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B-SC-HONS in Microbiology at University of Delhi

University of Delhi is a premier central university in Delhi, established in 1922. Renowned for its academic excellence across diverse programs, including Arts, Sciences, and Commerce, DU fosters a vibrant campus environment. Ranked 6th by NIRF 2024, it educates over 700,000 students.

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Delhi, Delhi

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About the Specialization

What is Microbiology at University of Delhi Delhi?

This B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology program at University of Delhi focuses on the in-depth study of microorganisms, their biology, genetics, ecology, and diverse applications. Given India''''s rapidly expanding biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and food processing sectors, a strong foundation in microbiology is critically important. The program''''s comprehensive curriculum, structured under UGCF 2022, offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills, preparing students for diverse roles in research and industry.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for high school graduates with a profound interest in biological sciences, particularly in understanding microscopic life forms and their impact. It suits aspiring researchers, quality control specialists, public health professionals, or those keen on environmental science. Graduates seeking entry into India''''s burgeoning biotech, food, and pharma industries, or considering higher studies like M.Sc. and Ph.D. in related fields, will find this program highly beneficial and career-defining.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as microbiologists, research associates, lab technicians, or quality control analysts across various Indian companies and government sectors. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning between INR 8-15 LPA. Growth trajectories include R&D management, bioprocess development, and specialized roles in clinical diagnostics or public health, aligning well with professional certifications in areas like clinical research or food safety.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Fundamental Concepts and Lab Techniques- (Semester 1-2)

Focus on thoroughly understanding core microbiology principles, cell biology, and biochemistry. Dedicate significant time to practical classes, meticulously mastering microscopy, various staining methods, media preparation, and aseptic techniques. Form peer study groups to discuss complex theoretical topics and review lab procedures for deeper comprehension.

Tools & Resources

University lab manuals, Recommended textbooks, Online resources like NPTEL and Khan Academy, Peer-led study sessions

Career Connection

Strong foundational knowledge and practical skills are indispensable for all future specialized roles, forming the bedrock for success in research, diagnostics, and industrial applications.

Develop Strong Scientific Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)

Actively participate in classroom presentations, group discussions, and scientific writing assignments. Practice summarizing research papers and effectively conveying complex scientific information clearly, both orally and in written reports. Seek constructive feedback from professors and peers to refine your communication abilities.

Tools & Resources

University writing center, Grammarly or similar writing aids, Presentation tools like PowerPoint and Canva, NPTEL courses on technical communication

Career Connection

Essential for effective collaboration within research teams, writing compelling reports, publishing scientific papers, and clearly communicating findings in any scientific or industrial setting in India.

Explore Diverse Microbes and Their Habitats- (Semester 1-2)

Engage in extracurricular activities like microbiology clubs, attend departmental workshops, and visit local labs or research institutes (e.g., IMTECH, CDRI) to observe different microbial cultures and their ecological niches. Begin reading popular science articles and reputable news on recent microbiological discoveries and innovations.

Tools & Resources

Scientific magazines like Nature Microbiology, Science, Local research centers'''' open houses and public lectures, Online science news platforms

Career Connection

Broad exposure helps identify areas of genuine interest early, guiding future specialization choices and demonstrating enthusiasm and proactive learning to potential employers or for higher studies.

Intermediate Stage

Apply Knowledge through Mini-Projects and Internships- (Semester 3-5 (during summer breaks or within semesters if feasible))

Actively seek out opportunities for short-term research projects with faculty members or internships (2-4 weeks) at local diagnostic labs, food processing units, or breweries. Focus on applying theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, from microbial culture techniques to basic molecular biology procedures.

Tools & Resources

University career services, Departmental notices for research opportunities, Online internship platforms like Internshala, LinkedIn, Faculty mentorship for project guidance

Career Connection

Practical experience is invaluable for understanding industry workflows, developing hands-on skills, building a professional network, and significantly enhancing your resume for future placements and higher studies.

Specialize in Key Areas of Interest- (Semester 3-5)

Based on coursework in genetics, immunology, and industrial microbiology, identify a specific area (e.g., virology, food safety, genetic engineering) that genuinely interests you. Deepen your knowledge by reading advanced texts, attending specialized webinars, and carefully selecting relevant Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) and Generic Electives (GEs).

Tools & Resources

Advanced textbooks and research journals, Online courses from Coursera, edX, or Swayam in specialized areas, Faculty mentorship and guidance

Career Connection

Specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for targeted roles and advanced education programs, showcasing expertise and a strong commitment to a particular field within microbiology.

Participate in Academic Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)

Join college or inter-college competitions such as poster presentations, scientific debate competitions, or quizzes related to microbiology. Regularly attend seminars and guest lectures by industry experts and academic researchers to stay updated on current trends and network with professionals in the field.

Tools & Resources

College notice boards and departmental announcements, Scientific conferences (even virtual ones), Events organized by professional bodies like the Association of Microbiologists of India

Career Connection

Participation builds confidence, enhances presentation skills, expands knowledge beyond the curriculum, and provides crucial networking opportunities, which can lead to research collaborations or job leads.

Advanced Stage

Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 7-8)

Leverage the opportunity of the mandatory research project in semesters 7 and 8. Choose a topic aligned with your specialization, work diligently under a mentor, and aim for publishable quality work. This includes thorough literature review, rigorous experimental design, robust data analysis, and meticulous scientific writing.

Tools & Resources

University laboratory facilities and equipment, Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS), Scientific databases (e.g., PubMed, Google Scholar), Thesis writing guidelines and templates

Career Connection

A strong research project is critical for entry into M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, offers invaluable practical experience in independent research, and demonstrates advanced problem-solving skills highly valued in R&D roles across India.

Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies Strategically- (Semester 6-8)

Actively attend campus placement drives, participate in mock interviews, and engage in resume-building workshops offered by the university. For higher studies, meticulously research M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, prepare thoroughly for entrance exams (e.g., GATE, CUET-PG), and seek strong letters of recommendation from your professors.

Tools & Resources

University career counseling and placement cells, Online platforms for exam preparation, LinkedIn for professional networking, Alumni network for guidance and insights

Career Connection

This provides a direct path to securing a job immediately after graduation or gaining admission to prestigious national and international universities for advanced degrees, significantly shaping your long-term career trajectory.

Build an Industry-Relevant Professional Network- (Semester 6-8)

Actively connect with professionals met during internships, seminars, and guest lectures on platforms like LinkedIn. Participate in professional societies and alumni events relevant to microbiology. Seek out informational interviews to understand various career paths and gain crucial insights into industry expectations and emerging trends.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn professional networking platform, Professional associations (e.g., Association of Microbiologists of India), University alumni associations, Industry conferences and workshops

Career Connection

A strong professional network provides mentorship, insights into job opportunities, industry trends, and potential referrals, significantly aiding career advancement and fostering sustained growth in India''''s competitive market.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Candidates must have studied Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and any one Language in Class XII. Merit will be based on the CUET (Common University Entrance Test) scores obtained from the combination of Physics + Chemistry + Biology/Biotechnology + Any one Language from List A.

Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years

Credits: 176 Credits

Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC101Introduction to Microbiology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4History of Microbiology, Microbial Diversity, Microscopy, Staining Techniques, Sterilization and Disinfection
MBHP101Introduction to Microbiology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Microscopy and Observation, Staining Procedures, Aseptic Techniques, Culture Media Preparation, Isolation Techniques
MBHC102Biomolecules (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Carbohydrates Structure and Function, Lipids Structure and Function, Amino Acids and Proteins, Nucleic Acids DNA and RNA, Enzymes and Coenzymes
MBHP102Biomolecules (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Qualitative Tests for Biomolecules, Quantitative Estimation of Sugars, Estimation of Proteins, Chromatography Techniques, Enzyme Activity Assay
MBHC103Biophysics (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4pH and Buffers, Spectroscopy Principles, Centrifugation Techniques, Chromatographic Separations, Electrophoretic Techniques
MBHP103Biophysics (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Preparation of Buffers, Spectrophotometric Measurements, Operation of Centrifuges, Paper and Thin Layer Chromatography, Gel Electrophoresis
AECC01Environmental ScienceAbility Enhancement Course (AEC)2Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Natural Resources, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change and Global Warming, Sustainable Development
VACC01Constitutional Values and Fundamental DutiesValue Addition Course (VAC)2Indian Constitution Features, Preamble and Its Ideals, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties
GE1Generic Elective IGeneric Elective (GE) Theory + Practical6

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC204Cell Biology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells, Cell Organelles Structure, Membrane Transport Mechanisms, Cell Division Mitosis and Meiosis, Cell Cycle Regulation
MBHP204Cell Biology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Microscopy of Cell Types, Cell Staining Techniques, Study of Mitosis, Cell Viability Assays, Osmosis and Cell Permeability
MBHC205Principles of Biochemistry (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Bioenergetics and Thermodynamics, Glycolysis and Fermentation, Krebs Cycle and Oxidative Phosphorylation, Photosynthesis and Carbon Fixation, Metabolic Regulation
MBHP205Principles of Biochemistry (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Estimation of Sugars and Lipids, Enzyme Kinetics Studies, Respiration Rate Measurement, Chromatographic Separation of Pigments, Spectrophotometric Assays
MBHC206Bioinstrumentation (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4pH Meters and Electrodes, Spectrophotometry and Calorimetry, Centrifugation Ultracentrifugation, Chromatography HPLC GC, Electrophoresis SDS-PAGE
MBHP206Bioinstrumentation (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Calibration of pH meter, Quantitative Spectrophotometry, Density Gradient Centrifugation, Paper and Column Chromatography, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
AECC02English/MIL CommunicationAbility Enhancement Course (AEC)2Reading Comprehension, Grammar and Vocabulary, Writing Skills Essay Report, Oral Communication Public Speaking, Presentation Skills
VACC02Digital EmpowermentValue Addition Course (VAC)2Basics of Computer Systems, Internet and Web Browsing, Digital Communication Tools, Cyber Security and Privacy, Digital Payments and Services
GE2Generic Elective IIGeneric Elective (GE) Theory + Practical6

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC307Genetics (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Mendelian Principles of Inheritance, Gene Interactions and Epistasis, Linkage Crossing Over Mapping, Chromosomal Aberrations, Bacterial and Viral Genetics
MBHP307Genetics (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Monohybrid Dihybrid Crosses, Chromosome Staining, Bacterial Conjugation, Phage Titration, Mutagenesis in Bacteria
MBHC308Microbial Physiology and Metabolism (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Microbial Nutrition and Growth, Aerobic and Anaerobic Respiration, Bacterial Photosynthesis, Biosynthesis of Macromolecules, Regulation of Metabolism
MBHP308Microbial Physiology and Metabolism (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Growth Curve Analysis, Effect of Environmental Factors, Enzyme Assays, Pigment Extraction, Metabolite Detection
MBHC309Immunology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Innate and Adaptive Immunity, Cells and Organs of Immune System, Antigens and Antibodies, Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immunity, Hypersensitivity and Autoimmunity
MBHP309Immunology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Blood Grouping, ELISA Technique, Immunodiffusion, Agglutination Reactions, Leukocyte Counting
MBSM301Bioprospecting and BiominingSkill Enhancement Course (SEC)3Microbial Diversity Screening, Secondary Metabolite Production, Bioremediation and Biodegradation, Bioleaching of Metals, Intellectual Property Rights
VACC03Ethics and CultureValue Addition Course (VAC)2Ethical Frameworks, Moral Reasoning, Cultural Diversity and Pluralism, Values and Virtues, Professional Ethics
GE3Generic Elective IIIGeneric Elective (GE) Theory + Practical6

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC410Molecular Biology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4DNA Structure and Replication, Transcription RNA Synthesis, Translation Protein Synthesis, Regulation of Gene Expression, DNA Repair Mechanisms
MBHP410Molecular Biology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2DNA Isolation and Quantification, Restriction Digestion, Polymerase Chain Reaction PCR, Agarose Gel Electrophoresis, Plasmid DNA Isolation
MBHC411Industrial Microbiology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Fermentation Processes Overview, Microbial Production of Antibiotics, Enzymes and Organic Acids, Bioreactor Design and Operation, Downstream Processing Quality Control
MBHP411Industrial Microbiology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Production of Alcohol, Citric Acid Fermentation, Antibiotic Sensitivity Test, Strain Improvement Methods, Quality Control of Fermented Products
MBHC412Medical Microbiology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Bacterial Pathogenesis Mechanisms, Viral Pathogenesis and Diseases, Fungal and Parasitic Infections, Antimicrobial Agents and Resistance, Diagnostic Methods for Infections
MBHP412Medical Microbiology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Isolation of Pathogens, Identification of Bacteria, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, Serological Diagnostic Tests, Culture of Fungi
MBSM402Fermentation TechnologySkill Enhancement Course (SEC)3Types of Fermenters, Sterilization of Media and Air, Microbial Culture Development, Process Optimization, Biofuel Production
GE4Generic Elective IVGeneric Elective (GE) Theory + Practical6

Semester 5

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC513Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Recombinant DNA Technology Tools, Cloning Vectors and Gene Cloning, Gene Transfer Techniques, Protein Engineering, Applications in Medicine and Agriculture
MBHP513Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Isolation of Genomic DNA, Restriction Digestion and Ligation, Transformation of E. coli, Screening of Recombinants, Reporter Gene Assays
MBHC514Food Microbiology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Microorganisms in Food, Food Spoilage Mechanisms, Foodborne Diseases, Food Preservation Techniques, Probiotics and Fermented Foods
MBHP514Food Microbiology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Microbial Analysis of Food Samples, Detection of Foodborne Pathogens, Food Spoilage Demonstration, Fermented Dairy Products, Sanitation in Food Industry
MBHE501Environmental Microbiology (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Microbial Ecology, Biogeochemical Cycles, Wastewater Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Bioremediation
MBHP501Environmental Microbiology (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2Microbial Analysis of Water, Soil Microbiological Analysis, Biodegradation Studies, Composting and Biogas Production, Isolation of Microbes from Extreme Environments
MBHE503Microbial Diagnostics (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Principles of Microbial Diagnostics, Serological Diagnostic Methods, Molecular Diagnostic Techniques, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, Quality Control in Diagnostics
MBHP503Microbial Diagnostics (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2ELISA for Disease Detection, PCR for Pathogen Identification, Western Blotting, Microbial Assays, Sample Collection and Processing

Semester 6

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC615Bioinformatics & Biostatistics (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Biological Databases, Sequence Alignment BLAST FASTA, Phylogenetic Analysis, Statistical Concepts Mean Mode, Hypothesis Testing t-test ANOVA
MBHP615Bioinformatics & Biostatistics (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Using NCBI and UniProt, Performing BLAST searches, Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Data Analysis with Software R, Statistical Significance Calculations
MBHC616Virology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Viral Structure and Classification, Viral Replication Cycles, Bacteriophages and Animal Viruses, Antiviral Agents, Viral Vaccines and Therapies
MBHP616Virology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Phage Plaque Assay, Virus Titration, Hemagglutination Assay, Cell Culture Techniques, Electron Microscopy of Viruses
MBHE605Pharmaceutical Microbiology (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Microbial Contamination in Pharma, Sterility Testing of Products, Antibiotics Production and Assays, Preservatives in Pharmaceuticals, Quality Control and Good Manufacturing Practices
MBHP605Pharmaceutical Microbiology (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2Microbial Limit Tests, Sterility Testing of Liquids, Antibiotic Potency Assay, Disinfectant Evaluation, Bioburden Testing
MBHE607Recombinant DNA Technology (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Gene Cloning Strategies, Expression Vectors and Systems, Gene Libraries cDNA Genomic, Site-Directed Mutagenesis, Protein Expression and Purification
MBHP607Recombinant DNA Technology (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2Cloning of a Gene, SDS-PAGE for Protein Analysis, Western Blotting, Reporter Gene Assays, CRISPR-Cas9 Fundamentals

Semester 7

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC717Microbial Systematics & Evolution (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Bacterial Taxonomy and Classification, Fungal and Viral Classification, Phylogenetic Methods, Microbial Evolution, Polyphasic Taxonomy
MBHP717Microbial Systematics & Evolution (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Phenotypic Characterization, Genotypic Characterization 16S rRNA, Phylogenetic Tree Construction, Bacterial Identification Kits, Bioinformatics Tools for Taxonomy
MBHC718Research Methodology & IPR in Microbiology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Principles of Scientific Research, Experimental Design and Data Collection, Statistical Analysis for Research, Intellectual Property Rights Patents, Scientific Writing and Publication Ethics
MBHP718Research Methodology & IPR in Microbiology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Literature Search and Review, Formulating Research Questions, Experimental Design Exercise, Data Presentation and Interpretation, IPR Case Studies
MBHE709Bioprocess Technology (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Bioreactor Principles and Types, Fermentation Media Development, Sterilization of Bioreactors, Kinetics of Microbial Growth, Downstream Processing Techniques
MBHP709Bioprocess Technology (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2Batch Fermentation Experiment, Parameter Monitoring in Bioreactor, Product Recovery Techniques, Optimization of Fermentation Conditions, Scale-up Calculations
MBHE711Vaccine Technology (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Types of Vaccines, Adjuvants and Delivery Systems, Vaccine Development Strategies, Clinical Trials and Regulation, Immunization Programs
MBHP711Vaccine Technology (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2Antigen Preparation, Adjuvant Testing, ELISA for Antibody Detection, Cell-Mediated Immunity Assays, Vaccine Efficacy Studies
MBHR701Research Project IDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE) Research Project6Literature Review, Hypothesis Formulation, Experimental Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Scientific Report Writing

Semester 8

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MBHC819Applied Microbiology (Theory)Core Course (DSC)4Microbes in Agriculture Biofertilizers, Environmental Applications Bioremediation, Medical Applications Diagnostics, Industrial Applications Fermentation, Microbial Products Pharmaceuticals
MBHP819Applied Microbiology (Practical)Core Course (DSC) Practical2Biofertilizer Production, Bioremediation Studies, Antimicrobial Agent Discovery, Fermented Food Production, Microbial Enzyme Production
MBHR802Dissertation / Project Work (Major Research Project)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Research12Independent Research Design, Advanced Experimental Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research
MBHE813Public Health Microbiology (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, Water and Foodborne Diseases, Airborne Pathogens, Disease Surveillance, Public Health Interventions
MBHP813Public Health Microbiology (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2Water Quality Testing, Food Sample Analysis for Pathogens, Epidemiological Data Analysis, Disinfectant Efficiency Testing, Disease Outbreak Investigation Simulation
MBHE815Extremophiles & Their Applications (Theory) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Introduction to Extremophiles, Thermophiles and Psychrophiles, Halophiles and Acidophiles, Alkaliphiles and Barophiles, Enzymes and Products from Extremophiles
MBHP815Extremophiles & Their Applications (Practical) (DSE Option A)Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) Practical2Isolation of Extremophiles, Growth under Extreme Conditions, Enzyme Assays at High/Low Temperatures, Extraction of Biopolymers, Application in Bioremediation
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