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BACHELOR-OF-SCIENCE-BSC in Physiology at Surendranath Evening College
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Physiology at Surendranath Evening College Kolkata?
This Physiology Honours program at Surendranath Evening College, affiliated with the University of Calcutta, offers an in-depth scientific study of the functions and mechanisms of living systems, spanning from cellular to organismal levels. It investigates how the human body maintains homeostasis, adapts to internal and external changes, and operates its complex systems. In the Indian context, this specialization is vital for advancing healthcare, biomedical research, and the burgeoning pharmaceutical sector, meeting the increasing demand for specialized scientific talent.
Who Should Apply?
This comprehensive program is ideal for fresh 10+2 science graduates with a strong foundation in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, seeking direct entry into life sciences or healthcare support roles. It is also well-suited for aspirants aiming for higher education like M.Sc., Ph.D. in Physiology, Neuroscience, or Biotechnology, or those preparing for medical entrance examinations (e.g., NEET for allied health) and competitive civil services exams. Individuals passionate about understanding the human body will thrive.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career opportunities across India, including roles as medical laboratory technologists, research assistants in private or government research institutes, clinical research coordinators in CROs, or pharmaceutical sales representatives. Entry-level salaries generally range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals in research or academia potentially earning INR 8-15 lakhs or more. This degree also provides a robust academic foundation for pursuing MBBS or other allied health professions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Physiological Knowledge with Visual Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to mastering core physiological concepts like cell function, membrane transport, and basic organ system operations. Utilize visual aids extensively, such as anatomical charts, animated videos (e.g., NPTEL, BYJU''''S), and self-drawn diagrams, to understand complex processes. Focus on creating comprehensive flowcharts for physiological pathways (e.g., blood circulation, nerve impulse).
Tools & Resources
Guyton and Hall''''s Textbook of Medical Physiology, NPTEL online lectures, Khan Academy Biology, Visible Body Human Anatomy Atlas (app)
Career Connection
A strong conceptual foundation is critical for excelling in advanced subjects and forms the bedrock for clinical understanding, essential for roles in diagnostics, research, and medical education.
Develop Practical Laboratory Skills Proactively- (Semester 1-2)
Engage fully in all practical sessions, paying close attention to experimental procedures, instrument handling, and data recording. Practice common techniques like blood cell counting, urine analysis, and basic physiological measurements beyond curriculum requirements. Seek opportunities to assist lab technicians or senior students. Maintain a meticulous lab journal.
Tools & Resources
College Physiology Lab Manuals, Online videos on lab techniques, Basic lab equipment (microscopes, centrifuges)
Career Connection
Proficiency in laboratory techniques is highly valued in diagnostic laboratories, biomedical research, and pharmaceutical R&D, opening doors to positions as lab technologists or research assistants.
Cultivate Effective Study Habits and Peer Collaboration- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a consistent study routine, breaking down complex topics into manageable segments. Form small peer study groups to discuss challenging concepts, clarify doubts, and prepare for exams. Actively participate in classroom discussions. Utilize college library resources and online academic forums for collaborative learning, which enhances retention and problem-solving skills.
Tools & Resources
College Library, WhatsApp study groups, Google Scholar, Pubmed (for basic searches)
Career Connection
Strong academic performance and effective communication honed through group study are crucial for securing internships, higher education admissions, and demonstrate teamwork abilities for future employers.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Early Research Exposure and Mentorship- (Semester 3-5)
Identify faculty members whose research aligns with your interests and proactively seek opportunities to volunteer or assist in their ongoing projects. This hands-on experience in research methodology, data collection, and scientific inquiry (e.g., assisting in animal studies, clinical data analysis) will be invaluable. Present your work in college science fairs or local conferences.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Faculty research profiles, College notice boards for research opportunities
Career Connection
Early research exposure strengthens your resume for postgraduate studies (M.Sc., Ph.D.) and research-intensive roles in biotech, pharma, or government research institutions in India.
Master Bio-statistical and Data Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Pay close attention to Biostatistics courses and actively learn to apply statistical methods for interpreting experimental data. Gain practical experience with data analysis software like Microsoft Excel, R (basic level), or SPSS. Understanding statistical significance is paramount for evaluating scientific literature and designing robust experiments, a highly sought-after skill in clinical research and data science within the healthcare sector.
Tools & Resources
R programming tutorials (online), SPSS/Excel for data analysis, Biostatistics textbooks
Career Connection
Proficiency in data analysis is a critical skill for clinical research organizations (CROs), epidemiological studies, and pharmaceutical companies, enhancing your employability in analytics-driven roles.
Pursue Targeted Internships for Industry Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Actively search for and apply to internships during semester breaks in diagnostic laboratories, pathology labs, pharmaceutical R&D units, or even public health organizations. These experiences provide practical application of theoretical knowledge, help build a professional network, and clarify career interests. Leverage platforms like Internshala, LinkedIn, and the college placement cell.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn Jobs, College placement cell
Career Connection
Internships offer invaluable real-world experience, often leading to pre-placement offers or significantly boosting your chances of securing entry-level positions after graduation in the Indian job market.
Advanced Stage
Execute a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
If available as a Discipline Specific Elective (DSE), undertake a significant research project or dissertation. This involves formulating a research question, conducting a thorough literature review, designing experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and writing a detailed scientific report. This capstone experience showcases independent research capability and critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
Departmental faculty guidance, Access to lab facilities, Statistical software, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
A well-executed project is a strong differentiator for postgraduate admissions (M.Sc./Ph.D.) and research-oriented job roles, demonstrating your ability to contribute original scientific work.
Strategize for Higher Education or Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
For those aspiring to an M.Sc. in Physiology, Biochemistry, or Biomedical Science, or even medical/allied health entrance exams, begin intensive preparation. Focus on consolidating core physiological concepts and practicing previous year''''s questions. For general competitive exams like UPSC, leverage your scientific analytical skills and current affairs knowledge. Attend workshops on exam strategies.
Tools & Resources
GATE Life Sciences study material, CSIR NET syllabus, UPSC science & tech resources, Coaching institute mock tests
Career Connection
Targeted preparation enhances your chances of admission to prestigious Indian universities for advanced degrees or securing coveted positions in government services and public sector research.
Refine Professional Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 6)
Practice presenting your research findings and ideas concisely and confidently in seminars or project defense sessions. Participate in workshops on CV building, interview preparation, and professional etiquette. Develop strong written communication for scientific reports and professional correspondence. Seek feedback from mentors and career counselors.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters clubs (if available), College career counseling cell, Online presentation courses, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Exceptional communication and presentation skills are paramount for academic success, successful job interviews, networking, and career advancement in any scientific, academic, or corporate environment.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English as per Surendranath Evening College admission criteria.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 184 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (for theory papers, typically), External: 80% (for theory papers, typically)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural Resources and their conservation, Ecosystems and ecological succession, Biodiversity and its conservation strategies, Environmental Pollution and its control, Human Population and the Environment |
| PHY-CC1-TH | Physiology of Cell and Excitable Tissues (Theory) | Core | 6 | Cell Physiology and organelles, Membrane transport mechanisms, Resting membrane potential, Action potential and its propagation, Nerve Impulse Transmission, Synaptic transmission and neurotransmitters |
| PHY-CC1-PR | Physiology of Cell and Excitable Tissues (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Microscopic observation of animal cells, Micrometry and cell size determination, Study of osmosis and hemolysis, Principles of nerve stimulation, Preparation of physiological saline solutions |
| PHY-CC2-TH | General & Endocrine Physiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Homeostasis and regulatory mechanisms, Body fluid compartments and electrolytes, Blood composition, functions, and plasma proteins, General principles of endocrinology, Pituitary and thyroid gland hormones, Adrenal gland and pancreatic hormones |
| PHY-CC2-PR | General & Endocrine Physiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Blood grouping and Rh factor determination, Estimation of Hemoglobin content, Determination of Red Blood Cell count, Measurement of Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), Microscopic study of endocrine glands |
| GE1-TH | Generic Elective - I (Theory) | Generic Elective | 6 | Foundational concepts of chosen discipline, Basic principles and theories, Key methodologies, Applications in relevant fields, Introductory analytical techniques |
| GE1-PR | Generic Elective - I (Practical) | Generic Elective Lab | 2 | Basic laboratory techniques for chosen discipline, Experimental procedures, Data recording and simple analysis, Observation and inference, Safe lab practices |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC2 | English Communication / MIL (Modern Indian Language) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Language proficiency and grammar, Reading comprehension and analysis, Writing skills (essay, report, letter), Listening skills and note-taking, Verbal communication and presentation |
| PHY-CC3-TH | Physiology of Digestion, Excretion & Thermal Regulation (Theory) | Core | 6 | Digestive system anatomy and motility, Secretions of digestive glands, Digestion and absorption of nutrients, Renal physiology: filtration, reabsorption, secretion, Urine formation and composition, Body temperature regulation mechanisms |
| PHY-CC3-PR | Physiology of Digestion, Excretion & Thermal Regulation (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Study of salivary amylase activity, Analysis of normal and abnormal urine samples, Estimation of gastric acid secretion (principles), Examination of digestive enzymes, Measurement of renal clearance (conceptual) |
| PHY-CC4-TH | Physiology of Respiration, Blood and Special Senses (Theory) | Core | 6 | Mechanics of respiration and lung volumes, Gas exchange in lungs and tissues, Oxygen and Carbon dioxide transport in blood, Acid-base balance and regulation, Hemopoiesis and functions of blood cells, Physiology of vision, hearing, taste, smell |
| PHY-CC4-PR | Physiology of Respiration, Blood and Special Senses (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Spirometry and lung function tests, Differential Leukocyte Count (DLC), Blood pressure measurement and regulation, Visual acuity and color vision tests, Auditory threshold and sound localization |
| GE2-TH | Generic Elective - II (Theory) | Generic Elective | 6 | Core concepts in a chosen secondary discipline, Analytical and problem-solving techniques, Historical development of the field, Current trends and applications, Ethical considerations |
| GE2-PR | Generic Elective - II (Practical) | Generic Elective Lab | 2 | Intermediate experimental skills, Use of analytical instruments, Data collection and basic statistical analysis, Interpretation of experimental results, Presentation of findings |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEC1 | Skill Enhancement Course - I (e.g., First Aid, Nutritional Biochemistry) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Emergency first aid procedures (e.g., CPR, wound care), Basic life support principles, Nutritional assessment techniques, Dietary planning and common deficiencies, Role of vitamins and minerals in health |
| PHY-CC5-TH | Cardiovascular & Reproductive Physiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Cardiac cycle and heart sounds, Electrocardiography (ECG) principles and interpretation, Blood pressure regulation and hypertension, Cardiac output and its determinants, Male reproductive system and spermatogenesis, Female reproductive system, menstrual cycle, pregnancy |
| PHY-CC5-PR | Cardiovascular & Reproductive Physiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Recording and analysis of human ECG, Auscultation of heart sounds, Estimation of cardiac output (indirect methods), Blood pressure regulation experiments, Microscopic study of reproductive tissues |
| PHY-CC6-TH | Neurophysiology & Muscle Physiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Organization of the nervous system, Sensory receptors and ascending pathways, Motor control and descending pathways, Cerebellum and basal ganglia functions, Autonomic nervous system, Skeletal muscle contraction mechanisms |
| PHY-CC6-PR | Neurophysiology & Muscle Physiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Study of reflexes in humans, Sensory mapping (e.g., two-point discrimination), Effect of temperature on muscle contraction (conceptual), Electromyography (EMG) principles, Observation of different muscle types |
| PHY-CC7-TH | Applied Physiology & Environmental Physiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Physiology of exercise and training adaptations, High altitude physiology and acclimatization, Deep sea physiology and diving hazards, Space physiology and microgravity effects, Environmental stressors (heat, cold, humidity), Circadian rhythms and biological clocks |
| PHY-CC7-PR | Applied Physiology & Environmental Physiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Measurement of physiological parameters during exercise, Assessment of physical fitness, Environmental stress response tests (conceptual), Ergometry and work efficiency, Data analysis of physiological responses to environment |
| GE3-TH | Generic Elective - III (Theory) | Generic Elective | 6 | Advanced topics in chosen generic discipline, Research methodologies in the field, Critical analysis of concepts, Societal impact and relevance, Case studies and problem-solving |
| GE3-PR | Generic Elective - III (Practical) | Generic Elective Lab | 2 | Complex experimental design, Advanced data analysis techniques, Troubleshooting experimental setups, Scientific report writing, Interpretation of complex data sets |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEC2 | Skill Enhancement Course - II (e.g., Clinical Biochemistry, Bioinstrumentation) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Principles of clinical biochemistry tests, Blood glucose estimation and interpretation, Renal and liver function tests (basic), Principles of bioinstrumentation (e.g., pH meter, centrifuge), Microscopy and imaging techniques |
| PHY-CC8-TH | Cellular & Molecular Physiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Cell signaling pathways and receptors, Second messengers and signal transduction, Gene expression regulation, Protein synthesis and modification, Membrane channels and transporters, Enzyme kinetics and regulation |
| PHY-CC8-PR | Cellular & Molecular Physiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Measurement of enzyme activity, Principles of DNA/RNA extraction, Protein estimation methods (e.g., Lowry, Bradford), Cell culture techniques (basic principles), Agarose gel electrophoresis (conceptual) |
| PHY-CC9-TH | Immunology & Haematology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Innate and adaptive immunity, Humoral and cell-mediated immunity, Antigens, antibodies, and their interactions, Immunological techniques (ELISA, Western Blot), Blood disorders (anemia, leukemia), Hemostasis and coagulation disorders |
| PHY-CC9-PR | Immunology & Haematology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Differential Leukocyte Count (advanced), Blood typing (ABO, Rh system), Principles of ELISA for antigen/antibody detection, Immunodiffusion techniques, Study of coagulation factors |
| PHY-CC10-TH | Endocrinology & Metabolism (Theory) | Core | 6 | Mechanisms of hormone action, Hypothalamic-pituitary axis regulation, Adrenal cortex and medulla hormones, Pancreatic hormones (insulin, glucagon), Calcium and phosphate metabolism, Carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism |
| PHY-CC10-PR | Endocrinology & Metabolism (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), Estimation of blood glucose levels, Principles of hormonal assays, Measurement of basal metabolic rate (BMR), Microscopic study of endocrine glands |
| GE4-TH | Generic Elective - IV (Theory) | Generic Elective | 6 | Specialized topics in chosen generic discipline, Interdisciplinary applications, Advanced theoretical frameworks, Contemporary issues and debates, Future directions of the field |
| GE4-PR | Generic Elective - IV (Practical) | Generic Elective Lab | 2 | Project-based learning in chosen discipline, Independent experimental design, Advanced analytical software usage, Scientific presentation skills, Critical evaluation of results |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHY-CC11-TH | Nutritional & Metabolic Physiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Macronutrients and micronutrients, Vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, Energy balance and basal metabolic rate, Digestion, absorption, and metabolism of nutrients, Nutritional disorders and deficiencies, Dietary guidelines and assessment |
| PHY-CC11-PR | Nutritional & Metabolic Physiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Dietary assessment methods, Calculation of calorie and nutrient intake, Anthropometric measurements (BMI, waist-hip ratio), Assessment of nutritional status, Estimation of energy expenditure (conceptual) |
| PHY-CC12-TH | Developmental & Comparative Physiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Gametogenesis and fertilization, Embryonic development and organogenesis, Fetal physiology and placental function, Growth and aging processes, Comparative study of respiratory systems, Comparative study of circulatory and excretory systems |
| PHY-CC12-PR | Developmental & Comparative Physiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Observation of chick embryo development, Study of age-related physiological changes, Comparative analysis of blood smears, Identification of developmental stages (conceptual), Analysis of physiological adaptations in animals |
| PHY-DSE1-TH | Discipline Specific Elective - I (Theory) (e.g., Human Physiology A or Reproductive Physiology & Endocrinology) | Elective | 6 | Advanced Cardiovascular Physiology (e.g., hemodynamics), Advanced Respiratory Physiology (e.g., regulation of breathing), Infertility and assisted reproductive technologies, Hormonal regulation of reproduction, Physiology of pregnancy and parturition, Stress and reproduction |
| PHY-DSE1-PR | Discipline Specific Elective - I (Practical) | Elective Lab | 2 | Advanced physiological measurements (e.g., blood flow), Hormone assay techniques, Sperm viability and count (conceptual), Data analysis of clinical cases, Instrumentation for reproductive studies |
| PHY-DSE2-TH | Discipline Specific Elective - II (Theory) (e.g., Nutritional Physiology & Metabolism or Neurophysiology) | Elective | 6 | Advanced aspects of intermediary metabolism, Role of diet in chronic diseases, Neurotransmitters and their pathways, Sensory perception and integration, Higher brain functions (memory, learning), Neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson''''s, Alzheimer''''s) |
| PHY-DSE2-PR | Discipline Specific Elective - II (Practical) | Elective Lab | 2 | Advanced metabolic assays, Neurophysiological recording techniques, Behavioral experiments (conceptual), Electrophysiological measurements (basic), Analysis of nutritional data |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHY-CC13-TH | Stress Physiology & Pathophysiology (Theory) | Core | 6 | General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), Neuroendocrine response to stress, Immune system modulation by stress, Pathophysiology of common diseases (e.g., diabetes mellitus), Hypertension and cardiovascular disease pathophysiology, Renal and hepatic failure mechanisms |
| PHY-CC13-PR | Stress Physiology & Pathophysiology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Assessment of physiological responses to stress, Blood glucose monitoring and interpretation, Urinalysis for disease markers, Analysis of blood lipid profile, Clinical case studies in pathophysiology |
| PHY-CC14-TH | Biostatistics & Research Methodology (Theory) | Core | 6 | Data collection, organization, and presentation, Measures of central tendency and variability, Probability and sampling techniques, Hypothesis testing (t-test, ANOVA, chi-square), Correlation and regression analysis, Experimental design and scientific writing |
| PHY-CC14-PR | Biostatistics & Research Methodology (Practical) | Core Lab | 2 | Using statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS basics), Data entry and management, Performing descriptive and inferential statistics, Interpretation of statistical outputs, Writing a research proposal and report |
| PHY-DSE3-TH | Discipline Specific Elective - III (Theory) (e.g., Physiology of Stress & Exercise or Developmental Physiology) | Elective | 6 | Advanced concepts in stress adaptation, Physiological adaptations to various types of exercise, Molecular mechanisms of growth and development, Regenerative physiology and stem cells, Epigenetics and development, Aging and disease mechanisms |
| PHY-DSE3-PR | Discipline Specific Elective - III (Practical) | Elective Lab | 2 | Assessment of physiological markers of stress, Exercise testing and data interpretation, Study of developmental stages (e.g., frog/fish), Molecular techniques in developmental biology, Cell viability assays |
| PHY-DSE4 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (Project Work / Dissertation) | Elective Project | 6 | Research question formulation and hypothesis development, Comprehensive literature review, Experimental design and methodology, Data collection, analysis, and interpretation, Scientific report writing and thesis preparation, Oral presentation and defense of research findings |
