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BSC in Zoology at SSR College of Arts, Commerce and Science
Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
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About the Specialization
What is Zoology at SSR College of Arts, Commerce and Science Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
This Zoology program at SSR College of Arts, Commerce and Science focuses on the intricate world of animals, covering aspects from their cellular structure and genetics to their ecological interactions and evolutionary history. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of animal diversity, physiology, behavior, and conservation. The program prepares students for roles in wildlife management, research, and allied health sectors, addressing growing environmental and biological concerns in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a strong interest in biological sciences, particularly animal life and environmental issues. It attracts fresh graduates aspiring to careers in wildlife conservation, research laboratories, zoos, or pharmaceuticals. The curriculum is also beneficial for individuals seeking to contribute to environmental policy or pursue advanced studies in zoology, biotechnology, or allied medical fields.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including wildlife biologists, environmental consultants, research assistants, laboratory technicians, and educators. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential in government organizations, NGOs, and private research firms. The program lays a strong foundation for competitive exams in forest services and provides pathways to postgraduate studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Biological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in non-chordate and chordate biology, cell biology, genetics, and ecology. Regularly review lecture notes, diagrams, and classifications. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts. Attend all practical sessions diligently to understand specimens and experimental procedures.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks (Class 11 & 12 Biology), Standard Zoology textbooks (e.g., R.L. Kotpal, P.S. Verma), Online platforms like Khan Academy, NPTEL for conceptual clarity
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for higher-level subjects and entrance exams for postgraduate studies or competitive government jobs in biological sciences.
Develop Scientific Observation & Documentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention during practical classes, meticulously drawing and labeling specimens, and accurately recording observations. Maintain a detailed lab notebook, noting down experimental procedures and results. Participate in college-level science exhibitions to present findings and improve communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Scientific drawing kits, Digital cameras for documenting field observations, Scientific journals for reference
Career Connection
Essential for future roles in research, laboratory analysis, field biology, and academic writing.
Engage with Environmental Awareness Initiatives- (Semester 1-2)
Join college eco-clubs or local environmental organizations to participate in tree plantation drives, waste management campaigns, or awareness programs. Attend workshops on local biodiversity and conservation. This provides practical exposure to environmental challenges and solutions.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs working on environment (e.g., WWF India, BNHS chapters), Social media groups for environmental activism
Career Connection
Builds a profile for careers in environmental consulting, wildlife conservation, and sustainability roles, highly valued in India.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Internships or Field Research Opportunities- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for short-term internships during summer breaks at local research institutions, zoos, aquariums, or forest departments. Participate in field trips organized by the department or volunteer for local wildlife surveys. This provides hands-on experience in specialized areas like animal behavior or developmental biology.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, NPTEL internships, Government research bodies (e.g., ZSI, BSI), Local wildlife trusts
Career Connection
Practical experience significantly boosts employability, provides networking opportunities, and helps clarify career interests in specific areas of Zoology.
Specialize in a Niche Area through Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Choose electives and project topics that align with specific interests such as immunology, parasitology, or biotechnology. Conduct mini-research projects under faculty guidance, focusing on data collection, analysis, and report writing. Present findings in college seminars.
Tools & Resources
Research papers, Academic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar), Statistical software (R, SPSS), Bioinformatics tools
Career Connection
Develops specialized skills and expertise, making you a more competitive candidate for specific research roles or advanced degree programs.
Develop Quantitative and Computational Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate time to improving biostatistics and bioinformatics skills. Learn to use basic statistical software for data analysis and explore online tools for sequence analysis and biological data interpretation. Attend workshops on scientific data management.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Excel, R programming language, Online bioinformatics portals (NCBI, Ensembl), Coursera/edX courses on data science
Career Connection
These skills are highly sought after in modern biological research, pharmaceutical companies, and data analytics roles within healthcare.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Higher Education & Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Start preparing for postgraduate entrance exams like MSc Zoology, GATE (Biotechnology/Life Sciences), or competitive civil services exams (e.g., IFS). Focus on revising core subjects, practicing previous year''''s papers, and identifying areas for improvement. Seek mentorship from faculty for guidance.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, Online test series, Previous year question papers, Official exam syllabi
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing advanced academic degrees, securing research positions, or entering government sectors in forest and environmental services.
Undertake an Independent Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Collaborate with a faculty member on a substantial research project or dissertation during the final year. This involves literature review, experimental design, data collection, statistical analysis, and writing a comprehensive report. Present the work at national or regional conferences.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory equipment, Field sampling tools, Statistical software, Academic writing guides, Plagiarism checkers
Career Connection
Demonstrates research aptitude, critical thinking, and independent problem-solving skills, highly valued in academia and R&D roles.
Network with Professionals & Attend Seminars- (Semester 5-6)
Attend national/international conferences, seminars, and webinars in Zoology, wildlife biology, or related fields. Network with guest speakers, researchers, and industry professionals. Join professional bodies related to biological sciences to stay updated on industry trends and job opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional scientific societies (e.g., Zoological Society of India), University alumni network, Conference websites
Career Connection
Expands professional connections, provides insights into career paths, and opens doors to internships, mentorships, and job referrals in India''''s scientific community.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per Veer Narmad South Gujarat University norms, typically 10+2 with Science stream.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOOL-101 | Non-Chordates I: From Protozoa to Annelida | Core Theory | 4 | Protozoa general characters and classification, Porifera (Sponges) and Coelenterata (Cnidarians), Platyhelminthes (Flatworms) and Aschelminthes (Roundworms), Annelida (Segmented worms), General organization, life cycles, and economic importance |
| ZOOL-102 | Non-Chordates II: From Arthropoda to Echinodermata | Core Theory | 4 | Arthropoda (Insects, Crustaceans, Arachnids), Mollusca (Snails, Clams, Octopuses), Echinodermata (Starfish, Sea urchins), Minor Phyla (e.g., Rotifera, Ectoprocta), General characteristics, adaptations, and classification |
| ZOOL-103 | Cell Biology and Genetics | Core Theory | 4 | Ultra-structure of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cells, Cell organelles: Mitochondria, Endoplasmic Reticulum, Golgi apparatus, Cell division: Mitosis and Meiosis, Mendelian principles of inheritance, Gene interactions, Structure of DNA and RNA, Chromosome organization |
| ZOOL-104 | Ecology and Environmental Biology | Core Theory | 4 | Concept of Ecosystem: structure and function, Population and Community Ecology, Biogeochemical cycles (Carbon, Nitrogen, Water), Environmental pollution: types, causes, and control, Biodiversity: levels, threats, and conservation strategies |
| ZOOL-105 | Laboratory Course I (Based on ZOOL-101 & 102) | Core Practical | 4 | Study of museum specimens of Non-Chordates, Microscopic examination of permanent slides (Protozoa, Helminths), Dissections of invertebrate types (e.g., Earthworm, Cockroach), Preparation of temporary mounts (e.g., Paramecium, Amoeba), Field visits to study local invertebrate fauna |
| ZOOL-106 | Laboratory Course II (Based on ZOOL-103 & 104) | Core Practical | 4 | Microscopic observation of cell division (Mitosis, Meiosis), Karyotyping and chromosomal analysis, Blood group determination, Environmental parameters: pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), salinity, Quadrat and transect methods for ecological sampling |
| ENGL-101 | Compulsory English | Compulsory Foundation | 4 | Basic English Grammar and Composition, Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary building, Paragraph and Essay Writing, Letter writing and Application writing, Basic communication skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOOL-201 | Chordates I: Protochordata and Cyclostomata | Core Theory | 4 | General characters and classification of Chordates, Protochordates: Hemichordata, Urochordata, Cephalochordata, Cyclostomata: Lampreys and Hagfish, Affinities and evolutionary significance, Larval forms and life cycles |
| ZOOL-202 | Chordates II: Pisces, Amphibia and Reptilia | Core Theory | 4 | Pisces (Fishes): Classification, locomotion, respiration, Amphibia (Frogs, Salamanders): Adaptations to terrestrial life, Reptilia (Lizards, Snakes, Turtles): Evolution and specialized features, Parental care in lower vertebrates, Zoogeographical distribution patterns |
| ZOOL-203 | Evolution and Zoogeography | Core Theory | 4 | Theories of Evolution: Lamarckism, Darwinism, Neo-Darwinism, Evidences of evolution: Paleontological, Comparative Anatomy, Mechanism of Evolution: Mutation, Natural Selection, Genetic Drift, Speciation and isolation mechanisms, Zoogeographical realms and barriers to animal distribution |
| ZOOL-204 | Physiology | Core Theory | 4 | Digestive system and nutrition in animals, Respiratory system and gas exchange, Circulatory system and blood composition, Excretory system and osmoregulation, Nervous coordination and sensory organs, Endocrine system |
| ZOOL-205 | Laboratory Course III (Based on ZOOL-201 & 202) | Core Practical | 4 | Study of museum specimens of Chordates (Fish, Amphibians, Reptiles), Osteology of major chordate groups, Study of permanent slides of chordate tissues/organs, Dissection of a bony fish (e.g., Rohu, if permitted), Comparative study of vertebrate structures |
| ZOOL-206 | Laboratory Course IV (Based on ZOOL-203 & 204) | Core Practical | 4 | Microscopic examination of various blood cells, Haemoglobin estimation and blood pressure measurement, Demonstration of physiological processes (e.g., enzyme action), Study of evolutionary evidence from fossils or models, Data analysis for population genetics problems |
| ENGL-201 | Compulsory English | Compulsory Foundation | 4 | Advanced English Grammar and usage, Report writing and Business correspondence, Public speaking and Presentation skills, Critical reading and précis writing, Developing communication strategies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOOL-301 | Chordates III: Aves and Mammals | Core Theory | 4 | Aves (Birds): Origin, flight adaptations, migration, Mammals: Unique features, classification, dentition, Reproduction in higher vertebrates, Thermoregulation and homeothermy, Parental care and social organization |
| ZOOL-302 | Animal Behaviour and Ethology | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to Ethology: innate vs. learned behavior, Patterns of animal behavior: Taxes, Kineses, Reflexes, Social organization and communication in animals, Reproductive strategies and parental care, Orientation and migration |
| ZOOL-303 | Endocrinology | Core Theory | 4 | Endocrine glands: Pituitary, Thyroid, Adrenal, Pancreas, Gonads, Hormones: Types, synthesis, and mechanism of action, Neuro-endocrine regulation, Hormonal control of metabolism, growth, and reproduction, Endocrine disorders and their management |
| ZOOL-304 | Developmental Biology | Core Theory | 4 | Gametogenesis: Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis, Fertilization and early embryonic development, Cleavage patterns and gastrulation, Organogenesis: formation of major organ systems, Development of chick and frog: comparative study |
| ZOOL-305 | Laboratory Course V (Based on ZOOL-301 & 302) | Core Practical | 4 | Study of avian and mammalian museum specimens, Osteology of birds and mammals, Observation of animal behavior (e.g., feeding, courtship), Analysis of bird calls and animal communication patterns, Preparation of permanent slides of mammalian tissues |
| ZOOL-306 | Laboratory Course VI (Based on ZOOL-303 & 304) | Core Practical | 4 | Histological study of endocrine glands (e.g., thyroid, adrenal), Demonstration of hormonal effects (e.g., on growth), Study of chick embryo development stages, Microscopic examination of various developmental stages, Techniques for tissue preparation and staining |
| ZOOL-307 | Apiculture / Pisciculture | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Basic principles of beekeeping (Apiculture), Honey production and hive management, Introduction to fish farming (Pisciculture), Types of cultivable fish and pond management, Economic importance of fisheries and apiculture |
| ZOOL-308 | General Elective (e.g., Human Health and Disease) | General Elective | 2 | Common human diseases: bacterial, viral, parasitic, Understanding immunity and vaccination, Lifestyle diseases and their prevention, Basic principles of nutrition and balanced diet, Public health and hygiene practices |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOOL-401 | Immunobiology | Core Theory | 4 | Components of the Immune system: cells and organs, Innate and Adaptive Immunity, Antigens and Antibodies: structure and function, Humoral and Cell-mediated immunity, Vaccines and vaccination, Hypersensitivity, Autoimmunity |
| ZOOL-402 | Parasitology and Vector Biology | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to Parasitism and types of parasites, Pathogenic Protozoa and Helminths (e.g., Plasmodium, Taenia), Life cycles and mode of transmission of parasites, Vector biology: Mosquitos, Ticks, Fleas as disease vectors, Control measures for parasitic and vector-borne diseases |
| ZOOL-403 | Biotechnology | Core Theory | 4 | Principles of Recombinant DNA Technology, Gene cloning vectors and restriction enzymes, Techniques: PCR, Gel Electrophoresis, ELISA, Animal cell and tissue culture, Applications of biotechnology in medicine and agriculture |
| ZOOL-404 | Biostatistics and Bioinformatics | Core Theory | 4 | Basic statistical concepts: Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Probability and Hypothesis testing (Chi-square, t-test), Introduction to Bioinformatics: databases (NCBI), tools, Sequence alignment: BLAST, FASTA, Phylogenetic analysis and tree construction |
| ZOOL-405 | Laboratory Course VII (Based on ZOOL-401 & 402) | Core Practical | 4 | Preparation and staining of blood smears, Agglutination and precipitation reactions, Identification of parasitic protozoa and helminths (slides/specimens), Study of disease vectors (e.g., mosquito larvae, adult insects), Microscopic examination of infected tissues |
| ZOOL-406 | Laboratory Course VIII (Based on ZOOL-403 & 404) | Core Practical | 4 | DNA extraction from biological samples, Agarose gel electrophoresis for DNA/RNA separation, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) demonstration, Basic statistical analysis using software (e.g., Excel), Hands-on practice with bioinformatics tools for sequence analysis |
| ZOOL-407 | Sericulture / Vermicomposting | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Life cycle and rearing of silkworms (Sericulture), Silk production and processing, Biology of earthworms (Vermicomposting), Methods of vermicomposting and its applications, Economic and environmental benefits of sericulture and vermicomposting |
| ZOOL-408 | General Elective (e.g., Nutrition and Dietetics) | General Elective | 2 | Macronutrients and Micronutrients: sources and functions, Balanced diet and dietary requirements for different age groups, Nutritional deficiencies and disorders, Food adulteration and food safety, Role of diet in health and disease management |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOOL-501 | Molecular Biology | Core Theory | 4 | DNA replication: mechanisms and enzymes, Transcription: RNA synthesis and processing, Translation: protein synthesis on ribosomes, Gene regulation in prokaryotes (Operon concept), Mutations and DNA repair mechanisms |
| ZOOL-502 | Applied Zoology (Economic Zoology) | Core Theory | 4 | Pest control: methods and integrated pest management (IPM), Aquaculture: fish, prawn, and shellfish farming, Sericulture, Apiculture, and Lac culture, Poultry and Dairy farming: breeds and management, Medical entomology and vector control |
| ZOOL-503 | Animal Physiology and Biochemistry I | Core Theory | 4 | Carbohydrate metabolism: glycolysis, Kreb''''s cycle, Lipid metabolism: beta-oxidation, fatty acid synthesis, Protein metabolism: amino acid degradation, Enzymes: classification, kinetics, regulation, Muscle physiology: types of muscles, contraction mechanism |
| ZOOL-504 | Animal Ecology and Ethology II | Core Theory | 4 | Population dynamics: growth models, regulation, Community ecology: species interactions, diversity, Ecosystem structure and energy flow, Biomes of the world and their characteristics, Pollution effects on ecosystems, Wildlife conservation strategies |
| ZOOL-505 | Laboratory Course IX (Based on ZOOL-501 & 502) | Core Practical | 4 | Estimation of DNA and RNA concentration, Enzyme assay and kinetic studies, Paper and thin-layer chromatography (TLC), Identification of common agricultural pests and vectors, Study of economically important animal products |
| ZOOL-506 | Laboratory Course X (Based on ZOOL-503 & 504) | Core Practical | 4 | Estimation of glucose and protein from biological samples, Physiological experiments related to respiration/digestion, Ecological field techniques: sampling, density estimation, Behavioral experiments: choice chambers, mazes, Analysis of ecological data |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZOOL-601 | Genetics and Genomics | Core Theory | 4 | Human genetics: pedigree analysis, genetic disorders, Cytogenetics: chromosomal aberrations, Population genetics: Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, Genomics: genome sequencing projects, applications, Proteomics and metabolomics, Bioinformatics tools in genetics |
| ZOOL-602 | Medical Zoology and Public Health | Core Theory | 4 | Zoonotic diseases: transmission and control, Epidemiology: disease patterns and outbreaks, Disease vectors and their management, Public health programs and policies in India, Water-borne and food-borne diseases, environmental sanitation |
| ZOOL-603 | Animal Physiology and Biochemistry II | Core Theory | 4 | Neurophysiology: nerve impulse transmission, synapses, Sensory physiology: vision, hearing, olfaction, Reproductive physiology: hormonal control, reproductive cycles, Renal physiology and osmoregulation, Vitamins, minerals, and their role in animal health |
| ZOOL-604 | Wildlife Biology and Conservation | Core Theory | 4 | Wildlife populations: estimation, dynamics, management, Habitat analysis and fragmentation, Biodiversity hotspots and protected areas in India, Threats to wildlife: habitat loss, poaching, climate change, Conservation methods: in-situ and ex-situ, wildlife laws |
| ZOOL-605 | Laboratory Course XI (Based on ZOOL-601 & 602) | Core Practical | 4 | Karyotype analysis from human blood smears, Solving genetics problems: pedigree charts, gene mapping, Microbial culture and staining techniques, Water quality parameters: coliform count, heavy metals, Field visit to a public health center or diagnostic lab |
| ZOOL-606 | Laboratory Course XII (Based on ZOOL-603 & 604) | Core Practical | 4 | Physiological parameter measurements (e.g., respiratory rate), Hormonal assay techniques (demonstration), Wildlife identification from signs and tracks, Population estimation techniques (e.g., capture-recapture), Designing a small-scale conservation project proposal |
