytical Instruments |
| CHEM-A-CC-1-2-TH | Physical Chemistry I: States of Matter & Ionic Equilibrium | Core | 4 | Gaseous State & Kinetic Theory, Liquid State & Properties, Solid State & Crystal Structures, Chemical Kinetics: Reaction Order, Catalysis & Reaction Mechanisms, Colloids and Surface Chemistry |
| CHEM-A-CC-1-2-P | Physical Chemistry I Lab | Lab | 2 | Viscosity & Surface Tension, Adsorption Isotherms, Conductivity Measurements, Reaction Rate Determination, Acid-base Titrations (potentiometric), Thermochemical Measurements |
| ENVS-GE-1-1-TH | Environmental Studies (Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course) | AECC | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Climate Change & Global Warming, Environmental Ethics & Policies, Sustainable Development |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective I (e.g., Mathematics, Physics, Botany, Zoology) | Elective | 6 | Subject specific to chosen GE, Fundamental concepts, Basic theories, Problem-solving approaches, Introductory applications |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM-A-CC-2-3-TH | Organic Chemistry I: Basic Concepts & Hydrocarbons | Core | 4 | Hybridization and Bonding, Reaction Intermediates (Carbocations, Radicals), Stereochemistry: Chirality, Enantiomers, Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes (Nomenclature, Reactions), Aromaticity (Huckel''''s Rule), Organic Acids and Bases |
| CHEM-A-CC-2-3-P | Organic Chemistry I Lab | Lab | 2 | Organic Compound Identification, Crystallization & Distillation, Melting Point Determination, Chromatographic Techniques, Functional Group Analysis, Synthesis of Simple Organic Molecules |
| CHEM-A-CC-2-4-TH | Physical Chemistry II: Thermodynamics, Chemical Equilibrium & Electrochemistry | Core | 4 | First Law of Thermodynamics, Thermochemistry, Second Law: Entropy, Gibbs Free Energy, Chemical Equilibrium & Le Chatelier''''s Principle, Phase Equilibrium (Phase Rule), Electrochemistry: Galvanic Cells, Nernst Equation |
| CHEM-A-CC-2-4-P | Physical Chemistry II Lab | Lab | 2 | Electrodes & Potentiometry, Conductometric Titrations, Determination of Equilibrium Constant, Phase Diagram Studies, Cryoscopy (Molecular Weight), Heat of Neutralization |
| AECC-2 | English Communication / MIL Communication (Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course) | AECC | 2 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills (Reports, Essays), Presentation Skills, Official Correspondence, Soft Skills for Workplace |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective II (e.g., Mathematics, Physics, Botany, Zoology) | Elective | 6 | Subject specific to chosen GE, Fundamental concepts, Basic theories, Problem-solving approaches, Introductory applications |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM-A-CC-3-5-TH | Inorganic Chemistry II: Coordination Compounds & Bioinorganic Chemistry | Core | 4 | Coordination Chemistry (VBT, CFT, MOT), Isomerism in Coordination Compounds, Reactions of Coordination Compounds, Organometallic Chemistry (18-electron rule), Bioinorganic Chemistry (Hemoglobin, Chlorophyll), Metal Carbonyls |
| CHEM-A-CC-3-5-P | Inorganic Chemistry II Lab | Lab | 2 | Synthesis of Coordination Complexes, Colorimetric Estimation (Fe, Cu), Spectrophotometric Studies, Ion Exchange Chromatography, Magnetic Susceptibility Measurements, Complexometric Titrations |
| CHEM-A-CC-3-6-TH | Organic Chemistry II: Halogenated Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Ethers & Epoxides | Core | 4 | SN1, SN2, E1, E2 Reactions, Grignard Reagents, Alcohols (Preparation, Reactions), Phenols (Acidity, Reactions), Ethers & Epoxides, Organometallic Reagents |
| CHEM-A-CC-3-6-P | Organic Chemistry II Lab | Lab | 2 | Synthesis of Organic Compounds (e.g., Aspirin), Chromatographic Separations, Qualitative Analysis of Functional Groups, Spectroscopic Interpretation (IR, NMR basics), Recrystallization and Purification, Nitration of Benzene |
| CHEM-A-CC-3-7-TH | Physical Chemistry III: Solutions, Conductance, Quantum Chemistry & Spectroscopy | Core | 4 | Colligative Properties, Electrolytic Conductance, Quantum Mechanics (Schrödinger Equation), Atomic & Molecular Orbitals, Molecular Spectroscopy (Rotational, Vibrational), Electronic Spectroscopy (UV-Vis) |
| CHEM-A-CC-3-7-P | Physical Chemistry III Lab | Lab | 2 | Solubility Measurements, Conductivity of Solutions, Spectrophotometric Analysis, IR/UV-Vis Interpretation, Surface Tension of Solutions, Determination of Dissociation Constant |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective III (e.g., Mathematics, Physics, Botany, Zoology) | Elective | 6 | Subject specific to chosen GE, Fundamental concepts, Basic theories, Problem-solving approaches, Introductory applications |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course I (e.g., Basic Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry) | Skill Elective | 2 | Analytical Techniques, Quality Control, Safety in Lab, Instrumentation Basics, Data Analysis, Specific applied chemistry skills |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM-A-CC-4-8-TH | Inorganic Chemistry III: Transition Elements & Lanthanides/Actinides | Core | 4 | Chemistry of Transition Metals, Crystal Field Theory Applications, Magnetic Properties of Complexes, Lanthanides and Actinides, Chemistry of d-Block Elements, Inorganic Polymers |
| CHEM-A-CC-4-8-P | Inorganic Chemistry III Lab | Lab | 2 | Quantitative Analysis of Metal Ions, Synthesis of Metal Complexes, Separation Techniques (Chromatography), Spectroscopic Characterization (UV-Vis), Potentiometric Titrations, Complexometric estimations |
| CHEM-A-CC-4-9-TH | Organic Chemistry III: Carbonyl Compounds, Carboxylic Acids & Derivatives | Core | 4 | Aldehydes & Ketones (Reactions, Synthesis), Carboxylic Acids (Acidity, Derivatives), Esters, Amides, Acid Anhydrides, Nitrogen Containing Compounds (Amines, Nitro compounds), Pericyclic Reactions (Diels-Alder), Retrosynthesis (Introduction) |
| CHEM-A-CC-4-9-P | Organic Chemistry III Lab | Lab | 2 | Preparation of Carbonyl Derivatives, Multistep Organic Synthesis, Quantitative Estimation of Functional Groups, Thin Layer Chromatography, IR and NMR Spectral Analysis, Column Chromatography |
| CHEM-A-CC-4-10-TH | Physical Chemistry IV: Spectroscopy, Photochemistry & Surface Chemistry | Core | 4 | Advanced Spectroscopy (NMR, Mass), Photochemistry (Jablonski Diagram), Chemiluminescence & Bioluminescence, Surface Phenomena & Adsorption, Heterogeneous Catalysis, Polymer Chemistry (Synthesis, Properties) |
| CHEM-A-CC-4-10-P | Physical Chemistry IV Lab | Lab | 2 | Photochemical Kinetics, Spectroscopic Characterization (NMR, Mass spec), Adsorption Isotherm Verification, Polymer Synthesis and Characterization, Emulsion Polymerization, Quantum Yield Determination |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective IV (e.g., Mathematics, Physics, Botany, Zoology) | Elective | 6 | Subject specific to chosen GE, Fundamental concepts, Basic theories, Problem-solving approaches, Introductory applications |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course II (e.g., IT in Chemistry, Green Chemistry) | Skill Elective | 2 | Chemical Software (ChemDraw, Gaussian), Computational Chemistry Basics, Green Chemistry Principles, Waste Minimization, Alternative Solvents, Environmental Impact Assessment |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM-A-CC-5-11-TH | Inorganic Chemistry IV: Analytical Techniques & Instrumental Methods | Core | 4 | Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, Flame Photometry, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermal Analysis (TGA, DTA), Chromatographic Techniques (GC, HPLC), Electroanalytical Methods |
| CHEM-A-CC-5-11-P | Inorganic Chemistry IV Lab | Lab | 2 | Instrumental Analysis (AAS, Flame Photometry), Separation by HPLC/GC, Potentiometric and Conductometric Titrations, Complexometric estimations, Gravimetric analysis of complex mixtures, Quantitative analysis of minerals |
| CHEM-A-CC-5-12-TH | Organic Chemistry IV: Heterocyclic Chemistry, Biomolecules & Spectroscopy | Core | 4 | Heterocyclic Compounds (Pyrrole, Furan, Pyridine), Amino Acids, Peptides, Proteins, Carbohydrates (Mono, Di, Polysaccharides), Lipids, Vitamins, Nucleic Acids, Organic Photochemistry & Pericyclic Reactions, Advanced NMR and Mass Spectrometry |
| CHEM-A-CC-5-12-P | Organic Chemistry IV Lab | Lab | 2 | Qualitative Analysis of Biomolecules, Synthesis of Heterocyclic Compounds, Extraction of Natural Products, Spectroscopic Identification of Unknowns, Peptide Synthesis (Introduction), Chromatographic purification of biomolecules |
| CHEM-A-DSE-5-1-TH | Discipline Specific Elective I (e.g., Analytical Methods in Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry) | Discipline Elective | 4 | Modern Analytical Techniques, Quality Assurance, Chemical Industries (Fertilizers, Polymers), Pollution Control in Industries, Process Flow Diagrams, Chemical Engineering Principles |
| CHEM-A-DSE-5-1-P | Discipline Specific Elective I Lab (e.g., Analytical Methods in Chemistry Lab) | Lab | 2 | Advanced Spectroscopic Experiments, Industrial Chemical Analysis, Quality Control Tests, Water and Soil Analysis, Drug Purity Analysis, Instrumental Calibrations |
| CHEM-A-DSE-5-2-TH | Discipline Specific Elective II (e.g., Polymer Chemistry, Organometallics) | Discipline Elective | 4 | Polymer Synthesis & Characterization, Physical Properties of Polymers, Applications of Polymers, Organometallic Compounds in Catalysis, Structure and Bonding in Organometallics, Bio-organometallic Chemistry |
| CHEM-A-DSE-5-2-P | Discipline Specific Elective II Lab (e.g., Polymer Chemistry Lab) | Lab | 2 | Polymerization Reactions, Viscosity of Polymer Solutions, Mechanical Properties of Polymers, Synthesis of Organometallic Compounds, Characterization of Organometallics, Density and Melting Point of Polymers |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHEM-A-CC-6-13-TH | Inorganic Chemistry V: Inorganic Materials & Nanochemistry | Core | 4 | Solid State Inorganic Materials, Superconductors & Magnetic Materials, Ceramics & Composites, Nanomaterials Synthesis (Top-down, Bottom-up), Characterization of Nanomaterials, Applications of Nanomaterials |
| CHEM-A-CC-6-13-P | Inorganic Chemistry V Lab | Lab | 2 | Synthesis of Nanoparticles (Ag, Au), Characterization of Nanomaterials (XRD, SEM basics), Synthesis of Solid State Materials, Magnetic Measurements, Electrical Conductivity Studies, Corrosion Studies |
| CHEM-A-CC-6-14-TH | Organic Chemistry V: Natural Products, Drug Design & Retrosynthesis | Core | 4 | Terpenoids and Alkaloids, Steroids and Hormones, Vitamins (Structure, Synthesis), Principles of Drug Design, Retrosynthetic Analysis (Advanced), Medicinal Chemistry (Lead identification) |
| CHEM-A-CC-6-14-P | Organic Chemistry V Lab | Lab | 2 | Isolation of Natural Products (Caffeine), Multistep Organic Synthesis (Advanced), Kinetic Resolution, Drug Synthesis (e.g., Paracetamol), Combinatorial Chemistry Basics, Spectral analysis of complex organic molecules |
| CHEM-A-DSE-6-3-TH | Discipline Specific Elective III (e.g., Green Chemistry, Biochemistry) | Discipline Elective | 4 | Twelve Principles of Green Chemistry, Catalysis in Green Chemistry, Environmental Impact of Chemicals, Biomolecules and Metabolism, Enzyme Kinetics, Genetic Engineering (Basics) |
| CHEM-A-DSE-6-3-P | Discipline Specific Elective III Lab (e.g., Green Chemistry Lab) | Lab | 2 | Green Synthesis Experiments, Waste Product Analysis, Biochemical Assays (Enzyme Activity), DNA Isolation, Bio-analysis Techniques, pH and Buffer Preparation |
| CHEM-A-DSE-6-4-TH | Discipline Specific Elective IV (e.g., Applied Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry) | Discipline Elective | 4 | Chemistry of Fuels and Lubricants, Cement and Glass Chemistry, Paints, Pigments, Dyes, Air and Water Pollution Analysis, Soil Chemistry, Waste Management Technologies |
| CHEM-A-DSE-6-4-P | Discipline Specific Elective IV Lab (e.g., Applied Chemistry Lab) | Lab | 2 | Analysis of Water Samples, Determination of COD/BOD, Analysis of Fuels, Synthesis of Dyes, Corrosion Inhibition Studies, Testing of Cement/Glass properties |




