Biochemistry Syllabus 2024: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
Akansha BishtContent Writer
A Biochemistry course under the Science stream is a three-year undergraduate programme and a two-year post-graduate program. This discipline deals with the computation of molecular biology, chemistry, mathematics, proteins and enzymes, metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids, etc. This course offers jobs in academic research, biotechnology, forensic science, clinical research, medicinal chemistry, analytical chemistry, etc. Students looking forward to taking up a profession in Biochemistry can take up this course. Those who would like to engage themselves in research, physiotherapy, biosis, biologics content analysis, clinical biochemistry, lab management, generation of medical codes, microbiology consultation, radiofrequency lab technicians, life science, paramedics, etc., must take up this course.
- Syllabus-Important Facts for Biochemistry
- List of Subjects in Biochemistry
- Detailed Syllabus for Biochemistry
- Specialisations Offered in Biochemistry
- Books and Authors Related to Biochemistry
- Entrance Exams for Biochemistry
- Syllabus for Distance Program in Biochemistry
- Top Colleges for Biochemistry
- Biochemistry Syllabus: Frequently Asked Questions
Syllabus-Important Facts for Biochemistry
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This three-year course is divided into 6 semesters. Each semester has the required number of subjects, and the credits are rewarded accordingly.
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Subjects related to Biomolecules, Biophysics, Biochemical Techniques, Mathematics, Cell Biology, Proteins and Enzymes, Neurophysiology, Membrane Dynamics, Molecular Physiology, Membrane Biology, Immunology, Hormone Biochemistry, Bioenergetics, Calculus, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Technical Biochemistry, Evolutionary Biology, Stereochemistry, Chemical Bondings, Environmental Studies, etc. form part of this course.
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These subjects help the students gain an insight into various developments in biochemistry and their applications in real life. A lot of understanding, quick grasping, observational, and other self-equipped skills would be essential for the duration of this course. Much research and improvisation are required to keep up with the growing trend of producing exceptional results.
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Each student should obtain a minimum credit score to complete this course. There would also be various researches and experiments conducted at said intervals. The duration and type of these experiments and their credit score vary from university to university. The students are evaluated on various grounds, such as the mid-semester examinations, end semester examinations, lab experiments that form part of the assignments, small projects, etc. The course structure and the evaluation pattern vary from one college/university/institution to another.
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Apart from the core subjects, students can take elective courses based on their choice and interests. These elective courses can be chosen at the students' discretion during any semester. These elective courses vary from one college/university to the other.
List of Subjects in Biochemistry
Typical Core Subjects for Biochemistry
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|
Mathematics |
This subject provides an insight into the topics related to biochemistry like applied linear algebra, applied mathematics, asymptotic analysis, exponents and logarithms, differential calculus, etc. These subjects help gain a better understanding of how they are used in biochemistry. |
Chemistry |
This subject provides an insight into the exploration of chemical processes related to living organisms. The structure, composition, and chemical reaction of the substances in the living system and their functions and controls are also studied. |
Biology |
This subject provides an insight into the study of the body and its functions and how the biochemical changes occur in the human body. It provides a basic understanding of the chemical processes involved in a human body like digestion, hormonal action, muscle contraction, relaxation, etc. |
Biochemistry |
This subject offers a basic understanding of the various processes involved in the living systems of both plants and animals. It also introduces the methods through which crops can be improved, and how essential drugs can be discovered. The basic concepts of biochemistry and metabolism in the living system are well-explained in this subject. This subject also focuses on product development in industry and the various kinds of research involved to clarify Biochemistry. |
Typical elective Subjects for Biochemistry
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|
Microbiology |
This subject introduces the various fundamental concepts relating to the microbial world. The topics, including history, microbial cell structure, microbial taxonomy, microbial genetics, eukaryotic microbes, pathogenicity, growth and culture, and microscopic techniques in microbiology, are covered in this subject. |
Immunology |
This subject introduces the basic concepts of immunological processes and mechanisms and how diseases contribute to them. These can also be therapeutically manipulated. Topics, including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, immunologic tolerance, autoimmunity, and hypersensitivity, are covered in this subject. The main objective of this subject is to focus on the basics of molecules, cells, organs, and genes of the immune system and how they interact when they are activated or regulated. |
Bioinformatics |
This subject provides an insight into the basic concepts and the methods involved in Bioinformatics. This could be identified with many learning experiences on various topics, such as homology detection based on sequence, prediction of genes, analysis of phylogenetics, etc. This provides a clear understanding by utilising the concepts and algorithms of biochemistry. The standard tools used to solve modern biological problems are also introduced in this subject. |
Cell and Molecular Biology |
This subject provides an insight into the concepts of molecular biology and the mechanisms involved in controlling cell functions. This includes complex regulatory mechanisms as well. This subject also focuses on cell organisation and subcellular structures. The topics, including nucleic acids, genomes, DNA replication mechanisms, the expression of the gene and its regulation, oncogenes, and differentiation of genes and development, are covered in this subject. |
Detailed Syllabus for Biochemistry
The course structure for each college or university varies in terms of subjects, electives, and the syllabus pattern. However, the core subjects are similar to each other as they are the basic foundation for the course. A rough pattern of the detailed syllabus for Biochemistry is given below.
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Core
|
Molecules of Life |
This subject provides an overview of the foundations of biochemistry and the chemical and cellular foundations of life. The topics, including water, carbohydrates, glycobiology, amino acids, peptides, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, are covered in this subject. |
|
Core |
General Organic Chemistry |
This subject provides an overview of the concepts of atomic structure, intermolecular forces, the stereochemistry of carbon compounds, general treatment of reaction mechanisms, specific reactions, and heterocycles. |
2 |
Core |
General Physical Chemistry |
This subject provides an overview of Biophysical properties, Electrochemistry, Principles of Thermodynamics, Chemical equilibrium, Colloidal State, Ideal and non-ideal solutions, and Thermodynamics of EMF Cells. |
|
Core |
Enzyme |
This subject provides an overview of enzymes and their introduction, features, kinetics, inhibition, mechanisms of action, regulation of activity, and involvement of coenzymes in enzyme-catalysed reactions. |
3 |
Core |
Biophysical Chemistry |
This subject provides an overview of the concepts of Spectroscopy and its in-depth analysis, Hydrodynamics and Biocalorimetry. |
|
Core |
Cell Biology |
This subject provides an overview of the concepts of cell biology. The introduction, tools for cell biology, structure, and functions of different cell organelles, the cell wall, extracellular matrix, etc., are the topics that are covered in this subject. |
4 |
Core
|
Membrane Biology and Bioenergetics |
This subject introduces biomembranes and the concepts of membrane structures and dynamics, bioenergetics, and oxidative phosphorylation. |
|
Core |
Metabolism of Amino Acids and Nucleotides |
This subject provides an overview of the concepts of amino acid metabolism, catabolism of amino acids, biosynthesis of amino acids, precursor functions of amino acids, biosynthesis of purine and pyrimidine nucleotides, and its degradations and integration of metabolism. |
5 |
Core |
Gene, Gene Expression, and Regulation |
This subject provides an overview of the concepts of structures of DNA, Genes and genomic organisation, replication of DNA, Transposition of DNA, Molecular basis of mutations, various modes of DNA repair, etc. |
|
Core
|
Physiology and Hormones |
This subject provides an in-depth analysis of the concepts of Homeostasis and the organisation of fluid body compartments, cardiovascular physiology, and respiration, an introduction to endocrinology, thyroid hormone, hormone-mediated signalling, hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal hormones, etc. |
6 |
Core |
Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology |
This subject provides an in-depth analysis of the concepts of recombinant DNA technology, cloning vectors for prokaryotes and eukaryotes, Introduction to DNA cells and selection for recombinant clones, expression of cloned genes, polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing, and applications of genetic engineering in biotechnology. |
|
Core |
Immunology |
This subject provides an in-depth analysis of the concepts of cells and organs of the immune system, innate immunity, immunogens and antigens, the biology of the B and T lymphocyte, generation of antibody diversity, MHC Complex and antigen presentation, tolerance, autoimmunity, and hypersensitivity. |
Specialisations Offered in Biochemistry
There are a lot of subjects that form part of the specialisations offered in Biochemistry. However, these subjects vary from one college or university to the other. Some of them are as follows:
Specialisation |
Specialisation Subjects |
Subject Details |
---|---|---|
Biochemistry |
Enzyme Inhibitors and Carbohydrates |
This subject provides an overview of the concepts of enzyme inhibitors and carbohydrates and their functions. The internal reaction of enzymes and carbohydrates is studied with practical and keen observation. |
Biochemistry |
Catabolism of Lipids |
This topic provides the readers with an insight into the catabolism of lipids and how they are temporarily and spatially separated. They, in turn, release fatty acids, and the membrane droplets are catalysed. |
Biochemistry |
Citric acid cycle and ATP Synthesis |
This topic provides an insight into the Krebs cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle, that occurs in the mitochondria and produces large amounts of energy. ATP synthesis involves the transfer of electrons from the inner membranes back to the matrix. These processes are clearly explained in this topic. |
Biochemistry |
Water, Acids, Bases, pH, Buffer, Proteins |
This subject provides an insight into the functions and metabolism of water, acids, bases, pH, buffer, and proteins present in the internal system of the human body, and It also helps in understanding the analysis of the chemical reactions that take place inside the human body. |
Books and Authors Related to Biochemistry
Great Scholars recommend many books for the students aspiring to pursue Biochemistry as a part of Chemical Sciences or as a specialised course. These books are a reliable source of knowledge, and the content provided is genuine and informative. These books could provide an insight into the subjects and their basic outline in a much more engaging way. Many of these books would be available in libraries, or the online versions of these books could also be downloaded and accessed by any student. Some of the books relating to Biochemistry are published online that can be accessed by anyone.
Subject |
Book Title |
Author |
Details |
---|---|---|---|
Biochemistry |
Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry |
David L. Nelson, Michael M. Cox |
This book, written by David L. Nelson and Michael M. Cox, provides an insight into the introduction of biochemistry and maintains coherence by incorporating the latest advancements. The examples and problems related to biochemistry and the key highlights and latest trends in this field are well focused in this book. The latest edition of this book has also been scientifically envisioned for the benefit of the students. |
Biochemistry |
Biochemistry |
Donald Voet, Judith G. Voet |
This book, written by Donald Voet and Judith G. Voet, is a thoroughly revised modern classic that provides an insight into biochemical concepts. It also offers a unified presentation of life. Its variation by the process of evolution has been well described in this book. This book also incorporates the classical and current research that illustrates the sources of history relating to biochemistry and biochemical knowledge. |
Biochemistry |
Biochemistry |
Jeremy M. Berg, John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto, Jr, Lubert Stryer |
This book was written by Jeremy M. Berg, John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto, Jr, and Lubert Stryer provides an insight into the latest research techniques and advancements relating to an emphasis on physiological and medical relevance. This enables the readers to gain clarity and enhance their understanding of these processes and navigates the complex pathways and mechanisms that form part of biochemistry. The examples and the references mentioned in this book are one of the key features that make this book a great reference for Biochemistry. |
Biochemistry |
Principles and Techniques of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology |
Keith Wilson, John Walker |
This book, edited by Keith Wilson and John Walker, provides an insight into the topics, such as measurements, electrolytes, cell culture laboratory, stem cell culture, measuring cellular dynamics, Chromatographic techniques, Spectroscopic techniques, Radioisotope techniques, Enzymes, drug discovery, and development, cell membrane receptors, and cell signalling, etc. These topics enable the students to prepare for their examinations. |
Entrance Exams for Biochemistry
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The most recommended entrance exam for Biochemistry is the Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM). This exam is taken up to secure admissions into the Master of Science program and other Post-graduate programs related to science.
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This is a national-level entrance exam that any candidate aspiring to obtain admission to the top colleges in India should take.
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These exams are essential to obtain admissions into IITs (Indian Institute of Technology), IISc (Indian Institute of Science), NITs (National Institute of Technology), etc. A lot of top private colleges also prefer this test.
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For undergraduate programs in Biochemistry, there is no need to take up any entrance test, but the student should have science knowledge with the required knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, and maths.
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There are other state-level or college-level entrance examinations like the Gitam Science Admission Test (GSAT), Amity Joint Entrance Examination (Amity JEE), Banaras Hindu University Postgraduate Entrance Test (BHU PET), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), etc. These exams vary in terms of the pattern, the cut-off, etc.
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In each of these entrance examinations, the candidate must answer the minimum number of questions required of them. Every college has a select authoritarian body that determines the cut-off scores at the end of the test.
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A candidate who has secured the cut-off, this score would be able to take admissions into the desired college after various other processes like the interview, written test, etc.
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The eligibility criteria for each college depend on the target set by the colleges or universities. Each college prefers a separate exam with a level of difficulty different from the other.
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Every exam in every college also offers a different assessment process. The subjects covered in these exams include Biotechnology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics, Physics, etc.
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Candidates could prepare by referring to all the important topics suggested in the question paper pattern of the previous years or other samples to overview the types of questions asked in the examination.
Syllabus for Distance Program in Biochemistry
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Biochemistry could be done through distance mode if the student is unable to afford the time for a full-time regular course. The regular course duration is three years and requires in-class presence.
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However, biochemistry could be studied through remote modes as well, as there are a lot of online courses that relate to biochemistry and provide the same value and knowledge as that of a regular biochemistry course.
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The syllabus for the distance program would be similar to the regular program as well. Most of the online platforms offer the same course with a shorter duration of time and the time taken to complete the course is less compared to that of the regular course.
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Few IITs offer online Biochemistry courses that have weekly targets, and the syllabus is covered accordingly. These certificate courses are like an add-on to what the student is priorly pursuing or has completed.
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The syllabus and course structure might be the same for both modes, but the evaluation process varies from each college/university/institution to the other. The syllabus and topics covered are similar to one another as this course is open to all those who have a science background or minimal knowledge in biology, physics, and chemistry.
Top Colleges for Biochemistry
A lot of colleges have been excelling in producing great results concerning Biochemistry in India. The syllabus of each institute would vary from the other. The subjects might be similar, but the pattern and structure of the course would differ from college to college. Here is a list of the top 10 colleges in India for Biochemistry as per the National Institute Ranking Framework (NIRF).
S.No. |
College/University/Institution |
Syllabus (URLs) |
---|---|---|
1. |
Indian Institute of Science |
To be uploaded soon |
2. |
Indian Institute of Technology Madras |
To be uploaded soon |
3. |
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay |
To be uploaded soon |
4. |
Indian Institute of Technology Delhi |
To be uploaded soon |
5. |
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur |
To be uploaded soon |
6. |
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur |
To be uploaded soon |
7. |
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee |
To be uploaded soon |
8. |
All India Institute of Medical Sciences |
Download Here |
9. |
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati |
Download Here |
10. |
Tata Institute of Fundamental Research |
To be uploaded soon |
Biochemistry Syllabus: Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What can biochemistry be used for?
Q. What is the main work of a biochemist?
Q. Does Biochemistry have maths?
Q. How is biochemistry applied every day?
Q. What are the branches of biochemistry?
Q. What are the basic principles of biochemistry?
Q. What are the core topics of Biochemistry?
Q. What technology is used in Biochemistry?
Q. Can a biochemist study pharmacy?
Q. When and where can biochemistry work?
Q. How many years does it take to study Biochemistry?
Q. Is NEET required for Biochemistry?
Q. Can Biochemists work with oil companies?
Q. Are Biochemistry and Pharmacology the same?
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News & Updates
Dec 18, 2024
Student Forum
Answered 2 weeks ago
Yes, you can pursue an MSc in Biotechnology through the URATPG (University of Rajasthan Post Graduate Admission Test) exam, provided that the University of Rajasthan or its affiliated colleges offer an MSc in Biotechnology program. URATPG is a common entrance test for admission to postgraduate progr
T
Contributor-Level 6
Answered a month ago
Here are some top Biochemistry college options for PG Diploma courses in India:
Biochemistry Colleges | Tuition Fee |
---|---|
Kuvempu University | INR 4,420 |
Sri Venkateswara College, University of Delhi | INR 15,575 |
VNSGU Surat | INR 60,000 |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
There are several Online Biochemistry courses available, including:
- Biochemistry: Biomolecules, Methods, and Mechanisms: An intermediate edX course that covers both theoretical and practical biochemistry.
- Foundation in Biochemistry: An online Arizona course that covers fundamental concepts in physica
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Here are some Biochemistry programs students opt for:
BSc Molecular Chemistry and Biochemistry | Bachelor of Biomedical Science |
BSc Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry | PG Diploma in Science in Biochemistry |
BSc Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | PG Diploma in Science and Technology (Biochemistry) |
BSc Biochemistry and Microbiology | MSc Biochemistry |
BSc Biology | MS in Cellular, Molecular, and Microbial Biology |
BSc Pharmacology and Biochemistry | MA in Chemistry and Biochemistry |
BSc Biological Sciences | MS in Chemistry and Biochemistry |
BSc Biochemistry and Immunology | MSc Bioinformatics |
BSc Chemistry with Biochemistry | PhD Chemistry and Biochemistry |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Candidates must possess certain skills to ensure the best utilisation of their time as well as maximum learning from the courses. These skills will not only enhance a candidate's learning but also will help them become prosperous in future careers they choose to work in.
- Laboratory and Research Skill
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
There are many high-paying job positions for Biochemistry professionals in various fields, however, being a fresher in the industry will take you a bit longer time and experience to get a high salary package. Molecular Biologists, Biomedical Engineers, Physician Associates, Toxicologists, Patent Exa
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Here are a few msc biochemistry IGNOU and other options for MSc Biochemistry distance education:
MSc Biochemistry Distance Colleges | Tuition Fee |
---|---|
IGNOU | INR 72,200 |
UPRTOU | INR 8,200 |
Wisdom School of Management for Distance Education | - |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
MSc Biochemistry courses are majorly offered in Full-time mode, however, a few colleges also provide options for distance and online learning. See the table below for more details:
Course Types | Courses Details |
---|---|
Full-Time Course | This is a comprehensive on-campus degree programme that gives students all the knowledge and abilities they need to succeed in a particular field of study. |
Part-time Course | A part-time degree gives students the option of finishing their degree programme over a longer period. |
Distance Learning | This way of learning does not require you to be present physically at the university or institution. Learning materials and lectures are available online. |
Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Here are a few things that'll help you get admission to a good MSc Biochemistry college in India:
- Keep track of updates and notifications of the colleges you are applying for.
- Secure good marks and ranks in entrance examinations.
- Prepare properly for the entrance examinations.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
To prepare for these entrance exams you need to do very well. A few of the common preparation steps are discussed below:
- Prepare a timetable to timely finish the syllabus.
- Refer to the previous year’s question papers and solved mock test papers.
- Go through the topics of Bachelor’s degree subjects.
- Mostl
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Biochemistry is a discipline of core science and a deep interest in the field of biology and chemistry is a must do well in this career. There are various skills that a candidate for MSc Biochemistry must possess. Some of the most important skills required by MSc Biochemistry candidates are mentione
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, there are more than 400 colleges in India offering MSc Biochemistry courses, and among them, many colleges offer admissions irrespective of the marks scored by graduates. However, your bachelor's degree should be in a relevant discipline. Besides, you can also opt for Msc Biochemistry Online Co
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates who wish to get admission to the MSc Biochemistry course can get admission depending on their entrance exam scores. Depending on the entrance exam scores, a merit list will be prepared and students will be allotted colleges.
Additionally, students are required to fill out the application f
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Contributor-Level 10
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Can I pursue MSc Biochemistry through URATPG entrance test?