M.Sc Biotechnology

M.Sc Biotechnology can be defined as the technology that involves the measured and deliberate use of biological systems (either cell components or living cells) for the efficient manufacture, processing of useful products and applications in human and animal health, agriculture, environment, and specialty biochemical manufacturing and mankind. It plays an important role in the development of chemical and minuscule tools because most of the tools used in biotechnology exist at the cellular level.

As the living organisms have progressed in a massive range in terms of biological capabilities, it results in the availability of a varied diversity of substances. It does not only contain applications in areas that include the living but it involves all those fields from where the information related to the biological aspect of an organism can be utilized.

About The Course

M.Sc Biotechnology or Master of Science in Biotechnology is a 2-year postgraduate biotechnology course that delivers high-quality knowledge of the application of chemistry and biology in the field of engineering, design, and technology along with professional skill developments and strong vocational elements surrounded across the curriculum. The curriculum is a combination of theoretical as well as practical sessions that helps students become skilled at the implementation of the course.

 How To Get Admission In M.Sc Biotechnology Course?

Admission to the M.Sc Biotechnology course is usually provided on the basis of the entrance exam taken by the respective institute. Those candidates who have their bachelor’s degree with any of the life science subjects such as Zoology, Botany, Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology with at least 55%marks have to take the entrance exam like (JAM) Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.

Candidates should make sure that they meet the minimum eligibility criteria to appear in the entrance exam. The candidates will be shortlisted for admission to the respective college/university on the basis of their performance in the entrance exam.

Many institutes provide direct admission in M.Sc Biotechnology courses.

Entrance Exams For M.Sc Biotechnology

Here is a list of some topmost entrance exams for M.Sc Biotechnology:

JNU CEEB Combined Biotechnology Entrance Exam

Jawaharlal Nehru University Combined Entrance Examination for Biotechnology (JNU CEEB) also identified as GAT-B is a University Level examination conducted by Jawaharlal Nehru University once a year. It offers a combined M.Sc Biotech entrance exam on behalf of many participating universities. The test is conducted in 54 centers and one intercontinental center in Kathmandu. Luckily, there is no particular syllabus for taking the JNU CEEB Biotech Exam Applicants should focus on general life sciences matters.

AIIMS Biotech Entrance Exam

The AIIMS Biotech Entrance Exam is a national-level entrance test held every June for candidates who wish to join in M.Sc Biotech courses. Students belonging to the general caste must reach 60 percent passing marks, on the other hand, those who belong to SC/ST need to attain 55% marks to be permitted to the university. The school holds different entrance exams in different cities so you have the option to choose your preference during registration.

BHU M.Sc Biotechnology Entrance Exam

When it comes to M.Sc Biotech, Banaras Hindu University is one of the top-performing public universities in India. It has created 94 PhDs. Nevertheless, like many other universities, BHU needs B.Sc BioTech aspirants to first experience an entrance exam where their ability for Biotech is tested. Although the universities only require a passing mark, try to make it up to rank 30 just to be on the safe side and be alert about getting negatives during the exam.

JNTU MSc Biotech Entrance Exam

Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University opens its doors to aspiring M.Sc Biotech students every first quarter of the year. Students need to have a bachelor’s degree in Bioscience and any life sciences like Zoology or Botany together with Chemistry to be eligible to take the exam. Like any other university, JNTU also accepts international candidates and other candidates who have graduated from recognized universities.

Alagappa University Entrance Exam

Alagappa University is a public university situated in Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India. Presently, it holds immodesty for being a center of excellence in Biotech. Students who wish to pursue M.sc Biotech in this university need to obtain passing marks in their entrance examination which is organized mainly in Chennai and Karaikudi. Students have the option to choose the center where they will take their exam but the university reassures that it should be surrounded by their covered areas, otherwise they will have to select the substitute.

The university requires applicants to at least have a Bachelor’s Degree in life sciences like Microbiology, Physics, Chemistry, or any related course to biotech. The exam is composed of 100 queries on five major areas of biotech such as Microbiology, Cell Biology, Biochem, Molecular Genetics, and Ecology.

Preparation Tips for Entrance Exams

• Study all the topics as each topic is equally important according to the exam point of view.
• Join test series and Practice Mock Test Papers by a recognized institute. It will help you analyze your exam preparation level and enhance your accuracy and speed.
• Solve previous year’s question papers as it will help you to understand the paper pattern in a better way and to get a clear idea about the difficulty level of the Exam.

M.Sc Biotechnology Subjects

There is an extensive variety of subjects covered within the syllabus of M.Sc in Biotechnology. Some of the main subjects that you need to study in the M.Sc Biotechnology syllabus are mentioned below:

• Fermentation Technology
• Bioinstrumentation Lab
• Advanced Genetic Engineering
• Bio Instruments
• Molecular Biology Lab
• Enzyme Technology
• Genomics and Bacterial Genomics Lab
• Immunology and Immunotechnology
• Animal Cell Technology
• Bioinformatics
• Advanced Molecular Biology
• Genetic Engineering Lab
• Principles of Biotechnology
• Advances in Plant Biology
• Environmental Biology and Waste Management
• Biostatistics
• Cancer Biology
• Genomics
• Food Microbiology
• Medical Biotechnology

Semester Wise Syllabus of M.Sc Biotechnology

Semester-1

• Exercises in Environmental Biotechnology
• Exercises in Molecular and Cell Biology
• Exercises in Advanced Biological Chemistry
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Advanced Biological Chemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology

Semester-2

• Plant Biotechnology
• Exercises in Plant Biotechnology
• Genetic Engineering
• Exercises in Genetic Engineering
• Immunology
• Exercises in Immunology
• Exercises in Bacteriology and Virology
• Principles of Bacteriology and Virology

Semester-3

• Database Management and IPR in Biotechnology
• Bioinformatics
• Exercises in Bioinformatics
• Animal Biotechnology
• Exercises in Animal Biotechnology
• Bioprocess engineering & Fermentation Technology
• Scientific Research and Communications
• Exercises in Bioprocess Engineering
• Food Technology and Nutrigenomics
• Seminars, Term paper writing
• Advanced Genetics

Semester-4

• Agricultural Biotechnology
• Exercises in Biochemical and Biophysical techniques
• Nanobiotechnology
• Genomics and Proteomics
• Bio-entrepreneurship
• Biochemical and biophysical techniques
• Stem Cell Technology and Regenerative Medicines
• Project

 Advantages of Studying M.Sc Biotechnology

Biotechnology is all about combining biological systems with technology to create various innovative solutions. You’ll improve your analytical and problem-solving abilities, which will help you in your future career or academic endeavors.

The course teaches you how to think creatively about biotechnology product development and manufacturing. Additionally, you’ll gain a critical understanding of biotechnology’s most recent developments. Research, industry, and agriculture all benefit from the knowledge gained from studying these biological systems.

Following a career in Biotechnology has several advantages:   

1. Gives Students Massive Benefits:

Biotechnology is one of the fastest-growing fields of science, with new scientific discoveries occurring daily. Science has the advantage of offering enormous potential to students interested in making people’s lives easier. In the field of biotechnology, scientists are working to discover new and better ways to address long-standing issues. If you possess these qualities, we strongly recommend that you apply for the M.Sc in Biotechnology. It is a field in which you can continuously enhance your knowledge.  

2. You Can Take a Career in Any Sector:

Biotechnology graduates, postgraduates, and diploma holders are all eligible for a wide range of jobs in both the private and public sectors. Both fields involve research and other related activities, so either one is a viable option for a career. It’s possible to find work in both sectors, from the medical field to government and private research. Consider your skill set and aspirations for the future when deciding on a career path.

3. Your Contributions to a Multitude of Sectors are Significant:

Biotechnology students and professionals have the advantage of being able to contribute to a wide range of industries and sectors. For example, they can work and contribute to the medical, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, and industrial products fields. To make life easier people are working in various biotechnology fields to improve a lot of humanity. 

4. The Rapid Advancement of Career:

You have a wide range of options when it comes to Biotechnology courses, and you can choose from several options that will help you advance your career. To keep pace with the changing times, you must also keep your skillset up to date. Keeping up-to-date on the latest tools and technologies is essential in this industry. You can become a senior scientist in this field if you put in the effort. 

5. The Following are a Few In-Demand Biotech Career Paths:

It’s not uncommon for us to imagine a white-collar Biotechnologist at work developing new medicines in the lab. But, there are numerous other career paths open to those interested in Biotechnology. It’s possible to work as a Biomedical Engineer, Medical Scientist, Biochemist, Microbiology, Clinical Technician, Bio-Manufacturing Specialist, Process Development Scientist, etc. All you have to do is get yourself ready for the new opportunities that will come your way. 

What is the Scope of Students Pursuing a Career in M.Sc Biotechnology? 

It is currently used in a variety of fields such as agriculture, bioremediation, food processing, and energy production. Using DNA fingerprinting in forensics is becoming increasingly common. The cloning of vectors that carry the chosen gene is used to produce insulin and other medicines. Genetic engineering is being used in agriculture to produce plants that are resistant to pests, weeds, and plant disease.

Researchers in the field of biotechnology is constantly astonishing the world with new, higher-quality products that they have developed. They’re working with artists and architects to think about the possibility of creating living houses for humans. These homes would be made of living plants that have been genetically modified to be ideal habitats for humans to live in harmony with, including the ability to regulate temperature, provide water and food, and capture, store, and generate light energy. It is theoretically possible to create infinite combinations of textures, colors, and functions. Researchers have recently identified the genes that are linked to schizophrenia and are conducting research that could lead to the development of a treatment or cure. Many new techniques in biological sciences have emerged over the last few decades, advancing research while also holding great promise for improved human well-being in the years to come.

Biotechnology is a career option that has a lot of room for growth because we live in an exciting time where discoveries, new applications, and new products are being developed all the time. Those just starting in the field of biotechnology can find loads of information from a variety of organizations.

1. Further Studies

Biotechnology is in high demand, and as a result, employers are always on the lookout for qualified candidates. The pay is excellent, and there is room for advancement as well. After completing an MS Biotechnology degree, one can pursue further education to gain more knowledge and experience. The following are the most sought-after academic titles:

• Biotechnology PhD

Ph.D. Biotechnology is a doctoral-level program in biotechnology with a duration of three to five years. It is the highest degree that can be earned in a specific field of study. New research is carried out by the candidates to advance the field.

• Biotechnology MPhil

One year is all it takes to earn an MPhil in Biotechnology. If you want to get a degree, you have to work on someone else’s research.

• MBA and PGDM

People with an MBA or PGDM degree are in high demand to work in the higher management sector. Finance, Human Resources, Hospitality, Marketing, etc. are all areas where one can specialize.

2. Specializations in the Workplace

After achieving their M.Sc. in Biotechnology, students have a plethora of career options. Listed below are the specifics:

• Laboratory technician
• Director of Marketing 
• Health Care Provider
• Quality Assurance Inspector
• Research Fellow
• Scientific Researcher
• Clinical Research Institutes
• Professor
• Colleges & Universities
• Manufacturer of medical devices
• Pharmaceutical Marketing Firms
• Analyst
• Electrical, Chemical, Environmental, and Industrial Engineer
• Environmental or Health and Safety Expert

3. Payscales

A good salary package will be offered to candidates or recent graduates with an M.Sc. in Biotechnology, depending on the type of job and the amount of prior work experience they’ve acquired.

• Candidate salaries range from Rs 5,00,000 for those with 1-4 years of experience.
• Candidates with five to nine years of work experience can expect an annual salary of Rs. 10,50,000 on average. 

Who Can Apply?

Biotechnology is a part of applied science. It deals with bioprocesses in various fields like engineering, technology, medicine, etc. Students get the ability to create useful products for mankind’s everyday use with the help of the biological systems of living organisms. The main aim of this course is to deliver a quality course which can cover all the important elements. Also, the candidates go for this course because a master’s degree can cover up more in-depth knowledge of important subjects which can lead to a variety of intriguing opportunities.

Any student who gets motivated about the environment, technology, chemistry, genetics, organisms, etc, and who already holds a vast knowledge in Bsc biotechnology can go for this course.

Eligibility Criteria for MSc Biotechnology

As we can see, recent advances in biotechnology are helping us prepare to face society’s most difficult challenges. Around 13 million farmers around the world use agricultural biotechnology to increase yields, prevent damage from insects and pests and reduce the damage done to the environment. Due to farming around 300 biotechnology health care products and vaccines have been made available to patients. It means Biotechnology plays an important role in today’s time.

Master in Science in Biotechnology is a 2 years post-graduate program that aims to deliver high-quality knowledge. Once you have completed your graduation in Bsc biotechnology, students can go for future studies by choosing this program. This course has become popular among students in recent years.

Candidates who wish to pursue their education in India in Msc in Biotechnology course must fulfill the following criteria.

• Candidates should have passed their graduation with any of the life sciences subjects namely Botany, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or Biochemistry with at least 55% marks.
• BSc Agriculture sciences students are also eligible.

Similar to all other courses available, skills are really important in Msc Biotechnology too. Any individual who is interested in the selection of this course should have terrain skills. Some of those are:

• The candidate should be able to use computers.
• Possess certain skills of information technology, analyzing and interpreting data.
• Good knowledge level of all the important subjects which were taught during BSc biotechnology.
• A candidate must have time management skills. If someone is pursuing their post-graduation part-time, then this skill is really important for everyday routine management.
• A candidate should be organized.
• Should be dedicated towards the field and must have top-notch research skills. 

To get admission in MSc in Biotechnology candidates have to appear for the entrance exam taken by the respective institute and have to take the Joint Admission Test for MSc (JAM). Admission is based on the rank obtained in the Joint Admission Test. After this test shortlisted candidates are invited to a one-to-one interview where they are asked several questions related to their graduation. Their final marks are considered and the merit list is made in decreasing order. The students are asked to appear for counseling who qualify for the exam. This counseling is conducted based on the rank candidate score.

The list of top colleges for MSc in Biotechnology are:

• IIT Roorkee
• Jawaharlal Nehru University
• IIT Indore
• Siksha O Anusandhan University
• Central University of Rajasthan
• Maharshi Dayanand University
• VIT Vellore
• SRM University, Chennai
• Chandigarh University, Chandigarh

Now, if we talk about admission to a university abroad, below are the eligibility criteria.

• The candidate should have passed 10+2 from the science stream and also 50% in Bsc degree.
• It is important to secure good marks in English proficiency exams like TOEFL/IELTS( which one is applicable).
• Should have good communication skills.
• Letter of recommendation.

The list of top colleges abroad for MSc in Biotechnology is:

• Harvard University, USA
• University of Toronto, Canada
• Stanford University, USA
• National University of Singapore
• RWTH Aachen, Germany
• California State University
• University of Windsor
• Florida Institute of Technology 

Jobs You Can Get after Graduating from MSc in Biotechnology

There are numerous fields in which one can improve their expertise if they go for MSc Biotechnology. Some of those areas are agriculture, genetics, immunology, etc. Having theoretical knowledge is not enough, hands inexperience is also important which opens practical insights for the students into commercial and technical applications. Our planet is facing various challenges today. Food shortage with the growing population is one of them and biotechnology can help in resolving this issue. Countries like the USA, Canada, Germany, UK. Spain etc are some of the top countries in this sector.

There are certain job profiles after Msc in biotechnology

• Safety Specialist
• Research Scientist
• Production in-charge in chemical, food, and pharma industry
• Bioinformatics
• Science Writer
• Lab Technician
• Quality control officer
• Sales representative
• Teacher
• Biotechnologist

Postgraduates of Biotechnology have a huge job priority. Almost every organization in the government sector has a job opening for Biotechnology. Some of the government sectors are as follow :

• Research Biochemist- Cell development, growth, and heredity of cells are some of the biological processes that ate studied by a research biochemist. They do research and apply them in real life to improve our lives. For instance, they develop and do tests to detect disorders or other illnesses. They don’t have an immediate goal, they all focus on the research itself to expand human knowledge. Research biochemists also prepare technical reports and record all their research so that future generations can refer to them. The average salary of a research biochemist is around 3.6 Lakhs INR per annum.
• Associate Scientist- All research in private or public institutes is done under the supervision of a lead scientist. An associate scientist is the one who conducts all experiments/research required and reposts the result back to the lead scientist. Biological, geosciences, and computing are some of the research areas. This job profile is not simple, it comes with great responsibility because a little one could alter a whole lot of results. Studying molecular structures and performing genotypes are some actions done by the associate scientist. The average salary in India for associates is around 8.0 Lakhs INR per annum.
• Clinical Technician- A laboratory worker, who collects specimens such as blood samples, urine samples, etc is known as a clinical technician. Other terms such as medical laboratory technician, lab technician ate also denoted to a clinical technician. The basic role they perform is to obtain body fluid and other samples to perform tests, to determine the disease that a patient might be suffering with. Addressing medical personnel and their concern about medical reports is also part of their day to do an activity. They all have to follow strict rules and employ caution while performing tests, so that test accuracy can be archived at its highest level. The average salary of the clinical technician is almost around 4.0 Lakhs INR per annum. 

The private sector is also making a huge advancement in providing jobs for Msc postgraduates. As the world population is increasing and genetic notations are also increasing, there is a wide scope for research available. Below are some of the private sector jobs:

• Senior biochemist- There is multiple job responsibility that comes with this position. The most important one is to monitor the work done by junior biochemists, these biochemists also help in the development of the right drug for human consumption. The whole objective of their job is to improve the quality of human life by studying things at the molecular level. The average salary of a senior biochemist is around 5.0 Lakhs INR per annum.
• Lecture- Teaching is a great responsibility. Lectures who have post-graduated in biotechnology not only focus on teaching the candidates but also monitor the working of junior staff. When necessary they also provide their input at the department or university level. They all are very skilled and they try to make their students skilled, researchers like themselves. The annual average salary of a lecturer is around 5.0 Lakhs INR per annum.
• Biomedical engineer- Just like in every other field medical sciences also have engineers known as bioengineers. These engineers combine principles of engineering with biology to obtain desired results. They also train clinicians on how to properly make use of medical equipment. Writing technical reports and explaining them to other medical providers is also part of the job. The average salary of a biomedical engineer is around 3.7 Lakhs INR per annum.

Top recruiting companies for MSc Biotechnology

• Cipla
• Ranbaxy
• Dabur India
• Biocon
• Reliance Life Science
• Torrent Pharma
• Dr. Reddy

Fee Structure

If we talk about India, Universities offering admission in MSc in Biotechnology are based on entrance exams and merit lists. The fee of Msc biotechnology varies depending on the institute you are willing to join in India. The average course fee in Indian colleges is 40,000 INR per year to 2.5 Lakhs INR.

Whereas for the admission in Msc Biotechnology in abroad countries fee is 12.0 Lakhs INR per year to almost 46.0 Lakhs INR per year.

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If you have any queries regarding admission to the M.Sc Biotechnology Leave your comment below.