Biotechnology Subjects List 2025: Check Semester-wise Subjects & Syllabus

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

Diya NihalaniContent Author

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:

  • Evolution of life

  • Origin of life

  • Biodiversity

  • Three domains of life

  • Nutrients

  • Genes and chromosomes

  • DNA replication

  • Transcription and translation

  • Biological Systems

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:

  • Dimensions and units

  • Basic biochemical calculations

  • Material balances without biochemical reaction

  • Material balances involving biochemical reaction

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:

  • Genes, chromosomes, and heredity

  • Cell division and cell cycle

  • Chromosome mutations

  • Linkage, crossing over, and chromosome mapping

  • Sex determination and sex-linked characteristics

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:

  • Structure and function of biomolecules

  • Basic concept and design of metabolism

  • Nitrogen fixation

  • Integration of metabolisms

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:

  • Deterministic models,

  • Stochastic models, and

  • Graph theory-based analysis of biological networks

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

  • Algology and Bryology

  • Mycology

  • Cell Biology and Evolution

  • Animal Diversity

  • Microbiology

  • Plant Anatomy

  • Plant Biotechnology

  • Phytochemicals

  • Agriculture and Horticulture

  • Microbial Technology

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

  • Basic Virology

  • Basic Immunology

  • Tissue Culture and Cell Biology

  • Basic Epidemiology and Biostatistics

  • Virology Methods

  • Virus/Antigen Detection

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

  • Physiological Ecology

  • Community Ecology

  • Population Ecology

  • Geographic Ecology

  • Landscape 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.

Biotechnology Syllabus: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is the scope of Biotechnology?

A. Some subjects covered in B.Tech in Biotechnology courses are: • Human Biology • Cell Biology • Plant Science • Microbiology • Structural Biochemistry • Food Microbiology • Genetics • Immunology • Food Processing

Q. Is Biotechnology a good course?

A. Generally, B.Tech in Biotechnology is considered one of the most preferred options by students who are passionate about biology and engineering. The course prepares students with many transferable skills that help them land high-paying jobs. It contains many specializations to choose from, and its interdisciplinary nature helps students acquire jobs in many industries.

Q. What is the salary of a Biotechnology professional?

A. The average salary of a B.Tech in Biotechnology professional ranges between Rs. 2 lakh per annum and Rs. 10 lakh per annum. This salary varies depending on your choice of career. You can become a medical writing executive, medical representative, professional lab technician, microbiologist, or one of the many other professionals.

Q. Will I get a job after the Biotechnology course?

A. After completing B.Tech in Biotechnology, you can become one of the following professionals: • Research Scientist • Lecturer of Biology • Production In-Charge • Quality Control Officer • Biotechnologist

Q. Which is better: B.Sc. Biotechnology or B.Tech Biotechnology?

A. Both B. Sc. Biotechnology and B.Tech Biotechnology courses have their merits. The choice of either one of these depends on your long-term goals. If you wish to learn in detail about industrial processes, B.Tech in Biotechnology offers better practical knowledge. On the contrary, students wishing to perform R&D in Biological Sciences can opt for B.Sc. and M.Sc. programs.

Q. Does Biotechnology require NEET ?

A. Biotechnology is a field that studies the combination of Biology and Technology. As it is an engineering course, it does not require NEET scores for admission.

Q. Which type of Biotechnology is the best?

A. The Biotechnology careers in the most demand are Microbiologists, Epidemiologists, R&D Scientists, Medical Scientists, Biotechnological Technicians, and Clinical Lab Technologists. Depending on your preferences, you can select one of these careers to achieve excellence in your field.

Q. Is there any entrance exam for Biotechnology?

A. Yes. You can appear for one of the many entrance exams conducted for Biotechnology courses. For admission in B.Sc. programs, the most preferred exams are DUET, KIITEE, JMI Entrance exam, and KCET. The major entrance exams for B.Tech courses are JEE Mains, JEE Advanced, MHTCET, UPSEE, WBJEE, OJEE, KCET, COMEDK, and BCECT.

Q. Is JEE required for Biotechnology?

A. Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains and Advanced are compulsory for getting admission into IITs, NITs, and other nationally reputed institutions for providing an excellent education. With the help of JEE Mains scores, you can get into many local colleges as well.

Q. Is Biotechnology hard to study?

A. Biotechnology is a combination of Biology and Technology. This makes it a complex branch of science that requires dedicated study of theoretical topics and understanding of life processes. Additionally, you must have a passion for continuously seeking the best opportunities for getting practical training and hands-on experience.

Q. Do you need Math for Biotechnology?

A. You must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects for seeking admission into engineering colleges. If you’re pursuing a B.Sc. in Biotechnology, Mathematics is not a compulsory subject.

Q. Is Biology compulsory for B.Tech in Biotechnology?

A. Biology is only compulsory for admission into some universities. If you wish to get admitted to B.Tech in Biotechnology courses in the best colleges like IITs and NITs, you must have studied Biology as a core subject in 10+2. However, if you wish to get into other colleges like VJIT, DY Patil Colleges, and others, studying Biology is optional.

Q. Can PCB students do B.Tech in Biotechnology?

A. Biotechnology graduate or postgraduate has a thorough knowledge of biology, physics, engineering, mathematics, and chemistry. They can develop the technology required for making products and processes for biological systems and living organisms. With the acquired knowledge, a Biotechnology graduate can get into these fields:

Table of content
  • Popular Biotechnology Course Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Biotechnology Course Colleges in India
  • Popular Exams
  • Most Popular Courses
  • Popular Biotechnology Course UG Courses
  • Popular Biotechnology Course PG Courses

Popular Biotechnology Course Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Biotechnology Course Colleges in India. Learn more about these Biotechnology Course colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
3 L - 20.18 L
3.6

#38 NIRF

Biotechnology Applications open. Apply Now

2 Courses
99 K - 2.2 L
4.72 LPA

#14 The Week

1 Course
1.41 L
6.23 LPA

#89 NIRF

3.4 L - 7.14 L
5.16 - 6.14 LPA

#60 NIRF

2.7 L
3.5 LPA

#11 NIRF

58.27 K
3.5 - 4 LPA

#14 NIRF

Popular Private Biotechnology Course Colleges in India

1 L - 2.25 L
3.7

#108 NIRF

1.2 L - 1.48 L
3.0
3 L - 6.4 L
4.1

#40 NIRF

1 Course
3.01 L
3.0
3 Courses
1.35 L - 2.8 L
3 L - 3.75 L

Biotechnology Applications open. Apply Now

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Biotechnology Course. Students interested in pursuing a career on Biotechnology Course, 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

Oct '25

OUAT 2025 Campus Reporting for UG Courses for Mop...

TENTATIVE

Nov '25

OUAT 2025 Campus Reporting for Master's Programme...

TENTATIVE

Popular Biotechnology Course UG Courses

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

UG Courses

Popular Biotechnology Course PG Courses

Following are the most popular Biotechnology Course 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 week ago

For students interested in biotechnology, Chandigarh University offers many ways to grow in research. The university supports students with funding for innovation projects and provides access to international journals like Critical Reviews in Biotechnology (impact factor 9) and Food Packaging and Sh

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Preekshit Singh

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Students of Biotechnology at Chandigarh University can access international internship opportunities through the university's tie-ups with foreign institutions. For example, the university has a partnership with SUP'BIOTECH in France, offering students exposure to advanced biotechnology programs and

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Preekshit Singh

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology students at Chandigarh University are offered structured training to strengthen their communication and soft skills. The programme includes dedicated labs and exercises that focus on speaking, listening, and professional behavior. Students take part in activities like group discussions

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Preekshit Singh

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology students have diverse career options across healthcare, pharma, and agriculture industries. In healthcare and pharma, they can work on drug research, vaccine development, and diagnostics. At Chandigarh University, students attend expert sessions on molecular biology, bioprocess scale-u

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Preekshit Singh

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

At Chandigarh University, the placement trend for biotechnology students is steadily positive. In the latest batch, 27 out of 39 students were placed, which is about 69%. More than 20 companies participated, ranging from pharma giants to biotech start-ups.

The salary packages vary, with an average o

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Diksha S

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

After finishing biotechnology, students have many job options. They can join research and development in universities, government labs or companies working on new technologies. Biopharmaceutical and biologics sectors need skilled graduates to help make drugs and vaccines. Consulting and regulatory a

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Amrit

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Innovation and research are strong in Chandigarh University's Biotechnology department. The department has filled many patents in India over the years. Faculty patents include work on biofertilizers, fermented drinks, antioxidant formulations for skin, and new laboratory tools. Students have also fi

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Amrit

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology students regularly get to explore Science beyond books through incentive workshops and events. Expert talks on global challenges, emerging biotech issues, and research innovations help students learn new ideas and solutions. Hands-on workshops on microbian fermentation, bioprocess deve

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Amrit

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Teachers here have good experience and some have international exposure. Students get chances to work on  real projects, visit industries, and do internships which help them see how art works in real life. The campus has well-equipped studios and labs with modern tools for practice and research. The

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Diksha

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a week ago

At Chandigarh University, Biotechnology students can engage with international faculty through multiple initiatives. The university collaborates with over 460 universities in 90 countries, which makes it easier for students to access global knowledge. International professors often visit CU for lect

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Amrit

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Students studying Biotechnology at Chandigarh University are often trained in bioinformatics, which helps them understand large biological datasets. Universities provide dedicated labs with software and tools to teach data analysis in genomics and proteomics. This training makes students confident i

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Tanya

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

 The Biotechnology department at Chandigarh University provides state-of-the-art infrastructure to support its academic programs. Classrooms are equipped with digital tools to aid in teaching, creating an engaging learning environment. The department boasts specialised laboratories, including those

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Mahi Sharma

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology students receive regular mentorship from experts to strengthen their learning and research skills. Chandigarh University organizes workshops, seminars, and symposiums with specialists like Dr. Charles Oluwaseun Adetunji and Dr. Anirban Roy Choudhary, who share knowledge on bioprocessin

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S

Sakshi Sharma

Beginner-Level 2

Answered a week ago

Chandigarh University encourages biotechnology innovation through research and startup support. The University Institute of Biotechnology (UIBT) offers research-oriented courses and opportunities to work on government-funded projects. Students can publish research, file patents, and develop new solu

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S

Sachitanand singh

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology combines biology and technology to solve real-world problems. Chandigarh University offers a B.Sc. in Biotechnology for students who pass 10+2 with 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and a related subject like Biology or Agriculture. The course duration is 4 years, with a semester fee of

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Logesh Babu

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

The career scope in biotechnology is wide. Graduates can join industries like biopharmaceuticals, clinical research, or consulting firms. They can also apply in government organizations like CSIR, ICMR, or BIRAC. Agriculture, food, and environmental sectors also offer good opportunities. With proper

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Harpreet Kaur

Beginner-Level 1

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology at Chandigarh University is a course that mixes Science with modern research.The study covers life, cells, and technology in a very detailed way. The subjects start with core areas like General Microbiology, Cell Biology, Elementary Biochemistry, and Fundamentals of Chemistry. There ar

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Nabhjeet Sahota

Beginner-Level 1

Answered a week ago

 Chandigarh University ensures that biotechnology students have access to numerous research journals and online databases. Students get access to specialised publications covering biotechnology, bioinformatics, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. This helps them with their research work, pro

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Vijay Thakur

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

 The library at Chandigarh University is well-equipped for Biotechnology students. It offers a comprehensive collection of books, journals, and digital resources that encompass all major areas of biotechnology. Students can study in quiet spaces or use IT-enabled facilities for better research work.

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Ritin Kansal

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

For admission in B.Sc. Biotechnology at Chandigarh University, the requirement is 10+2 passed with at least 50% marks. Subjects must include Physics and Chemistry, along with either Biology, Botany, Zoology, Agriculture, or Mathematics. The exam must be from a recognised board or council. The durati

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95450628
Richa Sharma

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a week ago

Yes, biotechnology students work in advanced labs at the university. Facilities like fermentation and bioprocess engineering labs give them real-time experience. They can test, analyze, and develop new processes using modern machines. The labs encourage learning by doing. This helps students connect

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Dashanpreet Singh

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

The alumni network of biotechnology is helpful for present students. Graduates of Chandigarh University are placed in companies like Serum Institute, Panacea Biotech, and Abbott. Many are also pursuing higher studies in India or abroad. They share their journey with juniors through talks and webinar

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Dashanpreet Singh

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

Yes, students of biotechnology often go for field trips and study tours. These visits may include farms, hospitals, or industries where biotechnology is applied. Students get exposure to agriculture practices, vaccine production, or food processing methods. Such visits help them connect their classr

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Dashanpreet Singh

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

Interdisciplinary learning is very important in biotechnology. At Chandigarh University, students do not only study biology, they also explore engineering ideas, mathematics, and technology. The labs like DNA technology, microbiology, and fermentation give them a chance to use concepts from differen

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Dashanpreet Singh

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

In biotechnology programs, students are trained thoroughly in both lab safety and ethical practices. Laboratory safety training includes learning to use personal protective equipment (PPE), proper cleaning and disposal of lab materials, and following safety protocols to prevent contamination or acci

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Raj Sharma

Beginner-Level 3

Answered a week ago

Yes, Chandigarh University offers transportation facilities for students, including those in the Biotechnology program. The university runs a fleet of modern buses that cover a 100-kilometer radius around the campus. These buses offer pick-up and drop-off services from fixed locations, making travel

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V

Vijay Thakur

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a week ago

Chandigarh University provides scholarships for students enrolling in the Biotechnology programme to help them manage fees and encourage academic excellence. One of the main ways to get a scholarship is through the Chandigarh University Common Entrance Test (CUCET). Based on the marks obtained in th

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Uttam

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology students at Chandigarh University have many chances to learn beyond classrooms. The university organizes workshops and seminars where students meet experts from industries and research institutes. For example, there have been sessions on “Emerging Challenges in Biotechnology” by Dr. Ja

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Uttam

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a week ago

Biotechnology students at Chandigarh University actively participate in both national and international conferences. These events give them a platform to present their research, share findings, and discuss ideas with experts from academia and industry. Students get exposure to different fields like

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Uttam

Contributor-Level 6

Answered a week ago

At Chandigarh University, biotechnology students are guided to write and publish papers during their study. They get support from faculty who are experts in their field. Students are encouraged to work on topics like fermentation, agriculture, or medical biotechnology. With the help of advanced labs

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Uttam

Contributor-Level 6

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