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M-SC in Zoology at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Zoology at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This M.Sc. Zoology program at University of Mysore focuses on comprehensive study of animal life, from molecular to ecosystem levels. It emphasizes a strong foundation in core zoological disciplines while incorporating modern areas like biotechnology, bioinformatics, and conservation. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in diverse fields related to animal science in India, including research, wildlife management, and related industries. Its CBCS structure allows for interdisciplinary learning and specialization.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor''''s graduates in Zoology or related biological sciences seeking advanced knowledge and research skills. It caters to aspiring researchers, educators, conservationists, and professionals looking to enter government sectors (e.g., Forest Department, Fisheries), pharmaceutical, or biotechnology industries. Individuals with a keen interest in animal diversity, environmental protection, and scientific inquiry will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as researchers in ICAR/CSIR labs, university lecturers, wildlife biologists, environmental consultants, and quality control specialists in biotech firms. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities also exist in NGOs, zoos, and aquariums. The strong research component prepares students for Ph.D. studies and academic careers.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Zoological Concepts- (undefined)
Dedicate consistent effort to understanding core concepts in animal diversity, cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, and ecology from Semesters 1 and 2. Regularly review lecture notes, textbooks, and supplementary online resources to build a strong theoretical base. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, fostering deeper understanding.
Tools & Resources
Standard Zoology Textbooks (e.g., Raven, Hickman), NPTEL online courses, University Library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for excelling in advanced subjects, competitive exams (NET, SET, UPSC), and research project formulation, ultimately enhancing eligibility for academic and scientific roles.
Develop Core Laboratory and Field Skills- (undefined)
Actively participate in all practical sessions and field visits in Semesters 1 and 2. Focus on mastering dissection techniques, microscopy, biochemical assays, statistical calculations, and ecological sampling methods. Seek opportunities for extra lab time or volunteer for faculty projects to gain hands-on experience beyond the curriculum. Document all experiments meticulously in lab notebooks.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Laboratories, Field visit opportunities, Lab manuals and protocols, Mentorship from lab assistants/faculty
Career Connection
Proficiency in practical skills is essential for research positions, lab-based roles in biotech/pharma, and field jobs in conservation and wildlife management, making graduates more industry-ready.
Cultivate Academic Research Aptitude- (undefined)
Start developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills early. Read research papers related to topics covered in Semesters 1 and 2, even if not fully understood. Attend departmental seminars and workshops. Practice scientific writing by summarizing complex articles. This helps in understanding scientific methodology and preparing for future project work and dissertation.
Tools & Resources
PubMed, Google Scholar, Departmental seminars and workshops, Reference management software (e.g., Mendeley), Faculty guidance
Career Connection
Early exposure to research builds analytical skills vital for Ph.D. programs, scientific writing, and innovation-driven roles in both academia and industry.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize and Engage in Research- (undefined)
In Semesters 3 and 4, choose Soft Core and Open Elective subjects strategically based on your career interests (e.g., Biotechnology, Conservation, Bioinformatics). Actively engage in your Dissertation/Project Work (ZCP 4.6), focusing on a novel research question. Seek guidance from faculty mentors, conduct thorough literature reviews, and strive for quality data collection and analysis.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks and journals, Departmental research labs, Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS), University library''''s research databases
Career Connection
Specialization through electives and a strong research project significantly enhances expertise in a chosen sub-field, making graduates highly competitive for specific research roles, Ph.D. admissions, and targeted industry positions.
Network with Experts and Seek Internships- (undefined)
Actively participate in national and international conferences, symposia, and webinars during Semesters 3 and 4. Network with scientists, researchers, and professionals in your field of interest. Look for summer internships or short-term projects in research institutes (e.g., CSIR labs, university departments), NGOs, or relevant industries to gain practical exposure and build professional contacts.
Tools & Resources
Professional scientific societies (e.g., Indian Zoological Society), LinkedIn, University career services, Conference/Workshop announcements
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to potential employment opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship, while internships provide real-world experience and a competitive edge in the job market, especially for roles in conservation, biotech, and research.
Prepare Strategically for Career Opportunities- (undefined)
During Semesters 3 and 4, prepare thoroughly for competitive exams like NET/SET for lectureship and JRF, or UPSC/State PSC exams for government jobs (e.g., Forest Services, Fisheries Officer). Develop strong communication and presentation skills for job interviews and project defense. Update your resume/CV regularly, highlighting research experience, publications (if any), and acquired skills.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers for competitive exams, Online aptitude and general knowledge platforms, Career counseling from university placement cell, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Strategic preparation for competitive exams and skill development for interviews are direct pathways to securing coveted positions in academia, government, and research institutions in India, leading to stable and impactful careers.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. Degree with Zoology as one of the major/optional subjects/equivalent degree with minimum 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/Cat-I candidates).
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZC 1.1 | Animal Diversity-I (Non-Chordata) | Core | 4 | Organization in Protozoa and Porifera, Coelenterata and Platyhelminthes, Annelida and Arthropoda, Mollusca and Echinodermata, Minor Phyla characteristics |
| ZC 1.2 | Cytology, Genetics & Molecular Biology-I | Core | 4 | Cell Ultrastructure and Organelles, Chromosomes: Structure and Function, Mendelian Principles of Inheritance, Linkage, Crossing Over, Sex Determination, Human Karyotype and Genetic Disorders |
| ZC 1.3 | Biochemistry & Biophysics | Core | 4 | Chemistry of Carbohydrates and Lipids, Protein Structure and Classification, Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanism, Nucleic Acid Structure and Properties, Bioenergetics and Thermodynamics, pH, Buffers and Radioisotopes |
| ZC 1.4 | General Ecology & Biostatistics | Core | 4 | Ecosystem Structure and Function, Population Dynamics and Regulation, Community Ecology and Diversity, Ecological Adaptations and Succession, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability and Hypothesis Testing |
| ZOE 1.5 | Open Elective (e.g., Aquaculture) | Open Elective | 4 | Principles and Scope of Aquaculture, Aquatic Culture Systems, Culture of Finfish (Carp, Tilapia), Culture of Shellfish (Prawns, Mussels), Integrated Fish Farming and Hatchery Management |
| ZCP 1.6 | Practical I | Core | 4 | Non-Chordate Dissections and Museum Study, Cytological Staining Techniques, Drosophila Culture and Genetic Experiments, Biochemical Analysis of Biomolecules, Ecological Field Observations and Sampling |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZC 2.1 | Animal Diversity-II (Chordata) | Core | 4 | Protochordata and Pisces, Amphibia and Reptilia, Aves and Mammalia, Comparative Anatomy of Digestive System, Comparative Anatomy of Respiratory System |
| ZC 2.2 | Developmental Biology & Immunology | Core | 4 | Gametogenesis and Fertilization, Early Embryonic Development, Organogenesis and Metamorphosis, Innate and Adaptive Immunity, Antigen-Antibody Interactions and Immunotechniques |
| ZC 2.3 | Genetics & Molecular Biology-II | Core | 4 | DNA Replication and Repair, Transcription and RNA Processing, Translation and Protein Synthesis, Gene Regulation (Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic), Genetic Engineering and Cloning, Genomics and Proteomics |
| ZC 2.4 | Physiology | Core | 4 | Digestion and Absorption, Respiration and Gas Exchange, Circulation and Blood Physiology, Excretion and Osmoregulation, Neurophysiology and Sensory Organs, Muscle Physiology and Movement |
| ZSC 2.5 | Soft Core (e.g., Environmental Biology) | Soft Core | 4 | Air and Water Pollution, Soil Pollution and Solid Waste Management, Global Environmental Issues (Climate Change), Biodiversity Conservation and Management, Environmental Laws and Policies |
| ZCP 2.6 | Practical II | Core | 4 | Chordate Dissections and Museum Study, Study of Embryonic Stages, Immunological Techniques (ELISA, Agglutination), Molecular Biology Techniques (PCR, Electrophoresis), Physiological Experiments (Heart Beat, Respiration) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZC 3.1 | Evolution, Animal Behaviour & Chronobiology | Core | 4 | Theories of Evolution (Darwinism, Neo-Darwinism), Speciation and Macroevolution, Ethology: Patterns of Behaviour, Learning, Motivation and Communication, Social Behaviour and Altruism, Biological Rhythms and Clocks |
| ZC 3.2 | Endocrinology & Reproductive Biology | Core | 4 | Endocrine Glands and Hormone Action, Reproductive Cycles and Hormonal Control, Fertility Regulation and Contraception, Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), Environmental Endocrinology |
| ZC 3.3 | Parasitology & Vector Biology | Core | 4 | Types of Parasitism and Host-Parasite Interactions, Life Cycles of Protozoan Parasites, Life Cycles of Helminth Parasites, Insect Vectors of Diseases, Vector Control Strategies and Integrated Management |
| ZC 3.4 | Limnology & Oceanography | Core | 4 | Freshwater Ecosystems and Lentic/Lotic Systems, Physicochemical Parameters of Water, Aquatic Flora and Fauna, Marine Environment and Zonation, Coastal and Estuarine Ecosystems, Deep Sea Biology and Ocean Resources |
| ZSC 3.5 | Soft Core (e.g., Bioinformatics & Biostatistics) | Soft Core | 4 | Biological Databases (Nucleotide, Protein), Sequence Alignment (BLAST, FASTA), Phylogenetic Analysis and Tree Construction, Genomics, Proteomics and Transcriptomics, Introduction to R and Statistical Software |
| ZCP 3.6 | Practical III | Core | 4 | Endocrine Gland Histology, Parasite Identification (Slides, Museum), Vector Identification and Life Cycle Study, Water Quality Analysis (Physicochemical), Behavioural Ecology Experiments (Taxes, Kinesis) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZC 4.1 | Applied Zoology | Core | 4 | Sericulture and Silk Production, Apiculture and Beekeeping, Vermiculture and Composting, Lac Culture and Economic Importance, Pest Management and Biocontrol, Wildlife Conservation Principles |
| ZC 4.2 | Animal Biotechnology | Core | 4 | Recombinant DNA Technology and Tools, Gene Cloning and Expression Systems, Animal Cell Culture Techniques, Transgenic Animals and Applications, Gene Therapy and CRISPR Technology, Biosafety and Bioethics |
| ZC 4.3 | Conservation Biology & Wildlife Management | Core | 4 | Biodiversity Loss and its Causes, In-situ and Ex-situ Conservation Strategies, Protected Areas and Wildlife Sanctuaries, Wildlife Census Techniques, Human-Wildlife Conflict Management, Wildlife Laws and Policies in India |
| ZC 4.4 | Fishery Biology & Mariculture | Core | 4 | Fish Morphology, Anatomy and Physiology, Fishery Resources of India, Fishing Crafts and Gear, Fish Processing and Preservation, Mariculture Techniques and Cultivable Species, Pearl and Edible Oyster Culture |
| ZCP 4.5 | Practical IV | Core | 4 | Applied Zoology Specimen Identification, Biotechnological Procedures (DNA Isolation, PCR), Conservation Techniques (Habitat Assessment), Fishery Biology Experiments (Age Determination, Fecundity), Field Visits to Research Institutes/Industries |
| ZCP 4.6 | Project Work (Dissertation) | Core | 4 | Research Problem Identification and Formulation, Literature Review and Experimental Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Scientific Report Writing and Formatting, Presentation and Viva-Voce |
