Genetic Engineering Syllabus 2024: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
Vidhi JainContent Writer
Genetic Engineering is a collection of techniques that use the recombination of DNA for direct modification of the genetic structure of animals and other organisms. Under this, the genetic makeup of organisms is identified, replicated, modified and transferred using a variety of different approaches. You can apply to pursue a bachelor's degree in Genetic Engineering from a reputable institution with at least 50-60% marks at the 10+2 level.
One can also opt to appear for various entrance exams conducted regularly, offering admission to deserving candidates. These institutions usually offer admission based on additional criteria such as the GD & PI rounds. Genetic engineering has a bright future with the growing number of biotech companies in India.
- Important Facts about Genetic Engineering
- Genetic Engineering Syllabus
- 2.1 Typical Elective Subjects for Genetic Engineering
- Detailed Syllabus for Genetic Engineering
- Specialisations offered in Genetic Engineering
- Books and Authors Related to Genetic Engineering
- Entrance Exams for Genetic Engineering
- Syllabus for Distance Programme in Genetic Engineering
- Top Colleges for Genetic Engineering
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Genetic Engineering
Important Facts about Genetic Engineering
- Tech in Genetic Engineering is an eight-semester course: The BTech in Genetic Engineering is an undergraduate course that studies biological variations, living body mechanisms, heredity, and how genes are transmitted among humans, spanning generations.
After completing the course, students will be able to understand:
- Concepts such as enzymology, chromosomal karyotyping and preparation.
- A theoretical and hands-on approach to forensic science.
- The tools used to analyse gene expression.
- Genetic modification and its uses across industries.
- Tech in Genetic Engineering: A Master of Technology in Genetic Engineering, or M.Tech (Genetic Engineering), is a post-graduate programme in genetic engineering. It focuses on the direct encoding of the human genome using modern DNA technology. The programme is four semesters long and usually lasts for two years.
- MSc in Genetic Engineering: It is a post-graduate programme in Genetics Engineering. The direct human altering of an organism's genome using modern DNA technologies is referred to as genetic engineering. It entails inserting foreign DNA or synthetic genes into the organism under study.
As part of the curriculum, you will learn:
- How modern tools and approaches for manipulating and analysing genetic sequences can be used creatively.
- The role of recombinant DNA technology in biotechnological research.
- Scope in India: The genetic engineering field offers multiple career opportunities. It is a rapidly growing field in India, expected to grow further, to meet the demands of an ever-expanding population. After completing a UG or PG course in genetic engineering, you can work in the medical and pharmaceutical industry, or opt for a research-based role in the agriculture and chemicals industries.
- General Examination Pattern: Generally, students are evaluated based on lab exercises, assignments, small projects, mid-semester examinations, and end-semester examinations.
Genetic Engineering Syllabus
The two tables mentioned below give details about core and elective subjects taught in Genetic Engineering. The curriculum helps students to gain in-depth knowledge about the industry and prepares them for future challenges.
Typical Core Subjects for Genetic Engineering
| Subject title |
Details |
|---|---|
| Cell Biology |
Cell Biology is a subject that explores the basic concepts associated with a cell. The course will cover cell structure, function, and types and help you understand different cell organelles, alongside the methods and causes of cell signalling. As part of the syllabus, students will learn the following: Cell organelles. Cell signalling. Cellular transport. Classification of cell membranes. |
| Engineering Mathematics - I |
Engineering mathematics as a subject seeks to provide students with 360-degree mathematical knowledge to analyse and solve engineering-related problems analytically. Students will learn to apply matrix operations to real-world scenarios, formulate mathematical models and know about Cartesian and Polar coordinates. They will further gain comprehensive knowledge of Matrices, Characteristic equations, Cayley-Hamilton theorem, 3-dimensional analytical geometry, Differential calculus and Integrals. |
| Stem Cell Technology |
Stem cell technology has grown exponentially over the last couple of years. This subject explores the utility of tissue engineering using an immersive theoretical and practical course pedagogy, gaining prominence among people in recent times. Students shall develop a strong research acumen with a hands-on approach to enable practical experience. Topics discussed here include Introduction to stem cell technology, Ethical issues related to cell-based regenerative medicine,Types of stem cells, Developmental biology, human embryology and Cell biology. |
| Genetics and Cytogenetics |
The study of chromosomal structure, location, and function in cells is known as cytogenetics. The study of chromosome number and appearance (karyotyping), the physical location of genes on chromosomes, and chromosomal behaviour in processes like cell division are all part of it. |
| Bioinformatics |
The application of computation and analysis tools to the acquisition and interpretation of biological data is characterised as bioinformatics. |
Typical Elective Subjects for Genetic Engineering
| Subject title |
Details |
|---|---|
| Plant Physiology |
Plant Physiology as a subject focuses on analysing the different plant functions and behaviours, covering processes such as growth, reproduction and metabolism among plants. This course will help you analyse how plant structures vary from one another while talking about photosynthesis, respiration and transportation, among others. Topics covered here include Plant water relationships, Principles related to plant physiology, Genome organisation in plants, Mineral nutrition and Nitrogen fixation. |
| Human Genetics |
Human genetics is the study of human inheritance as it occurs. Classical genetics, cytogenetics, molecular genetics, biochemical genetics, genomics, population genetics, developmental genetics, clinical genetics, and genetic counselling are all overlapping topics in human genetics. |
| Plant Genetic Engineering |
Plant genetic engineering, also known as plant genetic modification or manipulation, is the key to adding desirable features to crops, resulting in plants that use fewer pesticides, fungicides, or fertilisers and are more resistant to stress. |
| Animal Cell Culture Techniques |
A cell culture technique involves removing cells from an animal or plant and growing them in a suitable environment. Cells from an experimental animal's organ are used in animal cell culture. These cells can be removed manually, mechanically, or enzymatically. |
| Molecular Genetics |
Molecular genetics studies DNA's molecular structure, cellular activity (including replication), and role in determining an organism's general makeup. |
Detailed Syllabus for Genetic Engineering
The syllabus of BTech in Genetic Engineering may vary from one university to the other, but the subjects are more or less the same. Here is a general overview of the subjects taught in BTech Genetic Engineering:
| Semester |
Subject |
Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Biochemistry |
Biochemistry is a course that explores the study of molecules and chemical reactions in different living organisms. The subject is practically-oriented and focuses on combining Chemistry and Biology associated concepts. It sometimes also focuses on studying the communication process between cells across different stages such as growth and survival. |
| 2 |
Cell biology |
Cell biology is concerned with the structure and physiology of cells, their components, and their interactions with the environment. |
| 3 |
Genetics and Cytogenetics |
The study of chromosomal structure, location, and function in cells is known as cytogenetics. The study of chromosome number and appearance (karyotyping), the physical location of genes on chromosomes, and chromosomal behaviour in processes like cell division are all part of it. |
| 4 |
Molecular Biology |
Molecular biology is a branch of biology that studies the chemical structures and processes of biological events involving molecules, the basic units of life. |
| 5 |
Biophysics and Bioprocess Engineering |
The study of physical events and processes in living things on scales ranging from molecules to cells, tissues, and organisms is known as biophysics. Bioprocess engineering, alternatively, is the process of using living cells to design and build complicated systems and processes around the same. |
| 6 |
Chemical Reaction Engineering
|
Chemical reaction engineering is concerned with the reactions in chemical reactors. It is a branch of engineering that looks at the speeds and mechanisms of chemical reactions, as well as the design of the reactors in which they occur. |
| 7 |
Bio-Separation Technology |
The primary goal of the Laboratory of Bioseparation Technology is to develop methods for separating, purifying, and analysing biological materials, such as cells, macromolecules, and small molecular weight substances, using counter-current chromatography and elutriation. |
| 8 |
Bio-Safety, Bioethics, IPR & Patents |
Biosafety is the prevention of large-scale incidents and any adverse consequences of biological research on humans and the environment. Bioethics is concerned with ethical and moral dilemmas resulting from recent advances in biology, such as cloning and genetically engineered crops. |
Specialisations offered in Genetic Engineering
The following is a summary of the main specialisations available in the various Genetic Engineering programmes:
| Specialisation |
Subjects |
Details |
|---|---|---|
| Biostatistics |
Statistical Methods for Quality Management Sampling Theory Time Series Index Numbers |
The application of statistical approaches to scientific research in health-related subjects such as medicine, biology, and public health, including the development of new instruments to explore these areas, is studied in biostatistics. |
| Molecular Biology |
Comparative Genomics DNA Forensics Functional Genomics Genomics Molecular Genetics Pharmacogenomics Proteomics |
Molecular biology is a branch of science that focuses on understanding the nature and behaviour of macromolecules and the methods of gene replication. This specialisation also includes an in-depth study of concepts related to biochemistry, basic microscopy and microbiology, among others.
|
| Plant Tissue Culture |
Totipotency Differentiation Redifferentiation Plant Physiology Plant Biotechnology Applied plant tissue culture |
Plant tissue culture is a specialisation that focuses on the various techniques used to maintain and grow plant tissues, cells, and organs under various conditions. Students will understand how to develop newer, genetically-identical plants, such as tomatoes, apples, bananas, and others. |
| Biophysics |
Computational Biology Bioinformatics Crystallography Molecular and structural biology Pharmacology
|
An interdisciplinary specialisation, Biophysics combines the concepts of Physics with biological processes to understand its impact. Research in this field sometimes overlaps with other specialised areas such as biochemistry, nanotechnology, molecular biology, and biomechanics, among others. |
Books and Authors Related to Genetic Engineering
There are several top-quality books and resources associated with genetic engineering that you can consult.
Some of them are as follows:
| Book title |
Author |
Description |
| An Introduction to Genetic Engineering |
Desmond S. T. Nicholl |
The third edition of this book focuses on in-depth information about genetic engineering. Divided into 3 major parts, it focuses on delving deep into concepts such as molecular biology, gene manipulation and its general applications. |
| Concepts of Genetics |
William S. Klug |
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the field of genetics, while analysing its modern-day applications. The book also places much focus on emerging topics like CRISPR-Cas, post-translational gene regulation, and genetics' societal implications. |
| Transgenic Animal Technology: A Laboratory Handbook |
Carl A. Pinkert |
This well-illustrated textbook covers the technical elements of gene transfer for significant laboratory and domestic animal species, covering everything from molecular approaches to whole animal issues. |
| Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry |
Albert L. Lehninger |
Through detailed explanations of complex concepts, effective problem-solving support, and insightful delivery of contemporary biochemistry's basic ideas, this book helps you overcome the challenges associated with biochemistry. |
| Genetic Engineering |
Michael Burgan |
This book provides a deep understanding of the basic concepts related to Genetic Engineering to the students and prepares them for the challenges in the industry. |
Entrance Exams for Genetic Engineering
There are several entrance exams for both UG and PG programmes. Candidates looking to pursue a course in genetic engineering and similar fields must undertake the following entrance tests:
- JEE
- GATE
- BITSAT
- VITEEE
- KEAM
Suppose you plan to apply for a B.Tech in Genetic Engineering; you must appear for the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE). The difficulty level of the entrance exam ranges from moderate to high difficulty. One must prepare for the exam by strengthening their foundation and focus on scoring in sections where one knows the maximum answers.
It is important to have 10+2 level knowledge of subjects such as Physics, Chemistry and Biology, among others. Alternatively, aspirants can apply for the other exams mentioned in the list above. The difficulty level for most of these is moderate, and students can score good marks if aware of the exam format.
Applying for the above entrance exams can get students into a college of their choice.
Syllabus for Distance Programme in Genetic Engineering
Various Indian universities offer distance learning programmes in genetic engineering and other associated fields. While the course delivery method might differ, the syllabus is similar to that of a regular classroom programme.
The candidate must have completed their 10+2th or equivalent with Physics, Mathematics, and English as compulsory subjects and Chemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, or any other subject as optional.
Some top colleges offering distance learning programmes in genetic engineering are:
- Delhi University
- Periyar University
- KSOU University
- Sikkim Manipal University
- Institute of Genetic Engineering
Most of these colleges either offer direct admission or an entrance exam. The syllabus covers everything from basic to advanced levels, with an equal focus on helping students develop their technical and communication skills.
Assessment is usually based on a combination of online/offline examinations, coupled with internal assessments, tests and quizzes.
Top Colleges for Genetic Engineering
Based on the curriculum, choices of electives offered, and in-house placement opportunities, the following are the top colleges for genetic engineering in India:
| College/University/Institution |
Syllabus PDFs |
|---|---|
| IIT Delhi |
To be uploaded soon |
| Sharda University, Greater Noida |
To be uploaded soon |
| LPU Jalandhar |
|
| NIMS University, Jaipur |
To be uploaded soon |
| Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai |
To be uploaded soon |
| SRM, Chennai |
|
| Delhi Technological University, Delhi |
To be uploaded soon |
| Aryabhatta Knowledge University, Patna |
To be uploaded soon |
| Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore |
To be uploaded soon |
| Banaras Hindu University |
To be uploaded soon |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Genetic Engineering
Q. What is the scope of Genetic Engineering?
Q. Is it possible to study genetic engineering after finishing high school?
Q. What are the subjects in Genetic Engineering?
Q. Is Genetic Engineering a good professional course?
Q. Which is better: BSc or BTech in Genetic Engineering?
Q. Does genetic engineering require NEET?
Students can enrol in any genetics course, such as Molecular Genetics, General Biochemistry, and Advanced Recombinant DNA. This does not require students to take the NEET exam.
Q. Which is the best: genetics or biotechnology?
Q. Is JEE required for Genetic Engineering?
We recommend that students take the JEE exam first and achieve decent grades to get into the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
Q. Do you need Maths for Genetic Engineering?
Q. Is Biology compulsory for B.Tech in Genetic Engineering?
Q. What are some popular colleges in India offering courses in genetic engineering?
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 weeks ago
Studying Genetic Engineering without paying fees is unlikely, as most institutions charge for this course. However, there are some options to reduce or eliminate fees:
Government Scholarships: Some scholarships from the government or private organizations may cover tuition fees for meritorious studen
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, you can continue with genetic engineering in India without much focus on mathematics after completing your 12th grade, especially when you have a Science background (Biology). Generally, most undergraduate programs of genetic engineering are more biological, biochemical, and molecular biology o
R
Contributor-Level 10
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