What is Immunology?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

An Immunology course typically covers the study of the immune system, which is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against foreign invaders such as pathogens (e.g., viruses, bacteria, parasites) and abnormal cells (e.g., cancer cells). 

Overall, an Immunology course provides a comprehensive understanding of the immune system's structure, function, and responses, as well as its significance in health and disease.

Candidates can check the benefits of pursuing Immunology courses below:

• Understanding Health and Disease: The Immunology course provides insight into how the immune system functions to protect the body against pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. 
• Advancing Medicine: Immunology course research has led to groundbreaking medical advancements, including vaccines, immunotherapies, and treatments for autoimmune diseases and cancer. 
• Career Opportunities: Proficiency in Immunology courses opens doors to diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, healthcare organizations, and government agencies. 

Quick Links relevant to the Immunology Course:

While Immunology course is primarily an academic discipline that is studied in educational institutions, it is also a professional field with diverse career opportunities. 

Whether pursued academically or professionally, Immunology course plays a critical role in understanding and addressing various aspects of the immune system and its implications for human health and disease.

No, Immunology is a scientific discipline that encompasses the study of the immune system, including its structure, function, and interactions with pathogens and other foreign substances. While immunology is highly relevant to medicine and plays a crucial role in understanding and treating diseases, it is also studied in various academic and research settings beyond medical schools.

While Immunology is closely related to medicine and is an essential component of medical education and practice, it is a broader scientific discipline that encompasses research and applications beyond the clinical realm.

Indeed, biology is typically required for Immunology courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. It offers the fundamental knowledge of life sciences and human physiology, which are crucial for immunology.

For PG courses, a background in Biology or related life sciences is expected. It makes it easier for students to understand disease processes, immunological mechanisms, and lab-based methods.

Particularly at the undergraduate and graduate levels, the majority of Immunology courses demand a scientific background. Usually, courses like biology, chemistry, or biotechnology are required.

Though some short-term or certificate programs may make an exception, non-science students are typically not eligible. Always confirm with the educational institution that is providing the course.

For admission to UG or Diploma Immunology courses, the majority of institutions require biology in Class 12. It serves as the foundation for comprehending immune mechanisms.

Although some certificate or interdisciplinary programs may have lenient requirements, your chances of being accepted are slim if you don't have biology. Always confirm with the organisation.

For Diploma in Immunology courses, there is typically no upper age restriction. Candidates must, however, be academically eligible, typically having completed Class 12 with Science.

Most schools place more emphasis on qualifications than age, though some may have age preferences, particularly for programs that are job-oriented.

The human immune system's role in protecting the body against illnesses, allergens, and infections is explained in an Immunology course. Theory and lab-based learning are both included.

Students study subjects like immune responses, autoimmune diseases, vaccines, and antibodies. It combines pathology, biology, and diagnostics.

Immunology should be studied by anyone with an interest in medical science, diagnostics, and research. Students who are interested in how the body protects itself from disease will find it ideal.

It's also appropriate for people who want to work in biotech companies, healthcare labs, or research organisations that concentrate on illness prevention and control.

Yes, Immunology course is indeed closely related to Biology, but it is more specific and focused on the study of the immune system. While Immunology course encompasses many biological concepts and principles, it is a specialized branch of Biology that deals specifically with the immune system's structure, function, and interactions with pathogens, antigens, and the overall physiology of an organism.

While Immunology course draws heavily from biological principles, they also integrate aspects of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Physiology to provide a comprehensive understanding of the immune system and its functions. Therefore, while Immunology course is rooted in Biology, it is considered a specialized field within the broader discipline of biological sciences.

No, for admission to UG Immunology courses, NEET is not required. 

NEET UG  is an entrance examination for students who wish to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate Medical courses (MBBS, BDS, MD, MS) or Dental courses (BDS, MDS) in government or private medical colleges in India. Immunology is a specialized field within the broader domain of medical sciences. 

While NEET is not specifically designed for Immunology, it is a prerequisite for individuals aspiring to pursue medical degrees, including those who may eventually specialize in Immunology.

No, CUET PG scores are not accepted by Indian universities for admission to MSc programs in Immunology or related life sciences.

Since other universities might administer their entrance exams or use other exams like JAM, BHU PET, or university-level tests, it's crucial to review each one's admission brochure.

Yes, there are college-level entrance tests for Immunology courses:

There are theoretical and practical components to Immunology. Although it begins with theory—knowing cells, infections, and immunity—it also entails a lot of laboratory work.

In order to identify immune responses, students use instruments, conduct diagnostic tests, and examine samples. For lab and hospital workers to be prepared for their jobs, practical experience is essential.

The study of Immunology focuses on the immune system's reaction to allergens, infections, and other dangers. The study of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, is known as microbiology.

In contrast, biotechnology uses biology to create goods and technologies. Although it frequently intersects with both disciplines, immunology is a specialised subset that focuses on immunity and disease response.

Indeed, laboratory work is an essential component of the Immunology curriculum. Students conduct experiments to learn about antigen-antibody reactions, immune responses, and diagnostic testing.

Lab training aids in the development of practical skills required in diagnostic centres, hospitals, and research labs. Students are also prepared for positions in clinical testing and quality control.

Here's a list of the core subjects taught in UG Immunology with 2–3 lines of description each:

• Basic Immunology

• Cell Biology & Genetics

• Microbiology

• Immunopathology

• Immunodiagnostics

• Vaccinology

• Biochemistry

• Molecular Biology

The colleges offering Himalayan that provide placement support are:

Becoming an immunologist typically involves several years of education and training beyond high school (Class 12). 

Here's a general outline of the steps you can take to become an immunologist after completing Class 12:

• Undergraduate Education: Pursue a Bachelor's degree (usually a four-year program) in a relevant field such as Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry or a related discipline. 

• Gain Research Experience: During your undergraduate studies, seek opportunities to gain research experience in laboratories or research institutions that focus on Immunology or related fields. 

• Consider Specialized Courses: Look for undergraduate courses or electives that cover topics in Immunology, Microbiology, genetics, and molecular biology.

• Licensing and Certification (Optional): Depending on your career goals, you may need to obtain licensing or certification in specific areas of Immunology.

Research on autoimmune diseases, cancer, disease diagnosis, and vaccine development all heavily rely on Immunology. Experts in this area are in high demand in public health organisations, biotech companies, and R&D labs.

With developments in immunotherapy, personalised medicine, and global healthcare issues, the scope is expanding quickly. PhD and postdoctoral research opportunities are also available to students.

Indeed, a large number of Immunology graduates are employed by pharmaceutical firms. They are employed for positions in research, quality control, immunodiagnostics, and drug development.

Strong laboratory abilities and knowledge of immune responses are highly valued by top pharmaceutical companies, particularly for positions involving the production of vaccines and biologics.

Indeed, degrees in Indian Immunology are recognised in many nations, particularly if they are granted by reputable universities. Foreign employers, however, might demand further certification or a review of credentials.

Depending on the nation and the type of work, students who intend to work overseas should also research any exams or licence requirements.

An immunologist can be a doctor, but not all immunologists are medical doctors (MD).

Immunology course is a diverse field that encompasses both medical and non-medical aspects of the immune system. 

In summary, while some immunologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat immune-related disorders in patients, others are non-medical professionals who primarily conduct research or work in other areas related to Immunology course.

For beginners in immunological microbiology in India, there are several textbooks that can provide a comprehensive introduction to the subject. 

Here are a few recommendations:

There is a lot of scope for young aspirants in this field. Those students who complete their Masters degree can work in government & private hospitals. The most important aspect of Immunology is research because it is the biggest portion of their jobs.

Immunologists work in various areas such as biomedical research, healthcare, agriculture and environmental monitoring. A career in scientific research, immunology requires a Ph.D. degree. This course opens up careers in molecular biology, diagnostics, biotechnology and regulation, and research into infectious agents associated with immune-based pathology. You can make your career as practitioners in this field and can earn good remuneration through watching patients. Interested students who wish to do further studies can go for research in immunology.

Most MS courses abroad require international candidates to appear for the GRE and a language proficiency test like the IELTS or TOEFL. Tuition fee for international students is in the range of 35000 dollars per year for a Masters degree, and including accommodation and cost of living it touches nearly 40000 dollars.

Below mentioned is the eligibility to get into MSc Immunology:

For being eligible for this course, candidate must has a recognised undergraduate degree in BSc from a recognised university or equivalent, with two subjects combination among home science, human genetics, nutrition and dietetics, botany, zoology, biochemistry, biotechnology, plant protection, microbiology, dairy sciences, agriculture and horticulture, home Science, fisheries and public health from any recognised university or equivalent.

Most of the institutions have entrance exams as admission mode. Hence, the students who have appeared in final year examination of under-graduation and await the result are allowed to apply for the course by such institutions.