BSc Hons Subjects & Syllabus 2024

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Feb 22, 2024 23:50PM IST

BSc Hons Subjects & Syllabus Overview

BSc Honours syllabus includes core subjects, elective subjects, skill development electives, and research reports. The core subjects vary depending on the discipline, but may include Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, Optics, Modern Physics. The BSc Honours syllabus covers a wide range of theoretical and applied subjects, including computer science, mathematics, and physics, depending on the student's chosen area of specialisation. The main objectives of the BSc Hons subjects are to support applicants in carrying out advanced research and making dissertations focusing on current issues. The three-year BSc Hons course is divided into six semesters, and admission is usually based on merit, though some universities accept applicants via entrance exams.

Some major BSc Hons subjects are Basic Microscopy, Environmental Science, Computational Biology, Physical Science, Spectroscopy, Organic Chemistry, and more. Along with core subjects, the BSc Hons course syllabus includes two types of electives i.e., the core elective subjects and the general elective subjects. Candidates must have completed their 10+2 in a Science-related stream (PCB) from a recognised institute with at least 50% aggregate marks to be eligible for this course. This page discusses essential information about the BSc Hons syllabus and subjects to help applicants gain an in-depth understanding of the topics they will be studying during their course of study. After finishing the BSc Hons course, candidates would have a deeper comprehension of how specialisation is implemented to resolve real-world problems.

Also Read: BSc Courses List for Science Students after 12th 

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BSc Hons Year Wise Syllabus

BSc Hons syllabus incorporates both the basic science and specialisation subjects. It aims at developing academic, professional, and entrepreneurial competencies. In the syllabus, all the BSc Hons subjects are included as per the UGC guidelines. After completing the syllabus of a specific domain, students will gain a level of understanding that is required for further higher studies. To meet this target, students are trained through a syllabus that is age-appropriate and requirement-based. The following is a discussion about the BSc Hons year-wise syllabus that aspirants can use for their reference.

First-Year BSc Hons Syllabus

The following table highlights the semester-wise BSc Hons subjects for 1st year:

Semester I

Semester II

Basic Microscopy

Waves and Optics

Human Development

Computer-Oriented Numerical Methods

Chemistry

Environmental Science

English

Differential Equations

Real Analysis

General Elective -I

Programming Lab

Thermodynamics and its Applications

Second-Year BSc Hons Syllabus

The following table highlights the semester-wise BSc Hons subjects for 2nd year:

Semester III

Semester IV

Mathematical Physics

Elements of Modern Physics

Physical Chemistry

Database Management Systems

Digital Systems

Analog System

General Elective -II

Organic Chemistry

Communication Systems and Mass Media

Skill Enhancement Course-II

Skill Enhancement Course - 1

General Elective-III

Group Theory

Computational Biology

Third-Year BSc Hons Syllabus

The following table highlights the semester-wise BSc Hons subjects for 3rd year:

Semester V

Semester VI

Java Programming

Statistical Mechanics

Multivariate Calculus

Core Elective -III

Spectroscopy

Professional Ethics

Core Elective-I

Core Elective -IV

Physical Science

Dissertation

Core Elective - II

Viva Voce

Elective Lab

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Stream Wise BSc Hons Syllabus

The BSc Hons syllabus is designed based on the objective of the course curriculum i.e., the specialisation chosen by an applicant. There are mainly six streams in this course as listed in the table below:

BSc Hons in Computer StreamBSc Hons Science Stream
BSc Hons Aviation StreamBSc Hons Arts and Humanities Stream
BSc Hons in Design StreamBSc Hons in Paramedical Stream

Streamwise BSc Hons Syllabus for Popular Specialisations

Among the diverse specialisations offered in this course, students need to be familiarised with the BSc Hons syllabus they have chosen for their degree. The following is a discussion about the same.

BSc Hons Syllabus for Physics

The following table highlights some brief BSc Hons subjects for specialisation in Physics:

Electricity And MagnetismAnalog Systems and Applications
Thermal PhysicsAnalog Systems and Applications Laboratory
Thermal Physics LaboratoryQuantum Mechanics And Applications
Elements Of Modern PhysicsQuantum Mechanics Laboratory
Elements Of Modern Physics LaboratoryDigital Systems and Applications
Waves And OpticsDigital Systems and Applications Laboratory
Waves And Optics LaboratoryElectricity and Magnetism Laboratory
Mathematical PhysicsElectromagnetic Theory
Mathematical Physics LaboratoryElectromagnetic Theory Laboratory
MechanicsGeneric Elective Papers
Solid State PhysicsEnvironmental Studies
Solid State Physics LaboratoryCommunication Skills
Statistical MechanicsInternship

BSc Hons Syllabus for Chemistry

The following table highlights some brief BSc Hons subjects for specialisation in Chemistry:

English CommunicationAnalytical Chemistry
Environmental ScienceBiomolecules, Polymers, and Drugs
Inorganic ChemistryDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE)
Physical chemistryDiscipline-Specific Elective Laboratory
Inorganic Chemistry LabPhysical Chemistry Lab

Also Read: Best Courses After BSc

BSc Hons Syllabus for Zoology

The following table highlights some brief BSc Hons subjects for specialisation in Zoology:

Non-chordates I: Protista to PseudocoelomatesAbility Enhancement Core papers: Communicative English/Hindi
Principles of EcologyAbility Enhancement Core papers: Environmental Science
Systematic & Animal Diversity: NonChordateAnimal Behaviour
Lab based on Principles of EcologyGenetics
Systematic & Animal Diversity Lab PapersEvolution & Population Genetics
Diversity of ChordatesPractical Based on Genetics
Practical Based on Diversity of ChordatesPractical Based on Animal Behaviour
Cell BiologyPractical Based on Evolution & Population Genetics
Practical Based on Cell BiologyImmunology
EndocrinologyDevelopmental Biology
BiochemistryPractical Based on Immunology
Mammalian PhysiologyPractical Based on Developmental Biology
Practical Based on EndocrinologyGeneric Elective: Chemistry/Botany
Practical Based on Mammalian PhysiologyDiscipline-Specific Elective (DSE) Papers
Practical Based on BiochemistryPractical Based on DSE Papers

BSc Hons Syllabus for Computer Science

The following table highlights some brief BSc Hons subjects for specialisation in Computer Science:

Digital CircuitsProgramming Fundamentals using C Practical Papers
Computer Organisation and ArchitectureData Structure and Data Structure Using C
Computer Organisation LabData Communication and Networking
Basic Electronic Devices and CircuitsComputer Networking and Web Design
Basic Electronic Devices and Circuits LabOperating Systems
Computational MathematicsOperating Systems Lab
Computational Mathematics LabIntroduction to Algorithms
Microprocessor and its ApplicationsAlgorithm Labs Papers
Internet TechnologyObject Oriented Programming System
Software EngineeringData Base Management System
Software Engineering Lab PapersTheory of Computation
OOPs Lab using JavaProject
Skill Enhancement Course: Computer Graphic, Sensor Network, and IoTSkill Enhancement papers: Information Security, E-commerce

BSc Hons Syllabus for Economics

The following table highlights some brief BSc Hons subjects for specialisation in Economics:

Introductory MacroeconomicsIntroductory Econometrics
Mathematical Methods for EconomicsResearch Methodology
Intermediate MicroeconomicsIndian Economy
Intermediate MacroeconomicsDevelopment Economics
Data AnalysisEnvironmental Economics
Rural DevelopmentIssues in Development Economics
Statistics for EconomicsInternational Economics
Public EconomicsIssues in Indian Economy
Money and Financial Markets-

BSc Hons Syllabus for Nursing

The following table highlights some brief BSc Hons subjects for specialisation in Nursing:

BiochemistryMedical-Surgical Nursing
MicrobiologyCommunity Health Nursing
PhysiologyPathology
Nursing FoundationsGenetics
Obstetrical & GynaecologicalNursing including Midwifery
NutritionCommunication and Educational Technology
Nursing ManagementCommunity Health Nursing
Library WorkMedical-Surgical Nursing
Regional LanguageMental Health Nursing
English, SociologyNursing Research & Statistics
Introduction to computersChild Health Nursing
Co-curricular activities-
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BSc Hons Subjects

With the emergence of new courses, the number of BSc Hons subjects has been expanded in terms of knowledge. BSc Hons syllabus includes subjects like compulsory or core subjects, practical papers, general optional papers, papers, etc. The number and type of subjects depend on the universities and the particular course specialisation they offer. Tabulated below are a few streamwise BSc Hons subjects that the students can review for reference.

PhysicsChemistryEconomicsZoologyComputer Science
VibrationsChemical BondingIntroduction to EconomicsInvertebratesComputer Programming and its Basics
Wave OpticsElectrochemistryWelfare EconomicsGeneticsComputer Organisation
Electricity and MagnetismSpectroscopyCost and RevenueBiostatisticsData Structures
Quantum MechanicsAtomic StructureTheory of ProductionMicrobiologyPython Programming
Nuclear PhysicsClasses of Organic CompoundsMicroeconomicsQuantitative BiologyHTML programming
Linear and Digital Integrated CircuitsCoordination ChemistryMacroeconomicsEnvironmental PhysiologyOperating systems
Computer Fundamentals and ProgrammingThermodynamicsTheory of Consumer BehaviorCell BiologyLinux
ITComputer Applications in ChemistryIndian EconomyDevelopmental Biology-
ComputationQuantum MechanicsGlobal EconomyAnimal Physiology-
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Common BSc Hons Subjects for All Semester

BSc Hons courses that have a combination of Chemistry, Physics, Mechanics, etc. are called common subjects. These are commonly known as the core subjects, and the most prestigious colleges that offer these programmes usually include them in their curricula. The common BSc Hons subjects for all semesters are listed below:

  • Data Warehousing and Data Mining
  • Database Management Systems
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Medical Biotechnology
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Quantum Mechanics
  • Thermal Physics
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Optional BSc Hons Subjects

There are different types of optional BSc Hons subjects. For courses like BSc Hons in Biochemistry, students need to study three elective courses including Discipline Specific Electives (DSE), General Elective Course (GSE), and Dissertation/Project. In some courses, the internship programme is also included as elective papers. The number of electives completely depends on the universities and their program-specific syllabus. Here is a list of a few popular elective courses studied in the BSc Hons courses.

BSc Hons Elective Subjects for Chemistry

Some optional BSc Hons subjects for Chemistry are as follows:

  • Analytical Clinical Biochemistry
  • Basic Analytical Chemistry
  • Chemical Technology & Society
  • Chemoinformatic
  • Green Methods in Chemistry

BSc Hons Elective Subjects for Zoology

Some optional BSc Hons subjects for Zoology are as follows:

  • Animal Cell Biotechnology
  • Animal Diversity
  • Environment & Public Health
  • Food, Nutrition & Health
  • Human Physiology
  • Insect Vector & Diseases
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Laboratory BSc Hons Subjects

BSc Hons lab subjects are the ones that require practical class teaching. Through the teaching of such subjects, students get actively involved in the learning process. The laboratory BSc Hons subjects help students connect academic learning with real-job activities. Along with a deepened understanding, they develop experimental skills, communication skills, etc. The following is a discussion about the same.

Lab BSc Hons Subjects for Physics 

Given below is a list of a few lab subjects of BSc Hons in Physics:

  • Analog Systems and Applications Laboratory
  • Digital Systems and Applications Laboratory
  • Electricity And Magnetism Laboratory
  • Electromagnetic Theory Laboratory
  • Mathematical Physics-I Laboratory
  • Quantum Mechanics Laboratory
  • Solid State Physics Laboratory
  • Thermal Physics Laboratory

Lab BSc Hons Subjects for Zoology

Given below is a list of a few lab subjects of BSc Hons in Zoology:  

  • Animal Behaviour
  • BSc Systematic & Animal Diversity: NonChordate
  • Diversity of Chordates
  • Evolution & Population Genetics
  • Genetics
  • Principle of Ecology

Lab BSc Hons Subjects for Computer Science

Given below is a list of a few lab subjects of BSc Hons in Computer Science:

  • Algorithm Labs
  • Computer Network
  • Data Structure Lab
  • OOPs Lab using Java
  • Operating Systems Labs
  • Software Engineering Lab
  • Web Design Practical

Lab BSc Hons Subjects for Chemistry

Given below is a list of a few lab subjects of BSc Hons in Chemistry:

  • Atomic Structure
  • Chemical Bolding
  • Electrochemistry
  • Equations and Stoichiometry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Periodic Table
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Thermochemistry
  • Units and Management
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Syllabus for BSc Hons Distance Programs

The BSc Hons distance education syllabus is usually similar to the regular courses. The only difference lies in the duration and the mode of instruction. The following table will give a general idea of the distance learning BSc Hons syllabus and subjects covered.

Core CoursesDiscipline-Specific Elective Courses
Skill Enhancement CoursesGeneric Electives
Ability Enhancement Compulsory Courses-
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Specialisations Offered in BSc Hons Course

Students of different science streams can pursue BSc Hons courses on their preferred specialisations. When a student decides to pursue this course, they need to gather information on the streamwise BSc Hons subjects. Among the many courses offered, some of the major BSc Hons specialisations are tabulated below.

BSc Hons PhysicsBSc Hons Zoology
BSc Hons AviationBSc Hons Psychology
BSc Hons BiochemistryBSc Hons Statistics
BSc Hons BotanyBSc Hons Horticulture
BSc Hons Computer ScienceBSc Hons Biotechnology
BSc Hons EconomicsBSc Hons Agriculture
BSc Hons Home ScienceBSc Hons Aeronautics
BSc Hons MathematicsBSc Hons Chemistry
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BSc Hons Entrance Exam Syllabus

To assess an applicant’s potential, different entrance exams are conducted for admission to BSc Hons courses at both the institute level and national level. These entrance exams are MCQ-based and mostly conducted online. A few popular BSc Hons entrance exams and their syllabus are mentioned below:

Exam NameDetailsSyllabus Link
CUETCUET is a national-level entrance test accepted by 45 Central and other participating universities. Admission to the UG-level courses is done based on merit.CUET Syllabus
UPCATETUPCATET is taken to offer admission to various undergraduate courses like BSc Hons Agriculture, BSc Hons Horticulture, BSc Hons Forestry, etc. This exam is conducted offline by the Banda University of Agriculture and Technology.UPCATET Syllabus
AP AGRICETAcharya N G Ranga Agricultural University conducts this entrance exam to offer admission to BSc Hons in Agriculture degree courses.AP AGRICET Syllabus
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BSc Hons Important Books

Students must wisely choose the best books for BSc Hons as they are one of the best resources of knowledge. Students may take help from these books to study the BSc Hons course subjects. Usually, universities recommend books for a particular course specialisation suitable for the syllabus taught. However, a few BSc Hons best books and their author names are mentioned below that students can use for reference.

Chemistry Books for BSc Hons

  • Organic Chemistry (VoI. I) by S M Mukherji, R P Kapoor and S P Sing
  • Organic Chemistry by Morrison & Boyd
  • Physical Chemistry by G M Barrow

Computer Science Books for BSc Hons

  • Advanced Microprocessors by Ray and Bhurchandi
  • Computer Graphics by Hern & Baker
  • Fundamentals of Data Structures in C, Ellis Horowitz, Sartaj Sahni, Susan Anderson
  • Microprocessors and Interfacing written by Douglas V Hall

Biochemistry Books for BSc Hons

  • Biophysical Chemistry, Principles & Techniques by Upadhyay, Upadhyay, and Nath
  • The Cell: A Molecular Approach by Cooper, G M and Hausman

Zoology Books for BSc Hons

  • Zoology for Degree Students by Agarwal V.K
  • Invertebrates BY R L Kotpal
  • Ecology and Environment by P D Sharma
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BSc Hons Course Structure

The BSc Hons course structure is designed based on the requirements of prospective students, industry-specific needs, and the institution’s curriculum. The coursework of BSc Hons is formulated in such a way that it encourages a gradual process of learning. At the beginning of the course, the basic understanding is enhanced, and then gradually advanced BSc Hons course subjects are introduced. In the mid-semesters, both theoretical and practical knowledge are offered. Elective papers are studied in the mid-semester though they can vary according to a particular university’s BSc Hons syllabus. The end semesters usually include dissertations, fieldwork, projects, viva voce, etc. The following pointers highlight the BSc Hons course structure:

  • VI semesters
  • Workshop
  • Seminars
  • Lab classes
  • Generic elective
  • Fieldwork
  • Dissertation/Project
  • Discipline-specific elective subjects
  • Core subjects
  • Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course
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FAQs about BSc Hons Syllabus

Which colleges offer the best curriculum for BSc Hons courses?

Colleges that offer the best curriculum for BSc Hons courses are Acharya Narendra Dev College (Delhi), Hans Raj College (Delhi), Lady Irwin College (Delhi), Lady Shri Ram College for Women (Delhi), Maitreyi College (Delhi), Miranda House (New Delhi), Presidency College (Chennai), Scott Christian College (Nagercoil), Sri Venkateswara College (Delhi), University College (Trivandrum), etc.

What is the entrance exam syllabus for BSc Hons?

The entrance exam syllabus for BSc Hons includes topics such as Electrochemistry, Surface Chemistry, Coordination Compounds, Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism, Electromagnetic Waves, Integration and its Application, Probability Distribution, Linear Programming, Atoms and Nuclei, Current Electricity, and more.

What is the syllabus of BSc Hons?

The syllabus of BSc Hons consists of core subjects as well as General Elective and Core Elective subjects. It includes major BSc Hons subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, Astrophysics, Data Warehousing and Data Mining, Human Nutrition, Intellectual Property Rights, Mathematical Modelling, Medical Biotechnology, Physical Chemistry, Problem Solving using Computers, Public Nutrition, Thermal Physics, and so on.

What are the BSc Hons subjects for 1st semester?

The BSc Hons subjects for 1st semester are topics that usually help candidates retrieve fundamental concepts they have learned in 12th grade. The list of topics includes Basic Microscopy, Human Development, English, Real Analysis, Chemistry, and Programming Lab.

What are the BSc Hons subjects for 2nd semester?

The BSc Hons subjects for 2nd semester are usually typical topics that introduce students to the deeper concepts they would learn in the remaining courses towards their bachelor's degree. The list of topics includes Environmental Science, Thermodynamics and its Applications, General Elective-I, Differential Equations, Waves and Optics, and Computer Oriented Numerical Methods.

What are the BSc Hons subjects for 3rd semester?

The BSc Hons subjects for 3rd semester introduce students to the curriculum of their chosen specialisation along with real-world techniques. The list of topics includes Physical Chemistry, Mathematical Physics, Skill Enhancement Course I, Communication Systems and Mass Media, Group Theory, Digital Systems, and General Elective II.

What are the BSc Hons subjects for the 4th semester?

The BSc Hons subjects for the 4th semester acquaint students with advanced knowledge i.e., typical complex topics they will be studying in their chosen specialisation. The list of topics includes Computational Biology, General Elective-III, Organic Chemistry, Analog Systems, Skill Enhancement Course II, Elements of Modern Physics, and Database Management Systems.

What are the BSc Hons subjects for the 5th semester?

The BSc Hons subjects for the 5th semester introduce students to the incorporated core elective subjects (both theoretical and practical) that are a part of the course syllabus. The list of topics includes Spectroscopy, Java Programming, Multivariate Calculus, Core Elective - I & II, Physical Science, and Elective Lab.

Are the BSc Hons subjects tough to understand?

No, the BSc Hons subjects are not tough to understand provided a student is well-versed in the basic concepts of Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry. It will also be helpful for aspirants if they have a knack for understanding computer languages such as C, C++, and Java programming as these subjects will be a part of the BSc Hons course curriculum.

What are the core subjects of BSc Hons?

The core subjects of BSc Hons are Data Warehousing and Data Mining, Database Management Systems, Inorganic Chemistry, Medical Biotechnology, Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Quantum Mechanics, Thermal Physics, and so on. These subjects are a mandatory part of the course curriculum which students must study to clear their semester exams.

What is the BSc Hons course structure?

The BSc Hons course structure is divided into six semesters that contain core subjects as well as General Elective and Core Elective subjects. However, it may differ as per the specialisation chosen by a student, such as BSc Hons in Mathematics, BSc Hons in Science, BSc Hons in Physics, BSc Hons in Computer Science, etc.

What methodologies and techniques are used to teach BSc Hons?

The methodologies and techniques that are used to teach BSc Hons include theory-oriented or traditional classroom lecture-based instruction. The programme places more emphasis on teaching advanced research techniques than it does on traditional science courses, which are accompanied by in-depth theory-based study. While the majority of BSc Hons specialisations involve theoretical study, others also include laboratory instruction. The following enlists the same:

  • Dissertations
  • Group discussions
  • Internships
  • Lecture-based training
  • Practical Sessions
  • Workshops

What are the popular project topics for BSc Hons?

The following are some popular project topics for BSc Hons:

  • Control of Fluid Catalytic Value
  • Design of AI-based finance algorithm
  • Mathematical Modelling using PDE
  • Spectroscopic Analysis of UV products

What are the best reference books to study BSc Hons subjects?

The following are some best reference books to study BSc Hons subjects:

  • Vibrations and Waves by author AP French
  • Discrete Mathematics with Graph Theory by author Edgar Goodaire
  • Development through the Lifespan by author Berk L E
  • Data Structures by author Ellis Horowitz
  • Advanced Practical Physics for Students by author BL Flint
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BSc Hons Colleges by College Type