The Science stream is an academic field comprising multiple disciplines that involves the use of scientific principles and practical concepts to increase understanding of the workings of the universe and implement those concepts to produce useful products and commodities.
The science stream is broadly divided into two categories:
Non-Medical Component, which comprises Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and their sub-components.
Medical Component, which comprises all branches and specialisations of Biological/Medical subjects.
Read More:
Top Science Colleges in India
Undergraduate degrees offered in the Science stream include the following -
Bachelor of Science (BSc) - 3 years
Also Read:
Top B.Sc Colleges in Kolkata
Top B.Sc Colleges in Delhi NCR
Top B.Sc Colleges in Hyderabad
Bachelor of Computer Science (BCA) - 3 years
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Top BCA Colleges in Kolkata
Top BCA Colleges in Delhi NCR
Top BCA Colleges in Bangalore
Top BCA Colleges in Pune
Top BCA Colleges in Jaipur
Top BCA Colleges in Chennai
Bachelor of Statistics (B Stat) - 3 years
Integrated Master of Science (MSc) - 4 years
BS-MS Dual Degree
Actuarial Science- refers to the application of mathematical and statistical principles for risk calculation economic evaluations in financial organizations and industries.
Agriculture- is the science of growth, development, sustenance, and cultivation of plants and livestock.
Biochemistry- is an inter-disciplinary scientific stream concerned with the study and research of chemical processes and substances in living biological organisms.
Bio-Chemistry | Bio-Chemistry Hons | Biochemistry and Biophysics | Biochemistry, Microbiology, Bioinformatics | Biochemistry, Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Technology
Bioinformatics- is an interdisciplinary science specialisation employing computer technologies and tools for the aggregation, computation, and analysis of biological data.
Bioinformatics, Statistics, Computer Science | Biochemistry, Microbiology, Bioinformatics
Biology- is the scientific discipline concerned with the study of all living organisms and biological processes.
Biological Science Hons | Biological Sciences | Bio-Medical Sciences | Biomedical Sciences | Biophysics Hons | Bio-sciences | Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Technologies | Computational Biology | Plant Biology and Biotechnology | Nanotechnology, Chemistry, Computational Biology | Life Sciences Hons
Biotechnology- is an interdisciplinary science stream integrating biological sciences with engineering and technology sciences to channel biological systems and processes toward the creation of useful products.
Biotechnology Hons | Biotechnology, Biochemistry, and Genetics | Biotechnology, Chemistry and Botany | Biotechnology, Chemistry and Zoology | Biotechnology, Chemistry, and Microbiology | Biotechnology and Chemistry | Biotechnology and Microbiology | Molecular Biology and Biotechnology | Plant Biology and Biotechnology
Botany- also known as plant biology, botany refers to the study and research of the structures, biological processes, properties, and classifications of all plant life.
Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology
Chemistry- is the scientific discipline concerned with the study and research of the composition, behaviour, property, and applied uses of matter in all forms.
Chemical Sciences | Analytical Chemistry | Chemistry Hons | Chemistry, Botany and Zoology
Computer Science and Application- refers to the study, development, and practical application of computers, computational systems, and automation technologies.
Computer Science | Computer Science Hons | Computer Application | Computer Applications Hons | Computer Maintenance and Repair | Advanced Operating System | Communication and Networks | Computer Network and Cyber Security | Computer Networks and Cyber Secutity | Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics) | Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) | Computer Science & Communication Engineering | Computer Science & Systems Engineering | Computer Science and Business Systems | Computer Science and Coding Practices | Computer Science and Design | Computer Science and Engineering and Business Systems | Computer Science and Engineering (Artificial Learning and Machine Learning) | Computer Science and Engineering (Bioinformatics) | Computer Science and Engineering (Block Chain Technology) | Computer Science and Engineering (Information Security) | Computer Science and Engineering (Internet of Things) | Computer Science and Engineering with Telecom Informatics | Computer Science and Information Technology | Computer Science and Mathematics | Computer Science and Technology | Computer Science Cloud Computing | Computer Science Cyber Security | Computer Science Data Science | Computer Science Game Design and Development | Computer Science System & Network Administration | Computer Science Technology | Computer Science, Mathematics, Electronics | Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics | Computer Science, Statistics and Mathematics | Computer Science and Mathematics | Control and Automation | Cryptography & Network Security | Cyber-Physical Systems | Full Stack Development | Game Design & Development | Gaming Technology | System & Network Administration | Virtualization Technology | Computer science and Electronics
Economics- is the discipline of social science concerned with the study and application of revenue systems and the production and distribution of wealth and resources in the economy.
Family and Community Sciences- refers to the scientific study and analysis of health, welfare, and management in families and communities.
Family and Community Sciences in Dietetics | Family and Community Sciences in Extension and Communication | Family and Community Sciences in Fashion Designing | Family and Community Sciences in Food Science and Public Health Nutrition | Family and Community Sciences in Food Science and Quality Control | Family and Community Sciences in Hospitality Management | Family and Community Sciences in Human Development and Family Studies
Forestry- is the scientific discipline concerned with the study, management, planting, and conservation of forests.
Geography- refers to the study of the earth and atmosphere’s physical /natural features, flora, fauna, and environmental phenomena.
Information Technology (IT)- refers to the use of computational systems for the creation, storage, review, restoration, and exchange of information and data.
Microbiology- is the discipline of biological sciences concerned with the study of microorganisms.
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology- refer to the study and research of atomic and molecular matter and its application for the development of products in the industrial sector.
Nanoscience Hons | Nanotechnology | Nanotechnology, Chemistry, Computational Biology
Nutrition and Dietetics- refers to the science of the requirement and impact of food, proper nutrition, and lifestyle choices on human health and well-being.
Clinical Dietetics | Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics | Clinical Nutrition Hons | Nutrition | Nutrition and Dietetics | Nutrition and Dietetics Hons | Nutrition and Dietetics, Chemistry and Zoology | Nutrition Hons
Physics- is the scientific discipline concerned with the study of the behaviour and properties of matter, energy, and motion.
Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics | Physics Hons | Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science | Physics (Specialization in Electronics) | Physics, Mathematics, Electronics
Psychology- refers to the research and study of the human mind, behavioural characteristics, and emotional responses.
Statistics- is the science of collecting, aggregating, analysing, interpreting, and presenting large quantities of empirical data.
Econometrics | Statistics | Statistics and Accounting | Statistics and Data Science | Statistics Hons | Applied Statistics and Analytics
Zoology- is the scientific and biological discipline concerned with the study of the animal kingdom and the characteristics, classifications, behaviors, and physiologies of animals.
Zoology Hons | Zoology, Biology and Chemistry Hons | Chemistry, Botany and Zoology
Other specializations include-
Radiology
Materials Science
Neurosciences and Neurotechnology
Physiotherapy
Read more about Science stream colleges in major cities of India:
Top Economics Colleges in Delhi NCR | Kolkata
Top Mathematics Colleges in Delhi NCR
Top Geography Colleges in Kolkata
Top Information Technology Colleges in Kolkata
Top Physics Colleges in Kolkata
The eligibility criteria for enrolling in science programs and courses are as follows -
Candidates enrolling must have passed their 10+2 (or equivalent) examinations from a recognized Indian board with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks.
Candidates must have opted for the Science stream with English, Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry (Biology if applicable) as compulsory subjects. Other compulsory subjects depend on the specialization selected by the candidate.
Colleges and universities across India admit candidates to science programs either based on a centralized/university-specific entrance exam or on a merit basis. Candidates can apply for admission into science courses by meeting the minimum eligibility requirements, registering in the online portal, and submitting the required documents and registration fees.
After appearing for entrance exams (if applicable), candidates will be shortlisted based on their test scores, ranks, and merit lists in counseling sessions for the respective colleges and entrances. In case of merit-based admission, candidates will be shortlisted based on their 10+2 scores. Some colleges also conduct additional Group Discussion (GD) and Private Interview (PI) rounds for further screening of candidates.
After the allocation of seats, shortlisted candidates may then finalize their admission at the concerned colleges by paying the fees and submitting the required documents for verification.
Science Entrance Tests
Common Universities Entrance Test (CUET-UG)
Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) offers admission to various undergraduate science and technology courses across 53 participating central universities in India.
The CUET-UG exam is a computer-based test (CBT) conducted in the online mode. CUET-UG is conducted over two hours. The entrance test paper contains a total of 175 questions divided into four sections:
Section IA- comprises 13 languages.
Section IB- comprises 19 languages.
There are 50 combined questions in sections IA and IB, out of which candidates must choose a maximum of three languages and answer 40 questions (at least one from each language). 45 minutes are allotted for each subject. Section I carries 200 marks.
Candidates must choose not more than six subjects from the list of domain-specific subjects offered. The 27 subjects offered include -
Accountancy/Bookkeeping
Biology/ Biological Studies/ Biotechnology/Biochemistry
Business Studies
Chemistry
Computer Science/ Informatics Practices
Economics/ Business Economics
Engineering Graphics
Geography/Geology
History
Home Science
Knowledge Tradition and Practices of India
Legal Studies
Environmental Science
Mathematics
Physical Education/ NCC /Yoga
Physics
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Teaching Aptitude
Agriculture
Anthropology
Fine Arts/ Visual Arts (Sculpture/ Painting)/Commercial Arts
Performing Arts, which comprises three sub-categories -
Dance- Bharatnatyam/Kathak/Kathakali/Oddisi/Manipuri/Kuchipudi)
Drama- Theatre
Music- Non-Percussion/Percussion/Hindustani/Rabindra Sangeet/Carnatic/)
Sanskrit
Section III- is the general test section. There are 50 questions in section III from which candidates must attempt 40 questions each. 60 minutes are allotted for completing section III. Section III carries 300 marks.
CUET-UG is conducted over two slots (dates depend upon the candidate’s choice of subjects).
The first slot is conducted in the morning session. Candidates can attempt not more than four tests in the first slot which include one language from section IA, not more than two domain subjects from section II, and the general test from section III.
The second slot is conducted in the afternoon session. Candidates can attempt not more than five tests in the second slot which include either one language from section IA and IB combined and not more than four domain subjects from section II, or two languages from section IA and IB and not more than three domain subjects from section II.
Every correct answer is awarded 5 marks, while there is a negative marking of 1 mark for every incorrect answer. Unanswered questions do not result in marks being added or deducted.
Some colleges and states in India have their respective institute/state-specific entrance examinations. Important entrances include -
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Entrance Exam
Presidency University Bachelor Degree Entrance Test (PUBDET)
Gitam Insitute of Science-General Science Admission Test (Gitam-GSAT)
Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s All India Entrance Examination for Admission (ICAR AIEEA-UG)
Odhisa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) Entrance Exam
The leading colleges in India for studying science are as follows -
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Kolkata
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal
Fergusson College, Pune
Read more about top science colleges in major parts of India:
Top Science Colleges in Karnataka | Bangalore
Top Science Colleges in West Bengal | Kolkata
Top Science Colleges in Tamil Nadu | Chennai
Top Science Colleges in Maharashtra
Top Science Colleges in Delhi NCR
Candidates may verify their aptitude for science with the following requirements -
Analytical skills
Mathematical proficiency
Problem-solving skills
Spirit of Enquiry
Clarity in thinking
Innovative outlook
As scientific advancements propel the world towards progress, several science subjects and specialisations grow in importance for the future. Here are the top specialisations likely to be in demand in the future -
Robotics
Information Technology (IT)
Computer Science
Cybersecurity
Big Data
Astrophysics
Forensic Science
Ethical Hacking
Actuarial Science
Biochemistry and Biophysics
Health Information Technology
Science programs in India span over three to four years and six to eight semesters respectively. Students are assessed on a percentage/grade-point average (GPA) basis through internal assessments and end-semester written exams.
The course content for BSc and other science programs varies depending upon the specialisation as the course focuses on honours subjects. Assessments in colleges include internal and end-semester assessments which comprise both theoretical/written exams as well as lab tests, fieldwork, and other practical assessments.
The minimum percentage to pass a semester generally ranges between 40% and 50% (depending on the college and specialization).
The fee structure for colleges in India offering science courses ranges between INR 20,000 to 4 lakhs per annum for a three-year science degree. The fee structure may vary depending on the college and course/specialisation of the student’s choice.
Fee structures for science programs are often exorbitant and call for financial assistance. Central/state governments, private organisations, and several universities thus offer scholarships, fellowships, and financial aid to help support students from less-privileged sections of society to pursue a degree in science and research. Here are some of the popular scholarships offered for science programs in India:
National Talent Search Exam (NTSE)- funded by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), Govt. of India
Pre-matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities- funded by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India
Pre/Post-matric Scholarship for Students with Minorities- funded by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India.
Scheme for Early Attraction of Talent (SEATS)- funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India
Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY)- funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India
Dr A P J Abdul Kalam IGNITE Awards, NIF- funded by the National Innovation Foundation (NIF), Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India
PG Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child- funded by the University Grants Commission (UGC), India
Gaining industry experience through internships is a vital and often mandatory requirement for science students. Most colleges have Training and Placement (T&P) cells to help students gain industry and research experience through professional training sessions and internships.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) mandated that undergraduate students studying in recognised Indian colleges and universities have to compulsorily do a research internship for eight to ten weeks.
Particularly applicable for applied science specialisations, internships are vital to get candidates job-ready in the industry and apply their theoretical learning in the professional world during their formative years.
After completing undergraduate science courses like BSc and BCA, students may opt for higher education with Master's/PhD degrees. Here are a few postgraduate study and research opportunities for science in India:
Master of Science (MSc)- 2 years
Master of Computer Application (MCA)- 2 years
Post-graduate Diploma- 9 months to 2 years
Master of Philosophy (M Phil) in science disciplines- 9 months to 2 years
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in science disciplines
Important entrance exams conducted for admission into postgraduate and research courses in science in India include -
Common Universities Entrance Test for Postgraduate Courses (CUET-PG)
Indian Institute of Technology's Joint Admission Test for Masters (IIT-JAM)
Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai-Graduate School Entrance (TISR GS)
Coimbatore Institute Of Technology (CIT) Integrated MSc CET
Indian Council of Agricultural Research’s All India Entrance Examination for Admission (ICAR AIEEA-PG)
Several universities and institutions abroad offer excellent science and technology programs. Here are some of the best global institutions for students wishing to pursue a science degree abroad:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, USA
Harvard University, Cambridge, USA
University of Cambridge, UK
University of Oxford, UK
Stanford University, California, USA
ETH Zurich - Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Switzerland
California Institute of Technology, California, USA
The University of California, Berkeley (UCB), USA
Imperial College London, UK
The University of Tokyo, Japan
Students pursuing BSc/MSc degrees can find a large variety of jobs in the pure sciences/medical sector. Career prospects in the science stream include -
Research Scientist
Medical professional
Data Scientist
Chemist
Physicist
Biologist/Biochemist
Pharmacist
Microbiologist
Computer Engineer
Technician
The average starting salaries for science stream graduates range between INR 3 to 6 lakhs per annum and can go as high as 30 LPA for senior professionals.
Candidates exhibiting an affinity for science subjects may also be interested in similar subjects like-
Home Science
Psychology
Pharmaceutical
Forensic Technology
Nutrition
Environmental Sciences
Physiology
Geosciences
Statistics
Economics
Aeronautics
Aerospace
Data Analysis
What is the difference between a B.Sc degree and a B.Tech degree?
A BSc degree is a theory-based academic course comprising the study of sciences. A B.Tech degree is a more practical-oriented professional course comprising the study of engineering and technology.
Which are the most lucrative science stream specialisations?
Some of the most lucrative and high-paying science specialisations include biotechnology, computer science and IT, Physics, Applied Chemistry, Actuarial Science, and Materials Science.
What can I do after a BSc degree?
Career trajectories after a bachelor of science degree largely depend upon the specialisation and scientific discipline chosen by the student. In the case of applied sciences degrees, candidates can either choose to pursue a master's/higher education degree for increased educational learning and qualifications or pursue jobs in their discipline. Candidates may also choose to embark on research and fellowships to pursue a career as a scientist or research fellow.
Also Read:
Top B.Tech Colleges in Kolkata
Top B.Tech Colleges in Delhi NCR
Top B.Tech Colleges in Bangalore
Top B.Tech Colleges in Hyderabad
Top B.Tech Colleges in Jaipur
Top B.Tech Colleges in Bhubaneswar