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B-PHARM in General at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This B.Pharm program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses comprehensively on pharmaceutical sciences, encompassing drug discovery, development, manufacturing, quality control, and patient-centric healthcare. India is a global pharmaceutical hub, and this program prepares students to contribute to its robust generic drug production and innovation. The curriculum is designed to be industry-relevant, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, a key differentiator in the Indian pharmaceutical landscape, meeting high industry demand for skilled pharmacists.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 science graduates (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics) aspiring to a career in the dynamic pharmaceutical sector, including those seeking direct entry into drug manufacturing, research, or clinical roles. It also welcomes D.Pharm holders looking for lateral entry to enhance their qualifications and working professionals aiming to upskill for advanced roles in drug development, regulatory affairs, or pharmacovigilance within the Indian pharmaceutical industry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, community pharmacies, and regulatory bodies like CDSCO. Entry-level salaries typically range from 2.5 to 4 LPA, with experienced professionals earning 6-15+ LPA in roles such as R&D scientist, production manager, quality assurance executive, or clinical research associate. Growth trajectories often lead to specialized fields like drug regulatory affairs or pharmacovigilance, aligning with professional certifications and industry demand.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Scientific Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding the foundational subjects like Human Anatomy & Physiology, Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry, and Biochemistry. Utilize textbooks, online resources like NPTEL for conceptual clarity, and participate in study groups. A strong base in these areas is crucial for advanced pharmaceutical concepts.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Standard textbooks (e.g., K.D. Tripathi for Pharmacology, Morrison & Boyd for Organic Chemistry), Study groups
Career Connection
A solid scientific foundation is essential for success in all pharmaceutical domains, from drug discovery to patient counseling, enabling effective understanding of drug mechanisms and disease processes, crucial for R&D and clinical roles.
Develop Robust Laboratory Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in all practical sessions for subjects like Pharmaceutical Analysis, Pharmaceutics, and Inorganic Chemistry. Focus on precision, accuracy, and understanding the theoretical basis of experiments. Document observations meticulously and seek feedback from instructors to refine techniques.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory manuals, Peer review sessions, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Proficiency in laboratory techniques is directly applicable to quality control, research and development, and manufacturing roles in the pharmaceutical industry, making graduates highly employable.
Enhance Communication & Computer Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Participate enthusiastically in communication skills labs to improve public speaking, presentation, and interpersonal abilities. Simultaneously, become proficient in essential computer applications (MS Office) and pharmaceutical-specific software/databases. Explore basic bioinformatics tools.
Tools & Resources
Communication skills workshops, Online tutorials for MS Office/Bioinformatics, University computer labs
Career Connection
Strong communication is vital for patient counseling, team collaboration, and scientific presentations. Computer literacy, especially in data analysis and bioinformatics, is indispensable for modern pharmaceutical research and data management.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Core Pharma Disciplines- (Semester 3-5)
Concentrate on building strong conceptual knowledge in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, and Industrial Pharmacy. Understand structure-activity relationships, drug mechanisms, and pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. Attend workshops and seminars related to these core areas.
Tools & Resources
Advanced textbooks, Industry seminars/webinars, Pharmacology simulation software
Career Connection
Mastery of these core subjects provides the technical expertise required for roles in drug design, formulation development, quality assurance, and therapeutic management, forming the backbone of a successful pharma career.
Gain Industry Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek and undertake short-term internships during semester breaks (e.g., summer internships). Focus on gaining practical experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality control, R&D, or hospital pharmacy settings. Network with industry professionals during these opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, Industry contacts, Pharma company websites
Career Connection
Internships bridge the gap between academia and industry, providing real-world experience, practical skills, and crucial professional contacts, significantly boosting employability and placement prospects.
Participate in Research Projects/Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with faculty on minor research projects or review articles in areas of interest. Actively participate in departmental seminars, journal clubs, and scientific conferences. This enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific writing abilities.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Academic journals, Research databases (e.g., PubMed), University research grants
Career Connection
Engagement in research builds analytical and problem-solving skills, which are highly valued in R&D, clinical research, and academic roles, setting a foundation for a career in innovation.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Skill Development & Certification- (Semester 6-8)
Identify a niche area (e.g., Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Research, Pharmacovigilance, Biostatistics) and pursue online courses, workshops, or certifications offered by reputed bodies. This adds specialized skills in high demand in the Indian pharmaceutical industry.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Coursera, Udemy, Regulatory certification bodies (e.g., DIA), Professional associations
Career Connection
Specialized certifications demonstrate expertise in specific domains, making graduates more competitive for targeted roles and higher starting salaries in areas like drug registration or clinical trials.
Intensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 7-8)
Begin placement preparation early by focusing on resume building, mock interviews, and group discussions. Tailor your skills and experiences to specific pharmaceutical job descriptions. Attend career fairs and alumni interaction sessions organized by the institution.
Tools & Resources
Career guidance cells, Mock interview platforms, Alumni network, Placement training workshops
Career Connection
Effective placement preparation is crucial for securing desired jobs, enhancing interview performance, and understanding industry expectations, leading to successful entry into the pharmaceutical workforce.
Undertake a Comprehensive Project- (Semester 8)
Execute a significant research or industry-relevant project, preferably in collaboration with a pharmaceutical company or research institution. This provides hands-on experience in addressing real-world challenges, applying theoretical knowledge, and showcasing problem-solving abilities to potential employers.
Tools & Resources
Industry partners, Faculty supervisors, Laboratory facilities, Project management tools
Career Connection
A strong final year project is a powerful differentiator, demonstrating practical competence, research acumen, and ability to deliver tangible results, which is highly regarded by recruiters for R&D and manufacturing roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10 + 2 with Physics, Chemistry as compulsory subjects along with one of the Mathematics / Biology / Botany / Zoology as optional subjects with a minimum of 50% aggregate in the above subjects. A pass in D.Pharm course from an institution approved by the Pharmacy Council of India.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 193 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (Theory) / 50% (Practical), External: 75% (Theory) / 50% (Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP101T | Human Anatomy and Physiology I Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Human Body, Elementary Tissues, Osseous System, Skeletal Muscles, Haemopoietic System, Lymphatic System |
| BP102T | Pharmaceutical Analysis I Theory | Core | 4 | Pharmaceutical Analysis, Acid-Base Titrations, Non-Aqueous Titrations, Precipitation Titrations, Complexometric Titrations, Gravimetry |
| BP103T | Pharmaceutics I Theory | Core | 3 | Introduction to Pharmacy, Dosage Forms, Prescriptions, Posology, Pharmaceutical Aids, Packaging Materials |
| BP104T | Pharmaceutical Inorganic Chemistry Theory | Core | 4 | Impurities in Pharmaceutical Substances, Limit Tests, Major Intra and Extracellular Electrolytes, Dental Products, G.I. Agents, Medicinal Gases |
| BP105T | Communication Skills Theory | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC-I) | 2 | Communication Skills, Listening Skills, Speaking Skills, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Non-verbal Communication |
| BP106RBT | Remedial Biology Theory | Remedial (for non-biology students) | 2 | Living World, Morphology of Plants, Anatomy of Plants, Cell Biology, Human Physiology, Animal Kingdom |
| BP106RMT | Remedial Mathematics Theory | Remedial (for non-maths students) | 2 | Partial Fractions, Logarithms, Functions, Limit and Continuity, Differentiation, Integration |
| BP107P | Human Anatomy and Physiology I Practical | Practical | 1 | Study of Human Skeleton, Identification of Bones, Organ System Models, Microscopic Study of Tissues, Haematological Experiments |
| BP108P | Pharmaceutical Analysis I Practical | Practical | 1 | Calibration of Apparatus, Preparation of Standard Solutions, Assay of Sodium Chloride, Assay of Ferrous Sulphate, Non-aqueous Titration |
| BP109P | Pharmaceutics I Practical | Practical | 1 | Preparation of Simple Syrup, Aromatic Water, Limewater, Powder Dosage Forms, Liquid Dosage Forms |
| BP110P | Pharmaceutical Inorganic Chemistry Practical | Practical | 1 | Limit Test for Chloride, Sulphate, Iron, Heavy Metals, Identification Tests for Anions and Cations |
| BP111P | Communication Skills Practical | Practical | 1 | Group Discussion, Presentation Skills, Interview Skills, Public Speaking, Role Play |
| BP112RBP | Remedial Biology Practical | Remedial Practical (for non-biology students) | 1 | Study of Plant Tissues, Stomata, Human Blood, Mammalian Organs |
| BP112RMP | Remedial Mathematics Practical | Remedial Practical (for non-maths students) | 1 | Graphing, Differentiation Problems, Integration Problems, Matrix Operations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP201T | Human Anatomy and Physiology II Theory | Core | 4 | Nervous System, Sense Organs, Endocrine System, Cardiovascular System, Urinary System, Reproductive System |
| BP202T | Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry I Theory | Core | 4 | Classification of Organic Compounds, IUPAC Nomenclature, Isomerism, Alkanes, Alkenes, Alkynes, Aromaticity, Reactions of Benzene |
| BP203T | Biochemistry Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Biochemistry, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Enzymes, Nucleic Acids, Metabolic Pathways |
| BP204T | Pathophysiology Theory | Core | 4 | Basic Principles of Cell Injury and Adaptation, Inflammation, Wound Healing, Neoplasia, Pathophysiology of Common Diseases, Cardiovascular and Renal Disorders |
| BP205T | Computer Applications in Pharmacy Theory | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC-II) | 3 | Introduction to Computers, MS-Word, MS-Excel, MS-PowerPoint, Internet and its Applications, Data Analysis Tools, Bioinformatics Tools |
| BP206T | Environmental Sciences Theory | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC-III) | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Human Population and the Environment |
| BP207P | Human Anatomy and Physiology II Practical | Practical | 1 | Study of Brain, Eye, Ear Models, Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System, Urinary System, Endocrine Glands |
| BP208P | Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry I Practical | Practical | 1 | Identification of Organic Compounds, Functional Group Tests, Synthesis of Organic Compounds, Purification Techniques |
| BP209P | Biochemistry Practical | Practical | 1 | Qualitative Tests for Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids, Enzyme Activity, Estimation of Blood Glucose, Urine Analysis |
| BP210P | Computer Applications in Pharmacy Practical | Practical | 1 | MS-Word Document Creation, MS-Excel Data Analysis, MS-PowerPoint Presentation, Internet Search Techniques, Bioinformatics Tool Usage |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP301T | Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry II Theory | Core | 4 | Alcohols, Phenols, Ethers, Carbonyl Compounds, Carboxylic Acids and their Derivatives, Amines, Stereochemistry, Reaction Mechanisms |
| BP302T | Physical Pharmaceutics I Theory | Core | 4 | Matter, States of Matter, Thermodynamics, Surface and Interfacial Phenomena, Micromeritics, Rheology, Coarse Dispersions |
| BP303T | Pharmaceutical Microbiology Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Microbiology, Classification of Microbes, Sterilization and Disinfection, Aseptic Techniques, Microbial Contamination and Spoilage, Antibiotics and Sensitivity Testing |
| BP304T | Pharmaceutical Engineering Theory | Core | 4 | Fluid Flow, Heat Transfer, Evaporation and Distillation, Drying, Size Reduction and Separation, Filtration and Centrifugation, Mixing |
| BP305P | Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry II Practical | Practical | 1 | Qualitative Analysis of Organic Compounds, Multi-step Synthesis, Melting Point Determination, Crystallization |
| BP306P | Physical Pharmaceutics I Practical | Practical | 1 | Determination of Surface Tension, Viscosity, Particle Size Analysis, Micellar Concentration, Rheological Properties |
| BP307P | Pharmaceutical Microbiology Practical | Practical | 1 | Staining Techniques, Sterilization Methods, Disinfection Efficacy, Microbial Culture Techniques, Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing |
| BP308P | Pharmaceutical Engineering Practical | Practical | 1 | Fluid Flow Measurement, Heat Transfer Coefficient, Drying Rate Determination, Size Reduction Efficiency, Filtration Rate |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP401T | Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry III Theory | Core | 4 | Heterocyclic Compounds (Pyridine, Pyrrole, Furan, Thiophene), Reactions and Synthesis of Quinoline, Isoquinoline, Reactions of Diazonium Salts, Pericyclic Reactions |
| BP402T | Medicinal Chemistry I Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry, Drug Discovery and Development, Structure Activity Relationships (SAR), Drug Metabolism, General Anesthetics, Sedatives and Hypnotics, Anti-Anxiety Agents |
| BP403T | Physical Pharmaceutics II Theory | Core | 4 | Solubility and Solubilization, Diffusion and Dissolution, Complexation and Protein Binding, Colloidal Dispersions, Emulsions and Suspensions, Physical Stability of Dosage Forms |
| BP404T | Pharmacology I Theory | Core | 4 | General Pharmacology, Autonomic Nervous System, Cardiovascular System Pharmacology, Drugs Acting on Kidney, Autacoids, Respiratory Pharmacology |
| BP405T | Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry I Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Pharmacognosy, Classification of Drugs of Natural Origin, Cultivation, Collection, Processing of Crude Drugs, Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Quality Control of Crude Drugs |
| BP406P | Medicinal Chemistry I Practical | Practical | 1 | Synthesis of Drugs, Quantitative Analysis of Drugs, Partition Coefficient Determination, Melting Point and Boiling Point Determination |
| BP407P | Physical Pharmaceutics II Practical | Practical | 1 | Determination of Solubility, Diffusion Coefficient, Partition Coefficient, Drug Release Studies, Stability Studies |
| BP408P | Pharmacology I Practical | Practical | 1 | Experiments on Isolated Tissues, Routes of Drug Administration, Dose-Response Relationships, Animal Handling Techniques |
| BP409P | Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry I Practical | Practical | 1 | Morphological and Microscopical Study of Crude Drugs, Chemical Tests for Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Detection of Adulteration, Extraction Techniques |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP501T | Medicinal Chemistry II Theory | Core | 4 | Anti-infective Agents, Antineoplastic Agents, Antiviral Agents, Immunosuppressants, Diagnostic Agents, Steroids |
| BP502T | Industrial Pharmacy I Theory | Core | 4 | Preformulation Studies, Tablet Manufacturing, Capsule Manufacturing, Liquid Oral Formulations, Parenteral Preparations, Ophthalmic Preparations, Quality Control of Dosage Forms |
| BP503T | Pharmacology II Theory | Core | 4 | Drugs acting on Central Nervous System, Drugs acting on Gastrointestinal System, Chemotherapy of Microbial Diseases, Chemotherapy of Parasitic Diseases, Antihypertensive Agents |
| BP504T | Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry II Theory | Core | 4 | Glycosides, Alkaloids, Volatile Oils, Resins, Tannins, Study of Natural Pesticides, Herbal Cosmetics |
| BP505T | Pharmaceutical Jurisprudence Theory | Core | 4 | Pharmaceutical Legislations, Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, Pharmacy Act, 1948, Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, Intellectual Property Rights |
| BP506P | Industrial Pharmacy I Practical | Practical | 1 | Preformulation Studies, Formulation of Tablets, Formulation of Capsules, Preparation of Syrups, Suspensions, Quality Control Tests for Dosage Forms |
| BP507P | Pharmacology II Practical | Practical | 1 | Experiments on Analgesics, Antipyretics, Anti-inflammatory Drugs, Hypoglycemic Agents, Muscle Relaxants |
| BP508P | Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry II Practical | Practical | 1 | Extraction and Isolation of Phytoconstituents, Chromatographic Techniques, Quantitative Estimation of Herbal Drugs, Microscopy of Powdered Drugs |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP601T | Medicinal Chemistry III Theory | Core | 4 | Drugs acting on Cardiovascular System, Hypoglycemic Agents, Coagulants and Anticoagulants, Diuretics, NSAIDs, Antihypertensive Agents |
| BP602T | Pharmacology III Theory | Core | 4 | Drugs acting on Respiratory System, Endocrine Pharmacology, Drugs affecting Reproductive System, Pharmacology of Blood, Vitamins, Immunopharmacology |
| BP603T | Herbal Drug Technology Theory | Core | 4 | Cultivation, Collection, Processing of Herbal Drugs, Phytopharmaceuticals, Quality Control of Herbal Drugs, Regulatory Aspects of Herbal Drugs, Herbal Formulations |
| BP604T | Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Biopharmaceutics, Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion (ADME), Bioavailability and Bioequivalence, Pharmacokinetic Models, Drug Elimination Kinetics |
| BP605T | Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Biotechnology, Recombinant DNA Technology, Monoclonal Antibodies, Vaccines and Sera, Gene Therapy, Enzyme Immobilization |
| BP606T | Quality Assurance Theory | Core | 3 | Quality Assurance Principles, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Quality Control Documentation, Calibration and Validation, Quality Audits |
| BP607P | Medicinal Chemistry III Practical | Practical | 1 | Synthesis of Pharmacologically Active Compounds, Analytical Methods, Spectral Analysis (IR, UV), Quantitative Drug Estimation |
| BP608P | Pharmacology III Practical | Practical | 1 | Experiments on Anti-asthmatics, Antihistamines, Hormones, Diuretics, Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Activity |
| BP609P | Herbal Drug Technology Practical | Practical | 1 | Extraction of Herbal Drugs, Isolation of Markers, Quality Control of Herbal Extracts, Formulation of Herbal Products, Phytochemical Screening |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP701T | Instrumental Methods of Analysis Theory | Core | 4 | UV-Visible Spectroscopy, IR Spectroscopy, NMR Spectroscopy, Mass Spectrometry, Chromatography (HPLC, GC), Electrophoresis |
| BP702T | Industrial Pharmacy II Theory | Core | 4 | Pilot Plant Scale Up Techniques, Regulatory Affairs, Quality Management Systems, Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), Intellectual Property Rights |
| BP703T | Pharmacy Practice Theory | Core | 4 | Hospital Pharmacy, Community Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy, Drug Interactions, Adverse Drug Reactions, Patient Counseling |
| BP704T | Novel Drug Delivery System Theory | Core | 4 | Controlled Drug Delivery Systems, Targeted Drug Delivery, Nanoparticles and Liposomes, Implants, Transdermal Drug Delivery, Gene Delivery |
| BP705T | Professional Elective I Theory (Example: Biostatistics and Research Methodology) | Professional Elective | 4 | Introduction to Biostatistics, Data Collection and Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability and Sampling, Hypothesis Testing, Research Design and Ethics |
| BP706T | Professional Elective II Theory (Example: Pharmaceutical Marketing Management) | Professional Elective | 4 | Introduction to Marketing, Market Research in Pharma, Product Life Cycle, Pricing Strategies, Promotion and Advertising, Sales Management in Pharma |
| BP707P | Instrumental Methods of Analysis Practical | Practical | 1 | Spectrophotometric Analysis, Chromatographic Separations, Electrophoresis Techniques, Data Interpretation from Instruments |
| BP708P | Industrial Pharmacy II Practical | Practical | 1 | Scale-up Studies, Documentation Practices, Regulatory Filing Procedures, Process Validation |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BP801T | Professional Elective III Theory (Example: Pharmaceutical Product Development) | Professional Elective | 4 | Product Development Process, Pilot Plant and Scale-up, Technology Transfer, Drug Stability Studies, Packaging Development, Regulatory Aspects of Product Development |
| BP802T | Professional Elective IV Theory (Example: Cell and Molecular Biology) | Professional Elective | 4 | Cell Structure and Function, Cell Cycle and Apoptosis, DNA Replication and Repair, Gene Expression and Regulation, Recombinant DNA Technology, Protein Synthesis |
| BP803PW | Project Work | Project | 6 | Literature Review, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| BP804T | Professional Elective V Theory (Example: Computer Aided Drug Design) | Professional Elective | 4 | Introduction to CADD, Molecular Modeling, Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships (QSAR), Docking Studies, Virtual Screening, Drug Design Software |
| BP805T | Open Elective I Theory | Open Elective | 3 | |
| BP806T | Open Elective II Theory | Open Elective | 3 |
