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B-SC-HONS-COMMUNITY-SCIENCE in Community Science at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology
Khordha, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Community Science at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology Khordha?
This B.Sc Hons Community Science program at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) focuses on empowering individuals, families, and communities through scientific knowledge application. It integrates various disciplines like human development, food and nutrition, resource management, and textile science, aligning with India''''s drive for sustainable rural and urban development. The program emphasizes practical skills for improving quality of life and fostering self-reliance, catering to the growing demand for professionals addressing societal well-being and home-based economic activities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates (10+2 Science/Arts/Commerce with specific science subjects) seeking entry into public health, nutrition, and social development sectors in India. It also suits individuals passionate about improving community living standards, aspiring to work with NGOs, government schemes, or establish home-based enterprises. Students with a keen interest in human behavior, food science, resource optimization, and textile innovation will find this program rewarding and career-oriented.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as nutritionists, dietitians, child development specialists, extension officers, fashion designers, interior decorators, and entrepreneurs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more (INR 6-10 LPA+). Growth trajectories often lead to managerial positions in NGOs, food industries, government projects, and independent consultancy, with a strong focus on community impact.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Foundational Knowledge in Core Disciplines- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering the basics of Human Development, Food Science, Resource Management, and Textile Science. Actively participate in practical sessions, laboratory exercises, and field visits. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts with peers and faculty, ensuring a deep understanding of core concepts for future specialization.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Lab manuals, University library resources, Departmental seminars, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for advanced subjects and for understanding the interdisciplinary nature of Community Science, preparing for diverse roles in health, nutrition, and development sectors in India.
Develop Effective Communication and Ethical Awareness- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in Communication Skills and Personality Development courses. Practice public speaking, group discussions, and formal writing. Cultivate strong human values and ethical decision-making, which are vital for effective community interaction and maintaining professional integrity in sensitive fields such as public health and social work.
Tools & Resources
Communication workshops, Debate clubs, Ethical case studies, Volunteer work, Public speaking practice sessions
Career Connection
Strong communication is essential for effective extension work, client counseling, and stakeholder engagement. Ethical grounding builds trust and credibility, crucial for impactful careers in community development in India.
Explore Environmental Consciousness and Basic Agricultural Sciences- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to Environmental Studies and supportive agricultural courses like Soil Science, Genetics, and Horticulture. Understand the interconnections between human well-being, environment, and agricultural practices, which are pertinent to sustainable community development and food security initiatives in India''''s predominantly agrarian economy.
Tools & Resources
Environmental clubs, Field trips to farms/conservation areas, Relevant journals/magazines, Documentaries on sustainable agriculture
Career Connection
Knowledge of environmental and agricultural basics is increasingly valued in sustainable development roles, food security programs, and rural upliftment projects, directly contributing to India''''s national goals.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Application and Skill Specialization- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in practical courses like Food Preservation and Processing, Interior Design, Apparel Construction, and Traditional Textiles. Seek opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge through small projects, demonstrations, and skill-building workshops, identifying areas of personal interest for future specialization and vocational pathways.
Tools & Resources
Departmental labs, Skill development workshops, Local artisan collaborations, Personal projects, Online tutorials for specific crafts
Career Connection
Hands-on skills are highly valued in roles requiring practical expertise, such as food technologists, designers, and home entrepreneurs, enhancing employability and project success within India''''s diverse industry landscape.
Seek Industry Exposure and Networking Opportunities- (Semester 3-5)
Attend industry seminars, guest lectures, and workshops relevant to community science. Actively seek out local NGOs, government rural development agencies, or food processing units for short-term internships or observation visits. Network with professionals to understand current industry trends and career pathways in the Indian market.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry association events, University career fairs, Faculty contacts, Volunteer opportunities with local organizations
Career Connection
Early exposure helps in career planning, provides valuable insights into industry demands, and can lead to future internship or placement opportunities, building a professional network crucial for career growth in India.
Develop Entrepreneurial Mindset and Community Engagement Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Pay close attention to Entrepreneurship Development and Extension Education courses. Start thinking about potential community-based projects or small business ideas. Engage in initial community surveys or needs assessments to understand local challenges and opportunities for intervention, especially in rural and semi-urban settings.
Tools & Resources
Business plan competitions, Local market surveys, Self-help groups (SHGs) interactions, Mentorship from successful local entrepreneurs
Career Connection
Fosters innovation, problem-solving, and leadership, preparing graduates to create their own ventures or lead community-driven initiatives, which is essential for rural empowerment and economic development in India.
Advanced Stage
Maximize Experiential Learning and Project Work- (Semester 7-8)
Fully immerse in the Student READY Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) and the final Project Work. Choose modules and research topics that align with your career aspirations. Dedicate significant effort to practical implementation, data collection, analysis, and report writing, treating it as a real-world professional assignment for maximum impact.
Tools & Resources
ELP facilities, Research methodology guidance, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), Field equipment, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
This hands-on experience is a direct precursor to employment, building a strong portfolio, and demonstrating practical competence to potential employers or for higher studies, making graduates job-ready for the Indian development sector.
Focus on Specialization and Advanced Skill Refinement- (Semester 6-8)
Deep dive into advanced courses and electives in your chosen area (e.g., Advanced Nutrition, Fashion Designing, Guidance and Counseling, Community Health). Pursue certifications or advanced workshops in these specialized domains to gain a competitive edge and become an expert in your chosen field within the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
Online certification platforms (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera for specialized topics), Professional body memberships (e.g., IDA for Dietitians), Advanced software training for design or data analysis
Career Connection
Specialization enhances expertise, making graduates highly sought after for niche roles in their chosen field, leading to better career prospects, higher earning potential, and greater impact in specific community science domains.
Prepare for Placement and Professional Development- (Semester 6-8)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops. Refine your communication and presentation skills through seminars and group discussions. Network extensively with alumni and industry professionals to explore job openings and gain valuable career advice specific to the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Career services, Mock interview panels, LinkedIn, Professional associations, Alumni network mentorship programs, Placement cell workshops
Career Connection
Systematic preparation maximizes chances of securing desired employment, eases transition into the professional world, and sets the stage for long-term career growth and leadership opportunities in various Indian sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 Science / Arts / Commerce with minimum 50% marks in aggregate (excluding optional elective). For Science stream, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics / Biology is compulsory. (As per OUAT Information Brochure 2023)
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 175 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Theory: 20% (Mid-Term Exam), Practical: 50% (Mid-Term / Continuous Assessment), External: Theory: 80% (End-Term Exam), Practical: 50% (End-Term Practical Exam)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AENS 1101 | Human Values and Ethics | AECC | 1 | Value Education, Ethics and Morality, Professional Ethics, Human Rights, Environmental Ethics |
| CSNM 1101 | Introduction to Community Science | Core | 3 | Concept of Community Science, Family Resource Management, Food and Nutrition, Human Development, Textile and Apparel Science |
| HDFD 1101 | Human Development I | Core | 3 | Principles of Human Development, Growth Stages, Social Development, Cognitive Development, Emotional Development |
| FND 1101 | Principles of Food Science | Core | 3 | Food Components, Food Preparation Methods, Food Preservation, Food Safety, Nutritional Value of Food |
| ARM 1101 | Fundamentals of Resource Management | Core | 3 | Resources and their Management, Time and Energy Management, Work Simplification, Ergonomics, Housing |
| TAD 1101 | Fundamentals of Textile Science | Core | 3 | Textile Fibers, Yarn Formation, Fabric Construction, Fabric Finishes, Dyeing and Printing |
| SSAC 1101 | Fundamentals of Soil Science | Supportive | 3 | Soil Formation, Soil Properties, Soil Classification, Soil Fertility, Nutrient Management |
| BSCP 1101 | Basic Chemistry | Supportive | 3 | Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, Organic Chemistry Basics, Acid-Base Concepts, Biomolecules |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENVS 1201 | Environmental Studies | AECC | 1 | Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues |
| AENG 1201 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Core | 2 | Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Public Speaking, Group Discussion, Interview Skills, Personality Traits |
| HDFD 1202 | Human Development II | Core | 3 | Adolescence, Adulthood, Aging, Developmental Tasks, Family Life Education |
| FND 1202 | Basic Nutrition | Core | 3 | Macronutrients, Micronutrients, Energy Metabolism, Dietary Requirements, Nutritional Deficiencies |
| ARM 1202 | Family Finance and Consumer Studies | Core | 3 | Family Budgeting, Savings and Investments, Consumer Rights, Consumer Protection, Financial Planning |
| TAD 1202 | Apparel Construction | Core | 3 | Principles of Garment Construction, Sewing Techniques, Pattern Making, Fabric Layouts, Quality Control |
| GPB 1201 | Principles of Genetics | Supportive | 3 | Mendelian Genetics, Chromosomal Basis of Inheritance, Gene Interaction, Genetic Engineering, Population Genetics |
| HORT 1201 | Basic Horticulture | Supportive | 3 | Principles of Horticulture, Fruit and Vegetable Cultivation, Ornamental Gardening, Post-Harvest Technology, Plant Propagation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSNM 2302 | Extension Education Methods and Programmes | Core | 3 | Extension Philosophy, Communication Models, Extension Teaching Methods, Programme Planning, Rural Development |
| HDFD 2303 | Family Resource Management | Core | 3 | Goals and Values, Decision Making, Financial Management, Housing and Interiors, Household Equipment |
| FND 2303 | Food Preservation and Processing | Core | 3 | Principles of Food Preservation, Canning, Drying, Freezing, Fermentation, Packaging |
| ARM 2303 | Interior Design and Decoration | Core | 3 | Elements of Design, Principles of Design, Space Planning, Furniture Arrangement, Lighting |
| TAD 2303 | Traditional Indian Textiles and Costumes | Core | 3 | Indian Textile Heritage, Handloom Traditions, Regional Costumes, Embroidery, Dyeing Techniques |
| ENT 2301 | Principles of Entomology | Supportive | 3 | Insect Morphology, Insect Classification, Insect Ecology, Pest Management, Beneficial Insects |
| PATH 2301 | Principles of Plant Pathology | Supportive | 3 | Plant Disease Concepts, Disease Etiology, Disease Cycles, Disease Diagnosis, Disease Management |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASTAT 2401 | Fundamentals of Statistics | Core | 2 | Data Collection, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Probability, Hypothesis Testing |
| CSNM 2403 | Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 2 | Entrepreneurial Traits, Business Planning, Market Survey, Funding Sources, Small Business Management |
| HDFD 2404 | Child Rearing and Guidance | Core | 3 | Parenting Styles, Child Discipline, Emotional Regulation, Cognitive Stimulation, Play and Learning |
| FND 2404 | Community Nutrition | Core | 3 | Nutritional Problems in India, Assessment of Nutritional Status, Nutrition Intervention Programs, Food Security, Public Health Nutrition |
| ARM 2404 | Work and Family Life | Core | 3 | Work-Life Balance, Dual-Career Families, Stress Management, Conflict Resolution, Family Policies |
| TAD 2404 | Fabric Care and Laundry Management | Core | 3 | Laundry Agents, Stain Removal, Washing Techniques, Drying Methods, Storage of Textiles |
| ACEC 2401 | Economics and Marketing of Agricultural Produce | Supportive | 3 | Agricultural Economics, Demand and Supply, Market Structures, Agricultural Marketing, Price Determination |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSNM 3504 | Participatory Rural Appraisal | Core | 2 | PRA Concepts, Tools and Techniques, Community Participation, Data Collection, Rural Development Planning |
| HDFD 3505 | Early Childhood Care and Education | Core | 3 | ECCE Philosophy, Curriculum Development, Play-Based Learning, Child-Friendly Environment, Teacher-Child Interaction |
| FND 3505 | Dietetics and Meal Management | Core | 3 | Therapeutic Diets, Diet Planning, Food Preparation for Special Conditions, Menu Planning, Diet Counseling |
| ARM 3505 | Ergonomics in Home and Workplace | Core | 2 | Ergonomics Principles, Work Posture, Anthropometry, Design of Tools, Workplace Safety |
| TAD 3505 | Textile and Apparel Quality Control | Core | 2 | Quality Standards, Textile Testing, Apparel Inspection, Defect Analysis, Statistical Quality Control |
| EL-CSNM 3506 / 3507 | Elective (Choose One) | Elective | 3 | Communication Technologies for Development, Community Health and Sanitation |
| EL-FND 3506 / 3507 | Elective (Choose One) | Elective | 3 | Food Service Management, Nutritional Biochemistry |
| EL-ARM 3506 / 3507 | Elective (Choose One) | Elective | 2 | Housing and Environment, Home Based Production and Services |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSNM 3605 | Project Planning and Management | Core | 3 | Project Cycle, Feasibility Study, Project Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation, Grant Writing |
| HDFD 3606 | Guidance and Counseling | Core | 3 | Principles of Counseling, Counseling Techniques, Career Guidance, Family Counseling, Crisis Intervention |
| FND 3608 | Advanced Nutrition | Core | 3 | Clinical Nutrition, Nutrition in Critical Care, Sports Nutrition, Nutrigenomics, Functional Foods |
| ARM 3608 | Household Equipment and Appliances | Core | 2 | Selection and Care, Energy Efficiency, Maintenance, Safety Aspects, Smart Home Technology |
| TAD 3608 | Fashion Designing and Merchandising | Core | 3 | Fashion Trends, Design Elements, Sketching, Merchandising Process, Retail Management |
| EL-CSNM 3608 / 3609 | Elective (Choose One) | Elective | 2 | Entrepreneurship and Micro Enterprise Development, Social Marketing for Health and Nutrition |
| EL-FND 3609 / 3610 | Elective (Choose One) | Elective | 3 | Public Health Nutrition, Advanced Food Science |
| EL-TAD 3606 / 3607 | Elective (Choose One) | Elective | 2 | Historic Costumes and Textiles, Textile Designing and Printing |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSNM 4701 | Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) | Core | 30 | Entrepreneurship in Community Science, Extension Management and Rural Development, Food Processing and Value Addition, Textile Designing and Merchandising, Human Resource Development, Interior Decoration and Space Management |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CSNM 4802 | Rural Community Work | Core | 10 | Community Engagement, Needs Assessment, Program Implementation, Field Visits, Social Action |
| CSNM 4803 | Seminar | Core | 1 | Research Methodology, Presentation Skills, Literature Review, Data Interpretation, Academic Writing |
| CSNM 4804 | Project Work | Core | 10 | Problem Identification, Research Design, Data Collection, Report Writing, Thesis Submission |
