Updated on May 20, 2025 05:58 IST
Diya Nihalani

Diya NihalaniContent Author

MSc or Master in Science is a 2-year degree programme meant for graduates of the science discipline. Once the students complete this course, they can opt for career opportunities in several fields such as biotechnology, medical factories, space research, or government survey departments. The area of specialisation plays an important role in determining the career opportunities after this post-graduation course.

List of Subjects in MSc

The list of subjects differs as per the MSc specialisation. The following table shows the list of subjects for MSc Physics:

Typical Core Subjects for MSc in Physics

Subject Title

Subject Details

Classical Mechanics

Motion of macroscopic objects like spacecraft, planets, stars, etc., are to be studied in Classical Mechanics.

Biophysics

Biophysics covers the theories and concepts related to biological systems.

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

Temperature, pressure, and other variables of thermodynamics are covered in this subject.

Optics & Atomic & Molecular Physics

The relationship between matter and light is studied deeply in this subject.

Quantum mechanics

Behaviour and properties of light on different scales are studied here.

Electromagnetism & Electronics

Concepts related to electromagnetic fields and systems are covered in this subject.

Condensed Matter Physics

Study of various properties of solids like structural and electromagnetic properties.

Classical Mechanics

Details and concepts related to macroscopic objects and their motion are covered in this subject.

Quantum computing

Finding new ways of computing

Astrophysics

Study of cosmos and the universe

Geophysics

Study of earth and its environment

The elective subjects for MSc depend on the area of specialisation. For instance, some of the popular elective subjects for basic sciences are given below for reference:

Typical Elective Subjects for MSc

MSc. Subject Title

Subject Details

Bioinformatics Applications for System Analysis

Gene therapy, preventive medicine, and other applications of bioinformatics are discussed in this subject.

Engineering Chemistry

It involves the studies revolving around the design and operations of chemical plants.

Nano-scale Science and Technology

How to utilise nano-scale science and technology in various applications is explained in this subject.

Introduction to Molecular Spectroscopy

This subject covers the meaning, concept, and uses of Molecular Spectroscopy.

Advance Physical Methods in Chemistry: Theory and Applications

Various theories and applications related to advanced physical methods are covered in this subject.

Polymer Synthesis

Meaning, nature, and characterisation of polymer synthesis, i.e., polymerisation are discussed in this subject.

Advanced Organic Chemistry

Spectroscopy, medicinal chemistry, reduction, oxidation, and other concepts are covered in this subject.

Advanced Inorganic Chemistry: Theory and Applications

The theory and applications of principles of inorganic chemistry are discussed in this subject.

Introduction to Molecular Thermodynamics

Principles of thermodynamics and distribution of energy and related concepts are explained in this subject.

Nanoscience: Understanding Small Systems

Revolutionary concepts and principles of nanoscience are explained in this subject.

Food Chemistry: Processing, Preservation and Storage

It includes the chemistry that revolves around food storage, processing, and preservation.

Detailed Syllabus for MSc

MSc allows students to complete their studies in various fields like Physics, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Maths, etc. It is also possible to do an MSc in two different subjects. The MSc Physics syllabus is given below, for example:

Semester

Core/Elective

Subject Title

Subject Details

Semester 1

Core

Atomic Spectroscopy

It covers the concepts related to optical atomic spectroscopy.

 

Core

Classical Mechanics

The motion of macroscopic objects and associated concepts are discussed here.

 

Core

Classical Electrodynamics 1

Interaction of currents and electrical charges are studied using the Newtonian Model.

 

Core

Nuclear Physics 1

The nuclei of an atom and its constituents are to be studied in detail in this subject.

 

Core

Quantum Mechanics 1

The basic concepts and features of quantum mechanics are explained in this subject.

 

Core

Mathematical Methods 1

The mathematical methods that are used to solve real-world issues are highlighted in this subject.

 

Core

Electronics 1

The electronic components like resistors, transformers, capacitors, etc., are to be studied in this subject.

Semester 2

Core

Mathematical Methods 2

Vectors, differential geometry, and various other complex mathematical methods and concepts are covered in this subject.

 

Core

Relativity and Cosmology

The history of the universe and the relativity theory that forms the basis of cosmology are explained in this subject.

 

Core

Quantum Mechanics 2

This subject covers the applications developed by using modern physics.

 

Core

Classical Electrodynamics 2

The information associated with classical mathematics and physics is covered in this subject.

 

Core

Solid State Physics 2

The study of solids or rigid materials is covered in this subject.

 

Core

Electronics 2

The complex concepts and theories in electronics are covered in this subject.

 

Core

Advanced Optics

Advanced optics like lasers and the study of photonics, optics modelling, etc., are included in this subject.

 

Core

Nuclear Physics 2

This subject covers a detailed study of protons and neutrons.

Semester 3

Core

Statistical Mechanics 1

The concepts related to identical particles, thermodynamics, kinetic theory, etc., are covered in this subject.

 

Core

Advanced Quantum Mechanics 1

This subject focuses on developing a broad perspective of quantum mechanics in the students.

 

Core

Group Theory

The theories and concepts related to condensed matter are covered in this subject.

 

Core

Computer Applications in Physics - 1

The application of computers and their uses to study different theories in physics are covered in this subject.

Semester 4

Core

Statistical Mechanics 2

The advanced principles and theories of Statistical Mechanics are included in this subject.

 

Core

Advanced Quantum Mechanics 2

The applications of quantum mechanics and its advanced models and theories are explained in this subject.

 

Core

Molecular Spectroscopy

It involves measuring the interactions between matter and electromagnetic waves.

 

Core

Astrophysics

The use of laws of physics to understand cosmos and universe is done in Astrophysics.

 

Core

Computer Applications in Physics - 2

The advanced computer applications in the field of physics are explained in detail here.

Specialisations offered in MSc

Chemistry, Cyber Forensic, Planetology, Physics, etc., are some of the most in-demand MSc specialisations. Some candidates choose a specialisation that is in line with their work experience or area of interest. Some of the most popular MSc specialisations are listed below:

Specialisation

Subject Titles

Subject Details

Physics

Mathematical Methods

 

 

Quantum Mechanics

 

 

Solid State Physics

 

Nuclear Physics

 

 

Relativity and Cosmology

 

 

 

Statistical Mechanics

 

 

Molecular Spectroscopy

 

 

 

Astrophysics

The use of mathematical methods in the physical world is explained in this subject.

The meaning and concepts revolving around quantum mechanics are to be studied in this subject.

Solid State Physics includes the studies of solid materials through various methods.

Nuclear Physics includes a detailed analysis of protons, neutrons, and their relationships.

Relativity, its theory, the meaning of cosmology and its impact on human life are to be studied in this subject.

 

Probability theory and various statistical methods are covered in this subject.

 

Interactions between matter and electromagnetic waves are to be studied in this subject.

 

Astrophysics is using the concepts in physics to understand the universe.

IT

Introduction to Programming Language through C

 

Basic Electronics and Communication

 

 

Database Management System (DBMS) Data Communication and Computer Networks

 

Software Engineering

 

 

Computer Graphics

The basics and theories in C language are covered in this subject.

The study of receiver, transmitter and various other instruments used for communication is included in this subject.

The study of databases, their types and methods to manage data across the system is included in this subject.

The meaning, study, and applications of software engineering are covered in this subject.

Methods used to improve visual content are explained in Computer Graphics.

Computer Science

Structured and Object-Oriented Programming

 

 

Visual and Dot Net programming

 

 

Java Programming

 

 

 

Web Technology

 

Statistics and Data Analytics

 

 

Soft Computing

 

 

 

Data Compression

 

 

Web Services

Concept and examples of structured and object-oriented programming are discussed in this subject.

Applications and concepts of dot net and visual programming are to be studied in this subject.

Core Java concepts along with their applications in various industries are explained in this subject.

 

Latest web technologies and their contribution in various fields can be studied in this subject.

The importance of statistics and data analysis methods in programming is emphasised through this topic.

Fuzzy logic, genetic algorithms, neural networks, and related concepts are covered in this subject.

 

The meaning, concept, uses, and applications of data compression are explained here.

The meaning of web service, its types, and learning how to design them is included in this subject.

Economics

Game Theory

 

Econometrics

 

 

Microeconomics

 

 

 

Macroeconomics

 

 

Ecological Economics

Concept, applications, and uses of game theory are discussed in this subject.

How to study economic relationships for forecasting is to be studied in this subject.

Studying the impact of individual decisions on the economy is covered in Microeconomics.

 

Studying regional or national economies as a single entity is involved in Macroeconomics.

The relationship between society, ecology, and economics is to be studied in Ecological Economics.

Microbiology

Virology

 

 

Immunology

 

 

Environmental Microbiology

 

 

Bioinstrumentation

 

 

Enzyme Technology

 

 

 

Bioinformatics, Microbial Genomics and Proteomics

Viruses, their types, and the diseases that are caused by them are covered in this subject.

Immunology covers the concepts related to the immune system of human beings.

The study of microorganisms and the environment in which they live are discussed in this subject.

Bioinstrumentation refers to the area of science that deals with technologies that are used to measure biological systems.

The applications utilised in changing the enzyme structure are covered in this subject.

 

Identifying genetic compositions and the ability to process the genome data and related topics are explained in this subject.

Statistics

Ancillary Mathematics

 

 

Measure Theory and Probability

 

 

 

Linear Models and Regression Analysis

 

 

Time Series Analysis

 

 

Multivariate Analysis

 

 

 

 

Computer Programming

 

 

Sample Surveys

Meaning, uses, and applications of Ancillary Mathematics are discussed in this subject.

Meaning, types, and examples of Probability and Measure theory are covered in this subject.

 

This subject covers the concept of regression analysis and linear models.

 

The analysis of time series and its properties are discussed here.

 

The meaning of Multivariate Analysis and the relationship between multivariate structures and measurements are discussed in this chapter.

 

The importance of computer programming in statistical methods are explained in this subject.

Sample surveys, their meaning, types, and methods of data collection are explained here.

 

Books and Authors Related to MSc

The best books and authors for MSc depend on the area of specialisation. Also, each subject has many books written by famous authors and educators. For example, the book written by Herbert Goldstein and J. C. Upadhyaya in Classical Mechanics is perfect for grasping the difficult content of the subject. You must always refer to books by Indian authors as they are usually in line with the MSc syllabus taught in Indian colleges and universities. However, you might have to refer to some books written by foreign authors as well. Some of the popular and most recommended books for Msc students are listed in the below table:

Subject

Book Title

Authors

Description of the book

Biochemistry

Biochemistry

U. Satyanarayana

It deals with the basic concepts of biochemistry.

Pharmacology

Fundamentals of Nursing

Dr N. Murugesh

It deals with the best practices and methods to nurse patients and improve their health by administering the right drugs and medicines.

Physiotherapy

Electrotherapy: Evidence-Based Practice

Sheila Kitchen

It deals with the case studies and best practices to be adopted in Electrotherapy treatment methods.

Computational Mathematics

Computational and Numerical Challenges in Environmental Modelling

Zahari Zlatev and Ivan Dimov

It deals with the various problem-solving skills and methods that one can use in computational mathematics.

Physics - High Energy

Opening Switches

Springer

It deals with the concepts related to the storage of electrical power and its applications.

Statistics

The Elements of Statistical Learning

Springer

It is ideal for beginners in the field of data science.

Data Science

Pattern Recognition and Machine Learning

Christopher Bishop

It is ideal for those interested in machine learning.

Zoology

MSc Zoology

Dr Anita Sehgal

Candidates taking the entrance exam for admission in MSc Zoology should read this book.

Chemistry

MSc Chemistry

R. S. Arora

The fundamentals of Chemistry are discussed in this book and its ideal for those appearing in MSc Chemistry Entrance Exams.

Mathematics

Mathematical Analysis - 2

J. N. Sharma

The difficult concepts in mathematical analyses are discussed with examples in this book.

Botany

MSc. Botany

Nidhi Puri

The fundamental concepts of Botany are explained in this book and it is ideal for those appearing for MSc Botany entrance exams.

FAQs on MSc

Q. Which master's degree is the most in-demand in India?

A. Masters degrees in business administration, health care administration, maths, physics, and chemistry have been in demand lately. However, MSc in IT, Computer Programming, Statistics, Economics, and some other areas of study like Human Resource Management are also quite popular these days. You may also apply for MSc in Computer Science, Data Science, etc., as these courses are quite popular and in demand in both India and abroad.

Q. What are the subjects in MSc?

A. The subjects depend upon the area of specialisation. Some of the main MSc courses include subjects related to Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Biology, Computer Science, and Data Science disciplines.

Q. Which specialisation should I choose for MSc in Physics?

A. For an MSc in Physics, you can choose specialisations like Optics and Atomics, Molecular Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Biophysics, etc. However, the specialisation you choose should be according to your interest or the job experience that you may have before doing MSc.

Q. Which specialisation is apt for MSc in Biotechnology?

A. Biodefense, Drug Research, Biomedical Engineering, Bioinformatics, Environmental Regulatory Affairs, etc., are the most popular specialisations that can be done when it comes to MSc in Biotechnology. Microbiology, Immunology, and some other subjects are the important ones in the various specialisations.

Q. Which are the major subjects that I need to study for MSc. Mathematics?

A. While pursuing MSc Mathematics, you will be introduced to subjects like differential calculus, geometry, algebra, dynamical systems, etc. These subjects involve complex mathematical concepts and their applications. They are mostly in line with the algebraic, geometric, and terms related to other important subjects that are covered in BSc Mathematics.

Q. Which is better: MSc in Computer Science or MSc in Data Science?

A. Both the subjects have their importance, and the syllabus also varies accordingly. If you want to pursue a career in programming languages or database management, you can opt for MSc in Computer Science. However, if a career in data security, machine learning, or AI inspires you, then you should opt for MSc in Data Science.

Q. Does MSc require NEET?

A. No, NEET is only applicable to those who want to seek admission in medical courses. For seeking entry into MSc, you should look for NEST or another state-, national- and university-level entrance tests.

Q. Which type of MSc is the best?

A. MSc in life sciences, pharmacy, data analytics, biochemistry, etc., are the best because of the different job opportunities they create. Also, MSc in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry are good if you want to secure a job in the educational, government, and private sectors.

Q. Is there any entrance test for MSc?

A. Yes, there are several national, state, and university-level entrance tests for various MSc courses. Some of the popular entrance tests are NEST, IPU CET, IIT JAM, IGNOU Entrance Exam, etc. You can also check if the college or educational institute you are seeking admission to is offering any particular entrance test or not.

Q. Is JEE required for MSc?

A. No, JEE is meant for those who are interested in pursuing engineering courses. MSc aspirants should opt for entrance tests like NEST, IIT JAM, IPU CET, etc. Some colleges and universities have their own entrance exams, and therefore, you must check the entrance tests that are accepted by the university or college where you are seeking admission in.

Q. Is MSc hard to study?

A. Though it is not very difficult to study MSc, the wide range of syllabus and subjects that one must study while preparing for the end semester exams might be hectic for some students. Also, the students need to demonstrate practical knowledge in the laboratory on various occasions. Therefore, it would not be an easy task to clear the exams.

Q. Do you need to study Maths for MSc?

A. Maths is not a compulsory subject for most MSc courses. However, it depends on the area of specialisation you want to get an MSc degree in. For example, Maths is not a compulsory subject to seek entry into courses like MSc Chemistry. However, if you want to complete MSc in Mathematics, it is a compulsory subject.

Q. Is Biology compulsory for MSc in Biology?

A. Yes, you must complete the bachelor course in Biology with at least 60% to be eligible to seek admission in the MSc Biology course. Admission is provided on the basis of the performance in entrance tests as well. Distance learning is also provided by several colleges and educational institutions.

Q. Can I do MPhil after MSc?

A. Yes, if you have completed MSc in the field associated with the MPhil course, you can apply for MPhil. However, a minimum of 55% is required in that particular subject to be eligible for the specific MPhil course. As MPhil is the most advanced level of the Master’s degree, the subjects are also of advanced level.
Table of content
  • Popular MSc (Master of Science) Colleges in India
  • Popular Private MSc (Master of Science) Colleges in India
  • Popular MSc (Master of Science) Specializations
  • Most Popular Courses

Popular MSc (Master of Science) Colleges in India

Following are the most popular MSc (Master of Science) Colleges in India. Learn more about these MSc (Master of Science) colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
43 Courses
6.66 K - 1.7 L
9 LPA
1.4 L - 7.5 L
3.5
7 Courses
432
8.4 LPA
7 Courses
55.95 K - 56.16 K
9.24 LPA
14 Courses
48.41 K - 2.2 L
4.72 - 5 LPA
6 Courses
33.85 K - 1.9 L
6.23 LPA

Popular Private MSc (Master of Science) Colleges in India

1.8 L - 2.96 L
3.6
6 Courses
3 L - 4.6 L
4.3
71.73 K - 2.24 L
4.8 LPA
23 Courses
2.12 L - 3.5 L
4.8 LPA
60 Courses
38 K - 2.24 L
3.5
2.5 L - 4 L

Popular MSc (Master of Science) Specializations

Following are the most popular MSc (Master of Science) Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 weeks ago

The best MSc courses after BSc Botany include MSc in Botany, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Bioinformatics, and Food Technology.

R

Rakshit Prabhakar

Contributor-Level 8

Answered a month ago

The institute has not announced the fees for the AY 2025-26. When PGIMER will announce the fee, students will be able to pay it using debit or credit card. Last year, the application fee for this course was INR 1,500 for the general and OBC categories and INR 1,200 for the SC/ST category.

P

Pallavi Pathak

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Yes, of course!

Here are some details about the MSc Biotechnology colleges that might be helpful for students:

Particulars

Details

Number of MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India

795 colleges

Annual Fees

Free: 1 college

Less than INR 1 Lakh: 272 colleges

INR 1-2 Lakh: 145 colleges

INR 2-3 Lakh: 57 colleges

INR 3-5 Lakh: 32 colleges

More than INR 5 Lakh: 10 colleges

Top  MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India

Jamia Millia Islamia, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Aligarh Muslim University, Loyola College, etc.

Accepted Entrance Exams

Merit-Based, or CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA, CPGET, IIT JAM, MAH CET, etc.

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

M

Muskan Chugh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Italy is way cheaper compared to other western countries like USA or UK. Pursuing an MS degree here can be highly beneficial for international students, given it is comparatively easier for them to handle the expenses of tuition fees. The table below includes the tuition fees of the top-ranked unive

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Shreya Basu

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Scholarships are an essential part of studying abroad. International students must be aware of the available scholarships at the university where they choose to study as the deadline for scholarships starts before the deadlines of admission form. Some of the scholarships that benefit the students fo

...Read more

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Sikh National College offers admission in MSc Mathematics based on merit of the aspirants. Those who have completed BA, BSc (Hons) in Mathematics Statistics/ Operational Research or BA/ BSc with a minimum of 50% aggregate and have Mathematics as one of the subjects. 

Aspirants who have completed BSc

...Read more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 2 months ago

Candidates who have completed BCA, BSc (IT), BIT, BCom (Prof.), BCom of GNDU or graduation in Computer Science, IT, Computer Applications, Comp. Maintenance as one of the elective subjects with a minimum of 50% aggregate can apply for MSc Computer Science at Sikh National College. 

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 2 months ago

In the MSc Product Design and Management course, students' expertise in product design's key concepts, tools, and methodologies. Students also gain many skills such as Innovative product development, design techniques, etc. 

Top industries in which Product Design and Management graduates engage are: 

...Read more

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Like any statement of purpose, the tone should be formal for an SOP for MS in Biotechnology. You should not use contractions and short forms. The language should be polite and the usage of words should be clear and well intentioned. Instead of using complicated words, simple vocabulary can help you

...Read more

R

Raushan Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Introduction: For the introduction, you must adopt the anecdotal approach. You must start by writing about an anecdote that helped you realise your professional interest in Biotechnology. The introduction should not consist of any generic information; rather, it is advisable to talk about a specific

...Read more

R

Raushan Kumar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

MSc Supply Chain Management is one of the most popular courses at the University of Hertfordshire among international students. The PG admissions are not highly competitive; however, students are required to meet certain admission requirements: 

  • International students are required to have a bachelor'

...Read more

D

Divya Shukla

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 months ago

The MSc Nursing eligibility criteria can vary depending on the colleges, but the general requirements are:

  • Obtain a bachelor's degree (BSc Nursing preferred)
  • A minimum of 50-60% from a recognised university
  • Entrance exam scores like CUET PG, AIIMS MSc Nursing, etc.
  • Be a Registered Nurse and Registered M

...Read more

M

Mohit Datta

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

The MSc International Banking and Finance degree is taught within Middlesex University's Business School where university deliver high-quality teaching and research, and provide a supportive learning environment, helping students to achieve excellent academic resultsWith immense power to affect orga

...Read more

S

Shreya Basu

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The University of Kansas offers an MS in Accounting programme that boasts 100% job placement after graduation. This programme is highly ranked among the top 10 CPA success index. Graduate of this programme are well prepared for roles like CPA, Auditor, Financial Analyst, Accounting Manager or Tax Sp

...Read more

S

Shreya Basu

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

QS World University Ranking is a globally recognised ranking platform, used as a trusted source by employers and students. The rankings done by QS are based on various factors like Employability, ROI, Career outcomes, Class and faculty diversity, and academic reputation.  The following table include

...Read more

S

Shreya Basu

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The total fee for the IHM Hajipur MSc course includes multiple components, which can be paid annually, semesterly, or one-time. Check out the names of the fee components with their amounts in the table below:  

Fee componentsAmount (for 2 years)
INR 1.9 lakh
INR 20,020
INR 26,220 
INR 2.34 lakh 

This fee amount is as per the official website/sanctioning body. It is still subject to ch

...Read more

P

Piyush Jain

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

The Columbia University MS in CS fees, for international students is around USD 64,800 or INR 56.75 L for the first year. The cost is the same for all graduate engineering programs with 12 points per semester, and tends to typically increase by 2-7% from second year onwards.

The overall Columbia Univ

...Read more

A

Akash Gaur

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Goswami Ganesh Dutta S.D. College offers admission to the MSc programme on the basis of merit obtained in the last qualifying exam and valid entrance scores. In order to secure admission to GGDSD College, candidates must acquire 50% to 55% marks in graduation, and must appear for PU-CET (PG) and sec

...Read more

84134530
Tanu Rao

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

MIT School of Bioengineering Sciences and Research offers MSc in Industrial Biotechnology. The discipline of industrial biotechnology involves an investigation and utilisation of industrially and commercially beneficial microorganisms. The eligibility criteria for MSc at MIT BIO is Bachelor's Degree

...Read more

84134530
Tanu Rao

Contributor-Level 10

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