MSC Biological Sciences
M.Sc.
Biological Sciences
Offered at: Pilani. K K Birla Goa, Hyderabad
Master the Science of Life and Its Complexities
Launched in 1969, M.Sc. Biological Sciences programme at BITS Pilani offers a solid foundation of understanding of living systems from molecules to ecosystems at BITS Pilani. It is offered at all campuses - Pilani, Goa and Hyderabad. The programme includes a combination of theory and laboratory research with experiences in genetics, components of cell biology, biochemistry and molecular biology. The students develop strong analytical and experimental skills with the ability to apply scientific reasoning to solve problems in real-world scenarios in healthcare, agriculture and biotechnology.
Design a Degree That Works for You
At BITS Pilani, your academic path is not Linear. It allow you to customise your learning path
according to your aspirations, goals and interest.
The structure of degree programmes and academic regulations also provides certain other flexibilities like choice of electives, number of electives, repetition of courses, departure from normal pace, withdrawal from or substitution of course(s), etc.
Students interested in exploring courses beyond the scope of their curriculum can opt to audit them. This option is for casual learners who are not enrolled in a degree programme.Courses such as Foreign Languages and Music are offered in addition to the core degree programmes. Students may take these courses on an audit basis, subject to the payment of additional fees.
High-performing students may transfer to:
Higher Degree or Ph.D. programmes
Between Ph.D. and Higher Degree levels (based on academic standing). This flexibility supports seamless progression for research-driven students.
Practice School
The Original Experiential Learning Model
The Practice School Programme is a hallmark of BITS Pilani’s experiential learning approach. It provides students with an opportunity to practice what they have learnt in global organisations under the supervision of a mentor. Students work on cutting-edge technologies and have the option to practice in their discipline of study or cross-disciplinary areas. In addition to providing students with an opportunity to play roles that require multifunctional skills, this flagship programme also offers many students the chance to secure a PPO.
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Practice School-I
Practice School I is an eight-week course conducted during the summer term after the second year of study. Students are stationed in an organisation during this programme, and after a comprehensive orientation, students largely learn through observation and work on group projects, under the guidance and mentorship of industry experts and a faculty member from BITS. This not only serves as a first exposure for students to the corporate world but also helps nurture their personality traits, communication, and presentation skills.
Practice School-II
Practice School-II offered in the final year of study is a TWENTY-TWO-week full-time program. First-degree students in their final year of study can register for this program either during the first semester or the second semester, and Dual-Degree students can register for a double-semester PS-II program. For higher degree students, the course is titled Practice School, and such students can register for it in their final semester of study.
Practice School Process
Practice School I is an eight-week course conducted during the summer term after the second year of study. Students are stationed in an organisation during this programme, and after a comprehensive orientation, students largely learn through observation and work on group projects, under the guidance and mentorship of industry experts and a faculty member from BITS. This not only serves as a first exposure for students to the corporate world but also helps nurture their personality traits, communication, and presentation skills.
Programme Structure
Focus: Strengthening conceptual understanding in cell biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and environmental systems.
- Mathematics III
- Open/Humanities Electives
- Biological Chemistry
- Cell Biology
- Microbiology
- Integrated Biology
- Environmental Studies
- Principles of Economics
- Principles of Management
- Ecology & Environmental Science
- Introduction to Bioinformatics
- Genetics
- Instrumental Methods of Analysis
Focus: Strengthening conceptual understanding in cell biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and environmental systems.
- Mathematics III
- Open/Humanities Electives
- Biological Chemistry
- Cell Biology
- Microbiology
- Integrated Biology
- Environmental Studies
- Principles of Economics
- Principles of Management
- Ecology & Environmental Science
- Introduction to Bioinformatics
- Genetics
- Instrumental Methods of Analysis
Focus: Exploring molecular biology, genetic engineering, physiology, and specialised biological systems.
- Recombinant DNA Technology
- Plant Physiology
- Animal Physiology
- Open/Humanities Electives
- Discipline Electives
- Developmental Biology
- Immunology
- Biophysics
Focus: Integrating research, practical training, and elective specialisations for career or higher study pathways.
- Open Electives
- Practice School II
- Thesis or Thesis (9) and Electives (6 to 9)
Innovation Hubs Powering the Future of Bioscience
Mentors Who Shape the Biologists of Tomorrow
Anasuya Ganguly
Professor,
Department of Biological Sciences
Angshuman Sarkar
Professor,
Department of Biological Sciences
Aryamav Pattnaik
Assistant Professor,
Department of Biological Sciences