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M-SC in Physiology at The University of Burdwan
Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Physiology at The University of Burdwan Purba Bardhaman?
This M.Sc. Physiology program at The University of Burdwan focuses on advanced understanding of human body functions from cellular to systemic levels. It emphasizes in-depth knowledge of physiological mechanisms, their regulation, and homeostatic controls, crucial for biomedical research and healthcare in India. The curriculum integrates core concepts with modern techniques and applied aspects to prepare future professionals.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for B.Sc. Honours graduates in Physiology or related biological sciences seeking specialized knowledge for a career in research, healthcare, or academia. It attracts individuals passionate about understanding human biology, clinical applications, and contributing to health sciences, including those aspiring for Ph.D. studies or entry into medical technology roles.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including medical research, pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic labs, and teaching. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. Opportunities exist in government research institutions like ICMR/CSIR and private healthcare, aligning with roles like research associate, medical writer, or lab manager.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Physiological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in Biophysical, Cell, Neuro, Endocrine, Cardiovascular, and Renal Physiology. Actively participate in lectures, review class notes, and use standard Indian textbooks as primary resources. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, ensuring a thorough grasp of fundamentals.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (Ganong, Guyton), department library, NPTEL lectures, Anki
Career Connection
A robust understanding of fundamentals is critical for all advanced studies, competitive exams (NET/SET), and problem-solving in research or clinical settings, forming the bedrock of a successful career.
Develop Basic Lab Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in all practical sessions covering general physiology, cell biology, and biochemistry. Learn to operate common lab equipment, perform basic experiments, and meticulously record observations. Seek opportunities to assist seniors in their research projects to gain hands-on experience and understand research protocols.
Tools & Resources
University labs, lab manuals, departmental mentors, online videos demonstrating lab techniques
Career Connection
Essential for roles in diagnostic labs, research assistant positions, and any experimental work in pharmacology or biotech, where practical proficiency is highly valued by employers.
Cultivate Scientific Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Start reading scientific articles and review papers relevant to current topics taught in classes. Familiarize yourself with PubMed and other scientific databases. Participate in departmental seminars and journal clubs to understand research methodologies and contemporary findings in physiology from leading experts.
Tools & Resources
PubMed, Google Scholar, university library access to scientific journals, department seminars
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, keeps you updated with recent advancements, and prepares you for research-oriented careers or higher studies by fostering an analytical approach to scientific literature.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Applied and Specialized Learning- (Semester 3)
Deep dive into specialized areas like Immuno Physiology, Exercise Physiology, and Recent Advances. Look for clinical case studies and real-world applications of physiological concepts. Actively seek out faculty members working in your areas of interest for guidance on potential project topics or deeper understanding of niche fields.
Tools & Resources
Specialized review articles, clinical case studies, departmental faculty experts, Physiological Society of India resources
Career Connection
Helps in identifying specific career niches (e.g., sports physiology, immunology research) and builds a strong theoretical base for higher research, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles.
Participate in Workshops and Conferences- (Semester 3)
Attend national/state-level workshops on advanced physiological techniques (e.g., PCR, ELISA, animal handling for research) and scientific conferences. Present posters or short communications if possible. This expands your network and exposes you to cutting-edge research and methodologies beyond the curriculum, enhancing your professional profile.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards, professional society websites, conference announcements, department funding for participation
Career Connection
Enhances your resume, builds a professional network, and provides insights into industry trends and job opportunities, crucial for career progression in a competitive market.
Explore Elective Research Interests- (Semester 3)
Use the Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) course like Physiological Genetics as an opportunity to explore a specific research area. Start identifying potential project topics for Semester 4 and connect with faculty whose research aligns with your interests to discuss mentorship. Begin preliminary literature review for your final project.
Tools & Resources
Library databases, research group meetings, faculty office hours, online research repositories
Career Connection
Directly contributes to the preparation for your major project, which is a key component for research roles or Ph.D. applications, demonstrating initiative and specialized focus.
Advanced Stage
Execute Capstone Project & Data Analysis- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your Project Work. Meticulously plan experiments, collect and analyze data using appropriate statistical methods (leveraging Biostatistics skills). Write a comprehensive project report, focusing on scientific rigor, interpretation of results, and future directions, ensuring high-quality research output.
Tools & Resources
Lab facilities, statistical software (R, SPSS, GraphPad Prism), research ethics guidelines, academic writing guides
Career Connection
The project is a major deliverable for M.Sc. and showcases your research capabilities to potential employers or Ph.D. supervisors, highlighting your ability to conduct independent scientific inquiry.
Master Scientific Communication and Presentation- (Semester 4)
Practice presenting your project findings to peers and faculty, focusing on clear, concise, and impactful communication. Prepare a strong CV and practice interview skills, specifically for scientific roles. Seek feedback on your presentation style and technical explanations to refine your professional communication abilities.
Tools & Resources
Presentation software (PowerPoint), departmental mock interviews, career services workshops, online resources for scientific presentations
Career Connection
Essential for job interviews, research defense, and future academic or industry presentations, where effective communication of complex scientific information is highly valued.
Strategic Career Planning and Networking- (Semester 4)
Actively explore job openings in pharmaceutical, biotech, diagnostic, and academic sectors. Network with alumni and professionals through LinkedIn or university events. Prepare for competitive exams like NET/SET or GATE if higher education/research is the goal, aligning your efforts with specific career aspirations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university alumni network, career guidance cells, job portals (Naukri, Indeed), exam preparation materials
Career Connection
Facilitates successful transition into employment, research positions, or further academic pursuits immediately after graduation, ensuring a well-planned career launch.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. (Honours) in Physiology or Zoology or Biochemistry or Microbiology or Biophysics or Biotechnology or Molecular Biology or Bio-Medical Lab. Science or Equivalent with 50% marks in Honours/Major subject from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-1 | Biophysical Physiology | Core | 4 | Membrane structure and function, Excitable membranes, Synaptic transmission, Electrophysiological techniques, Transport mechanisms |
| CC-2 | General Physiology and Cell Biology | Core | 4 | Homeostasis, Cell structure and organelles, Cell cycle, Cell signaling, Genetic basis of physiological functions |
| CC-3 | Neurophysiology | Core | 4 | Central nervous system, Peripheral nervous system, Autonomic nervous system, Sensory physiology, Motor control |
| CC-4 | Endocrine Physiology | Core | 4 | Endocrine glands, Hormone synthesis and action, Regulation of hormone secretion, Hypothalamic-pituitary axis, Metabolic hormones |
| DSE-1 | Principles of Biochemistry | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Biomolecules, Enzymes, Metabolism of carbohydrates, Metabolism of lipids and proteins, Nucleic acids |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-5 | Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology | Core | 4 | Cardiac cycle, ECG and blood pressure regulation, Pulmonary ventilation, Gas exchange mechanisms, Acid-base balance |
| CC-6 | Renal and Environmental Physiology | Core | 4 | Kidney function, Urine formation, Fluid and electrolyte balance, Environmental adaptations, Thermal regulation |
| CC-7 | Digestive Physiology | Core | 4 | Gastrointestinal tract, Digestion and absorption, Liver function, Pancreatic function, Regulation of GI activity |
| CC-8 | Reproductive Physiology | Core | 4 | Male reproductive system, Female reproductive system, Hormonal control of reproduction, Pregnancy and lactation, Contraception mechanisms |
| DSE-2 | Nutritional Physiology | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Macronutrients, Micronutrients, Energy metabolism, Balanced diet principles, Nutritional disorders |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-9 | Applied Physiology | Core | 4 | Clinical significance of physiological parameters, Diagnostic tests, Drug action on systems, Physiological basis of diseases, Health and disease concepts |
| CC-10 | Immuno Physiology | Core | 4 | Innate immunity, Adaptive immunity, Immune cells and organs, Antigen-antibody reactions, Immunological disorders |
| CC-11 | Exercise and Sports Physiology | Core | 4 | Physiological responses to exercise, Energy systems, Cardiovascular and respiratory adaptations, Training principles, Ergogenic aids |
| CC-12 | Recent Advances in Physiology | Core | 4 | Gene therapy, Stem cell research, Nanotechnology in physiology, Regenerative medicine, Omics technologies |
| DSE-3 | Physiological Genetics | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Mendelian genetics, Gene expression regulation, Genetic disorders, Chromosomal abnormalities, Genetic engineering applications |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-13 | Practicals (Biophysics, Cell Biology & Neurophysiology) | Core Lab | 4 | Electrophysiology experiments, Microscopic techniques, Cell culture methods, Neurotransmitter assays, Membrane transport studies |
| CC-14 | Practicals (Cardiovascular, Respiratory & Renal Physiology) | Core Lab | 4 | ECG analysis, Spirometry, Blood pressure measurement, Renal function tests, Blood gas analysis |
| DSE-4 | Biostatistics and Computer Applications in Physiology | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Data collection and representation, Statistical tests, Correlation and regression analysis, Software for physiological data analysis, Bioinformatics tools |
| Project Work | Project Work | Project | 8 | Research methodology, Experimental design, Data analysis and interpretation, Scientific report writing, Presentation skills |
