Biotechnology Subjects List 2026: Check Semester-wise Subjects & Syllabus

Parul ThapaAssistant Manager
Biotechnology is a vast subject built on the foundation of biology. With its knowledge, professionals create technologies and products that enhance human life. Depending on your preference and subject to your eligibility conditions, you can study Biotechnology as an undergraduate, diploma, certification, or postgraduate major. As a career in Biotechnology is not industry-specific, students prefer to take this course. Students who have studied PCMB and PCB can undertake undergraduate courses in Biotechnology. B.Sc. and B.Tech in Biotechnology are preferred courses by students.
List of Subjects in Biotechnology
Typical Core Subjects for Biotechnology
|
Subject title |
Subject details |
|---|---|
|
Introductory Biology |
The syllabus of this subject is a unification of life sciences, engineering, and physical sciences. Students understand the basic principles of Biology and develop new solutions using engineering for the environment, industry, and other fields. The objective of this subject is to provide the basic knowledge of biological sciences and study its applications.
Some parts of the syllabus are:
|
|
Biochemical Process Calculations |
Through this subject, students learn the basic principles of energy and material balances that are required in biochemical engineering. The main focus of this course is on solving the material or energy balances for selected unit operations and processes that are available in the biotechnology industry. You can establish the mathematical methodologies that help in computation in biochemical engineering. You can also get an overview of the industrial biochemical processes.
Some parts of the syllabus are:
|
|
Genetics |
The subject helps in understanding classical, modern, and quantitative genetics. You will learn the rate at which the members of a population are likely to develop a particular disease. Accordingly, you will be able to manage the risks. Understanding developmental pathways will help you know the genetic causes behind the disease.
Some parts of the syllabus are:
|
|
Biochemistry |
This subject helps in understanding many processes in plants and animals. It helps in crop improvement and drug discovery. Students are introduced to the basic concepts of Biochemistry and metabolism in plants and animals.
Some parts of the syllabus are:
|
Typical Elective Subjects for Biotechnology
|
Subject title |
Subject details |
|---|---|
|
Human Biology and Diseases |
You will understand the structure of the human body and its function. The subject will also introduce the preliminary concepts of common diseases and the modern therapeutic aims and advancements. With the knowledge of the human body and diseases, you will be encouraged to think of engineering solutions for the problems in the healthcare field. |
|
Plant Biotechnology |
Students learn about the basic concepts of the plant cell system, genetic engineering, plant transformation, and bioprocess technology. The subject also teaches the applications of these concepts to help them meet the challenges of the new areas of the biotechnology industry. |
|
Systems Biology |
The subject introduces students to the ideas and mathematical tools of Systems Biology. It teaches the mathematical aspects of the course in three categories:
|
Detailed Syllabus for Biotechnology
See the Biotechnology subjects in details in the following table.
|
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject title |
Subject Details |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 & 2 |
Microbiology |
Microbiology I and II |
Students learn to identify microbes and study their structure, metabolism, and industrial applications. They also learn multiple sterilisation techniques and their effects. With the foundation received from this subject, advanced-level understanding becomes easier. Then, students can carry out microbiological techniques like isolation and staining. |
|
3 |
Cell Biology |
Cell Biology |
The subject aims to provide the basic knowledge of cells, cell organelles, structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, different compartments of a cell organelle, cell division, and cell events like respiration and photosynthesis. By the end of the semester, students will understand cancer, the types of cancer, and its etiology. |
|
4 |
Immunology |
Immunology |
Students will learn the anatomy and physiology of the human body. The subject teaches you the basic terminologies in immunology. It describes the interaction of antibodies in cell-mediated immune responses. You will also learn about the principles and types of vaccines. Once completed, you will describe the production of recombinant vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. |
|
5 |
Bioinformatics |
Bioinformatics |
The subject helps you learn the most techniques used with biological data. It helps in studying the databases of DNA and proteins in parallel to the current concepts of bioinformatics and their implementation. Students get to learn more about protein structure, and equipped with this information, they can handle proteins with ease. Once completed, you will know about the storage, retrieval, use, and sharing of biological tools, information, and data. |
|
5 |
Bioreactor Analysis and Technology |
Bioreactor Analysis and Technology |
With the knowledge of chemical kinetics, integration, and differentiation, you will be learning the basic concepts of a bioreactor design through this subject. It teaches you about the types of ideal and non-ideal reactors. You can design reactors for different processes. Also, you will be able to select the relevant data and apply the right principles for practical process engineering. |
|
6 |
Food technology |
Food technology |
With the support of Fermentation Technology and Microbiology, you can easily learn more about different areas in connection to Food Science and Technology. The subjects help you learn about the composition of food. They go into detail to understand the microbiological, nutritional, and physiochemical aspects of food. Students are made familiar with the preservation techniques and processing methods of food items. |
|
7 |
Enzyme Engineering |
Enzyme Engineering |
It provides a valuable insight into the working of enzyme molecules, gives their structure, constructions, and interactions with cellular molecules, along with the idea of the process of catalysis. Deeper learning of the subject will help you in engineering enzymes that are durable. You will also know how to troubleshoot problems and monitor in-vitro and in-vivo activities. |
|
8 |
Environmental Biotechnology |
Environmental Biotechnology |
The subject stands on the foundation of Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology. It serves as an introduction to the current biotechnological techniques and approaches implemented using microbes. |
Specialisations offered in Biotechnology
Biotechnology is an umbrella term that we use for covering expansive topics like genetics, microbiology, engineering, biochemistry, and chemistry. The applications of this study spread far and wide to industries like agriculture, animal husbandry, pollution control, energy production and conservation, disease research, eco-conservation, vaccines, insecticides, the development of medicines, and fertilizers.
|
Specialisation |
Subjects |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Plant Biology |
|
Students interested in plant biotechnology often choose this Specialisations. You will be studying plant life and applying technical methods to living organisms and the environment. |
|
Virology |
|
Specialisations in Virology allows students to learn in detail about human viral diseases, the definition and evolution of viruses, and the mechanism of viruses. Upon completion, students get involved in the research of viruses and the diseases related to them. |
|
Ecology |
|
The Specialisations offers a deep insight into the relationships among various organisms. It talks about the mutual influence of the environment in which organisms are living and the organisms themselves. |
Books and Authors Related to Biotechnology
As Biotechnology is a highly versatile field with many Specialisations students follow a wide range of books during their graduation or post graduation. Listed below are some books that are highly referred to.
|
Subject |
Book title |
Author |
Description |
|
Cell Biology |
Molecular Cell Biology |
H Lodish et al |
Molecular Cell Biology explains the link between human diseases and cell biology using relevant medical examples. |
|
Biochemistry |
Principles of Biochemistry |
Lehninger, and Cox, and Nelson |
Using resources and icons for each principle, the authors identify and explain the most important principles of Biochemistry. |
|
Genetics |
Genetics |
MW Strickberger |
This acclaimed book for classical genetics covers the basic theoretical information and the study of heredity through experiments and reasoning. |
|
Immunology |
The Elements of Immunology |
Khan F. H |
The author expertly breaks the confusing concept of complex molecular mechanisms into easy-to-understand steps in this book. |
|
Biochemistry |
Chemical Process Principles |
Ragatz, Hougen, and Watson |
The authors help students strengthen their ability to calculate chemical solutions by providing many problems at the end of every chapter. |
Syllabus for Distance Programme in Biotechnology
Students who cannot afford full-time courses can get their degrees through distance education. Also, students who are unable to meet the eligibility requirements for full-time courses, opt for part-time or distance B.Tech in Biotechnology programs. The syllabus of distance education programs is remarkably similar to the regular programs. The evaluation format (30% for internal assessment and 70% for the end semester examination) is nearly the same as the regular courses.
The top colleges for distance education in Biotechnology courses are GCT Coimbatore, SIT Darjeeling, UEC Ujjain, PMIST Thanjavur, GCE Salem, IIMT University Meerut, and SRM Institute of Science and Technology.
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered Yesterday
B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Microbiology will open your career options in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, food-safety and research. After completing your course, you can get a starting salary package between INR 2.5 LPA to 4 LPA.
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered an hour ago
With TS EAPCET rank of 18223, you have a strong chance of getting admission to B.Tech Biotechnology at CBIT.
For four years, the fee for 4-year is approximately around INR 6.82 Lakhs.
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a week ago
Career opportunities after a B.Tech in Biotechnology from JNTUH College of Engineering include core technical roles like Research Associate, Bioprocess Engineer, and Quality Control/Quality Assurance Officer in industries such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and food processing.
S
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 3 weeks ago
Biotechnology placements in India yield entry-level packages between ₹3–8 LPA, though premium institutes like IIT Delhi and University of Delhi secure packages from ₹10–20 LPA. Top recruiters include Biocon, Serum Institute of India, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Syngene, and IQVIA. So overall it is a g
A
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 3 weeks ago
Candidates enrolled in GEU Dehradun BTech in Biotechnology can choose electives of their choice. With these, the students can learn more about their choice of topic.
Mentioned below are the electives:
- Cancer Biology
- Stem Cell Technology
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
- Python
- PERL
- SAS-R
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 3 weeks ago
The Biotechnology laboratories at Galgotias University give students hands-on experience through practical experiments, lab techniques, and project work. These sessions help build research skills, improve analytical thinking, and give students practical exposure that's valuable for higher studies an
S
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 3 weeks ago
B.Tech Biotechnology at Galgotias University can open up career opportunities in pharmaceuticals, biotech companies, healthcare, research, food processing, and higher studies. Students who gain practical experience through internships, projects, and lab work are generally in a stronger position for
S
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 4 weeks ago
Based on what you've shared:
MHT CET PCB: 89.5 percentile
MHT CET PCM: 61 percentile
You are interested in both Biotechnology/Bioinformatics and CSE/IT/AI-ML.
My recommendation
I would suggest you choose B.Tech Biotechnology or Bioinformatics rather than taking CSE/IT/AI-ML in a low-tier college.
Here's
Answered 4 weeks ago
Yes, you may be eligible for B.Tech Biotechnology, but it depends on the admission policy of the university.
Here's how your profile looks:
Biology through NIOS: ✅ Accepted by many universities, provided they recognize NIOS and allow Biology as the qualifying subject.
Class 12 marks: 72% ✅ Meets the e
Answered 4 weeks ago
Students with startup ideas at Galgotias University get a chance to explore entrepreneurship through mentorship, activities, and a supportive environment that helps them work on their ideas.
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 4 weeks ago
For the Shiv Nadar University BSc Biotechnology program, candidates can absolutely use valid NEET scores. Scores from the current or previous year are acceptable. This provision helps biology-heavy students avoid math-centric engineering exams.
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 4 weeks ago
St Joseph's University Bangalore distributes its total BSc intake across multiple popular and specialised Science combinations. The university limits seat numbers intentionally to preserve an excellent student-faculty ratio in every class. Tracks like Computer Science, Biotechnology, and Math see ex
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
The subjects included in the first year of BTech biotechnology at KCT, Coimbatore, are:
- Fundamental of English Communication-I
- Linear Algebra and Calculus
- Engineering Graphics
- Engineering Physics
- Problem Solving and Programming in C
- Engineering Clinics I
These are the basic subjects which is common in ever
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
KCT, Coimbatore provides 69 seats for BTech Biotechnology students. These are divided into management quotas and government quotas. If you are a Tamil Nadu student you will get a seat through government quota, and if you are from other states, the seat will be allotted through management quota. Stud
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Students can complete BE Biotechnology course of BITS Pilani Dubai in 4 years. The practice school programme at BITS Dubai offers students a chance to practice what they have learnt in global organizations, under the supervision of a mentor. For admission to this course, Indian students must have pa
C
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Lovely Professional University (LPU) is a great substitute, even though investigating the caliber of teachers for a B.Tech. Biotechnology program offers a solid and legitimate basis for your academic plans. LPU provides top-notch biotechnology programs with highly skilled, research-focused staff, cu
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Guru Nanak Khalsa College has released the cutoff for minority students on the third merit list. The cutoff for the Buddhist students is 69.83%, while the cutoff for Christian students is 69.67%.
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
BSc Biotechnology at Amity University Mumbai requires you to pass Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology with a minimum of 55% marks. You will not be eligible for this specific specialisation if you did not study these core Science subjects in school.
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered a month ago
Amity University, Jaipur BSc (hons) in Biotechnology fees is INR 2.72 Lacs in academic year 2026. Candidates will be charged this fees on per annum basis at INR 68,000. However, if candidates choose to exit within three years of this course, they are only chaged INR 2.04 lakh.
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Yes, candidates who wish to apply for BTech in Biotechnology at NIT Andhra Pradesh must have Mathematics as a mandatory subject. Along with this, candidates are also required to have Physics as a mandatory subject as well. Biology is an optional subject that candidates can have over chemistry for th
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
MSU Baroda has Master of Science in Biotechnology course available at the postgraduate level. The total seat intake for the available course is 30.
Amrita School of Biotechnology also has MSc Biotechnology course available at the PG level.
MSU is a government university. Whereas, Amrita is a private
I
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
CSJMU Kanpur MSc in Biotechnology has a fee structure of around INR 57,900. This course is slightly more expensive due to the advanced lab equipment and materials needed. Biotechnology involves a lot of practical work which adds to the operational costs. However, compared to many private colleges, t
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
CSJMU Kanpur MSc courses in Life Sciences and Biotechnology both offer 80 seats each. This is a good number for students aiming for these popular branches. Having 80 seats means the university can accommodate a diverse group of learners. It also ensures that the faculty-to-student ratio remains mana
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
CSJMU Kanpur MSc in Biotechnology is open to graduates in fields like Pharma, MBBS, or Biology. You need at least 40% marks to be eligible for admission. While there is no strict age bar mentioned, the university follows state government relaxation rules for reserved categories. This means more stud
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Both the courses have their own significance in terms of the course structure, curriculum, and focus areas. However, the comparison can be drawn based on factors like tuition fees, placements, etc. Below is the comparison between NIT Allahabad Biotechnology and NIT Puducherry CSE:
| Particulars | Tuition Fees | Average Package (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| NIT Puducherry | INR 5 L | INR 9.8 LPA |
| NIT Allahabad | INR 5 L | INR 8.4 LPA |
Answered 2 months ago
After completing BCom course, students can work in various jobs. Those include Accountant, Investment Banker, Tax analyst, etc. Also, they can go for higher studies like MCom, MBA, etc.
B
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Many career opportunites are there after the course. Students can look for jobs or go for higher studies. Some job profiles in which students can work are Microbiologist, Biochemist, Lab Technician, etc. They can also take admissions in MSc, MBA, etc.
B
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
There are total 60 seats in the BSc (Hons) Biotechnology course. The course is offered for four years in full-time mode. Seats are allotted on the basis of entrance exam score. The institute accepts RUAS AT exam for admissions.
B
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Absolutely, a BSc in Biotechnology can be a good backup, especially from a top college such as Ramniranjan Jhunjunwala College of Arts, Science, and Commerce. It has shown decent outcomes for its BSc in Biotechnology course. Its tuition fee is ~INR 87K, with an average salary of INR 2,36,705, as per
S
Contributor-Level 10
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