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BACHELOR-OF-SCIENCE-B-SC-HONS in Zoology at Maharaja Bir Bikram College
West Tripura, Tripura
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About the Specialization
What is Zoology at Maharaja Bir Bikram College West Tripura?
This B.Sc Honours Zoology program at Bir Bikram Memorial College, affiliated with Tripura University, offers a comprehensive study of the animal kingdom, from microscopic organisms to complex vertebrates. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in animal biology, physiology, genetics, ecology, and evolution. Given India''''s rich biodiversity and growing focus on environmental conservation and sustainable resource management, this specialization is highly relevant, catering to increasing demands for experts in wildlife, fisheries, and public health sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in biology and environmental science, seeking entry into research, conservation, or allied health fields. It also suits individuals passionate about wildlife, aquaculture, or pest management. Aspiring educators in biological sciences, laboratory technicians, and those aiming for postgraduate studies in specialized biological disciplines will find this program a robust starting point, building essential theoretical and practical skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as wildlife conservationists, fisheries officers, research assistants in biological labs, or environmental consultants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in government and private sectors. The program also prepares students for competitive exams for forest services or provides a strong base for M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Zoology, Biotechnology, or Environmental Science.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Biological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong conceptual understanding of fundamental subjects like non-chordates, cell biology, and environmental studies. Regularly review lecture notes, utilize textbooks, and participate actively in practical sessions. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts with peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks, Standard reference books (e.g., Kotpal, Verma & Agarwal), Lab manuals, Online biology lectures (e.g., NPTEL, Khan Academy)
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for excelling in higher semesters and for any competitive exams or research roles that require comprehensive biological knowledge.
Develop Strong Laboratory Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay meticulous attention during practical classes for dissections, microscopy, and specimen identification. Practice drawing detailed biological diagrams and maintaining accurate lab records. Seek opportunities for extra lab time to refine your hands-on techniques and understanding of experimental procedures.
Tools & Resources
Dissection kits, Microscopes, Museum specimens, Virtual labs (e.g., Amrita Online Labs)
Career Connection
Proficiency in lab techniques is essential for careers in research, diagnostics, quality control, and any scientific laboratory setting in India.
Engage in Environmental Awareness Initiatives- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in college environmental clubs, local clean-up drives, or wildlife awareness programs. Read up on local biodiversity, ecological issues specific to Tripura, and conservation efforts. This helps connect theoretical knowledge to real-world impact and fosters a sense of responsibility.
Tools & Resources
Local environmental NGOs, Forest Department reports, Online conservation news (e.g., Down To Earth), Documentaries
Career Connection
Builds a profile for environmental conservation, sustainable development roles, and prepares for public service exams like Forest Service.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Projects and Field Studies- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively seek out faculty-mentored mini-projects related to genetics, physiology, or local ecology. Participate in departmental field trips to observe biodiversity in natural habitats. This applies theoretical knowledge and develops research aptitude.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research labs, Local wildlife sanctuaries/parks, Field guides for flora and fauna, Data collection apps
Career Connection
Enhances research skills and practical understanding, valuable for higher studies, research assistant positions, and field-based jobs in India.
Explore Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) Deeply- (Semester 3-4)
Choose SEC subjects like Apiculture, Sericulture, or Vermiculture strategically, aligning them with your interests and potential career paths. Engage beyond the classroom by visiting local farms or enterprises related to your chosen skill to gain firsthand experience.
Tools & Resources
Local farms/hatcheries, Industry experts, Government training programs (e.g., KVIC for apiculture)
Career Connection
Develops practical, job-oriented skills for entrepreneurial ventures or employment in niche agricultural and animal husbandry sectors in India.
Networking and Academic Interactions- (Semester 3-5)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the college or university. Connect with senior students, alumni, and faculty to gain insights into career options and research opportunities. Consider joining student science clubs to collaborate on projects.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards, Departmental events, LinkedIn for alumni connections, Scientific journals
Career Connection
Expands professional network, opens doors to mentorship, internships, and future job recommendations within the Indian scientific community.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Elective and Project Work- (Semester 5-6)
Carefully select Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) in areas like Immunology, Biotechnology, or Bioinformatics that align with your post-graduation goals. Undertake a comprehensive final year project under faculty guidance, applying advanced concepts and research methodologies.
Tools & Resources
Advanced scientific literature (e.g., ResearchGate, PubMed), Specialized software (e.g., BLAST, Rasmol), University library resources
Career Connection
Provides deep expertise in a chosen sub-field, highly valuable for M.Sc. specializations, research positions, and industry roles in biotechnology or pharmaceuticals.
Prepare for Higher Studies and Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Begin preparing for entrance exams for M.Sc. programs (e.g., JAM, GATE Life Sciences), NET, or state-level public service commissions (e.g., Tripura Public Service Commission). Focus on conceptual clarity and problem-solving skills, utilizing previous year question papers.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching materials, Online test series, Mentorship from successful alumni
Career Connection
Crucial for securing admissions in prestigious postgraduate programs and coveted government jobs or research fellowships in India.
Internship and Placement Readiness- (Semester 6)
Actively seek internships in relevant organizations like diagnostic labs, pharmaceutical companies, environmental consultancies, or government research institutes (e.g., ZSI, ICAR). Prepare a strong resume, practice interview skills, and attend campus placement drives if available.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online job portals (e.g., Naukri, LinkedIn), Resume building workshops, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Directly impacts employability and secures entry-level positions in diverse sectors within India''''s growing scientific and environmental industries.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination with Science stream from a recognized board, as per the admission guidelines of Bir Bikram Memorial College and Tripura University.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 132 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC1-T | Non-Chordates I: Protista to Annelida | Core Theory | 4 | Protozoa: Locomotion, Nutrition, Reproduction, Classification, Porifera: Canal systems, Spicules, Reproduction, Coelenterata: Polyp and Medusa, Coral reefs, Polymorphism, Platyhelminthes & Aschelminthes: Parasitic adaptations, Life cycles, Annelida: Metamerism, Locomotion, Reproduction |
| ZOO-CC1-P | Non-Chordates I: Protista to Annelida Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Identification of museum specimens, Study of permanent slides, Dissection techniques, Micrometry and staining |
| AECC1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural resources and associated problems, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental pollution and control measures, Human population and environment |
| GE1 | Generic Elective 1 (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from other disciplines like Botany, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, etc. as offered by the college. |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC2-T | Non-Chordates II: Arthropoda to Echinodermata | Core Theory | 4 | Arthropoda: General characters, Classification, Peripatus, Social insects, Mollusca: Torsion, Detorsion, Pearl formation, Nautilus, Echinodermata: Water vascular system, Larval forms, Phylogeny of non-chordates, Adaptive radiations |
| ZOO-CC2-P | Non-Chordates II: Arthropoda to Echinodermata Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Identification of museum specimens, Study of permanent slides, Dissection of common invertebrates, Comparative anatomy |
| ZOO-CC3-T | Cell Biology | Core Theory | 4 | Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cell structure, Cell membrane: Fluid mosaic model, Transport mechanisms, Cell organelles: Mitochondria, ER, Golgi apparatus, Nucleus, Cell cycle: Mitosis, Meiosis, Regulation, Cell signaling pathways |
| ZOO-CC3-P | Cell Biology Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Microscopy: Principles and applications, Preparation of permanent slides, Study of mitosis in onion root tip, Karyotyping from human blood sample |
| AECC2 | English Communication / MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Theory of communication, types and modes, Listening, speaking, reading, writing skills, Grammar and vocabulary building, Presentation skills, public speaking, Group discussion techniques |
| GE2 | Generic Elective 2 (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from other disciplines like Botany, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, etc. as offered by the college. |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC4-T | Chordates I: Protochordata to Pisces | Core Theory | 4 | Protochordates: Hemichordata, Urochordata, Cephalochordata, Origin of Chordates, Agnatha, Gnathostomata, Pisces: General characters, Classification, Locomotion, Respiration, Migration in fishes, Parental care in fishes, Adaptations to aquatic life |
| ZOO-CC4-P | Chordates I: Protochordata to Pisces Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Identification of museum specimens, Study of permanent slides, Dissection of cartilaginous/bony fish, Comparative anatomy of vertebrate systems |
| ZOO-CC5-T | Genetics | Core Theory | 4 | Mendelian principles: Dominance, Segregation, Independent assortment, Extensions of Mendelian genetics: Incomplete dominance, Epistasis, Chromosomal basis of inheritance, Linkage and crossing over, Sex determination and sex-linked inheritance, Gene mutation, Chromosomal aberrations |
| ZOO-CC5-P | Genetics Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Problems on Mendelian genetics, Pedigree analysis, Karyotyping, DNA isolation from plant/animal tissue, Study of polytene chromosomes |
| ZOO-CC6-T | Physiology and Biochemistry I | Core Theory | 4 | Digestion and absorption: Enzymes, processes, Respiration: Mechanisms, gas exchange, transport, Circulation: Heart structure, blood composition, circulation pathways, Excretion: Kidney function, osmoregulation, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins: Structure, classification, functions |
| ZOO-CC6-P | Physiology and Biochemistry I Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Qualitative tests for carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, Enzyme activity (e.g., amylase), Haemoglobin estimation, Blood group determination, Study of histology of organs (digestive, respiratory, circulatory) |
| SEC1 | Skill Enhancement Course 1 (e.g., Aquarium Fish Keeping / Apiculture) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Principles and practices of a chosen skill-based subject relevant to Zoology. Options typically include: Aquarium Fish Keeping, Apiculture, Sericulture, Vermiculture, Laboratory Techniques, Wildlife Photography, etc. |
| GE3 | Generic Elective 3 (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from other disciplines like Botany, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, etc. as offered by the college. |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC7-T | Chordates II: Amphibia to Mammalia | Core Theory | 4 | Amphibia: Origin, Classification, Parental care, Reptilia: Origin, Adaptations, Poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, Aves: Origin of birds, Flight adaptations, Migration, Mammalia: Prototheria, Metatheria, Eutheria, Dentition, Comparative anatomy of vertebrate systems |
| ZOO-CC7-P | Chordates II: Amphibia to Mammalia Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Identification of museum specimens, Study of permanent slides (e.g., avian feather, mammalian hair), Comparative osteology of vertebrate skulls/limbs, Dissection of rat/bird to study organ systems |
| ZOO-CC8-T | Developmental Biology | Core Theory | 4 | Gametogenesis: Spermatogenesis, Oogenesis, Fertilization: External, Internal, Mechanisms, Early embryonic development: Cleavage, Gastrulation, Organogenesis, Extraembryonic membranes, Placenta types, Metamorphosis: Amphibian, Insect |
| ZOO-CC8-P | Developmental Biology Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Study of permanent slides of gametes and early embryonic stages, Observation of chick embryo whole mounts, Models of human embryonic development, Mounting of tadpole larvae |
| ZOO-CC9-T | Physiology and Biochemistry II | Core Theory | 4 | Nervous system: Neuron, Nerve impulse, Synapse, Brain structure, Endocrine system: Glands, Hormones, Feedback control, Muscle physiology: Types of muscle, Contraction mechanism, Immune system: Innate and adaptive immunity, Antibodies, Introduction to metabolism: Glycolysis, Kreb''''s cycle, Oxidative phosphorylation |
| ZOO-CC9-P | Physiology and Biochemistry II Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Study of histological slides of endocrine glands, Simulated nerve impulse conduction, Estimation of glucose in blood/urine, Identification of normal/abnormal blood cells |
| SEC2 | Skill Enhancement Course 2 (e.g., Medical Diagnostics / Wild Life Management) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Advanced skills in a chosen subject relevant to Zoology. Options typically include: Medical Diagnostics, Wild Life Management, Pest and Vector Management, Sericulture and Vermicomposting, Food and Nutrition, etc. |
| GE4 | Generic Elective 4 (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from other disciplines like Botany, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, etc. as offered by the college. |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC10-T | Evolution | Core Theory | 4 | Origin of life, Miller-Urey experiment, Evidences of evolution: Paleontology, Comparative anatomy, Embryology, Theories of evolution: Lamarckism, Darwinism, Neo-Darwinism, Mechanisms of evolution: Mutation, Gene flow, Genetic drift, Natural selection, Speciation, Human evolution, Molecular evolution |
| ZOO-CC10-P | Evolution Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Study of fossils and evolutionary models, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium problems, Construction of phylogenetic trees, Comparative study of homologous and analogous organs |
| ZOO-CC11-T | Ecology | Core Theory | 4 | Levels of ecological organization, Ecosystem structure and function, Population ecology: Growth, Regulation, Interactions, Community ecology: Characteristics, Succession, Biogeochemical cycles, Energy flow, Ecological pyramids, Environmental problems and conservation strategies |
| ZOO-CC11-P | Ecology Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Quantitative analysis of plant/animal communities (quadrat, transect), Water quality analysis (pH, DO, hardness), Soil analysis (pH, moisture, organic content), Study of ecological adaptations |
| ZOO-DSE1-T | Discipline Specific Elective 1 Theory (e.g., Animal Behaviour / Immunology) | Discipline Specific Elective Theory | 4 | Choice from subjects like Animal Behaviour, Immunology, Reproductive Biology, Fishery Science, Limnology., Example: Animal Behaviour - Innate vs learned behaviour, Communication, Social organization., Example: Immunology - Innate and adaptive immunity, Antibodies, Vaccines. |
| ZOO-DSE1-P | Discipline Specific Elective 1 Practical | Discipline Specific Elective Practical | 2 | Practical components related to the chosen DSE subject. |
| ZOO-DSE2-T | Discipline Specific Elective 2 Theory (e.g., Endocrinology / Apiculture) | Discipline Specific Elective Theory | 4 | Choice from subjects like Endocrinology, Apiculture, Sericulture, Parasitology, Entomology., Example: Endocrinology - Hormones, Glands, Reproductive endocrinology., Example: Apiculture - Bee species, Bee products, Bee diseases. |
| ZOO-DSE2-P | Discipline Specific Elective 2 Practical | Discipline Specific Elective Practical | 2 | Practical components related to the chosen DSE subject. |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC12-T | Animal Biotechnology | Core Theory | 4 | Recombinant DNA technology: Cloning vectors, Restriction enzymes, Gene cloning, PCR techniques, Gel electrophoresis, Transgenesis in animals, Animal cell culture, Hybridoma technology, Applications of biotechnology in medicine and agriculture, Ethical issues in animal biotechnology |
| ZOO-CC12-P | Animal Biotechnology Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Isolation of genomic DNA from animal tissue, Agarose gel electrophoresis of DNA, Restriction digestion of DNA, PCR amplification, Demonstration of gene cloning steps |
| ZOO-CC13-T | Economic Zoology | Core Theory | 4 | Sericulture: Silkworm rearing, Silk production, Apiculture: Bee keeping, Honey production, Pisciculture: Types of fisheries, Aquaculture practices, Poultry farming, Lac culture, Vermiculture, Pest and vector control, Diseases of economically important animals |
| ZOO-CC13-P | Economic Zoology Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Study of silkworms, cocoons, and silk products, Observation of honey bees and hive products, Identification of important fishes and pests, Field visit to local farm/hatchery |
| ZOO-CC14-T | Bioinformatics | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to bioinformatics and its scope, Biological databases: NCBI, EMBL, UniProt, Sequence alignment: BLAST, FASTA, Multiple sequence alignment, Phylogenetic analysis, Gene prediction, Introduction to genomics and proteomics |
| ZOO-CC14-P | Bioinformatics Lab | Core Practical | 2 | Database searching and retrieval (NCBI, PubMed), Performing BLAST and FASTA alignments, Phylogenetic tree construction using online tools, Protein structure visualization using Rasmol/PyMol |
| ZOO-DSE3-T | Discipline Specific Elective 3 Theory (e.g., Parasitology / Entomology) | Discipline Specific Elective Theory | 4 | Choice from subjects like Parasitology, Entomology, Wildlife Conservation, Biostatistics, Forensic Zoology., Example: Parasitology - Host-parasite interactions, Protozoan and helminthic diseases., Example: Entomology - Insect morphology, physiology, economic importance. |
| ZOO-DSE3-P | Discipline Specific Elective 3 Practical | Discipline Specific Elective Practical | 2 | Practical components related to the chosen DSE subject. |
| ZOO-DSE4-T | Discipline Specific Elective 4 Theory (e.g., Animal Nutrition / Cell & Tissue Culture) | Discipline Specific Elective Theory | 4 | Choice from subjects like Animal Nutrition, Cell & Tissue Culture, Public Health & Hygiene, Nanobiotechnology., Example: Animal Nutrition - Feed types, Digestion, Nutritional requirements., Example: Cell & Tissue Culture - Culture media, Aseptic techniques, Applications. |
| ZOO-DSE4-P | Discipline Specific Elective 4 Practical | Discipline Specific Elective Practical | 2 | Practical components related to the chosen DSE subject. |
