B.sc Biochemistry is a three-year undergraduate program that deals with the study of physicochemical and chemical processes within and associated with living organisms, laboratory-based which combines chemistry with biology with the help of new techniques and chemical knowledge. It includes the study and evaluation of chemical processes such as respiration and metabolism in living organisms at a cellular or molecular level.
In short, you are going to study the chemistry of the various reactions which are held in our bodies such as the functioning of the brain, cellular multiplication, and communication between cells and organs. Those who study biochemistry are also known as biochemists. An important task of a biochemist is to execute experiments, to study and research the behavior of lipids, minerals, vitamins, protein molecules, hormones, and the nucleus inside a cell. They also need to have a good knowledge of the functions and structure of the DNA.
The admission Process of BSc Biochemistry varies according to the university. Many institutes and universities offer admission on a merit basis. However, many conduct university-level entrance exams for admission in this course.
To get admission to a good BSc College, the students need to follow the below-mentioned points.
- Securing scores above average in class XII is a necessity. So, the candidates need to perform well in the class XII examination since most of the colleges offer admission based on merit.
- The higher the scores, the more are the chances of getting admission to the desired college.
- Stay updated about the course cut-off, eligibility, application process at different colleges, application fees, deadlines, and other important guidelines related to the examination that can help to get nearer to the admissions.
- Check the official websites, read newspapers, and other educational magazines, to know more about the B.Sc. programs provided by different colleges.
- Try to remain updated with news, current affairs, as it may be required in some exams, counseling, and also during the entrance.
How to apply?
Candidates can apply to the different universities/institutes both online and offline as well. They can visit the university’s official website and fill in all the information and documents needed from home or the other method is to visit the college or the institute itself and put forward all the authorized documents to the office.
Selection Process
The selection process is based on the final cut-off marks obtained by the candidates in the entrance exams of B.sc. Biochemistry.
B.sc Biochemistry Entrance Exams
Admission to this course occurs on both a merit basis and with the performance in biochemistry entrance exam basis. Some universities conduct an entrance exam for the candidates, while some universities do not. Below stated are the related details of the entrance exams and the institutes organizing them.
For Bachelor’s courses:
MGU CAT
This exam is organized by Mahatma Gandhi University and is regarded for the admission process to many undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels in numerous subjects. The subjects can belong under any of the mentioned faculties namely Science, Commerce and Arts.
LPUNEST
This is a national-level entrance exam which is conducted by Lovely Professional University for admission into their BSc. Courses.
IISER
This exam is conducted by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research to offer admission to its BS-MS programs throughout all seven campuses of IISER.
UPCATET
This exam denotes the UP Combined Agriculture and Technology Entrance Test. This exam is destined for the admission process of the applicants to several UG and PG programs across the affiliated universities/institutions. The exam is most fitting to the Uttar Pradesh state domicile.
See Also : Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences
How to prepare for B.Sc. Biochemistry Entrance Exams
The most important thing to clear the exam is to study devotedly in accordance with the up-to-date exam pattern and syllabus. Students who are going to give the entrance exams for this course have to prepare for four subjects i.e., Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Here are a few tips which you must keep in mind while preparing for the exam.
Entrance Exams
- The students must give at least 2-3 hours each day to their studies to prepare for the exam enthusiastically.
- The students can consider the latest test papers and the previous year’s test papers, by solving them, they will be able to understand the exam pattern and the course with more clarity.
- They should practice mock tests, with the help of which they will be able to know their weaknesses, mistakes, and strong points.
- They should not only just focus on the stronger sections but also the weaker sections and make sure to have sufficient time to focus on the revision part as well because it might affect the performance greatly.
- Time management is also very necessary to qualify for the entrance exam. Candidates need to give their time to each subject equivalently.
- The candidates need to feel positive and stay motivated, as feeling low on the day of the exam will affect their performance badly.
Semester Wise B.Sc. Biochemistry Syllabus
Here is the syllabus of B.Sc. biochemistry from the first-year syllabus to the final year in semester I to semester VI. However, the syllabus may vary from university to university as every university has its own method of teaching.
The syllabus of Biochemistry in B.Sc. is provided below.:
| SEMESTER Wise | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Semester1 |
Language-Ⅰ Biological Science-Ⅰ Chemistry-Ⅰ Cell Biology Lab in Biological Science-Ⅰ Public Administration Lab in Cell Biology Lab in Chemistry-Ⅰ |
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Semester2 |
Language-Ⅱ
English-Ⅱ
Biological Science-Ⅱ
Biomolecules
Chemistry-Ⅱ
Environmental Studies
Lab in Biological Science-Ⅱ
Lab in Biomolecules
|
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Semester3 |
Language-Ⅲ
English-Ⅲ
Intermediary Metabolism-Ⅰ
Human Physiology and Nutrient
Lab in Intermediary Metabolism- Ⅰ
Lab in Human Physiology & Nutrient
Lab in Basic Microbiology
|
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Semester4 |
Language-Ⅳ
English-Ⅳ
Intermediary Metabolism-Ⅱ
Analytical Biochemistry
Lab in Intermediary metabolism-Ⅱ
Lab in Analytical Biochemistry
Computer Application in Biology
Lab in Computer Application in Biology
|
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Semester5 |
Clinical Biochemistry
Endocrinology
Molecular Biology
Environmental Biology
Biochemical pharmacology
Lab in Clinical Biology
Lab in Molecular Biology |
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Semester6 |
Basic Biotechnology
Basic Immunology
Bioinformatics
Genetics
Biostatics
Lab in Basic Immunology
Lab in Basic Biotechnology
|
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B. Sc Biochemistry Subjects
B.Sc Biochemistry course contains subjects in all three labs, core and elective subjects consequently. Candidates need to study all the subjects thoroughly and get detailed knowledge.
Advantages of studying B.Sc Biochemistry
For those interested in a long-term career in science, a B.Sc. in biotechnology may be a wise choice. Biochemistry is in high demand in both the public and private sectors, with many new companies springing up. As a result, they look for the best biochemists to fill these positions. There are various advantages to pursuing a BSc in Biochemistry, such as the following:
- A biochemist has the option to pursue several career paths, from industry to academic circles and research, since the field is so broad and diverse.
- There are numerous career paths in biochemistry, making it an excellent choice for students who aren’t sure what they want to do yet. Research, product development, healthcare, and forensics are just a few of the many fields in which you could find employment. You will have a wide range of career options if you major in biochemistry.
- In the world of science, biochemistry is not a discrete subject. A biochemistry student will have a deep foundation in subjects like biology, chemistry, parasitology, zoology, microbiology, veterinary anatomy, and physiology. It is because the courses are all interconnected.
- A degree alone won’t get you a job after graduation; you’ll also need transferable skills that are relevant to the position you’re applying for. Biochemistry teaches problem-solving, data analysis, process creation, and project management, all of which are essential in any career path. When you’re ready to start looking for a job, you’ll be able to apply for a wider variety of positions as a result. Many biochemistry graduates go on to careers in finance, business, or education, to name just a few of the many options open to them after graduation.
- Having a thorough understanding of biochemistry is a significant accomplishment that can lead to monetary gain if properly applied. With this program, you’ll learn more about the molecular and cellular processes that comprise life, with a focus on areas like neurology, biodiversity, and the study of bacteriology. In your final years of study, you’ll learn about pharmacology, immunology, and toxicology. Learn more about the course and focus on your interests by taking these additional classes. Moreover, you will have the chance to work with a project manager to conduct your scientific research and thoroughly examine protocols, literature, and data.
- The field of biochemistry is constantly evolving, and so are the numerous career options available to those interested in pursuing it. For those who want to be part of an innovative field, biochemistry is a good choice because it provides the opportunity for experimentation and analysis intending to find solutions to human problems.
- Competition for biochemistry degrees is lower than that for medical, engineering, or law degrees. To speed up the admissions process for biochemistry students, all applicants must have excellent grades. Biochemistry isn’t particularly competitive, but it’s better to be safe than sorry by doing well in WAEC and getting high marks on the JAMB and the Post-UTME.
Scope for B.Sc Biochemistry
Biochemistry is a well-paying degree that can be used in a wide range of fields across a wide range of important industries. The intersection of biology and medicine could be an interesting career path for someone interested in biochemistry. The field of Biochemistry encompasses a wide range of occupations.
Scope of Biochemistry in Agriculture
Agriculture biochemistry focuses primarily on biochemistry, which is relevant to agricultural researchers. Agricultural biochemistry focuses on the chemistry involved in the metabolism of animals and plants.
At government agencies, agricultural chemists do the digging and there are other options available in academia. Another area of interest is working with food producers to assist in the development of fungicides, fertilizers, and insecticides. Human Resources Assistant, lab assistant, and marketing manager are just a few examples of other job titles
Scope of biochemistry in pharmacy
There has been an increase in the number of biochemistry in pharmacy seats offered by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) because of the growing demand for undergraduate, graduate, and diploma programs in this field.
Pharmacy biochemists work on the development of new therapeutics to ensure that they are assembled correctly. Pharma graduates are sought after in a variety of fields, including medical care, research, manufacturing, clinical promotion, and pharmacovigilance
Possibilities for a career include
Regulatory Affairs, Quality Control, and Research Associate are all terms used to describe a single person in academia. Other options include drug monitor, drug regulator, and drug specialist at an emergency clinic.
Scope of biochemistry in nursing
Biochemistry focuses on a variety of bodily functions, including the chemical processes that take place in the body. Natural matter and its response to synthetic substances are handled by this type of science, so nurses need to know a good deal about it.
As a nurse, you can work as an advisor to the medical staff, also as a nursing supervisor or an occupational health nurse or a paramedic nurse or a hospital ward nurse, or an assistant professor.
Scope of clinical biochemistry
In clinical biochemistry, we focus on the biochemical aspects of various diseases. The fluid analysis aids clinicians in the diagnosis and treatment of disease, along with organ transplantation, tissue monitoring, and drug monitoring.
Treatment of diseases, the production of various biological products, the nutrition industry, and the practice of clinical biochemistry all make use of clinical biochemistry. The goal of clinical biochemistry is to identify metabolic abnormalities in patients.
Through the preservation and prevention of a nation’s health delivery system, this field has a critical role to play in public health.
These specialists are also responsible for the development and treatment of any disease.
See Also : Bachelors of Physiotherapy
Higher education
Graduates of the B.Sc. Biochemistry program that wish to continue their education have a wide range of options available to them, ranging from short-term courses to postgraduate degrees. They can apply for jobs in both the public and private sectors.
Some options for after B.Sc. Biochemistry studies are listed below. :
- M.Sc Biochemistry
- M.Sc Medical Biochemistry
- PhD. Biochemistry
- M.D Biochemistry
- M.Phil. Biochemistry
Job sectors
Biochemists can find employment in both the public and private sectors. As a result of their involvement in scientific research, they’ve worked closely with scientists, chemists, doctors, engineers, and policymakers. As a result, they can work in a wide range of fields, from universities to food research institutes to hospitals to cosmetics to forensic crime and drug discovery to education.
You could work as a biochemist in a variety of public sector positions such as:
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Environmental pollution control
- Control of environmental pollution
- Forensic science
- Hospitals
- Laboratories for public health
- Cosmetics industries
- Health care organizations
- Companies that make drugs
- The blood bank & services
- Various cancer research centers
- Educational institutions
- Industrial laboratories
- Departments of science and technology
Who all can apply?
In the great panoply of the sciences, biochemistry sits right between biology and chemistry. If you want to supplement your undergraduate biochemistry course and you remember your basic chemistry, you’re all set to move forward with this course. Candidates who have completed their 10+ 2 education in science stream from a recognized board, where they have studied physics, chemistry, mathematics, can apply for this course, and an overall aggregate of 50% is required to be able to get admission to this program.
Eligibility criteria for BSC in biochemistry
Candidates who wish to pursue their education in India in the BSc of biochemistry course must fulfill the following condition and eligibility criteria:
- It is compulsory for the candidates to have completed their +2 studies in the stream of science from the recognized board.
- Physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics are mandatory at the qualifying exam level, to be eligible for admission in BSc in biochemistry.
- Students must have secured a minimum of 50% or above to qualify.
National level, state level, or institute level entrance exams are conducted every year for admissions. Students are admitted both on the basis of merit and entrance exam scores. The counseling process is conducted based on the rank or entrance exam score. Some institutes also offer direct admission after 10 +2. Their final marks are considered and the merit list is made in decreasing order. Based on this merit list admissions to suitable candidates are offered.
List of top colleges for BSc in biochemistry in India :
- Lovely profession university
- Queen mary’s college
- Sri Venkateswara college
- Ethiraj College for woman
- Adamas university
Now, if we talk about admissions abroad Universities, below is the process mentioned :
- Should have passed 10 +2 with the science stream.
- The candidate must have good language skills.
- It is important to score good marks in international English proficiency exams like TOEFL or IELTS( which one is applicable ).
- The admissions also depend on the minimum marks obtained in English proficiency test.
The foreign universities will commence the next year’s admissions one year before. Both online and offline applications can be submitted to the universities. Some colleges also require your detailed marks sheet of 12 classes to be sent through the postal mail.
Top list of BSc colleges in biochemistry :
- Harvard university
- Sanford university
- Yale university
- Massachusetts Institute of technology
- University of Alberta
Jobs you can get after graduating from BSc in biochemistry
Since the last decade, Bsc in biochemistry has been one of the most developing fields among medical science. Biochemistry is a section of science that deals with understanding the chemistry of living organisms and their biological process. If a person goes for a career in biochemistry, it will involve the person’s ability to understand the combinations and reactions that take place biochemist is the term used to refer to bachelours of biochemistry to study the structures and functions of proteins, fats, the process of metabolism is the part of biochemistry. This field is gaining momentum, in making important contributions in the grasp of DNA structure. Biochemist can further advance their carrier in studies from a variety of specializations. With this, they all develop good research skills and techniques to analyze and document prestigious information. After successful completion of a degree in biochemistry, there are multiple options to directly apply for job positions. These job openings are in both public and private sectors like food, health care, education, etc.
There are several job profiles for a biochemist :
- Biotechnologist
- Forensic scientist
- Clinical scientist
- Medicinal chemist
- Nano technologist
- Pharmacologist
- Research scientist
- Medicinal chemist
- Clinical research associate
- Physician associate
- Scientific laboratory technician
- Biomedical scientist
By appearing in various central government exams candidates can get a job post like :
- Indian police service ( IPS) – IPS officers in India are senior police officers. They maintain public peace and order to maintain a healthy society,that is crime-free. Many IPS officers can even work for intelligence agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation ( CBI), Crime Investigation Department ( CID ).
- The salary of IPS officer job holders ranges from 40,000 INR per month to 75,000 INR per month, depending on the job profile they are posted on.
- Indian foreign service ( IFS ) – IFS officers represent India in high commissions, embassies. These officers also negotiate agreements on the issues with the authorities of the country they are posting also this post is responsible for all aspects of external affairs.
- If we talk about the salary of IFS officers, the junior level salary is around 1,02,000 INR per month and it reaches up to 1,50,000 INR for the senior level.
In addition, private and public sectors also offer jobs with handsome salaries. Some of those posts are :
- Food safety analyst – Food is the basic necessity of humans. They perform a standard test to determine the chemical, physical or microbiological features. In order to find if the product is healthy for human consumption. They also assure quality principles are matched. Including this, they also measure the acidity or alkalinity of various products.
- According to a survey, the national average salary for a food safety analyst is around 52,000 INR. Hence making annual pay of around 6.5 lakh INR.
Lecture – Graduates in biochemistry can easily find employment in recognized Universities. Some of those Universities are Delhi University, MG University, JNU University, and many more. Private sector firm employees can also write numerous department tests which can help them to get promoted to the higher designation.
- Biochemist lecture salary in India ranges in between 1.3 lakhs INR to 9.2 lakhs INR, making an annual average of almost 3.0 lakh INR.
- Lab technician – A lab technician is a professional who understands every aspect of laboratory work. They follow strict regulations and guidelines so that the accuracy of data can be protected. There are various responsibilities for a lab technician, including receiving, labeling, and analyzing samples ( blood, toxic, tissue, etc ) maintaining a standard procedure for executing laboratory testing. Using the refined scientific method to conduct experiments under defined conditions. safely organizing and storing all chemical substances and compressed gases. In addition depth knowledge of laboratory systems/machines is also needed. A valid laboratory technician license is a must of all.
- The national average salary for a lab technician is almost 20,000 INR per month making it almost 2.5 lakh INR annually.
- Chemist- A chemist is a job profile who conducts experiments in labs in order to analyze substances. The chemist job is not restricted only to pharmaceutical and cosmetics. The food industry, manufacturing industry, and energy are some of the sectors chemists can work in. Some duties that chemists perform are: using proper lab equipment to conduct experiments, testing the solution, and preparing them, prescribing the medication is also an important duty that a chemist indulges in.
- The average pay for a chemist in India is around 9.15 lakh INR annually. This average is taken between 6.5 lakh INR and 11.5 lakh INR.
There are other jobs where Bsc in biochemistry degree holders can apply :
- Patent examiner
- Chattered accountant
- environmental engineer
- Science writer
- Toxicologist
- Health and safety inspector
Top hiring companies for biochemistry graduates
Biochemistry has taken a quick momentum. It is also called the science of life, all of our day-to-day processes like feeding, moving, talking, and walking are nothing but just chemical reactions. So in order to study how these chemical reactions work, many companies opened and started researching in this sector. There are many world-renowned companies that are hiring biochemistry graduates and postgraduates. These companies are both national and international, they are :
- Sun pharma
- Novozymes
- Thermo fisher scientific
- Paracel
- Siemens
- Sanofi
- Docter reddy’s
- Panacea biotech
- Sami labs
- PI industry
- Lambda therapeutic
- Syngene
- Anthem biosciences
Also Read : NTA Application Form NEET 2022
Fees structure
If we talk about India, universities offer admissions in BSC biochemistry on the basis of entrances exam like IIT – JAN, DHU- UET, MP- PAT, etc, or on the basics of merit list. The main concern of every student and family member is the fee that they are going to pay for the program. The average course fee is 15,000 INR to 15,00,000 INR based on the university or college they are applying to.
There are many top colleges across the world that offer biochemistry courses the fee structure totally depends on the popularity of the course at that place and as well as the rank of the University. The average fee one has to pay is between 18 lakh INR to 40 lakh INR for the whole course.
