Life sciences

Career-wise, options are far too many a BSc (Honours) Biological Sciences and BSc Life Sciences are restructured programmes introduced in the University of Delhi in 2005-06.The former is offered only in Sri Venkateswara College, Dhaula Kuan, whereas the latter is run in many of the DU-affiliated colleges.

Students aspiring for these courses need not have any special orientations as the colleges have an effective mechanism. Students of these courses have a common foundation programme in their first year.

In addition to Biology and Chemistry, basics in Physics, Electronics, Analytical Chemistry, Computer Science, Environment Science, Maths and technical writing in English are also taught in the foundation programme to have a better understanding of biological sciences.

Students of BSc Life Sciences are offered three Science domains, Biology I, Biology II and Chemistry in their second and third year. The course contents are designed in an integrated manner covering ecological, morphological, physiological and molecular aspects of living systems. In addition students have to carry out a project/coursework in one of the following vocational/applied topics like Economics, Accountancy, Secretarial Practice, Green Chemistry, Biotechnology etc., in their second and third year.

BSc (Honours) in Biological Science offers a new wholesome approach to the study of Biology. Conventional studies in plant and animal sciences are nicely amalgamated with advanced developments/techniques in the fields of molecular biology, genetics biochemical technology, Bioinformatics etc. in their curriculum for the second and third year. In general, the programme is structured to inculcate a spirit of enquiry in young scientific minds.

Academically, the students will be well prepared to meet the requirements for pursuing their PG studies in any branch of Biology-related programme in any part of the world. Career-wise, their options will be as good as any other undergraduates, though they have an edge in technical areas like, clinical, biochemical and pharmaceutical concerns.