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B-SC-PROGRAM in Life Sciences at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Life Sciences at University of Delhi Delhi?
This B.Sc. Program Life Sciences at University of Delhi focuses on an interdisciplinary study of living organisms, integrating Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry. It equips students with foundational knowledge and practical skills crucial for understanding biological systems, their interactions, and chemical underpinnings. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in various life science sectors across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 science graduates passionate about biology and its applications. It suits individuals aspiring for careers in research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, environmental management, or further studies like M.Sc. or Ph.D. in specialized life science fields. It also prepares students for competitive examinations in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in India as research assistants, lab technicians, environmental consultants, quality control officers in biotech firms, or science educators. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 8-15 LPA for experienced professionals in R&D or management.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Core Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus deeply on understanding fundamental principles of Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry. Utilize university library resources, engage in group discussions, and clarify doubts promptly with professors. Regularly review lecture notes and practical manuals.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (e.g., NCERT for basics, standard college texts), Online biology/chemistry tutorials, Peer study groups, University study centers
Career Connection
A robust foundation ensures success in advanced subjects and forms the bedrock for competitive exams like CSIR NET, UPSC, and for securing roles in research labs.
Master Lab Techniques and Data Recording- (Semester 1-2)
Pay meticulous attention during practical sessions. Understand the ''''why'''' behind each step, practice precision, and maintain detailed, accurate lab notebooks. Seek feedback on your experimental procedures and data interpretation.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Virtual lab simulations (if available), Senior student guidance, Official equipment protocols
Career Connection
Strong practical skills are essential for R&D, quality control, and clinical laboratory roles, making you a highly desirable candidate for industry positions.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections Early- (Semester 1-2)
Recognize how Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry are interconnected. Attend seminars or workshops on interdisciplinary topics. This broadens your perspective and helps identify areas of interest for future specialization or research.
Tools & Resources
University departmental events, Popular science magazines/blogs, Documentary series on life sciences
Career Connection
Developing an interdisciplinary mindset is valued in modern biotech and research, opening doors to roles that require holistic problem-solving.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Skill Enhancement and Value Addition Courses- (Semester 3-5)
Actively choose SEC and VAC courses that complement your core studies and align with your career aspirations. These can provide practical skills (e.g., bioinformatics, instrumentation) or soft skills (e.g., communication, ethics).
Tools & Resources
Course catalogs, Career counseling, Alumni network for advice on course selection, Online skill-building platforms
Career Connection
Differentiated skill sets make you more competitive for internships and entry-level positions in specialized areas within the life sciences industry.
Seek Internships and Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively search for summer internships or small research projects within university labs, other institutes (e.g., CSIR labs, ICMR), or biotech companies. This provides invaluable hands-on experience and industry exposure.
Tools & Resources
University career cell, Faculty connections, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct applications to research labs
Career Connection
Internships are critical for building a professional network, gaining practical experience, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations for future jobs.
Participate in Academic Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Join quizzes, debates, and poster presentations related to life sciences. Actively participate in departmental seminars and conferences. This hones your presentation skills, critical thinking, and keeps you updated on current research.
Tools & Resources
College clubs and societies, University event calendars, Scientific journals
Career Connection
Showcasing your knowledge and soft skills in such events makes your resume stand out and prepares you for interview scenarios.
Advanced Stage
Specialize Through Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs)- (Semester 6-8)
Strategically select DSEs that align with your long-term career goals, whether it''''s molecular biology, bioinformatics, biotechnology, or environmental science. Dive deep into these chosen areas.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Industry experts, Career guides, Advanced textbooks and research papers
Career Connection
Specialization through DSEs directly prepares you for specific roles in R&D, advanced degrees, or niche industries, enhancing your expert profile.
Focus on Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 7-8)
For the 4-year program, dedicate significant effort to your research project. Choose a topic that excites you and has practical relevance. Master data analysis, scientific writing, and presentation of your findings.
Tools & Resources
Research mentors, Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS), Academic writing workshops, Peer review
Career Connection
A strong research project demonstrates independent thinking, problem-solving abilities, and opens doors to higher education (M.Sc., Ph.D.) and research positions.
Develop Professional Networking and Interview Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Attend industry events, connect with alumni on LinkedIn, and actively participate in placement preparatory workshops. Practice mock interviews and aptitude tests to build confidence and refine your communication.
Tools & Resources
Alumni network, LinkedIn, Placement cell services, Online aptitude test platforms, HR professionals for mock interviews
Career Connection
Effective networking and interview preparation are crucial for converting job opportunities into placements and establishing a professional trajectory.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (or equivalent) examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology from a recognized board.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 176 credits (for 4-year UG Degree with Research) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT DSC 1A | Diversity of Microbes, Algae, Fungi & Archegoniatae | Discipline Specific Core (Botany) | 4 | Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cell organization, Viruses and Bacteria classification and characteristics, Algae, Fungi: structure, reproduction, economic importance, Bryophytes, Pteridophytes, Gymnosperms: characteristics, life cycles, Evolutionary trends in plant groups |
| ZOO DSC 2A | Non-Chordates I: Protists to Pseudocoelomates | Discipline Specific Core (Zoology) | 4 | Protozoa: Locomotion, nutrition, reproduction, pathogenicity, Porifera: Canal systems, reproduction, Cnidaria, Ctenophora: Body plan, polymorphism, coral reefs, Platyhelminthes: Parasitic adaptations, life cycles, Nemathelminthes: Body organization, life cycles, disease |
| CHE DSC 3A | Chemistry-I (Organic Chemistry-I & Physical Chemistry-I) | Discipline Specific Core (Chemistry) | 4 | Atomic structure and quantum mechanics, Chemical bonding: Valence bond theory, Molecular orbital theory, Organic reaction mechanisms: Inductive, mesomeric effects, Stereochemistry of organic compounds, Alkanes and cycloalkanes: Synthesis, reactions, Gaseous state: Kinetic theory of gases |
| AECC 1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Ecosystems and their dynamics, Natural Resources: Renewable and non-renewable, Biodiversity: Value, threats, and conservation, Environmental Pollution: Types, causes, effects, control, Global Environmental Issues: Climate change, ozone depletion, Environmental Ethics and Management |
| VAC 1 | Indian Knowledge Systems | Value Addition Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Overview of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), Sciences in ancient India: Mathematics, Astronomy, Medicine, Arts and Culture: Architecture, Literature, Philosophy, Contributions of IKS to modern science, Relevance of traditional knowledge in contemporary society |
| SEC 1 | Bioinstrumentation | Skill Enhancement Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Principles of microscopy: Light, electron, phase contrast, Centrifugation techniques: Differential, density gradient, Spectrophotometry: UV-Vis, Atomic Absorption, Chromatography: Paper, thin layer, column, HPLC, Electrophoresis: Agarose, SDS-PAGE |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT DSC 1B | Plant Anatomy, Embryology & Plant Resources | Discipline Specific Core (Botany) | 4 | Plant tissues: Meristematic and permanent tissues, Secondary growth in dicot stem and root, Plant reproduction: Micro and megasporogenesis, Fertilization, endosperm, embryo and seed development, Plant resources: Food, fiber, timber, medicinal plants, Ethnobotany |
| ZOO DSC 2B | Non-Chordates II: Coelomates | Discipline Specific Core (Zoology) | 4 | Annelida: Metamerism, locomotion, nervous system, Arthropoda: General characters, classification, insect metamorphosis, Mollusca: Shell diversity, torsion, feeding mechanisms, Echinodermata: Water vascular system, larval forms, Hemichordata: Affinities with chordates and non-chordates |
| CHE DSC 3B | Chemistry-II (Inorganic Chemistry-I & Organic Chemistry-II) | Discipline Specific Core (Chemistry) | 4 | s-Block elements: Properties and applications, p-Block elements: Group 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 chemistry, Hybridization and molecular geometry, Aromaticity: Huckel''''s rule, Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers: Synthesis and reactions, Carboxylic acids and their derivatives |
| AECC 2 | English Communication/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theories and types of communication, Listening and speaking skills: Debates, presentations, Reading comprehension: Academic and non-academic texts, Writing skills: Essay writing, report writing, précis, Grammar and vocabulary for effective communication |
| VAC 2 | Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties | Value Addition Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Philosophy of the Indian Constitution: Preamble, Fundamental Rights: Right to equality, freedom, religion, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties of citizens, Democracy, justice, liberty, equality, fraternity |
| SEC 2 | Research Methodology | Skill Enhancement Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Scientific inquiry and problem formulation, Experimental design: Variables, controls, sampling, Data collection methods: Surveys, interviews, observation, Basic statistical analysis: Mean, median, mode, standard deviation, Report writing: Structure, referencing, ethics, Presentation of research findings |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT DSC 1C | Plant Physiology & Metabolism | Discipline Specific Core (Botany) | 4 | Water relations: Absorption, ascent of sap, transpiration, Mineral nutrition: Essential elements, deficiency symptoms, Photosynthesis: Light and dark reactions, C3, C4, CAM cycles, Respiration: Glycolysis, Kreb''''s cycle, electron transport chain, Plant growth regulators: Auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, Nitrogen metabolism |
| ZOO DSC 2C | Chordata | Discipline Specific Core (Zoology) | 4 | Origin and general characters of Chordata, Classification of Pisces, Amphibia, Reptilia, Aves, Mammalia, Comparative anatomy of integument, skeletal, digestive systems, Comparative anatomy of circulatory, respiratory, urinogenital systems, Adaptive radiations in vertebrates |
| CHE DSC 3C | Chemistry-III (Physical Chemistry-II & Inorganic Chemistry-II) | Discipline Specific Core (Chemistry) | 4 | Chemical kinetics: Rate laws, reaction order, activation energy, Electrochemistry: Galvanic cells, Nernst equation, conductance, Coordination chemistry: Werner''''s theory, VBT, CFT, Transition metals: Properties, complexes, f-Block elements: Lanthanides and Actinides |
| GE 1 | Mathematics for Life Sciences | Generic Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Basic calculus: Differentiation, integration, limits, Matrices and determinants, Probability theory: Basic concepts, conditional probability, Statistical methods: Hypothesis testing, correlation, Mathematical modeling in biological systems |
| VAC 3 | Emotional Intelligence | Value Addition Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Understanding emotions: Self-awareness, self-regulation, Empathy and social awareness, Relationship management and interpersonal skills, Developing emotional maturity, Stress management and resilience building |
| SEC 3 | Fermentation Technology | Skill Enhancement Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Principles of fermentation: Types of fermentation, Microorganisms in fermentation: Bacteria, yeast, fungi, Bioreactor design and operation, Downstream processing: Product recovery and purification, Industrial applications: Pharmaceuticals, food, biofuels |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT DSC 1D | Genetics & Plant Breeding | Discipline Specific Core (Botany) | 4 | Mendelian inheritance: Monohybrid, dihybrid crosses, Gene interactions: Epistasis, multiple alleles, Linkage and crossing over, chromosomal mapping, Chromosomal aberrations: Structural and numerical, DNA as genetic material, DNA replication, Plant breeding methods: Selection, hybridization |
| ZOO DSC 2D | Physiology | Discipline Specific Core (Zoology) | 4 | Digestion and absorption: Alimentary canal, enzymes, Respiration: Gaseous exchange, respiratory pigments, Blood and circulation: Components of blood, heart function, Excretion and osmoregulation: Kidney structure and function, Nerve impulse transmission: Synapses, neurotransmitters, Endocrine system: Hormones and their actions |
| CHE DSC 3D | Chemistry-IV (Organic Chemistry-III & Physical Chemistry-III) | Discipline Specific Core (Chemistry) | 4 | Biomolecules: Carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, Spectroscopy: UV-Vis, Infrared (IR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Thermodynamics: First, second, third laws, Gibbs free energy, Solutions: Colligative properties, ideal and non-ideal solutions |
| GE 2 | Analytical Methods in Chemistry | Generic Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Separation techniques: Distillation, extraction, crystallization, Spectroscopic methods: Atomic and molecular spectroscopy, Chromatographic techniques: GC, LC, Electrochemical methods: Potentiometry, conductometry, Thermal methods of analysis |
| VAC 4 | Ethics & Culture | Value Addition Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Ethical theories: Deontology, consequentialism, virtue ethics, Cultural relativism and universal ethics, Moral dilemmas in society and science, Values in Indian culture and tradition, Diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity |
| SEC 4 | Biodiversity Conservation | Skill Enhancement Course (Illustrative) | 2 | Levels of biodiversity: Genetic, species, ecosystem, Causes of biodiversity loss: Habitat destruction, climate change, Conservation strategies: In-situ, ex-situ, Wildlife Protection Act, CITES, Role of national parks, sanctuaries, botanical gardens |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT DSC 1E | Cell Biology | Discipline Specific Core (Botany) | 4 | Ultra-structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, Cell wall, cell membrane, plasma membrane models, Structure and function of cell organelles: Mitochondria, chloroplasts, nucleus, Cell cycle: Mitosis, meiosis, regulation, Cell signaling and communication |
| ZOO DSC 2E | Genetics & Evolutionary Biology | Discipline Specific Core (Zoology) | 4 | Molecular basis of inheritance: DNA, RNA structure, Gene expression: Transcription, translation, genetic code, Genetic mutations: Types, causes, repair mechanisms, Population genetics: Gene pool, Hardy-Weinberg law, Evolutionary theories: Lamarckism, Darwinism, Neo-Darwinism, Speciation and macroevolution |
| DSE 1 | Plant Biotechnology | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Plant tissue culture: Micropropagation, somaclonal variation, Gene cloning in plants: Vectors, transformation methods, Transgenic plants: Herbicide, insect, disease resistance, Marker-assisted selection in plant breeding, Protoplast fusion and somatic hybridization |
| DSE 2 | Animal Biotechnology | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Animal cell culture: Principles and applications, Recombinant DNA technology in animals, Transgenic animals: Production and applications, Immunodiagnostics: ELISA, Western blot, Gene therapy, stem cell technology |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BOT DSC 1F | Ecology & Environmental Biology | Discipline Specific Core (Botany) | 4 | Ecosystem structure and function: Energy flow, nutrient cycling, Population dynamics: Growth curves, regulation, Community organization: Species diversity, succession, Biogeochemical cycles: Carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, Pollution ecology: Air, water, soil pollution, Ecological adaptations of plants |
| ZOO DSC 2F | Developmental Biology & Immunology | Discipline Specific Core (Zoology) | 4 | Gametogenesis: Spermatogenesis, oogenesis, Fertilization: External and internal, Early embryonic development: Cleavage, gastrulation, organogenesis, Metamorphosis and regeneration, Innate and Adaptive immunity: Components and mechanisms, Antibodies, antigens, vaccines |
| DSE 3 | Molecular Biology | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | DNA replication: Mechanisms and enzymes, Transcription: RNA synthesis, RNA polymerases, Translation: Protein synthesis, genetic code, Gene regulation: Operon concept, epigenetics, DNA repair mechanisms, Recombinant DNA technology principles |
| DSE 4 | Bioinformatics | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Biological databases: NCBI, GenBank, UniProt, Sequence alignment: BLAST, FASTA, Phylogenetic analysis: Tree construction methods, Protein structure prediction: Homology modeling, Genomics and proteomics concepts, Drug discovery using bioinformatics tools |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 5 | Applied Microbiology | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Microbial diversity and classification, Industrial microbiology: Production of antibiotics, enzymes, Food microbiology: Spoilage, preservation, fermented foods, Medical microbiology: Pathogens, diagnosis, antimicrobial agents, Environmental microbiology: Bioremediation, waste treatment |
| DSE 6 | Genetic Engineering | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Recombinant DNA technology: Tools and techniques, Gene cloning vectors: Plasmids, phages, cosmids, Restriction enzymes and ligases, DNA libraries: Genomic and cDNA, Gene manipulation techniques: PCR, site-directed mutagenesis, CRISPR-Cas system and its applications |
| RES PROJ I | Research Project/Dissertation-I | Research Project | 6 | Literature survey and problem identification, Formulation of research hypothesis and objectives, Experimental design and methodology planning, Data collection and preliminary analysis, Ethical considerations in research, Writing a research proposal |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 7 | Biophysics | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Molecular forces and interactions in biology, Thermodynamics of biological systems, Biomolecular spectroscopy: CD, Fluorescence, Microscopy techniques: AFM, SEM, TEM, Radiation biophysics: Effects of radiation on living systems, Principles of X-ray crystallography |
| DSE 8 | Animal Behaviour and Chronobiology | Discipline Specific Elective (Illustrative) | 4 | Innate and learned behavior patterns, Social behavior and communication in animals, Reproductive strategies and parental care, Biological rhythms: Circadian, circannual, Molecular basis of biological clocks, Neurobiology of behavior |
| RES PROJ II | Research Project/Dissertation-II | Research Project | 6 | Advanced data analysis and interpretation, Scientific writing and manuscript preparation, Thesis organization and formatting, Presentation of research findings, Defense of the research project, Addressing feedback and revisions |
