BSc in Life Sciences

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May 01, 2023 20:59PM IST

About BSc Life Sciences

BSc Life Science course programme is a three-year undergraduate programme that focuses on the study of various life processes in plants, animals, and organisms. The BSc Life Science course, which included both practical and theoretical knowledge, was introduced in the 2005-2006 academic year. Plant Biology, Biochemistry, Food Science, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Agricultural Science, Molecular Biology, Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry are the primary BSc Life Science subjects covered in this course. 

The programme also provides electives and skill-enhancement courses (SECs) through the University Grants Commission's Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS) (UGC). In different BSc Life Science colleges, the average B.Sc Life Science course fee ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 1.5 Lakh. Following a BSc in Life Science, candidates can pursue a master's degree in the subject, followed by an MPhil or PhD. Candidates may also pursue an MBA programme, an MSc in Biotechnology, or Clinical Research. Graduates could also work as Pathologists, Nutritionists, Horticulturists, Biomedical Engineers, or Food Scientists in the private and public sectors. They may also choose to teach or conduct additional research. The average starting BSc Life Science salary for a graduate is INR 1.5 - INR 4 LPA, which increases with years of work experience and knowledge in the field.

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BSc Life Science Highlights

BSc Life Science course is all about studying the life of every living being and organism. The BSc Life Science course leads the curious minds to a career full of secrets and things unknown to human beings. Here is a tabulate where more of it is explained.

Course LevelGraduation
Full FormBSc Life Science
Duration3 years
Examination TypeSemester-based
Eligibility CriteriaPCB subjects in 10+2 or its equivalent, with a minimum grade of 50%
Admission ProcessMerit-based
Average Course FeeINR 10,000 - 1.5 Lakhs
Average Salary Package INR 1.2 LPA - INR 4 LPA
Top Recruiting CompaniesAIIMS, Tata Memorial Centre, Cactus, Bcs-Insilico Biology, Vee Technology, Indian Society of Cell Biology, Amazon, HCL
Job PositionResearcher, Nutritionist, Epidemiologist, Professor, Biomedical Engineer, Conservation Scientist, Biophysicist, Pathologist, Immunologist, Agronomist, Palaeontology, Horticulturist, Food Scientist
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Why BSc Life Science?

Students can learn new techniques for research analysis in advanced research laboratories and industries because a lot of microscopes and other equipment are used for experimenting during the course.

  • Because the programme involves the processes of change from molecular to cellular life in various organisms, students may have the opportunity to experiment on a wide range of plant and animal species
  • Students learn and improve on skills such as computation, speaking and writing, critical and analytical thinking, microscopic and inferential skills, and the ability to work long hours
  • The BSc Life Science course prepares students for advanced studies in Life Sciences, such as an MSc, MPhil, and PhD, or an MSc in Biotechnology, or even an MBA
  • Graduates may also pursue a Master's degree or conduct research in any of the Life Sciences specialisations such as Biotechnology and Fish Genetics
  • Graduates have a better chance of finding work, particularly in the fields of scientific writing, pharmaceuticals, and fish product manufacturing

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

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BSc Life Sciences Eligibility Criteria

As per the BSc Life Science eligibility criteria, candidates who have completed their 10+2 schooling or equivalent with an overall grade point average of 50% are eligible to apply for this BSc Life Science degree programme. Aside from that:

  • Physics, Chemistry, and Biology must be required subjects in higher secondary school
  • Institutions that require an entrance exam for admission may consider both the entrance exam score and previous academic records. Each institution determines the examination cut-off mark
  • Candidates from the SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer), differently abled, and other categories will be given a 5% mark relaxation
  • Letters of recommendation can be beneficial to the candidate as well
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BSc Life Sciences Syllabus

The following table summarises the three-year BSc Life Science syllabus:

First Year BSc Life Science Syllabus
Applied BiologyBiostatisticsBiostatistics
Biodiversity - PlantsBiotechnologyDevelopment Biology
Cell BiologyBiodiversity- AnimalsDevelopement Physiology
Second Year BSc Life Science Syllabus
EcologyEvolutionGenetic Engineering
Environment ManagementEnvironmental SciencePlant Tissue Culture
Diversity of CryptogamsFood, Nutrition & HealthAnimal Tissue Culture
Third Year BSc Life Science Syllabus
Inorganic ChemistryGenetics & GenomicsPhsyics
Organic & Physical ChemistryMolecular BiologyIntroduction to Medical Diagnostics
Introduction to Computers & Information SystemsMathematic for Life SciencesTaxonomy & Anatomy

BSc Life Science Course Subjects 

Each specialization's subjects may also have their own set of syllabus tenets. However, the typical format of the BSc Life Sciences syllabus for any specialisation remains the same. Students can select electives for a total of six semesters, making the BSc Life Sciences course curriculum very flexible. Of course, here is a list of the BSc Life Science subjects:

  • Food and Industrial Microbiology
  • Molecular Techniques in Gene Manipulation
  • Applications of Biotechnology
  • Biomedical Basis of Disease
  • Statistical Analysis and Interpretation
  • Analytical Technology
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How Can I Apply for BSc Life Sciences Admission?

Admission to BSc Life Sciences is granted in two ways: merit-based or through an entrance examination. The application process for BSc Life Sciences varies depending on the admission procedure. However, applicants can apply to their preferred BSc Life Sciences colleges online. Students must fill out the required information in an online application form on the official website of their respective universities to apply for BSc Life Sciences courses online.
 

For Entrance Based BSc Life Sciences Admission

Candidates can apply for BSc Life Sciences courses by following the steps outlined below:

Step 1: Check into the application form requirements and deadlines listed by various colleges and universities if you want to an admission to a BSc Life Sciences programme.

Step 2: Register for the entrance exams required for BSc Life Sciences admissions at the colleges and universities you want to attend

Step 3: Once confirmed, save the application process for future use. Also, for admission and other important notifications, keep an eye on the exam or the university's official website

Step 4: After appearing and passing the BSc Life Sciences entrance examination, candidates must fill out an application form for their desired university with personal information such as academic details, entrance examination results, and so on

Step 5: Candidates who successfully meet the university's eligibility requirements are shortlisted for the counselling round (if any) to finalise the admissions process

Step 6: After clearing the counselling session, candidates must pay the university's entrance fee in order to be confirm their admission to the BSc Life Sciences course

For Merit Based BSc Life Sciences Admission 

Candidates can apply for BSc Life Sciences courses by following the steps outlined below:

Step 1: Fill out the online BSc Life Sciences application form

Step 2: Pay the registration fee and any additional fees if admission is granted based on merit

Step 3: The shortlisted applicants will receive invitations to the subsequent phases of the hiring process, such as individual interviews or counselling

Step 4: Candidates must submit all the required documents and fee in order to confirm their admission to BSc Life Sciences course

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BSc Life Sciences Selection Procedure

The students are ultimately chosen based on the cutoff scores. The combined marks from the entrance exam and 10+2 scores make up the university's cut-off score. However, some universities also use a student's biology test scores to make their selections. Candidates who meet the requirements for admission will receive a call for counselling prior to seat assignment.

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BSc Admission Process Across the States

BSc admission process state-wise has been listed below:

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BSc Life Science Admission Process

BSc Life Science admission is granted based on the student's 10+2 performance or through entrance exams. Here's everything you need to know about direct and entrance-based admission.
 

BSc Life Science Direct Admission

  • Candidates are chosen on the basis of their merit. Before applying, they must ensure that they meet the eligibility requirements
  • Students can apply for colleges that manage merit-based admissions through online or offline applications, with the mode of payment being the same as the mode of application
     

BSc Life Science Entrance Based Admission

  • Only a few institutions require a candidate to take an entrance exam before enrolling in BSc Life Sciences
  • Entrance exams are also held to determine BSc Life Science eligibility criteria for admission to agricultural and forestry courses
  • GSAT and ICAR AIEEA are two of the most common national BSc Life Science entrance exams
  • Students must register and pay for exams online in order to take them
  • Institutes that accept entrance exam scores follow a standard selection procedure, though the cut-off mark varies by institution
  • Candidates from the SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer), differently abled, and other categories are eligible for a fixed percentile relaxation
  • The selection procedure is divided into three steps. Candidates are shortlisted based on their GSAT/ICAR/other accepted entrance exam scores and academic records
     

Most of the colleges in India accept admission in BSc Life Science course on a merit basis. Candidates must fill on the application form at the respective institute for admission. Shortlisted candidates will have to report to the institute for document verification and payment of fees. 

Some institutes may also conduct a Personal Interview (PI) for admission.

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Top BSc Life Science Colleges in India

There are numerous colleges that offer BSc Life Science degrees. The following is a list of some of the top colleges that offer BSc Life Science and are approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC). Here are some of the best  BSc Life Science colleges tabulated below along with their average annual fees:

Name of CollegeAverage Course Fee 
Miranda House, DelhiINR 58,470
Presidency College, ChennaiINR 3,795
Loyola College, ChennaiINR 18,000
Hans Raj College, DelhiINR 73,545
PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, CoimbatoreINR 2,482
Sri Venkateswara College, DelhiINR 39,530
Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, DelhiINR 59,235
Gargi College, DelhiINR 42,135
Madras Christian College, ChennaiINR 57,957
Acharya Narendra Dev College, DelhiINR 23,895

Note: The figures mentioned above are subject to change.

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Skill Required for BSc Life Science

Some people are interested in life science and hope to pursue it professionally in the future. BSc Life Sciences is intended to make it possible for students through its broad and in-depth subject material. Some of the BSc Life Science skills required are:

  • Analytical Skill
  • Critical Thinking Skill
  • Communication Skill
  • Ability to Manipulate precise and intricate ideas
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Dual BSc Life Science Degree

Some colleges offer a dual degree in Life Sciences, allowing students to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree at the same time. Most BSc Life Science dual degrees are completed in 5 years.

Here are a few of the institutions that offer a BS-MS dual degree programme in Life Sciences, along with pertinent information:

Name of InstitutionLocationAdmission ProcessAverage Course Fee 
IIT, MadrasChennaiJEE Advanced--
IISER, BhopalMadhya PradeshJEE Advanced/ Merit-based/ KVPY FellowshipINR 4,35,500
IISER, KolkataWest BengalJEE Advanced/ Merit-based/ KVPY FellowshipINR 3,59,400
IISER, MohaliPunjabJEE Advanced/ Merit-based/ KVPY FellowshipINR 3,61,445
IISER, TirupatiAndhra PradeshJEE Advanced/ Merit-based/ KVPY FellowshipINR 2,74,910
IISER, BerhampurOdishaJEE Advanced/ Merit-based/ KVPY FellowshipINR 3,92,000
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BSc Life Science vs BSc Biotechnology Course Comparison

BSc Life Science is concerned with the various aspects of life. It assists you in learning about various aspects of life. Biotechnology, on the other hand, will assist you in inventing something using data gathered from facts. Here are the key distinctions between the courses that you should be aware of.

ParameterBSc Life ScienceBSc Biotechnology
QualificationBSc Life ScienceBSc in Biotechnology
Duration3 years3 years
Eligibility10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects with an aggregate of 50% marks10+2 or equivalent with PCB subjects with an aggregate of 50% marks
Course ObjectiveFocuses on various life processes in plants, animals, and organisms, with many specialisations such as biotechnology.Focused on the higher studies of cellular and molecular processes in humans in order to develop and improve human health.
Average Course FeeINR 50,000 - 1.5 LakhINR 2 - 3 Lakh
Average Placement PackageINR 1.2 - 4 LPAINR 2.5 - 8 LPA
Job PositionsResearcher, Nutritionist, Epidemiologist, Professor, Biomedical Engineer, Conservation Scientist, Biophysicist, PathologistMedical Coder, Quality Control Analyst, Data Analyst, Research Analyst, Research Scientist, Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
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BSc Life Sciences Career Options and Job Prospects

After pursuing BSc in Life Sciences there are various career options available for students. Students who want to pursue a higher degree in the respective field can go for research degrees such as MSc, MPhil and a PhD. degree in Life Sciences. After clearing various state and national-level exams one if eligible for the post of lecturer/professor at various government and private colleges. Students may work in various industries and research laboratories. Other popular employment areas after BSc in Life Sciences are:

  • Agricultural Sector
  • Bio-Informatics
  • Biotechnology
  • Health Clubs
  • Chemical Industry
  • Animal Care Centre
  • Food Processing Industry
  • University & Colleges
  • Government & Private Schools
  • Molecular Biology
  • Farm Houses
  • Environmental Protection Agencies
     

The average starting salary of life sciences graduate is between INR 2.5 lakh to INR 4 lakh. The salary package differs from company to company and on one’s professional experience and knowledge about the field. Here’s a list of job roles suitable for a life sciences graduate:

  • Science Teacher
  • Biochemist
  • Pathologist
  • Researcher
  • Agronomist
  • Nutritionist
  • Food Scientist
  • Biomedical Engineer
  • Immunologist
  • Biophysicist
     
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BSc Life Science Job Profiles

The following are some of the most promising job opportunities for BSc Life Science course graduates.

Job PositionDescriptionAverage Salary Package
BiochemistInvestigates biochemical processes at the molecular level and develops solutions to long-standing issues in the food processing and agricultural industries.INR 3,05,000
PathologistExamines the causes and effects of sickness or damage, studies the human body and its tissues, and provides guidance on the best patient care.INR 10,00,000
Food ScientistInvestigates the techniques and principles underlying food processing and manufacturing in order to develop and improve food processing efficiency and safety.INR 7,50,000
Scientific/Journal WriterUnderstands complex scientific theories and processes in order to write and edit scientific articles or journals.INR 4,22,000
VeterinarianA medical professional who provides healthcare services to all types of animals, including medicine and surgery.INR 5,04,000
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BSc Life Sciences Salary

According to Payscale, the average BSc Life Sciences salary in India ranges from INR 2 LPA to INR 8 LPA for freshers. Salaries and annual earnings are determined by the type of practise and performance, expertise, and other factors. Students can increase their earnings by obtaining additional education and experience.

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BSc Life Science Scope

Students can either get a job or continue their education in this field. Students interested in this field can earn an MSc and then a PhD. Here are a few examples of the numerous options available to students.

  • Graduates who want to learn more about Life Sciences can pursue a master's degree in Life Sciences or one of its specialisations, followed by an MPhil and a PhD in Life Sciences
  • Graduates can also enter the academic profession and/or contribute to the vast body of knowledge in Life Science by conducting relevant research
  • Students who want to take a different path can pursue an MBA and work in management
  • Candidates may also pursue master's degrees in Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, and Biology at some universities
  • Though a BSc Life Science job afterwards is not guaranteed, hard work and determination can land anyone a job in both the private and public sectors
  • The UGC allows candidates to take additional specialisation courses in subjects covered in the BSc Life Science course curriculum as electives and skill-enhancement courses
  • Immunology, Ethnobotany, Cheminformatics, Fuel Chemistry, Instrumental Methods of Analysis, Medical Diagnostics, and Apiculture are among the courses available
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FAQs about BSc Life Sciences

Which is better, a BSc in biotechnology or a BSc in life science?

In terms of scope, life science has a greater scope because you will be dealing with three subjects: chemistry, zoology, and botany. Because you have options in more than one field, you will be able to apply for a variety of other postgraduate courses.

Is there a direct admission for BSc Life Science?

Most colleges admit students on the basis of merit, where students' marks secured in previous examinations are considered. 
 

Is there an entrance exam for BSc Life Science admission?

Most colleges admit students on the basis of merit, but some may also take entrance exams into consideration.
 

Which BSc life science course is the best?

Higher education options following a BSc in Life Science

  • Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Forestry and Environmental Management
  • Master's degree in Animal Breeding and Genetics
  • Extension Education Master of Science in Animal Husbandry
  • Master's degree in Animal Production and Management
  • Master of Science in Endocrinology

How many branches of life science are there?

Cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, botany, microbiology, zoology, evolution, ecology, and physiology are all topics covered in the life sciences.
 

Is there math in the BSc life science programme?

BSc Life Science is a multidisciplinary course that includes courses in chemistry and biology.
 

Is the BSc Life Science degree the same as the BSc Applied Life Science degree?

A degree in applied life science studies biological and chemical processes in plants, animals, and organisms in order to apply and invent various methods to make human life easier.

What are the best books to read while studying Life Sciences?

Among the reference books are:

  • Pushkar Kumar CSIR-UGC NET/JRF/SET Life Sciences
  • Immunology by Barbara A. Osborne and Janis Kuby Cell and Molecular Biology: Concepts and Experiments by Gerald Karp and Nancy L Pruitt
  • D. Peter Snustad and Michael J. Simmons' Principles of Genetics

Is a BSc Life Science more valuable than an MBBS?

A BSc Life Science may be superior to an MBBS in some cases. To become a doctor with a basic salary, MBBS students must work extremely hard for a long time. Life Science is superior in this case because it is less expensive and takes less time. A Life Sciences degree holder, on the other hand, does not become a doctor, but may pursue a career as a medical scientist.

Is a Life Sciences specialisation better than a regular Life Science degree?

A degree in a Life Science specialisation is undoubtedly preferable, but aspirants must ensure that they are thoroughly interested in the particular field of Life Science that they choose.

 

What is the average salary for a life scientist in India?

In India, the average life sciences salary is INR 500,000 per year, or INR 200 per hour. Starting salaries for entry-level positions start at INR 355,500 per year, with most experienced workers earning up to INR 1,582,500 per year.

Is BSc Biology the same as BSc Life Science?

Biology is the study of life, which is used in a variety of fields. Biology teaches us about life, the origin of life, evolution, various scientists, diseases, organisms, and many other aspects of life on Earth. Life Science is an advanced branch of biology.

Which is superior: a BSc in life science or a BSc in Zoology?

You can choose a course based on your interests. If you are good at learning scientific names and key terminology, you can enrol in bsc zoology and succeed, or if you are interested in learning about different life forms in plants and animals, you can enrol in life sciences. Both are excellent courses.

Which subjects are included in B.Sc Life Sciences?

Botany, Zoology and Chemistry are the major subjects that a student must study in B.Sc Life Sciences.

What can I do after a BSc in life science?

Masters of Science in Life Sciences (MSc/Mtech): Following graduation from a Life Science course, students can pursue a Masters in Science (MSc) in a specialised study area. Depending on the organisation you want to join, it could be a regular PG programme or a PG -diploma course.

Can I get a job after completing a BSc in life science?

Jobs after a BSc Life Sciences degree are available in both the public and private sectors. Graduates can pursue careers in education, colleges, research, nutrition, and teaching. BSc Life Sciences scope can also be expanded with additional legitimacy experience, as well as reading potential.

Can I study Anatomy in B.Sc Life Sciences?

Anatomy is one of the subjects included in Botany course of B.Sc Life Sciences.

What is the fee for B.Sc Life Sciences course?

The average fee for B.Sc Life Sciences course is Rs. 20,000.

What are the government jobs available for B.Sc Life Sciences?

B.Sc Life Sciences graduates can appear for Civil Services exam, go for teaching processing after B.Ed, higher studies such as M.Sc etc.

Is there an entrance exam for admission in B.Sc Life Sciences?

Most universities accept admission in B.Sc Life Sciences based on the marks obtained by the candidates in Class 12th.

Which courses can I choose after B.Sc Life Sciences?

Candidates with a degree in B.Sc Life Sciences can choose M.Sc Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Microbiology, Biology etc.

What is the minimum eligibility required for admission in B.Sc Life Sciences?

Candidates aspiring for admission in B.Sc Life Sciences must have passed Class 12th in PCB stream.

Is B.Sc Life Sciences a tough course to study?

B.Sc Life Sciences includes three major fields such as Botany, Zoology and Chemistry. The candidates will gain knowledge of three fields even though the course curriculum is tough.

How many electives can a B.Sc Life Sciences choose?

B.Sc Life Sciences students can choose 2 electives from each subject, which means six electives.

Which are the different elective courses available in Botany subject of B.Sc Life Sciences?

Some of the popular elective subjects that are available in Botany of B.Sc Life Sciences are Cell and Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Economic Botany and Microbiology etc.
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Related Questions

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Tanisha Gupta, Student / Alumni

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Sakunth Kumar, Student / Alumni

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Dear Student,

Vyasanagar Autonomous College (Jaipur) will start the admission process for various courses in July. The official notification for 2020-21 academic session yet to be released. As you are aspiring to join a course in Science stream, you can check the links below to explore the list of best B.Sc courses -

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