Biochemistry Syllabus 2025: Check Semester-wise Subjects & Syllabus

Updated on May 20, 2025 05:58 IST

A Biochemistry course under the Science stream is a three-year undergraduate programme and a two-year post-graduate program. This discipline deals with the computation of molecular biology, chemistry, mathematics, proteins and enzymes, metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids, etc. This course offers jobs in academic research, biotechnology, forensic science, clinical research, medicinal chemistry, analytical chemistry, etc. Students looking forward to taking up a profession in Biochemistry can take up this course. Those who would like to engage themselves in research, physiotherapy, biosis, biologics content analysis, clinical biochemistry, lab management, generation of medical codes, microbiology consultation, radiofrequency lab technicians, life science, paramedics, etc., must take up this course.

Syllabus-Important Facts for Biochemistry

  • This three-year course is divided into 6 semesters. Each semester has the required number of subjects, and the credits are rewarded accordingly.

  • Subjects related to Biomolecules, Biophysics, Biochemical Techniques, Mathematics, Cell Biology, Proteins and Enzymes, Neurophysiology, Membrane Dynamics, Molecular Physiology, Membrane Biology, Immunology, Hormone Biochemistry, Bioenergetics, Calculus, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Technical Biochemistry, Evolutionary Biology, Stereochemistry, Chemical Bondings, Environmental Studies, etc. form part of this course.

  • These subjects help the students gain an insight into various developments in biochemistry and their applications in real life. A lot of understanding, quick grasping, observational, and other self-equipped skills would be essential for the duration of this course. Much research and improvisation are required to keep up with the growing trend of producing exceptional results.

  • Each student should obtain a minimum credit score to complete this course. There would also be various researches and experiments conducted at said intervals. The duration and type of these experiments and their credit score vary from university to university. The students are evaluated on various grounds, such as the mid-semester examinations, end semester examinations, lab experiments that form part of the assignments, small projects, etc. The course structure and the evaluation pattern vary from one college/university/institution to another.

  • Apart from the core subjects, students can take elective courses based on their choice and interests. These elective courses can be chosen at the students' discretion during any semester. These elective courses vary from one college/university to the other.

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List of Subjects in Biochemistry

Typical Core Subjects for Biochemistry

Subject Title

Subject Details

Mathematics

This subject provides an insight into the topics related to biochemistry like applied linear algebra, applied mathematics, asymptotic analysis, exponents and logarithms, differential calculus, etc. These subjects help gain a better understanding of how they are used in biochemistry.

Chemistry

This subject provides an insight into the exploration of chemical processes related to living organisms. The structure, composition, and chemical reaction of the substances in the living system and their functions and controls are also studied.

Biology

This subject provides an insight into the study of the body and its functions and how the biochemical changes occur in the human body. It provides a basic understanding of the chemical processes involved in a human body like digestion, hormonal action, muscle contraction, relaxation, etc.

Biochemistry

This subject offers a basic understanding of the various processes involved in the living systems of both plants and animals. It also introduces the methods through which crops can be improved, and how essential drugs can be discovered. The basic concepts of biochemistry and metabolism in the living system are well-explained in this subject. This subject also focuses on product development in industry and the various kinds of research involved to clarify Biochemistry.

Typical elective Subjects for Biochemistry

Subject Title

Subject Details

Microbiology

This subject introduces the various fundamental concepts relating to the microbial world. The topics, including history, microbial cell structure, microbial taxonomy, microbial genetics, eukaryotic microbes, pathogenicity, growth and culture, and microscopic techniques in microbiology, are covered in this subject.

Immunology

This subject introduces the basic concepts of immunological processes and mechanisms and how diseases contribute to them. These can also be therapeutically manipulated. Topics, including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, immunologic tolerance, autoimmunity, and hypersensitivity, are covered in this subject. The main objective of this subject is to focus on the basics of molecules, cells, organs, and genes of the immune system and how they interact when they are activated or regulated.

Bioinformatics

This subject provides an insight into the basic concepts and the methods involved in Bioinformatics. This could be identified with many learning experiences on various topics, such as homology detection based on sequence, prediction of genes, analysis of phylogenetics, etc. This provides a clear understanding by utilising the concepts and algorithms of biochemistry. The standard tools used to solve modern biological problems are also introduced in this subject.

Cell and Molecular Biology

This subject provides an insight into the concepts of molecular biology and the mechanisms involved in controlling cell functions. This includes complex regulatory mechanisms as well. This subject also focuses on cell organisation and subcellular structures. The topics, including nucleic acids, genomes, DNA replication mechanisms, the expression of the gene and its regulation, oncogenes, and differentiation of genes and development, are covered in this subject.

Detailed Syllabus for Biochemistry

The course is structured in a way that for each college or university it varies in terms of subjects, electives, and the syllabus pattern. But the core subjects are similar to each other as they are the basic foundation for the course. A rough pattern of the syllabus for Biochemistry in detail is given below.

Semester

Core/Elective

Subject Title

Subject Details

1

Core

 

 

Molecules of Life

This subject provides an overview of the foundations of biochemistry and the chemical and cellular foundations of life. The topics, including water, carbohydrates, glycobiology, amino acids, peptides, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, are covered in this subject.

 

Core

General Organic Chemistry

This subject provides an overview of the concepts of atomic structure, intermolecular forces, the stereochemistry of carbon compounds, general treatment of reaction mechanisms, specific reactions, and heterocycles.

2

Core

General Physical Chemistry

This subject provides an overview of Biophysical properties, Electrochemistry, Principles of Thermodynamics, Chemical equilibrium, Colloidal State, Ideal and non-ideal solutions, and Thermodynamics of EMF Cells.

 

Core

Enzyme

This subject provides an overview of enzymes and their introduction, features, kinetics, inhibition, mechanisms of action, regulation of activity, and involvement of coenzymes in enzyme-catalysed reactions.

3

Core

Biophysical Chemistry

This subject provides an overview of the concepts of Spectroscopy and its in-depth analysis, Hydrodynamics and Biocalorimetry.

 

Core

Cell Biology

This subject provides an overview of the concepts of cell biology. The introduction, tools for cell biology, structure, and functions of different cell organelles, the cell wall, extracellular matrix, etc., are the topics that are covered in this subject.

4

Core

 

 

 

 

Membrane Biology and Bioenergetics

This subject introduces biomembranes and the concepts of membrane structures and dynamics, bioenergetics, and oxidative phosphorylation.

5

Core

Gene, Gene Expression, and Regulation

This subject provides an overview of the concepts of structures of DNA, Genes and genomic organisation, replication of DNA, Transposition of DNA, Molecular basis of mutations, various modes of DNA repair, etc.

 

Core

Physiology and Hormones

This subject provides an in-depth analysis of the concepts of Homeostasis and the organisation of fluid body compartments, cardiovascular physiology, and respiration, an introduction to endocrinology, thyroid hormone, hormone-mediated signalling, hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal hormones, etc.

6

Core

Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

This subject gives an in depth analysis of the concepts of recombinant DNA technology, cloning vectors for prokaryotes and eukaryotes, Introduction to DNA cells and selection for recombinant clones, expression of cloned genes, polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing and applications of genetic engineering in biotechnology.

 

Core

Immunology

This subject gives an in depth analysis of the concepts of cells and organs of the immune system, innate immunity, immunogens and antigens, the biology of the B and T lymphocyte, generation of antibody diversity, MHC Complex and antigen presentation, tolerance, autoimmunity and hypersensitivity.

Specialisations Offered in Biochemistry

There are a lot of subjects that form part of the specialisations offered in Biochemistry. However, these subjects vary from one college or university to the other. Some of them are as follows:

Specialisation

Specialisation Subjects

Subject Details

Biochemistry

Enzyme Inhibitors and Carbohydrates

This subject provides an overview of the concepts of enzyme inhibitors and carbohydrates and their functions. The internal reaction of enzymes and carbohydrates is studied with practical and keen observation.

Biochemistry

Catabolism of Lipids

This topic provides the readers with an insight into the catabolism of lipids and how they are temporarily and spatially separated. They, in turn, release fatty acids, and the membrane droplets are catalysed.

Biochemistry

Citric acid cycle and ATP Synthesis

This topic provides an insight into the Krebs cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle, that occurs in the mitochondria and produces large amounts of energy. ATP synthesis involves the transfer of electrons from the inner membranes back to the matrix. These processes are clearly explained in this topic.

Biochemistry

Water, Acids, Bases, pH, Buffer, Proteins

This subject provides an insight into the functions and metabolism of water, acids, bases, pH, buffer, and proteins present in the internal system of the human body, and It also helps in understanding the analysis of the chemical reactions that take place inside the human body.

Books and Authors Related to Biochemistry

Great Scholars recommend many books for the students aspiring to pursue Biochemistry as a part of Chemical Sciences or as a specialised course. These books are a reliable source of knowledge, and the content provided is genuine and informative. These books could provide an insight into the subjects and their basic outline in a much more engaging way. Many of these books would be available in libraries, or the online versions of these books could also be downloaded and accessed by any student. Some of the books relating to Biochemistry are published online that can be accessed by anyone.

Subject

Book Title

Author

Details

Biochemistry

Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry

David L. Nelson,

Michael M. Cox

This book, written by David L. Nelson and Michael M. Cox, provides an insight into the introduction of biochemistry and maintains coherence by incorporating the latest advancements. The examples and problems related to biochemistry and the key highlights and latest trends in this field are well focused in this book. The latest edition of this book has also been scientifically envisioned for the benefit of the students.

Biochemistry

Biochemistry

Donald Voet, Judith G. Voet

This book, written by Donald Voet and Judith G. Voet, is a thoroughly revised modern classic that provides an insight into biochemical concepts. It also offers a unified presentation of life. Its variation by the process of evolution has been well described in this book. This book also incorporates the classical and current research that illustrates the sources of history relating to biochemistry and biochemical knowledge.

Biochemistry

Biochemistry

Jeremy M. Berg,

John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto, Jr,

Lubert Stryer

This book was written by Jeremy M. Berg,

John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto, Jr, and

Lubert Stryer provides an insight into the latest research techniques and advancements relating to an emphasis on physiological and medical relevance. This enables the readers to gain clarity and enhance their understanding of these processes and navigates the complex pathways and mechanisms that form part of biochemistry. The examples and the references mentioned in this book are one of the key features that make this book a great reference for Biochemistry.

Biochemistry

Principles and Techniques of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Keith Wilson,

John Walker

This book, edited by Keith Wilson and John Walker, provides an insight into the topics, such as measurements, electrolytes, cell culture laboratory, stem cell culture, measuring cellular dynamics, Chromatographic techniques, Spectroscopic techniques, Radioisotope techniques, Enzymes, drug discovery, and development, cell membrane receptors, and cell signalling, etc. These topics enable the students to prepare for their examinations.

Entrance Exams for Biochemistry

  • The most recommended entrance exam for Biochemistry is the Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM). This exam is taken up to secure admissions into the Master of Science program and other Post-graduate programs related to science.

  • This is a national-level entrance exam that any candidate aspiring to obtain admission to the top colleges in India should take.

  • These exams are essential to obtain admissions into IITs (Indian Institute of Technology), IISc (Indian Institute of Science), NITs (National Institute of Technology), etc. A lot of top private colleges also prefer this test.

  • For undergraduate programs in Biochemistry, there is no need to take up any entrance test, but the student should have science knowledge with the required knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, and maths.

  • There are other state-level or college-level entrance examinations like the Gitam Science Admission Test (GSAT), Amity Joint Entrance Examination (Amity JEE), Banaras Hindu University Postgraduate Entrance Test (BHU PET), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), etc. These exams vary in terms of the pattern, the cut-off, etc.

  • In each of these entrance examinations, the candidate must answer the minimum number of questions required of them. Every college has a select authoritarian body that determines the cut-off scores at the end of the test.

  • A candidate who has secured the cut-off, this score would be able to take admissions into the desired college after various other processes like the interview, written test, etc.

  • The eligibility criteria for each college depend on the target set by the colleges or universities. Each college prefers a separate exam with a level of difficulty different from the other.

  • Every exam in every college also offers a different assessment process. The subjects covered in these exams include Biotechnology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Physics, etc.

  • Candidates could prepare by referring to all the important topics suggested in the question paper pattern of the previous years or other samples to overview the types of questions asked in the examination.

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Syllabus for Distance Program in Biochemistry

  • Biochemistry could be done through distance mode if the student is unable to afford the time for a full-time regular course. The regular course duration is three years and requires in-class presence.

  • However, biochemistry could be studied through remote modes as well, as there are a lot of online courses that relate to biochemistry and provide the same value and knowledge as that of a regular biochemistry course.

  • The syllabus for the distance program would be similar to the regular program as well. Most of the online platforms offer the same course with a shorter duration of time and the time taken to complete the course is less compared to that of the regular course.

  • Few IITs offer online Biochemistry courses that have weekly targets, and the syllabus is covered accordingly. These certificate courses are like an add-on to what the student is priorly pursuing or has completed.

  • The syllabus and course structure might be the same for both modes, but the evaluation process varies from each college/university/institution to the other. The syllabus and topics covered are similar to one another as this course is open to all those who have a science background or minimal knowledge in biology, physics, and chemistry.

Biochemistry Syllabus: Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What can biochemistry be used for?

A. Biochemistry can be used to identify the biological processes that occur in cells and organisms. This might also help in studying the biological molecules and their properties for a lot of purposes. This is a laboratory-based science that enables the users to identify and analyse a lot of inputs relating to biochemistry.

Q. Does Biochemistry have maths?

A. There are a lot of courses in biochemistry that do not require maths at all. Since this course revolves around scientific and statistical data at times, the involvement of maths might be significant. This is due to the demand for calculating concentrations, constants, and kinetics. Thus, maths might help in the study of the key disciplinary features of biochemistry.

Q. How is biochemistry applied every day?

A. The knowledge of biochemistry and other molecular substances assists in the areas of food production in terms of quality and quantity, employing improved agrochemicals, crop development enhanced with the resistance to pests and disease, and improvement in human health in terms of probiotics, antioxidants, etc., by preparing appropriate foods. These are a few of the ways by which biochemistry can be applied every day.

Q. What are the branches of biochemistry?

A. The branches of biochemistry are as follows: Structural Biochemistry, Enzymology, Metabolic Biochemistry, Immunology, Enzymology, Endocrinology, Xenobiotics, Neurochemistry, Bio-organic Chemistry, Chemotaxonomy, Virology, Chemical Ecology, Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Cell Biology, etc. These are the major branches in biochemistry that a person might choose as a profession or as an area of study.

Q. What are the basic principles of biochemistry?

A. One of the most basic features of Biochemistry is that it controls the flow of information through biochemical signalling. It also controls the flowing of chemical energy through metabolism. Thus, biochemical processes give rise to incredible complexities of life. Biochemistry also governs all living organisms and living processes.

Q. What are the core topics of Biochemistry?

A. The core topics of biochemistry include some of the basic concepts of biochemistry. Some of them are Structural compounds, Energy pathways, Chemical properties, Regulations, Major categories of bio-compounds, enzymes and enzyme activities, Membranes that comprise the fluid mosaic model, diffusion, osmosis, and Techniques like electrophoresis, chromatography, mass spectrometry, etc.

Q. What technology is used in Biochemistry?

A. Advanced Technologies such as lasers, fluorescent microscopes, etc., are used by Biochemists and Biophysicists. These technologies are used to conduct scientific experiments and analyses and interpret different kinds of results. The X-rays and other computer modelling software are put to use to determine the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other molecules present in each compound.

Q. Can a biochemist study pharmacy?

A. Yes, a biochemist can study pharmacy. A student who has studied biochemistry and graduated can study and become a pharmacist after graduation. This could happen and vice versa as well. A pharmacist who has graduated can also become a biochemist. These studies go hand in hand as they might help in the area of research and finding new drugs or cures for any rare diseases as well.

Q. When and where can biochemistry work?

A. When a person graduates in biochemistry, he/she could become a professor at colleges or universities. He/She might work for research institutes, diagnostic or forensic laboratories, wholesale manufacturers, consulting firms, etc. Biochemists could also work at federal agencies like the Food and Drug Administration or the National Institute of Health, etc.

Q. Is NEET required for Biochemistry?

A. No, there is no need for NEET to secure admissions into colleges for Biochemistry. However, the basic requirement of a science background with biology, physics, and chemistry as their core subjects is mandatory to pursue biochemistry. The colleges might conduct private entrance tests as well to filter the candidates based on their knowledge and skill sets. Hence, there is no such compulsion of NEET being required for Biochemistry.

Q. Are Biochemistry and Pharmacology the same?

A. Biochemistry helps in understanding the molecular basis of life and its role in the process of diagnosing diseases. Related fields like molecular biology provide an advanced understanding of the molecules that form part of day-to-day life, whereas, Pharmacology is the study of how drugs and a lot of other chemicals affect the human body in terms of health and disease.
Table of content
  • Popular Biochemistry Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Biochemistry Colleges in India
  • Popular Exams
  • Most Popular Courses
  • Popular Biochemistry UG Courses
  • Popular Biochemistry PG Courses

Popular Biochemistry Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Biochemistry Colleges in India. Learn more about these Biochemistry colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
1 Course
1.08 L
9 LPA

#10 NIRF

3 L - 6 L
3.0

#38 NIRF

Biochemistry Applications open. Apply Now

4.95 K
3.5 LPA

#11 NIRF

1.59 L - 3.3 L
3.5

#11 India Today

1.65 L - 2.8 L
6.5 - 8.1 LPA

#60 NIRF

Popular Private Biochemistry Colleges in India

2 Courses
2.5 L - 3.5 L
3.8

#48 India Today

13 Courses
1.45 L - 8.25 L
3.6
2.43 L - 4.08 L
3.6 - 4 LPA

#101 NIRF

Biochemistry Applications open. Apply Now

3 L

#4 Times

3 Courses
1.62 L - 1.92 L
3 L - 6 L
3.0

#38 NIRF

Biochemistry Applications open. Apply Now

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Biochemistry. Students interested in pursuing a career on Biochemistry, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

Mar '26

CUET 2026 Application Process

TENTATIVE

May '26 - Jun '26

CUET 2026 Exam

TENTATIVE

Nov '25

UPCATET 2025 UG, PG, PhD: Download counselling le...

TENTATIVE

Nov '25

UPCATET Counselling 2025: Campus Reporting UG Can...

TENTATIVE

16 Aug ' 25 - 19 Aug ' 25

IISER 2025 Round 4 Seat Allotment

8 Aug ' 25 - 12 Aug ' 25

IISER 2025 Round 3 Seat Allotment

Popular Biochemistry UG Courses

Following are the most popular Biochemistry UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Biochemistry PG Courses

Following are the most popular Biochemistry PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Answered a month ago

Sorry to say but you are not eligible for B.sc Hons. Biochemistry in Any college/University. Because Biology is one of the core subject which required to eligible for B.Sc hons. Biochemistry. 

Subject required - Physics, Chemistry and Biology.

S

Shreya Sarkar

Beginner-Level 1

Answered 2 months ago

IGNOU BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry tuition fees is INR 43,500. Candidates who get selected have to pay the required fee amount to lock their seats. The tuition fees component is payable semester-wise or yearly. It must be also be noted that the fee amount mentioned here is as per the official website/

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