Course Overview:

B.Sc. in Genetics is a 3-year undergraduate program that focuses on the study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in living organisms. The program covers various aspects of genetics, including molecular genetics, population genetics, biotechnology, and genetic engineering. This course prepares students for careers in research, biotechnology, healthcare, and agriculture, where genetics plays a vital role.

Duration:

3 years (6 semesters)

Syllabus - Semester-Wise Breakdown

Year 1 (Semester 1 & 2):

1. Introduction to Genetics: Basic concepts of inheritance, Mendelian genetics, and the structure of DNA.

2. Cell Biology: Structure and function of cells, organelles, and cell division (mitosis and meiosis).

3. Biochemistry: Study of biomolecules, enzyme function, metabolism, and biochemical pathways.

4. Microbiology: Introduction to microorganisms, their role in genetics and biotechnology.

5. Biostatistics: Statistical methods used in genetics for data analysis and interpretation.

6. Laboratory I: Practical experiments related to genetics, cell biology, and microbiology.

Year 2 (Semester 3 & 4):

1. Molecular Genetics: DNA replication, transcription, translation, and regulation of gene expression.

2. Genetic Engineering: Techniques for manipulating genes, including CRISPR, cloning, and gene therapy.

3. Population Genetics: Study of genetic variation within populations, natural selection, and genetic drift.

4. Developmental Genetics: Genetic control of development, gene regulation during embryogenesis.

5. Genomics and Bioinformatics: Study of genomes, sequencing techniques, and data analysis using bioinformatics tools.

6. Laboratory II: Advanced genetic experiments including molecular cloning, PCR, and DNA sequencing.

Year 3 (Semester 5 & 6):

1. Human Genetics: Genetic basis of human diseases, genetic counseling, and personalized medicine.

2. Plant Genetics: Study of genetic inheritance in plants, plant breeding, and biotechnology.

3. Immunogenetics: Study of the genetic basis of immune system function, autoimmunity, and immunodeficiencies.

4. Evolutionary Genetics: Evolutionary principles and the role of genetics in evolution and speciation.

5. Ethics and Biotechnology: Ethical issues related to genetic research, biotechnology, and genetic engineering.

6. Internship and Project Work: Practical experience in genetic research labs, along with a project on genetic disorders, gene therapy, or genetic engineering applications.

Average Fees:

INR 50,000 - 2,50,000 per year (varies based on institution)

Exams to Attend:

• NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) for some institutions with a focus on genetics in medical fields

• IISER Aptitude Test (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research)

• JEE Mains (for certain institutions)

• DUET (Delhi University Entrance Test)

• State-level entrance exams like KEAM (Kerala), KCET (Karnataka)

• University-specific entrance exams

Top 10 Genetics Institutes in India:

1. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore

2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi

3. Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai

4. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi

5. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi

6. St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

7. Madras Christian College, Chennai

8. University of Delhi, Delhi

9. Presidency College, Kolkata

10. Institute of Genetics and Hospital for Genetic Diseases, Hyderabad

Top 10 Genetics Institutes in Kerala:

1. University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram

2. Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam

3. Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kochi

4. Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Thrissur

5. St. Thomas College, Thrissur

6. Sacred Heart College, Kochi

7. St. Joseph’s College, Devagiri

8. Mar Ivanios College, Thiruvananthapuram

9. Farook College, Kozhikode

10. Government Victoria College, Palakkad