M.Sc. in Biotechnology 

at HPU, Shimla

Some general information about the academics and placements for M.Sc Biotechnology at Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) Shimla. 

1. Academics: HPU Shimla is a well-established university, and the M.Sc Biotechnology programme is likely to have a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of biotechnology. The academic quality can depend on the faculty's expertise, the availability of laboratory facilities, and research opportunities. Check if the programme covers essential topics like genetic engineering, molecular biology, cell culture, bioinformatics, and bioprocess engineering.

2. Faculty: The quality of faculty plays a crucial role in the overall academic experience. Look for experienced and qualified professors who are actively involved in research and can provide valuable guidance to students.

3. Infrastructure: Ensure that the university has well-equipped laboratories and research facilities relevant to biotechnology. Access to modern equipment and resources can enhance the learning experience.

4. Placements: The placement scenario for M.Sc Biotechnology graduates can vary depending on the industry demand, students' skills, and university-industry connections. Check if the university has a dedicated placement cell that works to connect students with potential employers and conducts placement drives on campus.

5. Internships and Research Opportunities: Look for opportunities for internships and research projects during the course. Practical exposure through internships can significantly benefit students in gaining real-world experience.

6. Alumni Network: An active alumni network can provide valuable connections and career guidance to current students. Research the university's alumni and their achievements in the biotechnology field.

HPU fee is different for different courses. However, the components of fee remain same for all the programmes offered by the university. Some are one-time paid such as caution deposit, library deposit and admission fee. Find below HPU fee for top courses:

Course Name	Total Tuition Fee
MBA	INR 4,800 - INR 1.4 lakh
BAMS	INR 1.7 Lacs - INR 3.1 lakh
B.Ed	INR 19,200 - INR 2.4 lakh
BA	INR 1,800 - INR 78,000
MSc	INR 2,400 - INR 1.8 lakh

Note: This information is sourced from official website/ sanctioning body and is subject to change.

Himachal Pradesh University is recognised by UGC and NAAC. Also, HPU has a total of 7 institutes which include the Department of Evening Studies, HPU Business School, University Institute of Technology, HPU College of Business Studies, University Institute of Legal Studies, Institute of Tribal Studies, Institute of Vocational Studies. Since, it is a public state university, the programme fee is very less. 

Taking admission in HPU will also provide placement opportunities to students. The university conducts placement drive every year. According to Himachal Pradesh University NIRF report 2024, the median package offered during HPU Shimla BTech and MBA placements 2023 stood at INR 4 LPA and INR 5.5 LPA, respectively.

The eligibility requirement for HPU UG courses is a minimum of Class 12. However, graduation is required for PG courses. Below is course-wise HPU eligibility for top programmes:

Course Name	Common Eligibility
MBA	Bachelor's degree with at least 50% aggregate (45% aggregate for SC/ ST candidates)
BA	Class 12 or an equivalent exam with at least 33% aggregate
B.Ed	Bachelor's degree (Medical/ Non-Medical/ Commerce/ Arts) or master's degree in Science/ Social Sciences/ Humanities/ Commerce or bachelor's in Engineering or Technology with specialisation in Science and Mathematics with at least 55% aggregate or 5.51 CGPA or Grade B+ (45% aggregate or 4.51 CGPA for SC/ ST/ OBC/ Physically Handicapped candidates)
BAMS	Class 12 or its equivalent exam with Physics, Chemistry, Biology which shall include a practical test in science subjects & English individually and must have obtained a minimum of 50% aggregate (40% aggregate for SC/ ST/ OBC)
MSc	Bachelor's degree of a University established by law in India (with the subject of study for MSc as one of the subjects) in 2nd Division or with at least 45% aggregate (40% aggregate in case of SC/ST candidates) or Honours in the subject concerned
BTech	Class 12 with Physics, Mathematics and any other elective subjects with at least 50% aggregate (45% aggregate for SC/ ST)
BCom	Class 12 or equivalent with Maths/ Economics as a compulsory subject

{Source: M.A. students & alumni}

After analyzing the reviews and feedback from students and alumni, here's a summary of what they have to say:

Pros:

* Knowledgeable faculty: Most reviewers praised the professors' knowledge and willingness to help students.
* Good infrastructure: The campus has modern amenities like Wi-Fi, smart classrooms, and a large library.
* Cultural activities: The university hosts cultural festivals and encourages students to participate in various competitions.
* High placement rate: Around 80% of students in the reviewer's batch got placed, although some may require additional qualifications.
* Affordable fees: With a relatively low annual fee of INR20,000, many students found it feasible to pursue the course.

Cons:

* Teaching methodology: Some reviewers felt that the teaching style could use improvement, suggesting more innovative approaches like using projectors.
* Limited direct placements: While most students got placed, some noted that these opportunities might arise outside of the college's efforts.

Verdict: Pursuing an M.A. at HPU seems worth considering, particularly for those interested in the field of English literature. Although some areas could use improvement, the university's strong faculty, good infrastructure, and affordable fees make it an attractive option. However, students should be aware that limited direct placements may exist, and they might need to explore alternative career paths or further education.

Himachal Pradesh University conducts entrance exam for some of the courses. National-level entrance exams are accepted for Medical courses. Below are the entrance exam accepted for top HPU programmes:

Course Name	Accepted Entrance Exam
MBA	HPU MAT
B.Ed	HPU Entrance Exam
BAMS	NEET
MSc	HPU Entrance Exam

HPU offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. Some of the courses provided by the university include B.Tech, B.Sc. BCA B.Com M.Tech, MTTM, M.Com MBA, LL. M. and MFA etc. The entrance exams accepted include HPCET JEE Main MAT CAT NEET PG etc. Moreover, the duration of these courses ranges between two-five years. You also need to fulfil the eligibility criteria for HPU course admissions.

Candidates can apply through the official application portal of the university. For programme such as BA, BCom, MA, etc. aspirants have to submit the application form to the admission committee. The step-by-step HPU application process is elaborated below:

Step 1: Visit the official website of HPU.

Step 2: Click on the registration link available on the Home page.

Step 3: Pop-up will appear to display the terms and conditions,

Step 4: Read the instructions carefully and accept the terms and conditions

Step 5: Screen will now be redirected to the application form.

Step 6: Fill out the application form and upload the specified documents.

Step 7: Pay the application fee and submit the form.

Yes, HPU reserves seats for reserved category candidates. Below is category-wise reservation:

Category	Reservation %
SC candidates of HP domicile	15%
ST candidates of HP domicile	7.5%

Apart from this, 77.5% seats are filled under:

25% seats for the admission shall be open for all candidates while 75% will be filled out of the candidates, who have passed their qualifying exam from HP University or HP Krishi Vishwavidayalaya Palampur or Central Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, HP Technical University and Central University of Himachal Pradesh or the candidates who are Himachal domicile irrespective of passing qualifying examination from any other University. 

HPU Management Aptitude Test (HPU MAT) is conducted for admission to MBA programme of HPU Business School. HPU MAT question paper will consist of questions four sections viz.,  English Comprehension,   Business Environment,  General Knowledge and Reasoning and Numerical Skills. The General English part will have questions from Reading Comprehension, Verbal Reasoning and Verbal Ability. Reasoning and Numerical section will include questions from algebra, statistics, number systems, percenatges, profit and loss and so forth. The General Awareness section will have questions from General Knowledge, Current Affairs and Business Scenario. Business Environment Areness section will imclude questions from World Economy, Indian Economy, Industry, Banking, Trade, Famous business tycoons & industrialists, corporate assocations BSE & NSE, logos & tags lines orf different companies and so forth.