Biotechnology Engineering Syllabus 2024: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books

Updated on Jan 6, 2025 05:58 IST
Vidhi Jain

Vidhi JainContent Writer

Biotechnology Engineering is a comprehensive course at the intersection of engineering and medicine. It is concerned with studying the behaviour and manipulation of cells for the advancement of mankind. By integrating biology and technology in a unique manner, the subject seeks to develop new and advanced mechanisms for the human body.

Syllabus: Important Facts for Biotechnology Engineering

  • BTech in Biotechnology or Biotechnology Engineering is a 4-year course: It is a graduate-level course with both semester and annual examinations. This professional study utilises biological subsidiaries to develop technology for improving daily life.

  • Scope of Biotechnology Engineering in India: There is a vast scope for Biotechnology Engineering professionals in India. India is among the top contributors to the biotechnology engineering field at approximately 19%. By the year 2025, the Biotechnology sector in India is expected to reach a whopping US$ 150 billion.

A BTech (Biotechnology) graduate does not have to worry about employment opportunities as there are ample jobs in various sectors like agriculture, medical industry, and food industries among others.

  • BTech Biotechnology syllabus in IITs: The Indian Institute of Technology is a popular choice among budding professionals for the course as it offers an in-depth subject study along with several career options.

  • Program Objectives of B.Tech in Biotechnology: Provide methods to support and perform basic research in Biological Sciences. Students will get to learn how to:

  1. Modify living organisms according to human purposes i.e., genetic engineering, cell and tissue culture among others.

  2. Upgrade the quality of human life by modifying agriculture, food science and the health industry.

  3. Improve field study and amass information for research and development.

  • General examination pattern: The examination pattern of B.Tech in Biotechnology is the same as any other B.Tech study. It consists of both semester-wise and annual examinations along with practicals and field studies.

List of Subjects in Biotechnology Engineering

Candidates can check below the list of subjects in Biotechnology Engineering

Typical Core Subjects for Biotechnology Engineering

Subject Title

Subject Details

Environmental Science & Engineering

This subject includes understanding, analysing, and responding to adverse environmental effects such as ozone depletion, contamination of surroundings, global warming and the like.

It employs engineering principles to the conservation of environment, prevent risk of environment pollution and find solutions for a fulfilling biodiversity.

Molecular Biology & Genetics Lab

This subject deals with the study of biological interaction, operations and functions at the molecular level, via modifying the cellular framework of RNA, DNA, proteins and various other cytoskeletal structures in providing ultimate answers to certain conditions like ageing and cancers.

Bioinformatics

Also known as computational biotechnology, bioinformatics is a vital part of Biotechnology engineering course.

This subject makes use of computer programs and engineering technology to collect, store, analyse and interpret the data obtained from biology.

It is then applied to understand the dynamics, evolutionary timeline and employ in drug development, antibody production, crop management and the like.

Microbiology

Microbiology is one of the most widely-studied subjects in Biotechnology. Focused on studying the behaviour and characteristics of various microorganisms, the module also deals with their usage in day-to-day life.

It deals with various interesting topics such as:

  • Virology

  • Bacteriology

  • Parasitology

  • Immunology

  • Mycology

It utilises the properties and microbe subsidiaries to create products like dairy, beverages, vaccines, drugs and hence, create products for Improved standards of living.

Bioethics, Biosafety & IPR Issues

Candidates are made aware of the laws, ethics and philosophy on various aspects of Biotechnology engineering.

In-depth coaching and training on concepts related to intellectual property rights, copyright issues, patents, and ethics are imparted to the students.

The course is ideal for students with an interest in biotechnology and its associations with the law.

Typical Elective Subjects for Biotechnology Engineering

Subject Title

Subject Details

Fermentation Technology

Fermentation process is an important phenomenon for the production of various substances like beer, cheese, and wine.

Integrating biological sciences with technology to boost food sciences thus improve production and meet the increasing public demand is the aim of this subject.

Medical Biotechnology

This department involves the use of technology in medical sciences to discover drugs and products, vaccines, antibiotics, prosthetics, hormones like insulin, diagnostic tests among others.

Innovative solutions are required to tackle the emerging problems of mankind, therefore medical biotechnology is a crucial key to be used in enterprises.

The recent genetic therapy, counselling and testing is also included under this.

Drug and Pharmaceuticals Biotechnology

This new specialisation involves the use of methods to support and perform basic research and help in the development of drugs and pharmaceutical sciences.

Usage of recombinant technology in production of antibiotics, tests and the like makes Biotechnology engineering an emerging and demanding field.

Animal Biotechnology

This specialisation involves the use of biotechnology;

  • To produce increased and nutritive animal produce

  • Boost dairy production

  • To use research-based knowledge for the protection of animal life

Candidates are taught how to apply theoretical knowledge to the practical arena and understand the application of technology in developing animal sciences.

Environmental Biotechnology

 

Aspirants are imparted appropriate skills regarding;

  • The reduction of environmental wastes

  • Providing environmentally safe processes such as biodegradation and biofiltration

  • Prevention of environmental pollution and remediation of polluted environments.

Detailed Syllabus for Biotechnology Engineering

Semester

Core/Elective

Subject Title

Subject Details

1

Environmental Science and Engineering

Environmental Science & Engineering

This course includes understanding, analysing and responding to adverse environmental effects such as Ozone depletion, contamination of surroundings, global warming and the like.

It employs engineering principles to the conservation of environment, prevent risk of environment pollution and find solutions for a fulfilling biodiversity.

2

Electronics Engineering

Basic Electronics Engineering

This subject serves to help students of biotechnology engineering with concepts of electrical and electronics.

Sufficient skills and knowledge is imparted to the students both theoretically and in practical terms.

3

Microbiology

Microbiology

This module deals with various topics like:

  • Virology

  • Bacteriology

  • Parasitology

  • Immunology

  • Mycology

It utilises the properties and microbe subsidiaries to create products like dairy, beverages, vaccines, drugs and hence furnish a better living.

4

Molecular Biology and Genetics

Molecular Biology & Genetics Lab

This subject deals with the study of biological interaction, operations and functions at the molecular level, via modifying the cellular framework of RNA, DNA, proteins and various other cytoskeletal structures in providing ultimate answers to certain conditions like ageing and cancers.

5

Plant Biotechnology

Plant Biotechnology

Students are exposed to in-depth study and given hands-on training to discover new possibilities in agribusiness.

They are allotted to create, select, and apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering methods to improve and bring in new traits, increase the viability and resistance of food crops and conserve biodiversity

6

Medical Biotechnology

Medical Biotechnology

This course involves the use of technology in medical sciences to discover drugs and products, vaccines, antibiotics, prosthetics, hormones like insulin, diagnostic tests among others.

Innovative solutions are required to tackle the emerging problems of mankind, therefore medical biotechnology is a crucial key to be used in enterprises.

The recent genetic therapy, counselling and testing is also included under this.

7

Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics

Also known as computational biotechnology, bioinformatics is a vital part of Biotechnology engineering course.

This subject makes use of computer programs and engineering technology to collect, store, analyse and interpret the data obtained from biology.

It is then applied to understand the dynamics, evolutionary timeline and employ in drug development, antibody production, crop management and the like.

8

Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Drug and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

This new area of study involves the use of methods to support and perform basic research and help in the development of drugs and pharmaceutical sciences.

Usage of recombinant technology in production of antibiotics, tests and the like makes Biotechnology engineering an emerging and demanding field

Specialisations Offered in Biotechnology Engineering

Specialisations

Subjects

Details

Plant Biotechnology

  • Methods for transformation of plants

  • Cells & Evolution

  • Transformation of plants by bacteria and viruses

  • Fungi & Plant Diseases

  • Commercialisation of Biotechnology Products

  • Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology

Students are exposed to in-depth study and given hands-on training to discover new possibilities in agribusiness.

They are allotted to create, select, and apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering methods to improve and bring in new traits, increase the viability and resistance of food crops and conserve biodiversity.

Animal Biotechnology

  • Animal Genomics

  • Reproductive biotechnology

  • Animal Cell Culture: Principles & applications

  • Fundamentals of Cell & Molecular Biology

  • Molecular Diagnostics

  • Immunology applied to Biotechnology

  • Techniques in Molecular Biology & Genetic Engineering

  • Applied Molecular Biology

This specialisation involves the use of biotechnology:

  • To produce increased and nutritive animal produce

  • Boost dairy production

  • To use research-based knowledge for the protection of animal life

Candidates are taught how to apply theoretical knowledge to the practical arena and understand the application of technology in developing animal sciences.

Environmental Biotechnology

  • Natural Resource Management

  • Industrial Pollution Control

  • Solid & Hazardous Waste Management

  • Environmental Geo-technology

  • Principles of Air & Noise Pollution Management

  • Water & Wastewater Management

  • Modern Tools in Environmental Technology

Aspirants are imparted appropriate skills regarding:

  • The reduction of environmental wastes

  • Providing environmentally safe processes such as biodegradation and biofiltration

  • Prevention of environmental pollution and remediation of polluted environments.

Books and Authors Related to Biotechnology Engineering

Subject

Book Title

Author

Description

Bioethics, Biosafety & IPR Issues

 

Biotech Innovations and Fundamental Rights

Roberto Bin and Sara Lorenzon

This book deals with the issues of copyright, trademarks, ethics, safety procedures and the like.

Given in a precise yet complete manner this book is a must have to understand the legal aspects and framework surrounding biotechnology engineering.

Biotechnology Lab

Practical Biotechnology: Principles and Protocols

Supriya Dash & Swagat Kumar Das H N Thatoi

This book is a must have for all the beginners in biotechnology engineering.

It contains chapters on molecular biology, plant Biotechnology, animal Biotechnology, genetics, bioinformatics. Among others. Written in an easy to understand language this book on biotechnology is a popular one.

Biotechnology

Basic Biotechnology

Ratledge Colin

Regarded as the most basic and primary book to start research study, this one has garnered good response among students.

This book contains wide ranging information on recombinant technology, PCR techniques and genetic screening.

Plant biology

 

High-Tech and Micropropagation V: 5 (Biotechnology in Agriculture and Forestry)

Y.P.S. Bajaj

Plant Biotechnology is an emerging field in biotechnology engineering.

Production of improved crops, food for livestock via hybridization, micropropagation using environment friendly solutions.

Genealogy

Gene Cartels: Biotech Patents in the Age of Free Trade

Luigi Palombi

This book on genealogy is divided into two parts. Part one comprises information on history of patenting and the second on scope of patents in the field of biotechnology engineering.

It is a perfect book for everybody interested in genetics in life sciences.

Entrance Exams for Biotechnology Engineering

Candidates desirous of getting admitted into Biotechnology Engineering course must qualify the entrance exams either at the National, state or University levels. Few entrance exams are given below:

  • JEE Mains

  • JEE Advanced

  • AP EAMCET

  • TS EAMCET

  • MHT CET

  • KCET

  • DPU AIBTCET

  • IPU CET

  • Jamia Millia Islamia Entrance Exam

  • Manipal Institute Entrance Exam

JEE Mains comprises two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2. It is an MCQ type entrance exam and qualifying in JEE Mains will pave the way for a seat in prestigious institutes like the Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) spread across India, whereas passing JEE Advance will be the road to admissions in National Institute of Technology (NITs).

Furthermore, the candidate must possess a minimum aggregate of 75 percent in 10+2, with PCB as the branch of study in +2 and should attain a minimum of 17 years of age at the time of examination.

Syllabus for Distance Program in Biotechnology Engineering

Distance learning programs are ideal for those who wish to pursue professional or vocational training. Candidates who wish to work simultaneously or study other courses alongside can choose this option.

The curriculum and examination pattern for the course would be almost similar to a full-time programme.

Few colleges/universities which provide distance learning programs in Biotechnology Engineering are:

  • IIMT University, Meerut

  • UEC Ujjain

  • SRM Institute of Science and Technology

  • PMIST Thanjavur

  • GCT Coimbatore

  • Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute

Top Colleges for Biotechnology Engineering

S. No.

College/University/Institution

Syllabus PDFs

1

Indian Institute of Technology Delhi

(IIT Delhi)

To be uploaded soon

2

Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee)

Download Here

3

Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad)

To be uploaded soon

4

National Institute Of Technology Warangal (NIT Warangal)

Download Here

5

National Institute Of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela)

Download Here

6

Osmania University (OU)

To be uploaded soon

7

Vellore Institute Of Technology (VIT)

To be uploaded soon

8

Delhi Technological University

Download Here

9

Anna University (AU)

To be uploaded soon

10

Lovely Professional University (LPU)

To be uploaded soon

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the scope of Biotechnology Engineering?

A. There is ample scope for Biotechnology engineering course graduates in India. According to a recent study, It is found that India will be among the top contributors to the field of biotechnology engineering by the year 2025.

Q. What are the subjects in Biotechnology Engineering?

A. There are several subjects in the Biotechnology Engineering course. Few of them include:
  • Medical Biotechnology

  • Plant Biotechnology

  • Environmental Biotechnology

  • Microbiology

  • Drug and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

  • Bioinformatics

Q. Is Biotechnology Engineering a good course?

A. Yes. Biotechnology engineering is a good course. This recently emerging field comes with multiple career choices and immense scope.

Q. Is NIT Warangal a good college for BTech in Biotechnology?

A. Yes. NIT Warangal is a good college for B.Tech in Biotechnology. Several career placements with a promising package is one of the highlights for aspiring biotechnologists to enrol for the course.

Q. What are some common subjects taught as part of BTech in Biotechnology?

A. Some common subjects taught as a part of B Tech Biotechnology are:
  • Plant Biotechnology

  • Animal Biotechnology

  • Environmental Biotechnology

  • Drug and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

  • Bioinformatics

  • Microbiology

  • Molecular biology

Q. What is better - Biotechnology Engineering or Biomedical Engineering?

A. Both these courses cannot be compared. Each one is better on its own. If you're someone who wants to study biology and its related process through the lens of technology and its evolution, biotechnology engineering can be an ideal choice.

Q. Does Biotechnology Engineering require NEET?

A. No. Biotechnology Engineering does not require NEET as it is an engineering course.

Q. Is there any entrance exam for Biotechnology Engineering?

A. Yes. Biotechnology Engineering is a professional course and qualifying for entrance exams is necessary to make it to the institutions. Few of the entrance exams are JEE Mains, JEE Advance, MHT CET among others.

Q. Is JEE required for Biotechnology Engineering?

A. JEE Mains is required to get into the BTech Biotechnology course in NITs across India whereas JEE Advance is required for admissions for the same into the IITs.

Q. Is Biotechnology Engineering difficult to study?

A. No. Biotechnology Engineering is not a difficult course to pursue. Learning the subject from prestigious institutions and referring to sourcebooks will suffice to graduate.

Q. Do you need Maths for Biotechnology Engineering?

A. No. Maths as a subject is not compulsory for the Biotechnology Engineering course. Yet, there are certain Universities/Institutes which mandate Math like NITs.

Q. What are some popular specialisations I can pursue after completing my Biotechnology engineering degree?

A. Some popular specialisations one can pursue after the completion of Biotechnology Engineering course are:
  • Plant Biotechnology

  • Animal Biotechnology

  • Environmental Biotechnology

Q. What is the annual fee for pursuing a BTech in Biotechnology in India?

A.T he annual fee for pursuing a B Tech in Biotechnology in India is about INR 4-5 Lakhs.

Popular Exams

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

22 Jan ' 25 - 24 Jan ' 25

JEE Main 2025 Exam Date Session 1 - Paper 1

28 Jan ' 25 - 29 Jan ' 25

JEE Main 2025 Exam Date Session 1 - Paper 1

7 Jan ' 25

GATE 2025 Admit Card

1 Feb ' 25

GATE 2025 Exam (CS1 | AG | MA | CS2 | NM | MT | T...

30 Dec ' 24 - 15 Feb ' 25

MHT CET 2025 Application Form

16 Feb ' 25 - 22 Feb ' 25

MHT CET 2025 Application Form with late fee

Popular Biotechnology Engineering Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Biotechnology Engineering Colleges in India. Learn more about these Biotechnology Engineering colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
4 Courses
3 L - 8 L
14 - 20.5 LPA

#1 India Today

2 Courses
3.6 L - 6.92 L
4.0

Top 25 in India

Biotechnology Engineering Applications open. Apply Now

5 Courses
1.23 L - 6.87 L
4.1

#7 India Today

2 Courses
10 K - 20 K
17 LPA

#3 The Week

5 Courses
20 K - 10 L
21.28 LPA

#4 India Today

3.2 L - 10 L
6 - 6.1 LPA

Top 25 in Tamil Nadu

Popular Private Biotechnology Engineering Colleges in India

1 Course
2 L
5.75 LPA
1 Course
3.55 L
3.25 LPA
2 Courses
1.81 L - 2.4 L
2.8 LPA
2 Courses
2.42 L - 3.18 L
2.5
3 Courses
78 K - 2.42 L
3.4
3 Courses
1.1 L - 3.39 L
5 - 5.74 LPA

Popular Biotechnology Engineering UG Courses

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

UG Courses

Popular Biotechnology Engineering PG Courses

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

PG Courses

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Student Forum

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Write here...

Answered 5 hours ago

Yes, it is. A branch of technology known as biotechnology uses biological systems, living creatures, or fragments of them to develop or produce various goods and procedures. In easy words, it is a combination of biology, engineering, and technology to develop innovative solutions for various challen

...more

M

Mani Lama

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 months ago

It is estimated that joining the top Biotechnology colleges in Uttar Pradesh might be expensive. However, there are some affordable colleges having tuition fees of less than INR 1 lakh are mentioned below:

Low-cost CollegesTuition Fee
Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET)INR 80,000
Rajshree Institute of Management and TechnologyINR 2,000
Wisdom School of Management for Distance EducationINR 25,000
D.N.Polytechnic CollegeINR 19,000 - INR 57,000
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and TechnologyINR 92,000

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10