MSc Biology: Course Fees, Admission 2025, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Mar 31, 2025 06:12 IST

MSc Biology is a PG academic degree which deals with the study of living organisms and pays special attention on their growth, structure, evolution, and ecology. The MSc Biology syllabus offers an in-depth knowledge of genetic reforms that witness structural change and anomalies of living organisms. The duration of this course is 2 years. To be eligible, you need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in BSc Biology or other related field from a recognized university. MSc Biology admissions are majorly based on entrance procedures.

Interested candidates can continue reading the article to get more MSc Biology course details.

MSc Biology Course Details: Highlights

MSc Biology is an apt option for those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of specializations like Botany, Microbiology, Zoology, Anatomy, Marine Biology, etc. Check out some key highlights of the MSc Biology course.

Parameters

Course Details

Level

Postgraduate

Duration

2 Years

Eligibility

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized university.

Admission Procedure

Majorly Entrance Based

Entrance Exams

IIT JAM, CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA, IISER, etc.

Colleges in India

BHU, IISc Bangalore, HOU, SOA, etc.

Course Fees

INR 2,200 to INR 20.76 Lakh

Jobs

Biologist, Research Associate, Microbiologist, Medical Writer, Biochemist, Quality Officer, Assistant Professor, etc.

Top Recruiters

Dr Reddy's Lab Ltd., Aurobindo Pharma, Serum Institute of India, Abbott, IIT Madras, National Institute of Biologicals, and more.

Salary

INR 5 LPA

Source: Multiple sites on the web, may vary.

Relevant Links for MSc Biology:

Top 12 BSc/MSc Scholarships in India

 

Q:   Which field of Biology has a good scope for research?
A:

Genetics, Stem cell Biology, Immunochemistry, Neurobiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, and Cancer Biology are some great fields of Biology that have a lot of scope in the research sector. The integration of technical advancements in these fields is creating new and better job opportunities, along with advanced learning options.

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Q:   Is MSc Biology worth pursuing?
A:

Obtaining a Master's in Biology can boost your earning potential and lead to a variety of career options. Those who have completed this degree can find employment in the fascinating fields in both the short and long term. The Biology field has something for everyone. You can either pursue your career in research or development, join healthcare services, be in the agriculture or aquaculture field, and more.

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Q:   Are there any new developments in the field of Biology?
A:

The research, development, hospitality, and other sectors are also evolving with advancing technology and the field of Biology has also seen some drastic changes over the years. Hence, the new developments that are being adopted by the field of Biological Science include Advanced Genome Sequencing Solutions, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning in data interpretation, Tissue Engineering, CRISPR technology for gene editing, and more. These developments open doors to breakthroughs as well as new employment opportunities for Biology students.

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Table of contents
  • MSc Biology Eligibility Criteria
  • MSc Biology Admission 2025
  • MSc Biology Entrance Exams 2025
  • MSc Biology Specializations
  • MSc Biology Syllabus 2025
  • Best MSc Biology Colleges in India
  • Popular Private MSc Biology Colleges in India
  • MSc Biology Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • MSc Biology Course FAQs
  • Most Popular Courses
  • Course Cutoffs
View More

MSc Biology Eligibility Criteria

MSc Biology eligibility criteria may vary depending on specific college’s requirements, however, the basic requirement each candidate has to fulfil is:

  • A bachelor’s degree in BSc Biology or any relevant discipline.
  • Secure minimum of 50-60% aggregate score from a recognized university.
  • 5% Relaxation is granted for reserved classes such as SC/ST/OBC etc.
  • There is no age limit specified as such.

Students also liked topics in MSc Biology:

Delhi University PG Courses

IISER Eligibility Criteria

 

Q:   Who is eligible for an MSc Biology?
A:

A candidate who has a bachelor's degree in BSc Biology or any other relevant discipline with a minimum of 50-60% aggregate score from a recognized university is eligible for an MSc in Biology course. 

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Q:   Is there any specific eligibility criteria to sit for CUET-PG exam for M.Sc in Botany?
A:

Hi, here's the eligibility criteria to sit for CUET-PG exam for MSc in Botany:

A Bachelor's degree in Life Science subject or any relevant Biology discipline.
Minimum aggregate of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/PwD).

Hope this will help!

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MSc Biology Admission 2025

The admission process for every MSc Biology college differs. Here's a general guide to the MSc Biology admission procedure:

  1. Conduct a lot of research and know the eligibility for the UG and PG courses in your chosen college.
  2. Look out for whether the admission requires appearing in any entrance; if yes, then choose the exam accordingly.
  3. Register, prepare, and appear for the exams accepted/ conducted by the colleges and wait for the results.
  4. Apply to the universities/ colleges by filling out the application/ registration form
  5. You'll get shortlisted on the basis of your scores.
  6. Attend the college counselling sessions and fill out the choice forms.
  7. Pay the fees and get your documents verified before you start with your classes.

 

Q:   Which documents do I need to carry during M.Sc Biology admission process?
A:

Here is the list of some important documents that you should carry during MSc Biology admission process:

  • Valid ID Proof (Adhar/PAN Card/Passport, etc.)
  • Bachelor's degree from a recognised univerisity.
  • Migration Certificate.
  • Passport-sized photographs.

MSc Biology Entrance Exams 2025

MSc Biology admissions are based on both entrance exams and merit procedures. However, most colleges prefer national, state, or university-level entrance exam scores. In the table below, candidates can find some popular MSc Biology entrance exams’ list with details:

Exam Schedule

Exam Date

 

 

IIT JAM Exam 2025

Feb 2, 2025 (Conducted)

 

 

CUET-PG Exam 2025

13 March - 1 Apr ’25

 

 

ICAR AIEEA Exam 2025

June ’25

 

 

IISER Entrance Exam 2025

15 May ’25

 

 

BITSAT Exam 2025

26 - 30 May ’25 (Phase 1)

22 - 26 June '25 (Phase 2)

 

 

Source: Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Quick Links relevant to MSc Biology:

7 Reasons Why to Give CUET PG 2025 Exam

IIT JAM Toppers 2025 List (OUT): Check Subject Wise Topper Name, Marks vs Rank, Cut off Here

CUET Expected Difficulty Level 2025: Is CUET Easy Or Complicated?

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
14 Dec ' 25 - 14 Jan ' 26

CUET PG 2026 Application Process

ONGOING
01 Dec ' 25 - 14 Jan ' 26

IGNOU TEE Dec 2025 exam

ONGOING
10 Nov ' 25 - 08 Apr ' 26

KIITEE 2026 Registration - Phase 1

ONGOING
Jan ' 26

KALSEE 2026 Application Form Start Date

TENTATIVE
15 Feb ' 26

IIT JAM 2026 Exam Day

Feb ' 26

IIT JAM 2026 Response Sheet

TENTATIVE
Feb ' 26

IIT JAM 2026 Provisional Answer Key

TENTATIVE
DatesPast Exam Dates
21 Nov ' 25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2025 Final Round Counselling: Last Date to re-submission of documents

21 Nov ' 25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2025 Final Round Counselling: Last Date to Verify re-submitted/remaining documents

21 Nov ' 25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2025 Final Round Counselling: Last Date to submit fee

Q:   What is the difficulty level of MSc Microbiology entrance exam?
A:

The MSc Microbiology entrance exam difficulty can be described in the range of moderate to high. For instance, the CUET PG examination is conducted in numerous streams and master's subjects; therefore, it is tricky to determine the difficulty of the examination subject-wise. The difficulty level of the exam differs widely across various subjects and slots. As compared to other national-level entrance exams like CUET PG, IIT JAM, ISI Admission Test, GAT-B, IISER Entrance exam, JEST, NEST examination, Candidates can expect a moderate to tough exam in comparison to state-level entrance examinations like GNDU, UPCATET, SHIATS, MCAER-CET, RUASAT, and OUAT.

Q:   How many ICAR AIEEA PG exam centres can be filled while applying online?
A:

Applicants who want to fill the application form of ICAR AIEEA PG exam. The examination centres where the ICAR AIEEA PG-2024 exam will be conducted are given in Annexure- I hence applicants are advised to refer that before filling the form.

While applying, candidates have to select any four cities of their choice for AIEEA PG 2024 exam. The authorities will efforts to allot city of examination to the candidates in order of the choice opted by them in their application form. However, due to administrative reasons, a different city of nearby area may be allotted. 

MSc Biology Specializations

Biology is a vast subject that covers all the aspects of life and living organisms. Students can also opt for specializations under MSc Biology courses in India for the specific subject they want to study:

MSc Biology Specializations

MSc in Quantitative Biology and Disease Modelling

MSc in Animal Ecology

Master of Applied Genetics

MSc in Biology, Aquatic Ecology

Master of Conservation Biology

MSc in Conservation Biology

MSc in Behavioral and Cognitive Neurosciences (Research)

MSc in Plant Science

MSc in Biology (General)

MSc In Molecular Biology, Medical Biology

MSc in Biochemistry

MSc in Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics

MSc in Infection Biology (with specialism)

MSc in Biotechnology

MSc in Chemical Biology

MSc in Neuroscience

Source: Multiple sites on the web, may vary.

Relevant Links for MSc Biology courses:

Online Education in India

CUET vs Board Exams

 

Popular Specializations

Q:   Which subject is best for MSc Biology?
A:

You'll get to study plenty of subjects in the MSc Biology course including Advanced Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Immunology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, and Plant Biology. Choosing which subject is the best among them completely depends on your interests and future goals. 

The MSc Biology course is available in many specializations, so you can also opt for a specialization to gain a deeper understanding of a specific subject.

MSc Biology Syllabus 2025

The course curriculum of MSc Biology is divided into 4 equal semesters following the 2-year degree program. Students, during the program, get to study topics like Mathematical Physics, Mechanics, Numerical Analysis, Theory of Optimization, Cell Biology, and Analytical Chemistry.

The syllabus structure may differ on the basis of the college, you can find a general overview of the MSc Biology Syllabus in the table below:

Semester I

Biochemistry

Molecular Biology

Immunology

Practical

Semester II

Microbiology

Biophysics

Ecology and Evolution

Practical

Semester III

Cell Biology and Genetics

Molecular Medicine and Virology I: Genomics

Biostatistics, Bioinformatics & Research Methodology

Omics and Molecular Medicine I: Proteomics and Metabolomics

Semester IV

Physiology & Developmental Biology

Omics and Molecular Medicine II

Molecular Medicine and Virology II

Molecular Medicine and Virology III

Note - The info is taken from various sources and may vary.

Links helpful for MSc Biology:

Branches of Science and Their Subfields

CUET Preparation Books 2025: Subject-wise Best Books, Study Materials & Preparation Tips

Q:   Can you recommend some books for M.Sc in Biology course?
A:

Here are some of the best book options for MSc in Biology:

  • Introduction to Research in the Health Sciences by Stephen Polgar.
  • Clinical Biochemistry: Metabolic and Clinical Aspects.
  • Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology by P.S. Verma.
  • Molecular Biology of the Cell by Bruce Alberts.
  • Clinically Oriented Anatomy by Keith L. Moore.
  • The Teeth of Non-Mammalian Vertebrates by B. K. B. Berkovitz.
Q:   Are Biology and Botany different?
A:

The basic difference between both is that Biology is a discipline that covers the study of every living being and Botany is a sub-discipline under Biology that focuses on plants study. 
Under Biology, students study about the structure, function, distribution, taxonomy, and evolution of many organisms. Meanwhile, Botany studies about the structure, properties, biochemical processes, classification, and interactions with the environment. 

Best MSc Biology Colleges in India

There are more than 150 MSc Biology colleges in India, of which, 63 are private and 53 are government institutions. Along with advanced learning, these colleges offer great placement opportunities, hands-on experience, lab sessions, practical learning, and more. Students can take a look at the tables below to find the top MSc Biology college options:

Best MSc Biology Government Colleges in India

Banaras Hindu University, IISc Bangalore, University of Hyderabad, Panjab University, Kerala University, etc., are some top choices among MSc Biology government colleges in India. You can consider the table below for more similar options:

Best Government Colleges

Tuition Fee

Banaras Hindu University

INR 6,662

IISc Bangalore

INR 48,000

University of Hyderabad

INR 14,900 – 46,300

Panjab University

INR 27,830 - 1.22 Lakh

Kerala University

INR 3,360

CUSAT

INR 5,00 – INR 1.3 Lakh

Andhra University

INR 2.80 Lakh

Mysore University

INR 72,670

Madras University

INR 3,000 - INR 5 Lakh

Jamia Hamdard University

INR 2 Lakh

Source: Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Suggested MSc Biology readings:

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NIRF 2024 Rankings - Top 50 Research Institutions in India, Ranks Parameters with Weightage

Best MSc Biology Private Colleges

For MSc Biology Ashoka University, Amity University, Saveetha Institute, BITS Pilani, LPU, etc., are some top choices among private colleges in India. Candidates can consider the table below for more similar options:

Best Private Colleges

Tuition Fee

Amity University

INR 3.16 Lakh

Ashoka University

INR 11.28 Lakh

Banasthali Vidyapith

INR 1.83 - 2.68 Lakh

BITS Pilani

INR 20.76 Lakh

Crescent College

INR 1 Lakh

Galgotias University

INR 92,000 – INR 3.7 Lakh

JSS Mysore

INR 90,000

MGM Institute of Health Sciences

INR 1.57 Lakh

Parul University

INR 2.10 Lakh

Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research

INR 5.25 Lakh

Source: Official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Suggested MSc Biology readings:

Which one is Better, IGNOU or DU Regular?

List of CUET 2025 Colleges in 90-99 percentile; Check Top Universities & Colleges Here

1 Course
6.66 K
9 LPA
36 K
4.3
1 Course
10 L
17 LPA
3.16 L

Biology Applications open. Apply Now

70 K
15.59 LPA
20.76 L
16.15 LPA
Q:   Which is the best college for MSc Biology in India?
A:
There are around 153 MSc in Biology colleges in India. Every college is known for its advanced learning techniques, placement opportunities, etc. However, among these institutions, Banaras Hindu University, IISc Bangalore, University of Hyderabad, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan, and Amity University are some top NIRF ranked colleges in India.
Q:   Which MSc Biology college offers the best placement options?
A:

There are many MSc Biology colleges in India popularly known for their highest placement records. Here are some good options:

Top MSc Biology CollegesAverage Salary Offered
Sunandan Divatia School of Science PlacementsINR 19.2 LPA
BITS Pilani PlacementsINR 18 LPA
BITS Goa PlacementsINR 18 LPA
BITS Hyderabad PlacementsINR 18 LPA
IIT Madras PlacementsINR 15 LPA
IIT Delhi PlacementsINR 15 LPA
IIT Kharagpur PlacementsINR 14.23 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from official body and may vary.

Popular Private MSc Biology Colleges in India

2.1 L
3.16 L

Biology Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
2 L

Biology Applications open. Apply Now

2.5 L
2 Courses
1.64 L - 2.04 L

MSc Biology Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

MSc Biology jobs are available in both private and government sectors. Students can seek employment opportunities in various fields like Healthcare, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture, Aquaculture, Food Industries, Wildlife & Fisheries, and more. Interested students can find some top popular job profiles, along with MSc Biology salary and other details in the table below:

Job Profiles

Average Salary

Biologist

INR 5 LPA

Research Associate

INR 4.7 LPA

Microbiologist

INR 3 LPA

Medical Writer

INR 5.8 LPA

Biochemist

INR 2.6 LPA

Quality Officer

INR 3.8 LPA

Assistant Professor

INR 5.7 LPA

Source: Ambitionbox.com.

Relevant Links for MSc Biology:

Career scope & job opportunities after BSc Biology course

MSc Biology Top Recruiters

An MSc Biology student can foresee their career in several fields. Numerous Multinational Corporations, Research Centers, Food Industries, and Healthcare Companies hire Biology students for multiple job roles. Check out some of the top recruiters for MSc Biology students can seek employment options from:

MSc Biology Top Recruiters

Dr Reddy's Lab Ltd.

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals

Aurobindo Pharma

Mankind Pharma

Serum Institute of India

Aragen Life Sciences Private Ltd.

Abbott

Regency Hospital

IIT Madras

Alkem Laboratories

National Institute of Biologicals

Dr Lal Pathlabs

Source: Multiple sites on the web, may vary.

Relevant Links for MSc Biology:

State Universities Vs Deemed Universities: Which are Better?

Q:   Which are the highest paying jobs after MSc Biology?
A:

Once you complete your MSc Biology degree, it will open doors to a variety of career opportunities in numerous fields. The salary package of a designation is decided based on your relevant experience, skillset, location, and the company hiring you for that specific role. However, being a Research Associate/Assistant Professor/Forest Officer/Microbiologist/Medical Writer, etc., can help you get a good salary package.

Q:   Which are the top recruiting companies for Biological Researchers?
A:

There are numerous private and government organizations hiring Biological researchers for various job roles. Here are some top companies you can seek employment from:

  • Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai
  • Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi
  • Serum Institute of India Ltd.
  • Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd.AstraZeneca Pharma India Ltd.
  • Bharat Biotech
  • GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
  • AstraZeneca Pharma India Ltd.

MSc Biology Course FAQs

Candidates can refer to this section for MSc Biology Course FAQs. 

Q:   What is MSc Biology course?
A:

MSc Biology is a 2-year postgraduate degree program that involves the study of living beings and the environment where they live. It includes everything from the growth of a living form to its evolution, structure, ecology, etc. This study helps fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, research, etc., in many ways.

Q:   Which branch of Biology has more scope?
A:

Though every branch of Biology leads to numerous research and breakthroughs, in my opinion, Microbiology, Genomics & Genetics, Neuroscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry are some of the branches advancing at a pace, creating new scope for research and employment.

Q:   What will I learn in MSc Biology curriculum?
A:

MSc Biology or Master of Science in Biology is a 2-year-long postgraduate degree program specially designed to study all living beings, from humans to microorganisms on our planet. Biology subject is vast enough to hold countless specializations from Biotechnology to Agriculture and more. MSc in Biology students can foresee their careers in plenty of fields including Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Veterinary, Research, Food Industry, and more.

Q:   Why should I study MSc Biology?
A:

There are several reasons why choosing MSc Biology as a Master's programme can be beneficial for a Science student. The scientific study of Biology adopts a broad perspective to understand how all living things and nonliving objects interact with one another. Students who opt for MSc Biology are better able to get the diverse ways that people live.

MSc Biology students are also hired by government organizations like WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, etc., and by MNCs like Coca-Cola, Parle Agro, Sun Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Mankind Pharma, and more, which can help shape their career in the right direction.

Q:   What are some innovative trends in Biology?
A:

The world is technologically advancing, leading to affecting every other sector. The Biology field is no expectation, hence research and development, healthcare, etc., sectors are adapting to these changes. Here are some innovative trends taking place in the Biology field generating more employment opportunities.

  • Genome Sampling and Analysis Solutions: To speed up the Sequencing, mapping, and editing of the genome process, advanced genome sampling and analysis solutions are being developed to help the biotech, pharma, and life sciences solutions.

  • Proteomics: Current protein analysis solutions face a wide range of limitations such as high complexity in analysis, false positivity, low reproducibility, and much more. Hence, Proteomics will help in computing and algorithms to create software solutions that assist in identifying biomarkers and treating rare diseases.

  • Biological Modeling Software Solutions: This will use advanced algorithms, high-performance computing, cloud computing, and more to broaden the scope for Research and Development in Therapeutics, Drug Development, Genetics, etc.

Course Cutoffs

The cutoffs of popular MSc Biology colleges is given below:
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Answered 2 weeks ago

Hi.

Firstly in 12th exam you have secured 50% marks in physics, chemistry and biology related subject.

For admission to the B.Sc. (Hons.) Biology Group at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) through the CUET UG, you must choose the following three domain subjects in Section II of the CUET application form:

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heena agrawal

Scholar-Level 17