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B-SC-GENERAL-BIOLOGICAL-SCIENCE in General Program at Maharaja Srischandra College
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is General Program at Maharaja Srischandra College Kolkata?
This Biological Science General program at Maharaja Srischandra College, affiliated with Calcutta University, focuses on foundational knowledge in diverse biological domains like Botany, Zoology, and Physiology. It aims to build a strong scientific base crucial for understanding life processes, ecosystems, and human health. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for scientifically literate graduates in India''''s expanding biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and environmental sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates with a keen interest in biology and life sciences, seeking a broad yet solid undergraduate foundation. It caters to students aspiring for roles in research support, healthcare, environmental conservation, or further studies in specialized biological fields. It also suits those preparing for competitive exams requiring a strong science background.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can explore India-specific career paths in laboratories, conservation agencies, educational institutions, or join pharmaceutical and food processing industries. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, with growth opportunities in research assistance, quality control, or scientific writing roles. The program provides a stepping stone for postgraduate studies (M.Sc.) or professional courses in allied health.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts and Lab Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on understanding fundamental principles of Botany, Zoology, and Physiology. Actively participate in all practical sessions to develop essential laboratory skills in microscopy, specimen identification, and experimental procedures.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Virtual lab simulations, Biological models, Textbooks, Online resources like BYJU''''S, Khan Academy
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are critical for any biological science career; robust lab skills are directly applicable in research labs, diagnostic centers, and industrial quality control.
Develop Scientific Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice scientific writing through lab reports, assignments, and presentations. Join college science clubs to participate in debates, quizzes, and seminars, enhancing public speaking and critical thinking. Focus on clear articulation of scientific ideas.
Tools & Resources
College library, Academic writing workshops, English language clubs, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for publishing research, presenting findings, and collaborating in any scientific or professional setting.
Explore Environmental Awareness and Field Visits- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Environmental Studies course and engage in college-organized field visits to local ecosystems, botanical gardens, or zoological parks. Understand local biodiversity and environmental challenges.
Tools & Resources
Local environmental NGOs, Documentary screenings, Nature clubs, Online resources like National Geographic
Career Connection
Builds a foundation for careers in environmental conservation, sustainable development, and ecological research, highly relevant in India''''s diverse ecosystems.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) for Practical Application- (Semester 3-4)
Maximize learning from SECs like Biofertilizers or Sericulture. Seek opportunities for hands-on application, perhaps by visiting local farms, sericulture units, or biotech startups, even if informally.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, Local industry contacts, Government agricultural extension services, Online certification courses
Career Connection
Directly translates into vocational skills, opening avenues in agriculture, aquaculture, sericulture, or as lab technicians in related industries.
Participate in Inter-College Science Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for and participate in science exhibitions, quiz competitions, and workshops organized by other colleges or universities in Kolkata. This expands knowledge, hones competitive skills, and builds a professional network.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards, Departmental heads, University event calendars, Platforms like Eventbrite
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving, teamwork, and networking, valuable for postgraduate studies and competitive job markets.
Initiate Literature Review on Specialization Interests- (Semester 3-4)
Identify specific areas within Botany, Zoology, or Physiology that pique your interest. Start reading review articles and basic research papers in those areas to understand current trends and potential research questions.
Tools & Resources
College library databases, PubMed, Google Scholar, Faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Prepares for higher studies (M.Sc., PhD), helps in choosing a research focus, and demonstrates initiative to potential employers or supervisors.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Mini-Project or Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Explore opportunities for a small research project under faculty guidance, especially in your DSE chosen areas (e.g., Plant Biotechnology, Human Genetics). This provides valuable research experience and improves analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
Departmental labs, Faculty supervisors, Funding from college research cells (if any)
Career Connection
Essential for postgraduate admissions, provides a strong talking point in interviews, and builds a research portfolio for R&D roles.
Intensive Preparation for Higher Education and Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
If aspiring for M.Sc. or other postgraduate courses, begin preparation for entrance exams like JAM, GATE (for biosciences), or university-specific tests. Focus on revising the entire B.Sc. syllabus thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, Previous year question papers, Online test series, Study groups
Career Connection
Directly leads to admission in prestigious Indian universities for advanced degrees, enhancing career prospects significantly.
Career Mapping and Professional Skill Development- (Semester 5-6)
Research various career paths (e.g., lab technician, science educator, clinical research coordinator, pharmaceutical sales) and identify required soft skills. Work on improving communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving through workshops or internships.
Tools & Resources
College career counseling cell, Online courses (e.g., Coursera, LinkedIn Learning), Mock interviews
Career Connection
Ensures readiness for job interviews, helps in resume building, and facilitates a smooth transition from academics to the professional world.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination with Science stream subjects from a recognized board. Minimum 45% marks in aggregate or minimum 50% marks in the subject or related subject at the 10+2 level, as per University of Calcutta regulations.
Duration: 3 Years (6 Semesters)
Credits: Approximately 116-120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1A (Botany) Th+Pr | Phycology, Mycology & Microbiology | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Algae characteristics and classification, Fungi structure and reproduction, Viruses and Bacteria morphology, Lichens and Mycorrhiza, Applied Microbiology |
| DSC-2A (Zoology) Th+Pr | Non-Chordates I: Porifera to Aschelminthes | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | General characteristics and classification of lower invertebrates, Life cycles and adaptations of sponges, Coelenterates, Platyhelminthes, Aschelminthes parasitic adaptations, Protozoa diversity and economic importance |
| DSC-3A (Physiology) Th+Pr | Biocatalysis, Bioenergetics & Carbohydrate Metabolism | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Enzyme structure and mechanism, Thermodynamics in biological systems, Glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, TCA cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, Pentose Phosphate Pathway |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Ecosystems and their functions, Biodiversity and conservation, Environmental pollution, Natural resources management, Environmental protection laws |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1B (Botany) Th+Pr | Archegoniatae & Plant Anatomy | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Bryophytes and their life cycles, Pteridophytes and their evolution, Gymnosperms characteristics, Plant tissue systems, Secondary growth in plants |
| DSC-2B (Zoology) Th+Pr | Non-Chordates II: Annelida to Hemichordata & Economic Zoology | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Annelida, Arthropoda, Mollusca, Echinodermata, Apiculture and Sericulture, Pisciculture and Pearl culture, Medical Entomology, Pest management |
| DSC-3B (Physiology) Th+Pr | Lipid & Protein Metabolism, Molecular Biology, Immunology | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Fatty acid synthesis and breakdown, Amino acid metabolism, urea cycle, DNA replication and transcription, Translation and gene expression regulation, Innate and adaptive immunity |
| AECC-2 | Communicative English | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Grammar and vocabulary, Reading comprehension strategies, Writing skills: essays, reports, Listening skills and note-taking, Public speaking and presentation techniques |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1C (Botany) Th+Pr | Plant Ecology & Phytogeography, Plant Systematics | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Ecosystems and energy flow, Biogeochemical cycles, Population and community ecology, Principles of Plant Systematics, Botanical nomenclature and herbarium techniques |
| DSC-2C (Zoology) Th+Pr | Chordates I: Protochordates to Cyclostomata, Pisces, Amphibia & Reptilia | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Origin and characteristics of chordates, Comparative anatomy of vertebrates, Adaptive radiation in Pisces and Amphibia, Reptilian evolution and diversity, General embryology of vertebrates |
| DSC-3C (Physiology) Th+Pr | Digestion, Respiration, Circulation | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Digestive system and nutrient absorption, Respiratory mechanism and gas exchange, Blood composition and function, Cardiac cycle and blood pressure regulation, Lymphatic system and immune response |
| SEC-1 | Biofertilizers | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Types of biofertilizers, Nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, Phosphate solubilizing bacteria, Production technology of biofertilizers, Application and benefits in agriculture |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1D (Botany) Th+Pr | Plant Physiology & Metabolism, Molecular Biology | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Water relations and mineral nutrition, Photosynthesis and respiration, Plant growth regulators, Molecular genetics principles, Genetic engineering techniques |
| DSC-2D (Zoology) Th+Pr | Chordates II: Aves, Mammalia, Developmental Biology | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Avian adaptations for flight, Mammalian characteristics and diversity, Gametogenesis and fertilization, Early embryonic development, Organogenesis and regeneration |
| DSC-3D (Physiology) Th+Pr | Excretion, Fluid Balance, Muscle Physiology, Neurophysiology | Discipline Specific Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Kidney structure and function, Osmoregulation and acid-base balance, Skeletal muscle contraction, Nerve impulse transmission, Sensory organs physiology |
| SEC-2 | Sericulture | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | History and types of silkworms, Mulberry cultivation techniques, Silkworm rearing and management, Silk reeling and processing, Economic importance of sericulture |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-1A (Botany) Th+Pr | Plant Biotechnology | Discipline Specific Elective (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Plant tissue culture techniques, Genetic engineering in plants, Transgenic crops development, Molecular markers in plant breeding, Bioreactors and fermentation technology |
| DSE-2A (Zoology) Th+Pr | Animal Biotechnology | Discipline Specific Elective (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Recombinant DNA technology, Gene cloning and expression, Animal cell culture techniques, Transgenic animals and their applications, Ethical issues in animal biotechnology |
| DSE-3A (Physiology) Th+Pr | Clinical Biochemistry & Diagnostic Methods | Discipline Specific Elective (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Blood sample collection and analysis, Urine analysis and kidney function tests, Enzyme assays in diagnosis, Hormone assays and endocrine disorders, Basic imaging techniques in medicine |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-1B (Botany) Th+Pr | Economic Botany & Ethnobotany | Discipline Specific Elective (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Major food crops and their origin, Medicinal plants and their uses, Fiber and timber-yielding plants, Fuel and aromatic plants, Traditional knowledge systems and plant resources |
| DSE-2B (Zoology) Th+Pr | Human Genetics & Public Health | Discipline Specific Elective (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Patterns of inheritance in humans, Chromosomal disorders and genetic counseling, Population genetics principles, Epidemiology of communicable diseases, Public health interventions and policies |
| DSE-3B (Physiology) Th+Pr | Environmental Physiology & Toxicology | Discipline Specific Elective (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Physiological adaptations to stress, Effects of temperature and altitude on body, Pollutants and their toxic effects, Biomarkers of environmental exposure, Risk assessment and management of toxins |
