The full form of BSc Biology is Bachelor of Science in Biology. It is a three-year undergraduate course
BSc Biology is the study of living things, their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, and ecological relationships.
Further Reading: BSc in India
BSc Biology eligibility is 10+2 in Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are mandatory subjects) with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized board. Admission into this course is primarily done on a merit basis with some universities opting for entrance. The top entrance exams for this course are, SET, CUCET, AIIMS, CUET, and NPAT.
BSc Biology fees is INR 30,000 – 3 Lakhs. Some of the top BSc Biology Colleges are Banaras Hindu University, University of Delhi, University of Calcutta, BITS Pilani, Loyola College, and University of Mumbai.
Also Read: BSc Courses after 12th
The BSc Biology syllabus includes subjects such as Genetics, Ecology, Immunology, Microbiology, Zoology, Botany, and Anatomy.
For further studies, students can pursue an MSc in Biology, an MSc in Biotechnology, an MSc in Microbiology, an MSc in Zoology, and an MSc in Environmental Science among other options.
BSc Biology jobs include Botanist, Microbiologist, Geneticist, Biotechnologist, Research Assistant, Lab Technician and Environmental Consultant. BSc Biology salary ranges from INR 2 – 8 LPA.
Some of the top recruiters for this course are Ranbaxy, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and the Serum Institute of India.
More BSc Courses:
- | - |
BSc Biology: Course Highlights
Details | Particulars |
Course Name | BSc Biology |
Course Level | Undergraduate |
Course Full Form | Bachelor of Science in Biology |
Course Duration | 3 Years |
Course Types | Full-time/Distance Education |
Admission Process | Merit and Entrance Based |
Eligibility Criteria | 10+2 in Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are mandatory subjects) with minimum of 50% marks from a recognized board. |
Entrance Exams | |
Course Fees | INR 30,000 – 3 Lakhs |
Top Colleges | Banaras Hindu University, University of Delhi, University of Calcutta, BITS Pilani, Loyola College and University of Mumbai. |
Average Salary in India | INR 2 – 8 LPA |
Job Profiles | Botanist, Microbiologist, Geneticist, Biotechnologist, Research Assistant, Lab Technician and Environmental Consultant |
Top Recruiters | Ranbaxy, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and Serum Institute of India |
What is BSc Biology?
Biology is a broad field that includes several sub-disciplines such as ecology, genetics, microbiology, physiology, and molecular biology. Bachelor of Science in Biology or BSc Biology, is an undergraduate course that studies living creatures and their interactions with their surroundings.
Also Read: Who is the Father of Biology?
Why pursue BSc Biology?
There are several reasons why pursuing a BSc in Biology degree in India might be a wise choice. Below are some of the factors:
- Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates with a BSc in Biology degree can pursue professions in a wide range of disciplines, including healthcare, biotechnology, research, education, conservation, and more.
- Growing Demand for Healthcare Professionals: After a BSc in Biology degree, students can work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and research labs, and can contribute significantly to India's healthcare sector.
- Contribution to Society: An individual with knowledge in Biology, can help in improving public health, developing sustainable agriculture practices, and conserving biodiversity.
Who Should pursue BSc Biology?
BSc in Biology is a good choice for those who have a keen interest in living things and their interactions with their environment, it might be a good fit for the following potential candidates:
- Students who had taken Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are mandatory subjects) in 12th with minimum 50% marks from a recognized board.
- People with an interest in studying living things such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, as well as their interactions.
- Individuals who want to work in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, or other health-related discipline.
Also Read: Best courses after 12th Biology except for MBBS
BSc Biology: Course Types
A BSc in Biology is offered to students in two modes: full-time or via distance education.
- BSc Biology Full-time: This course is designed systematically and provides both theoretical and practical knowledge to the students. To build a strong foundation in BSc Biology, various aspects of biological sciences, including biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, ecology, evolution, and physiology, are taught.
- BSc Biology Distance Education: This option is available for students who cannot pursue this course on a full-time basis and require flexibility in choosing their study time. Throughout the program, students will engage in laboratory work, fieldwork, and research projects, allowing them to develop practical skills and gain hands-on experience in biological sciences.
Related Article: Best Courses After 12th Biology
BSc Biology: Course Duration
The duration of BSc in Biology in India is 3 years, which is divided into 6 semesters. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the university or institution offering the course. BSc Biology distance education programs may have a longer duration, up to 5 years, compared to the regular full-time course.
BSc Biology: Fees
BSc Biology Fees is INR 30,000 – 3 Lakhs. Given below is a list with some of the top Colleges/Universities offering this course along with their fees:
Name of the College/University | Location | Average Annual Fees | Average Placement Offer |
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | INR 9,000 | INR 8 LPA | |
Vidya Vihar, Rajasthan | INR 20 LPA | INR 18 LPA | |
Kochi, Kerala | INR 54,000
| INR 4.8 LPA | |
Chennai, Tamil Nadu | INR 3 LPA | INR 3.75 LPA | |
Bengaluru, Karnataka | INR 1 LPA | INR 6 LPA | |
Vasant Kunj, Delhi | INR 25 LPA | INR 7 LPA | |
Gurugram, Haryana | INR 4 LPA | INR 2.69 LPA | |
Jaipur, Rajasthan | INR 2 LPA | INR 2.4 LPA | |
Chennai, Tamil Nadu | INR 74,000 | INR 3.44 LPA | |
Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh | INR 2 LPA | INR 1.9 LPA | |
Vadodara, Gujarat | INR 2 LPA | INR 2.8 LPA |
BSc Biology: Admission Process
It is highly recommended that aspirants score well in their high school examinations or prepare well for the entrance exam. Given below is an overview of both the modes of admission:
BSc Biology Admission: Merit Based
- An aspirant should score more than 50% marks in their high school examinations to be applicable for merit-based admission.
- Apply to the desired college through their official website or by physically visiting the institution and filling out the application form.
- Make sure to check the eligibility criteria and have all the required documents (10th and 12th Certificates, Aadhar Card, Photographs etc.) in hand.
- Merit lists are usually updated on the official website of the colleges and need to be checked regularly by the aspirant.
- If selected, the aspirant can pay the required fees and the admission process will be complete.
- Finally, candidates must attend the counseling or orientation organised by the institution for further details, if selected from the merit list.
BSc Biology Admission: Entrance-Based
- Apply to the desired college through their official website or by physically visiting the institution and filling out the application form.
- The application form will require the candidate to register themselves with an email ID, password, and mobile number along with academic and course details.
- The candidate is required to upload the necessary documents online, such as Photograph, 10th, and 12th Certificates, Aadhar Card, etc.)
- Once the form is complete, the candidate will be asked to pay a minimal amount of application fee.
- It is advised to check the website regularly for updates on the admit card, entrance exam, and entrance exam syllabus.
- Admit cards will be issued to all the eligible students which will have important information such as the date of the examination, examination center, and timings.
- The college/university will then publish lists according to their cutoff and seat availability.
- If selected, a candidate should pay the course fee as soon as possible and attend the orientation/counseling organized by the college for further information.
BSc Biology: Eligibility
- 10+2 in Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are mandatory subjects) with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized board.
- The minimum age for this course is 17 years old.
BSc Biology: Entrance Exams
The BSc Biology entrance exam in India is often composed of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and is aimed at assessing the candidate's knowledge and understanding of biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and general knowledge. The exam normally lasts 2-3 hours, with the total number of questions and marks varying depending on the institution. In some colleges or institutions, there might be negative markings as well.
Given below are the details of some of the entrance exams conducted by various universities, along with their details:
Name of the Exam | Registration Date | Exam Dates |
January 2024 | May 2024 | |
November 28th, 2023 - May 29th, 2024 | May 2024 | |
February - April 2024 | May 15th - 31st 2024 | |
December 2023 - May 21st 2024 | January - May 2024 |
Also Read: Top BSc Colleges in India
BSc Biology: Entrance Exam Syllabus
The syllabus for the BSc Biology entrance exam may vary slightly depending on the college or university. However, here are some common topics that are usually included in the syllabus:
Subjects | Topics |
Biology | Cell Biology, Genetics, Ecology, Evolution, Physiology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, and Biodiversity. |
Chemistry | Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Environmental Chemistry. |
Physics | Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Optics, Electricity, Magnetism, and Modern Physics. |
Mathematics | Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus, and Statistics. |
BSc Biology: Subjects
The subjects in BSc Biology may differ from one college to another. Nevertheless, given below is a list of potential subjects in BSc Biology that students will study:
Subjects in BSc Biology: 1st Year | |
Cell Biology and Genetics | Biochemistry |
Diversity of Living Organisms | Chemistry |
Subjects in BSc Biology: 2nd Year | |
Structure and Function of Invertebrates | Structure and Function of Vertebrates |
Ecology and Environment | Mathematics and Statistics |
Subjects in BSc Biology: 3rd Year | |
Microbiology | Animal Anatomy and Physiology |
Plant Anatomy and Physiology | Immunology and Biotechnology |
Related Article: BSc Biology Subjects and Syllabus
BSc Biology: Syllabus
The course is divided into six semesters which must be covered in 3 years. The syllabus of BSc Biology will vary from college to college; however, a brief of the syllabus is given in the following table:
BSc Biology Syllabus: 1st Year | |
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
Cell Biology | Genetics and Molecular Biology |
Biomolecules and Metabolism | Plant Diversity and Physiology |
Diversity of Microbes and Cryptogams | Genetics and Molecular Biology |
Biophysics and Instrumentation | Invertebrate Zoology |
Environmental Science | Biostatistics |
Also Read: BSc Physics Syllabus
BSc Biology Syllabus: 2nd Year | |
Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
Microbial Genetics and Physiology | Plant Anatomy and Embryology |
Ecology land Animal Behavior | Animal Anatomy and Physiology |
Vertebrate Zoology | Developmental Biology |
Analytical Techniques in Biology | Evolutionary Biology |
Applied Biotechnology | Science Communication |
Must Read: BSc Math Syllabus
BSc Biology Syllabus: 3rd Year | |
Semester 5 | Semester 6 |
Immunology and Biomedical Techniques | Biomedical Instrumentation and Diagnostic Techniques |
Plant Biotechnology and Plant Breeding | Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Biology |
Animal Biotechnology and Reproductive Physiology | Gene Regulation and Expression |
Molecular Genetics and Genomics | Bioprocess Engineering and Technology |
Research Methodology | Dissertation/Project Work |
Further Reading: BSc Chemistry Syllabus
BSc Biology: Colleges
Given below is a list of the top BSc biology colleges in India, along with their fees:
Name of the College/University | Course Fees |
INR 9,000 | |
INR 20 LPA | |
INR 1.26 LPA | |
INR 10,000 | |
INR 15,000 | |
INR 20,000 | |
INR 54,000 | |
INR 3 LPA | |
INR 25,000 | |
INR 1 LPA | |
INR 25 LPA | |
INR 40,000 | |
INR 4 LPA | |
INR 2 LPA | |
INR 74,000 | |
INR 1 LPA | |
INR 2 LPA | |
INR 2 LPA |
BSc Biology: Recommended Books
Given below are the names of some recognized books along with their authors in the field of Biology that a candidate must read to gain further knowledge in the course:
Name of the Book | Author's Name |
Biology | Neil A. Campbell and Jane B. Reece |
Principles of Genetics | Gardner, Simmons, and Snustad |
Environmental Biology | D.K. Mishra |
Organic Chemistry | Paula Y. Bruice |
Biology | P.N. Pandey and M.P. Bansal |
Environmental Biology | K.S. Verma and B.P. Pandey |
Jobs after BSc Biology
There are various jobs after a BSc Biology degree in India. Some of the popular job profiles, along with their descriptions, are given below:
Job Profile | Job Description |
Research Assistant | Research Assistants operate in laboratories gathering and analyzing data as well as aiding with research initiatives. |
Biomedical Scientist | Biomedical Scientists research to develop new treatments, vaccines, and medical technologies. |
Environmental Consultant | Environmental Consultants collaborate with government agencies, private corporations, and non-profit organizations to develop strategies for managing natural resources, decreasing pollution, and promoting sustainability. |
Mycologist | A Mycologist is someone who studies fungi, which are self-contained organisms like mammals, algae, plants, and bacteria. |
Science Writers | Science Writers work for scientific publications, news outlets, or research institutions to write about scientific discoveries and innovations |
Taxonomists | Taxonomists are scientists who oversee identifying, categorizing, and naming new plant and animal species all over the world |
Botanist | A Botanist's primary responsibility is to do study on many types of plant life. |
Laboratory Technician | A Laboratory Technician oversees doing tests, analysing data, conduct experiments under controlled conditions in order to confirm or discard a certain idea. |
Science Teachers | Science Teachers work in schools and colleges, teaching students about biology, chemistry, physics, and other sciences |
BSc Biology: Salary
Given below are the BSc Biology jobs along with their respective salaries:
Job Profile | Average Salary |
Research Assistant | INR 1 – 8 LPA |
Biomedical Scientist | INR 3.3 – 12 LPA |
Environmental Consultant | INR 2.2 – 18 LPA |
Mycologist | INR 6 LPA |
Science Writer | INR 2.9 – 10.6 LPA |
Taxonomist | INR 8 LPA |
Botanist | INR 3 – 5 LPA |
Laboratory Technician | INR 2 – 4 LPA |
Science Teacher | INR 3 – 6 LPA |
BSc Biology: Top Recruiters
After completing a BSc Biology, graduates can apply to both private and public sector companies for job opportunities. Given below is a list of the top recruiters of this course:
Recruiter's Name | Average Salary |
Ranbaxy | INR 8 LPA |
GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals | INR 14.7 LPA |
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) | INR 4.4 LPA |
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) | INR 5.3 LPA |
Serum Institute of India | INR 10.3 LPA |
Apollo Hospitals | INR 3.8 – 4.6 LPA |
Dr Reddy's Laboratories | INR 8.9 LPA |
BSc Biology: Scope
There are various further study options available for BSc biology graduates in India. Some of the popular ones, along with their average fees, are:
BSc Biology Scope | Average Course Fees |
MSc Biology | INR 40,000 – 4 LPA |
MSc Biochemistry | INR 20,000 – 2 LPA |
MSc Biotechnology | INR 40,000 – 2 LPA |
MSc Botany | INR 2,000 – 8 LPA |
MSc Computational Biology | INR 30,000 – 2 LPA |
MSc Conservation Biology | INR 25,000 – 2.5 LPA |
MSc Environmental Biology | INR 20,000 – 3 LPA |
MSc Environmental Microbiology | INR 30,000 – 2 LPA |
MSc Food Science | INR 50,000 – 4 LPA |
MSc Forensic Science | INR 20,000 – 2 LPA |
Master's in Public Health | INR 2,000 – 12 LPA |
MSc Molecular Medicines | INR 21,000 – 1 LPA |
MSc Microbiology | INR 50,000 – 2.5 LPA |
MSc Nanotechnology | INR 13,000 – 2.5 LPA |
INR 5,000 – 4 LPA | |
MSc Toxicology | INR 7,000 – 1 LPA |
MSc Virology | INR 80,000 – 2.5 LPA |
INR 20,000 – 2 LPA |
Further Reading: Scope of Microbiology