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M-SC in Zoology at Ram Krishna Dwarika Mahavidyalaya, Lohiya Nagar, Patna
Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Zoology at Ram Krishna Dwarika Mahavidyalaya, Lohiya Nagar, Patna Patna?
This M.Sc. Zoology program at Ram Krishna Dwarika Mahavidyalaya focuses on providing in-depth knowledge of animal science, from fundamental non-chordates to advanced biotechnology. It emphasizes ecological principles, genetic mechanisms, and physiological systems relevant to India''''s diverse fauna. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for zoologists in research, conservation, and allied industries within the Indian context, preparing students for impactful careers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates holding a Bachelor''''s degree in Zoology or a related biological science who aspire to careers in wildlife, environmental agencies, or academic research. It also suits working professionals, such as educators or field assistants, seeking to upgrade their qualifications and expertise in specialized areas of zoology. Aspiring conservationists, biotechnologists, and researchers with a strong interest in animal life will find this program highly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to find rewarding career paths in India as wildlife biologists, environmental consultants, research scientists in government and private labs, or lecturers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in organizations like the Zoological Survey of India, forest departments, NGOs, pharmaceutical research, and agricultural sectors. The program also lays a strong foundation for pursuing M.Phil. or Ph.D. studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Zoological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core concepts in Non-Chordata, Chordata, Ecology, Cell Biology, Physiology, and Developmental Biology. Create detailed notes, diagrams, and flowcharts. Participate actively in laboratory practicals to gain hands-on experience with specimens and experimental setups.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., Kotpal, Hyman), Online biology platforms (e.g., Khan Academy), University lab manuals, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are crucial for all advanced studies and competitive exams (e.g., CSIR-NET, SET) and interview success in research or teaching roles.
Develop Robust Scientific Inquiry Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate critical thinking by questioning experimental methodologies, interpreting data from practicals, and analyzing ecological and genetic problems. Engage with scientific literature beyond textbooks to understand current research in topics like genetics and environmental science.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, PubMed, Google Scholar for research papers, Online science forums, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Essential for research positions, data analysis roles, and problem-solving in any scientific field, enhancing academic and professional credibility.
Build Effective Study and Communication Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a consistent study routine, manage time effectively, and practice presenting scientific information clearly and concisely. Participate in departmental presentations, group discussions, and seek feedback on lab reports to refine writing and verbal communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Flashcards (Anki, Quizlet), Academic writing guides, Presentation software, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Excellent communication is vital for publishing research, teaching, and collaborating in team-based scientific projects, facilitating professional growth.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 98 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC-101 | Non-Chordata | Core | 4 | Protozoa to Annelida, Arthropoda structure and development, Mollusca characteristics, Echinodermata classification and larval forms, Evolutionary trends in Non-Chordates |
| ZOO-CC-102 | Chordata | Core | 4 | Protochordata and Cyclostomata, Pisces adaptations and evolution, Amphibia and Reptilia characteristics, Aves flight adaptations, Mammalia diversity and evolution |
| ZOO-CC-103 | Ecology & Environmental Biology | Core | 4 | Ecosystem structure and function, Population and Community Ecology, Biogeochemical Cycles, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental Pollution and its impact |
| ZOO-CC-104 | Cell Biology & Genetics | Core | 4 | Structure and function of cell organelles, Cell division: Mitosis and Meiosis, Chromosome organization, Mendelian inheritance and gene interactions, Linkage, crossing over and gene mutations |
| ZOO-CP-105 | Practical based on ZOO-CC-101 & ZOO-CC-102 | Lab | 4 | Dissection of invertebrate and vertebrate types, Study of permanent slides, Identification of museum specimens, Preparation of whole mounts, Animal tissue preparation |
| ZOO-CP-106 | Practical based on ZOO-CC-103 & ZOO-CC-104 | Lab | 4 | Ecological data analysis, Determination of population density, Genetic problem solving, Preparation of cytological slides, Study of karyotypes |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC-201 | System Physiology | Core | 4 | Digestive system and nutrition, Respiratory and Circulatory systems, Excretion and Osmoregulation, Nervous system and sensory organs, Endocrine glands and hormonal regulation |
| ZOO-CC-202 | Developmental Biology | Core | 4 | Gametogenesis and Fertilization, Early embryonic development in vertebrates, Organogenesis, Metamorphosis, Regeneration and stem cells |
| ZOO-CC-203 | Biochemistry & Molecular Biology | Core | 4 | Structure and function of Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids, Enzymology and enzyme kinetics, Nucleic acid structure and types, DNA replication and repair, Transcription and Translation mechanisms, Gene expression regulation |
| ZOO-CC-204 | Tools & Techniques in Zoology | Core | 4 | Principles and types of Microscopy, Centrifugation and Chromatography, Electrophoresis techniques, Spectrophotometry and pH metry, Radioisotopy in biology, Biostatistical tools |
| ZOO-CP-205 | Practical based on ZOO-CC-201 & ZOO-CC-202 | Lab | 4 | Physiological experiments (e.g., enzyme activity), Histological preparations and identification, Study of developmental stages, Staining techniques, Animal handling for physiological studies |
| ZOO-CP-206 | Practical based on ZOO-CC-203 & ZOO-CC-204 | Lab | 4 | Qualitative and quantitative biochemical tests, DNA and RNA isolation, Chromatography experiments, Electrophoresis demonstrations, Basic biostatistical calculations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC-301 | Biostatistics, Bioinformatics & Immunology | Core | 4 | Statistical methods for biological data, Bioinformatics databases and tools, Sequence alignment and analysis, Components of the immune system, Antigens, antibodies and immune responses, Immunological techniques |
| ZOO-CC-302 | Animal Behaviour & Evolution | Core | 4 | Introduction to Ethology, Types of animal behaviour (innate, learned), Social behaviour and communication, Theories of evolution (Lamarckism, Darwinism), Speciation and macroevolution, Adaptive radiations |
| ZOO-CC-303 | Economic Zoology, Wild Life & Conservation | Core | 4 | Sericulture, Apiculture, Pisciculture, Integrated Pest Management, Wildlife management techniques, Principles of conservation biology, Protected areas and conservation strategies |
| ZOO-CE-304 | Elective Group I (Choose ONE): (a) Fisheries Biology, (b) Entomology, (c) Parasitology, (d) Toxicology | Elective | 4 | Fishery resources and their types, Fish culture and breeding techniques, Common fish diseases and their management, Fishery economics and marketing, Sustainable fishery management practices |
| ZOO-CP-305 | Practical based on ZOO-CC-301 & ZOO-CC-302 | Lab | 4 | Statistical data analysis exercises, Bioinformatics tool applications, Immunological assay demonstrations, Observation of animal behaviour patterns, Evolutionary problem solving |
| ZOO-CP-306 | Practical based on ZOO-CC-303 & ZOO-CE-304 | Lab | 4 | Study of economically important animals/products, Identification of pests and disease vectors, Wildlife census techniques, Field visits for ecological observations, Elective-specific practicals (e.g., fish anatomy/insect collection) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOO-CC-401 | Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering | Core | 4 | Recombinant DNA technology principles, Gene cloning vectors and techniques, PCR and DNA fingerprinting, Transgenic animals and their applications, Ethical issues in genetic engineering, Bioethics and biosafety |
| ZOO-CC-402 | Applied Zoology & Bioremediation | Core | 4 | Advanced aquaculture and fish breeding, Animal breeding and genetic improvement, Veterinary science and animal health, Bioremediation of environmental pollutants, Pest management strategies, Waste treatment technologies |
| ZOO-CE-403 | Elective Group II (Choose ONE): (a) Limnology & Oceanography, (b) Entomology (Advanced), (c) Wildlife Biology, (d) Ichthyology | Elective | 4 | Freshwater and Marine ecosystems, Physico-chemical properties of water bodies, Aquatic productivity, Impact of pollution on aquatic life, Conservation of aquatic biodiversity |
| ZOO-CP-404 | Practical based on ZOO-CC-401 & ZOO-CC-402 & ZOO-CE-403 | Lab | 4 | Genetic engineering tools demonstration, Biotechnological experiments (e.g., electrophoresis), Applied zoology techniques (e.g., water quality analysis), Bioremediation methods simulation, Elective-specific advanced practicals |
| ZOO-PRJ-405 | Project Work | Project | 10 | Formulation of research problem, Literature review and experimental design, Data collection and analysis, Report writing and dissertation preparation, Scientific presentation and viva-voce |
