The full form of BSc Genetics is a Bachelor of Science in Genetics. It is a three-year undergraduate course. BSc Genetics is a branch of biology that explores the inheritance, variation, and structure of genes in living organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms.
The admission into this course is done mainly on merit and direct basis but some universities do conduct an entrance exam to finalize potential candidates. BSc Genetics entrance exams are SET, CUCET, CUET, and NPAT.
BSc Genetics eligibility is 10+2 (Science stream) with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized board. The required subjects may vary, but typically include Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and/or Mathematics.
The fee for BSc Genetics is INR 30,000 – 2 Lakhs. BSc Genetics colleges include Calicut University, Guru Nanak Dev University, University of Lucknow, Reva University, and Kristu Jayanti College among others.
BSc Genetics syllabus includes topics on Basic Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Mathematics and Statistics, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Evolutionary Genetics, Laboratory Techniques, and Bioinformatics.
BSc Genetics subjects include Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics and Statistics, Calculus, Probability, Data Analysis, Genetics, Technologies, Evolutionary Genetics, Human Genetics, and Research Methods.
Also Read: BSc Courses after 12th
BSc Genetics jobs include Geneticist, Genetic Counselor, Research Associate/Assistant, Laboratory Technician, Bioinformatician, Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, Agricultural Geneticist, and Forensic DNA Analyst. BSc Genetics salary ranges from INR 2 – 6 LPA.
Some of the top recruiters for this course are Genentech, Amgen, Novartis, Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, Biogen, Merck & Co., AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, Roche, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly and Company, AbbVie, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and Gilead Sciences.
BSc Genetics scope includes courses such as Master's in Genetics, Master’s in Biotechnology or Molecular Biology, Ph.D. in Genetics, and Master's in Bioinformatics.
More BSc Courses:
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BSc Genetics: Course Details
Details | Particulars |
Course Name | BSc Genetics |
Course Level | Undergraduate |
Course Full Form | Bachelor of Science in Genetics |
Course Duration | 3 Years |
Course Types | Full time/Distance Education |
Admission Process | Merit/Direct/Entrance based. |
Eligibility Criteria | 10+2 (Science stream) with minimum 50% marks from a recognised board. |
Entrance Exams | |
Course Fees | INR 20,000 – 3 Lakhs. |
Top Colleges | Calicut University, Guru Nanak Dev University, University of Lucknow, Reva University and Kristu Jayanti College. |
Average Salary in India | INR 2 – 6 LPA |
Job Profiles | Geneticist, Genetic Counselor, Research Associate/Assistant, Laboratory Technician, Bioinformatician, Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, Agricultural Geneticist, Forensic DNA Analyst. |
Top Recruiters | Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), World Wildlife Fund (WWF) India, Tata Sustainability Group, Adani Group, Reliance Industries Limited, Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation and Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL). |
Further Studies | Masters in Genetics, Master’s in Biotechnology or Molecular Biology, Ph.D. in Genetics and Master's in Bioinformatics |
What is BSc Genetics?
BSc Genetics is the branch of biology that deals with the inheritance, variation, and expression of genes in living organisms.
In this program, students learn about the fundamental principles of genetics, including the structure and function of genes, DNA replication and repair, gene expression and regulation, and the mechanisms of inheritance.
Why pursue BSc Genetics?
BSc Genetics offers a captivating journey into the world of genes, empowering one to make significant contributions to scientific advancements and positively impact various aspects of society.
There are several factors why pursuing a BSc Genetics degree in India might be a wise choice. Given below are some of the factors:
- Fascination with Genetics: This course is perfect if one has a deep interest in understanding how genes work, how they are inherited, and how they contribute to the development and functioning of organisms.
- Career Opportunities: BSc Genetics opens a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, healthcare institutions, or government agencies.
- Scientific Advancements: Genetics is a rapidly evolving field and students can contribute to scientific advancements and discoveries that may have a positive impact on human health, food production, and environmental sustainability.
- Research and Innovation: Genetics is a field that thrives on research and innovation. Graduating with a BSc in Genetics prepares students for a career in scientific research, where they explore areas of genetic inquiry, conduct experiments, and contribute to scientific literature.
Who Should pursue BSc Genetics?
BSc Genetics is the perfect course for people who are passionate about genes, their variations, and their structure. However, it might be a good fit for the following potential candidates:
- Students who were in the science stream in 12th and scored a minimum of 50% marks.
- Students who are genuinely curious about genes, inheritance, and the mechanisms that shape living organisms.
- Individuals who are passionate about improving human health outcomes, assisting individuals and families affected by genetic conditions, or contributing to advancements in healthcare.
- For students who enjoyed studying genetics and molecular biology in high school or have a strong interest in these areas, this program can be an excellent fit.
- People with a logical and analytical mindset, and problem-solving skills. A BSc Genetics degree can provide the ideal platform to apply and enhance these skills.
BSc Genetics: Course Duration
The duration of BSc Genetics 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 Genetics distance education programs may have a longer duration, up to 5 years, compared to the regular full-time course.
BSc Genetics: Course Types
BSc Genetics is offered to students in two modes that can be pursued full-time or via distance education.
- BSc Genetics Full-time: This course is designed in a systematic way and provides both theoretical and practical knowledge to the students. To build a strong foundation in BSc Genetics various aspects of genes are taught in detail.
- BSc Genetics 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.
BSc Genetics: Fees
BSc Genetics in India normally costs anywhere between INR 30,000 – 2 Lakhs. Depending on the university, college, and region, different BSc Genetics programs may have different costs. Given below is an overview of the fees for this course.
- Government Colleges/Universities: In comparison to private colleges, the cost of a BSc in Genetics at government institutions is significantly lower. The annual fees for students in the general category might be anywhere from INR 5,000 – 20,000.
- Private Colleges/Universities: The fee in a private institution is generally higher and can also vary depending on the college's standing and location. The costs typically range from INR 50,000 to 2 Lakhs or more.
Note: Students in the reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) may pay less in tuition or be eligible for fee exemptions or grants in both government and private institutions.
BSc Genetics: Colleges in India
Given below is a list of the top BSc Genetics colleges in India along with their fees:
Name of the College | Location | Admission Procedure | Average Fees |
Bangalore | Merit Based | INR 75,000 | |
Hyderabad | Merit Based | INR 51,465 | |
Bangalore | Merit Based | INR 1.68 Lakhs | |
Bangalore | Merit Based | INR 53,910 | |
Bangalore | Entrance Based | INR 3.63 Lakhs | |
Bangalore | Entrance Based | INR 90,000 | |
Calicut | Merit Based | INR 1.17 Lakhs | |
Kolkata | Merit Based | INR 1.96 Lakhs | |
Kolkata | Merit Based | INR 1.2 Lakhs | |
Bangalore | Entrance Based | INR 3.36 Lakhs |
Further Reading: Top BSc Colleges in India
BSc Genetics: 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 modes of admission:
BSc Genetics Admission: Merit Based
- An aspirant should score more than 50% marks in their high school examinations to be eligible 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 admissions process will be complete.
- Finally, candidates must attend the counseling or orientation organized by the institution for further details if selected from the merit list.
BSc Genetics 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 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 or 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 or counseling organized by the college for further information.
BSc Genetics: Eligibility
- BSc Genetics eligibility is 10+2 (Science stream) with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized board.
- The required subjects may vary, but typically include Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and/or Mathematics.
- The minimum age for this course is 17 years.
BSc Genetics: Entrance Exams
The BSc Genetics entrance exam in India is often composed of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and normally lasts 2-3 hours, with the total amount of questions and marks varying depending on the institution. In some colleges, 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 |
December 2023 - May 2024 | January 2024 - May 2024 | |
December 01, 2022 – May 21, 2023 | January 04, 2023 – May 31, 2023 |
BSc Genetics: Entrance Exams Syllabus
The BSc Genetics entrance exam syllabus 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 and Molecular Biology, Plant Physiology, Animal Physiology, Ecology, Evolution, and Biodiversity. |
Chemistry | Chemical Bonding, Chemical Reactions, Acids and Bases, Organic Compounds and Functional Groups, Biomolecules, and Environmental Chemistry. |
Physics | Mechanics, Heat and Thermodynamics, Optics, Electricity and Magnetism, Modern Physics, and Nuclear Physics. |
Mathematics | Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus, Statistics, and Probability. |
General Knowledge and Current Affairs | Science, Technology, Current Events, and General Awareness. |
BSc Genetics: Syllabus
The course is divided into six Semesters which must be covered in 3 years. The syllabus of BSc Genetics will vary from college to college; however, a brief of the syllabus is given in the following tables:
BSc Genetics Syllabus: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Cell Biology | Genetics and Evolution |
Chemistry - Inorganic and Organic | Microbiology |
Mathematics for Life Sciences | Molecular Biology |
Environmental Science | Biochemistry |
English Language and Communication Skills | Computer Applications in Life Sciences |
Laboratory Techniques and Skills | Laboratory Techniques and Skills |
BSc Genetics Syllabus: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Human Genetics | Gene Expression and Regulation |
Animal Genetics | Molecular Genetics Techniques |
Plant Genetics | Genetic Disorders and Diagnostic Methods |
Biostatistics and Bioinformatics | Plant Biotechnology |
Immunology | Animal Biotechnology |
Genetic Engineering and Recombinant DNA Technology | Elective Course (e.g., Developmental Genetics, Cancer Genetics) |
BSc Genetics Syllabus: 3rd Year | |
Semester – 5 | Semester – 6 |
Medical Genetics | Bioethics and Intellectual Property Rights in Genetics |
Genetic Counseling | Industrial Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering |
Genetic Engineering Applications | Dissertation/Project Work |
Elective Course (e.g., Epigenetics, Neurogenetics) | Elective Course (e.g., Forensic Genetics, Evolutionary Genetics) |
Population Genetics | Seminar and Presentation Skills |
BSc Genetics: Subjects
BSc Genetics subjects may differ from one college to another. Nevertheless, given below is a list of potential subjects that students will study:
BSc Genetics Subjects: 1st Year | |
Introduction to Biology | Cell Biology |
Chemistry | Mathematics and Statistics |
Molecular Genetics | Introduction to Biotechnology |
Biochemistry | Genetics and Genomics |
BSc Genetics Subjects: 2nd Year | |
Evolutionary Biology | Microbiology |
Immunology | Bioinformatics |
Ecology | Principles of Genetic Engineering |
Population Genetics | Human Genetics |
BSc Genetics Subjects: 3rd Year | |
Developmental Biology | Genetic Analysis and Techniques |
Biostatistics | Molecular Biology |
Genomic Medicine | Genetic Engineering |
Molecular Evolution | Genetic Counseling |
BSc Genetics: Recommended Books
Given below are the names of some recognized books along with their authors in the field of genetics that a candidate must read to gain further knowledge in the course:
Name of the Book | Author’s Name |
Genetics: Analysis and Principles | Robert J. Brooker |
Genetics: From Genes to Genomes | Leland H. Hartwell, Michael L. Goldberg, Janice A. Fischer, and Leroy Hood |
Introduction to Genetic Analysis | Anthony J. F. Griffiths, Susan R. Wessler, Sean B. Carroll, John Doebley |
Principles of Genetics | Peter Snustad and Michael J. Simmons |
Essential Genetics: A Genomic Perspective | Daniel L. Hartl and Elizabeth W. Jones |
Molecular Genetics of Bacteria | Jeremy W. Dale and Simon F. Park |
Genetics: A Conceptual Approach | Benjamin A. Pierce |
Human Molecular Genetics | Tom Strachan and Andrew P. Read |
Genetics: Analysis of Genes and Genomes | Daniel L. Hartl and Elizabeth W. Jones |
Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters | Matt Ridley |
BSc Genetics: Jobs
There are various BSc Genetics jobs in India. Some of the popular job profiles along with their description are given below:
Job Profile | Job Description |
Geneticist | Geneticists study and analyze genetic traits, conduct experiments, and contribute to genetic research. |
Genetic Counselor
| Genetic counselors provide guidance and support to individuals and families regarding genetic disorders, risks, and testing options. |
Biotechnologist | Biotechnologists apply genetic principles and techniques to develop new products, such as pharmaceuticals, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or agricultural advancements. |
Molecular Biologist
| Molecular biologists study the structure and function of genes and molecules to understand biological processes. |
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative | Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives promote and sell genetic testing products, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices to healthcare professionals. |
Laboratory Technicians | Laboratory Technicians conduct laboratory experiments, perform genetic tests, and analyze data. |
Quality Control Analyst | Quality Control Analysts ensure quality standards are met for genetic testing procedures, laboratory protocols, or manufacturing processes. |
BSc Genetics: Salary
BSc Genetics salary ranges from INR 2 – 6 LPA. Given below are various job opportunities available in the field along with their average salary:
Job Profile | Average Salary |
Geneticist | INR 3 – 10 LPA |
Genetic Counselor | INR 2 – 8 LPA |
Biotechnologist | INR 2 – 10 LPA |
Molecular Biologist | INR 3 – 9 LPA |
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative | INR 3 – 12 LPA |
Laboratory Technicians | INR 1.5 – 5 LPA |
Quality Control Analyst | INR 2 – 6 LPA |
BSc Genetics: Top Recruiters
After completing BSc Genetics, graduates can apply to both private as well as public sector companies for job opportunities. Given below is a list of the top recruiters of this course:
- Biocon Limited
- Dr. Reddy's Laboratories
- Bharat Biotech International Limited
- Cipla Limited
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
- Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
- National Institute of Genetics (NIG)
- SRL Diagnostics
- Metropolis Healthcare
- Dr. Lal Pathlabs
BSc Genetics: Scope
BSc Genetics scope includes various further study options for graduates in India. Some of the popular ones are:
- Masters in Genetics
- Master’s in Biotechnology or Molecular Biology
- Ph.D. in Genetics
- Master's in Bioinformatics
- Master's in Genetic Counseling