Bachelor of Science in Chemistry or B.Sc. Chemistry is an undergraduate course which introduces students to the fundamentals of chemical sciences. It is a 3-year course and is divided into 6 semesters. The basic eligibility for admission to the course is a 10+2 with science subjects including Chemistry.
For distance program, the minimum duration is 3 years and maximum duration is 6 years during which a student needs to fulfill the requirements of the course. B.Sc. chemistry is one of the oldest undergraduate science courses to be introduced in the Indian education system. It addresses the issue of generating, trained and skilled professionals specifically in the field of Chemistry.
Admission to B.Sc. Chemistry to a majority of colleges in India is merit-based. However, a few universities like Banaras Hindu University and Jamia Millia Islamia University conduct an entrance test for admission to the program.The average tuition fee for B.Sc. Chemistry in government aided college ranges from INR 10,000 to 20,000. For private institutions, the fee may be as high as INR 1.5 lacs.
On successful completion of the course, a B.Sc. graduate can seek employment in various public and private sector organizations. Some of the job designations which are ideal for a B.Sc. Chemistry graduate are Clinical Researcher, Chemist, Technical Writer, Cytologist etc. The initial salary in these positions varies from INR 8,000 to 15,000 per month.
B.Sc. Chemistry: Course Highlights
Mentioned below are some of the major highlights of the course.
Course Level |
Undergraduate |
Duration |
3 years |
Examination Type |
Semester system |
Eligibility |
10+2 from a recognized educational board with Chemistry as main subject |
Admission Process |
Merit based |
Top Recruiting Areas |
Pharmaceutical Companies, Chemical Laboratories, Clinical Laboratories, Educational Institutes, Health Care Industry, Cosmetics and Perfume Industry
|
Job Profiles |
Chemist, Pharma Assistant, Lab Assistant, Clinical Research Associate and others such. |
Course Fee |
INR 10,000 to 20,000 |
Average Starting Salary |
INR 8,000 to 15,000 |
B.Sc. Chemistry: What is it about?
B.Sc. Chemistry is a specialized course for students who wish to learn the fundamentals of chemistry and various branches of chemical science. Having learned the basics of Chemistry in 10+2, students can expect to gain an in-depth knowledge of how chemicals and chemical processes work. This course prepares a student for challenges in the chemical industry.
This course also addresses the rapid changes going on in the chemical industry and provides students with enough insights to adapt to new developments and changes in the field of chemistry. B.Sc. Chemistry is offered to undergraduate students with an aptitude for Chemistry. This course is apt for students who have an interest in exploring the mechanism of chemical processes and the fundamental nature of chemicals.
This course is also ideal for students who seek to work as chemists or wish to join chemical industry in near future. Since the course also focuses on the fundamentals of atomic chemistry, it is also a good for those seeking a future in this field.
Top Colleges offering B.Sc. Chemistry
B.Sc. Chemistry is available at many Science Colleges in India. Some of the top institutes offering B.Sc. Chemistry from across the country are listed below.
B.Sc. Chemistry Eligibility
Interested aspirants for the course need to fulfil the below-mentioned eligibility criteria.
- 10+2 completed from a recognized educational board
- Chemistry as one of the main subjects at 10?+2 level
B.Sc. Chemistry: Admission Process
Admission to B.Sc. Chemistry is generally erit based. Colleges which follow merit-based admission process, generally release a cut off percentage for admission to the program. The admission forms are available in the month of May/June after the results for 10+2 are declared. Universities like University of Delhi release a central cut off list for affiliated colleges. Students who fulfill the cut-off criteria are then granted admission in the respective colleges.
The forms for entrance examinations are also available in the months of May and June and the exam is ideally conducted in the month of June. The entrance test is of 2-3 hours duration and contains objective type questions from Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and English. Students are assessed on the basis of their performance in the entrance test and marks scored in 10+2 examination.
Candidates also have the option for lateral entry admission to the course. Certain universities like Annamalai University allow students who have completed the first and second year of B.Sc. Chemistry from a UGC recognized university, to take admission in the third year of the program. However, there is a condition applied that students from such colleges which have a similar syllabi to that of Annamalai University only are eligible for lateral entry.
B.Sc. Chemistry: Syllabus and Course Description
Apart from the courses in Chemistry, students also have to learn a minimum of two concurrent courses. Concurrent courses can be selected from language papers to inter-disciplinary papers.The course delivery methods in the program include classroom lectures, discussions, presentations and industry visits. Lab practical comprise a major part of the curriculum and attendance in practical sessions is compulsory.
In B.Sc. Chemistry Practical exam hold equal importance as do theoretical exams. In addition to the examinations held at the end of each semester, students are also assessed on certain parameters such as attendance, presentation, assignment and class participation for internal assessment marks. The final weightage for each of these parameters is given below:
Examaniation
|
Marks Allotted
|
Theory
|
100
|
Practical
|
50
|
The syllabus for B.Sc. Chemistry at all universities in India follows a pattern set by UGC. An overview for the syllabus is given below:
Core Papers
Name of Paper
|
Topics
|
Description
|
Inorganic Chemistry
|
- Atomic Structure
- Periodicity of Elements
- Chemical Bonding
- Oxidation-Reduction
- General Principles of Metallurgy
- Acids and Bases
- Chemistry of s and p Block Elements
- Noble Gases
- Inorganic Polymers
- Coordination Chemistry
- Transition Elements
- Lanthanoids and Actinoids
- Bioinorganic Chemistry
- Theoretical Principles in Qualitative Analysis
- Organometallic Compounds
- Reaction Kinetics and Mechanism
- Catalysis by Organometallic Compounds
|
This paper focuses on the Inorganic Chemistry. It covers all chemical compounds except Carbon based organic compounds. This paper also includes various kinds of reaction which occur between two inorganic compounds.
|
Physical Chemistry
|
- Gaseous State
- Liquid State
- Solid State
- Ionic Equillibria
- Phase Equillibria
- Chemical Kinetics
- Catalysis
- Surface Chemistry
- Chemical Thermodynamics
- Systems of Variable Composition
- Chemical Equilibrium
- Solutions and Colligative Properties
- Conductance
- Electrochemistry
- Electrical and Magnetic Properties of Atoms and Molecules
- Quantum Chemistry
- Molecular Spectroscopy
- Photochemistry
|
This paper aims to impart knowledge about application of theories in Physics to the study of Chemical substances and processes.
|
Organic Chemistry
|
- Basics of Organic Chemistry
- Stereochemistry
- Chemistry of Aliphatic Hydrocrabons
- Aromatic Hydrocarbons
- Chemistry of Halogenated Hydrocarbons
- Alcohols, Ethers, Phenols and Epoxides
- Carbonyl Compounds
- Carboxylic Acids and their Derivatives
- Sulphur containing Compounds
- Nitrogen Containing Functional Groups
- Polynuclear Hydrocarbons
- Heterocyclic Compounds
- Alkaloids
- Terpenes
- Nucleic Acids
- Amino Acids, Peptides and Proteins
- Enzymes
- Lipids
- Concept of Energy in Biosystems
- Pharmaceutical Compounds : Structure and Importance
- Organic Spectroscopy
- Carbohydrates
- Dyes
- Polymers
|
It is the branch of chemistry which aims to study carbon based compounds, mainly hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons are found in almost every daily-use product and hence form an integral part of the curriculum.
|
Electives
Name of Paper
|
Topics
|
Description
|
Application of Computer in Chemistry
|
- Basics
- Roots of Equation
- Differential Calculus
- Integral Calculus
- Simultaneous Equations
- Interpolation, Extrapolation and Curve Fitting
- Conceptual Background of Molecular modelling
|
This paper discusses the application of computers in areas related t chemistry.
|
Analytical methods in Chemistry
|
- Qualitative and Quantitative Aspects of Analysis
- Optical Methods of Analysis
- Thermal Methods of Analysis
- Electroanalytical Methods
- Separation Techniques
|
In this paper, students learn the different methods of analysis in Chemistry.
|
Molecular Modelling and Drug Design
|
- Introduction to Molecular Modelling
- Force Fields
- Energy Minimization and Computer Simulation
- Molecular Dynamics and Monte Carlo Simulation
- Structure Prediction and Drug Design
|
This paper introduces to the arena of manipulating the structure of molecules and using the technique for Drug design.
|
Novel Inorganic Solids
|
- Synthesis and Modification of Inorganic Solids
- Inorganic Solids of Technological Importance
- Nanomaterials
- Introduction to engineering materials for mechanical construction
- Composite Materials
- Specialty Polymers
|
In this paper, students learn about the composition of Inorganic Solids which are of technological importance.
|
Polymer Chemistry
|
- Introduction and History of Polymeric Industry
- Functionality and its Importance
- Kinetics of polymerization
- Crystallization and crystallinity
- Nature and Structure of Polymers
- Determination of Molecular weight of Polymers
- Glass Transition Temperature and determination of T(g)
- Polymer Solution
- Properties of Polymers
|
This course focuses specifically on the Polymers and their chemical composition.
|
Research Methodology for Chemistry
|
- Literature Survey
- Information Technology and Library Resources
- Methods of Scientific Research and Writing Scientific Papers
- Chemical Safety and Ethical handling of Chemicals
- Data Analysis
- Electronics
|
This paper is for students who aspire to pursue research based jobs or higher education in Chemical Sciences.
|
Green Chemistry
|
- Introduction to Green Chemistry
- Principles of Green Chemistry and Designing a Chemical Synthesis
- Examples of Green Synthesis and some real world cases
- Future Trends in Green Chemistry
|
Green Chemistry focuses on development of sustainable and non-hazardous chemical substances.
|
Industrial Chemicals and Environment
|
- Industrial Gases and Inorganic Chemicals
- Industrial Metallurgy
- Environment and its Segments
- Energy & Environment
- Biocatalysis
|
In this course students learn about the chemicals utilized in various industries and their effect on environment.
|
Inorganic Materials of Industrial Importance
|
- Silicate Industries
- Fertilizers
- Surface Coating
- Batteries
- Alloys
- Catalysis
- Chemical Explosives
|
This paper explores different Inorganic materials which have potential industrial usage.
|
Instrumental Methods of Chemical Analysis
|
- Introduction to Spectroscopic methods of Analysis
- Molecular Spectroscopy
- Separation Techniques
- Elemental Analysis
- NMR Spectroscopy
- Electroanalytical Method
- Radiochemical Method
- X-Ray Analysis and electron spectroscopy
|
In this course students learn about various instrument based methodologies for chemical analysis.
|
IT Skills for Chemists
|
- Mathematics
- Computer Programming
- Introductory Writing Activities
- Handling Numeric Data
- Numeric Modelling
- Statistical Analysis
|
It is an application based paper and informs students about IT skills which can be beneficial in the field of Chemistry.
|
Basic Analytical Chemistry
|
- Introduction
- Analysis of Soil
- Analysis of Water
- Analysis of Food Products
- Chromatography
- Ion-exchange
- Analysis of Cosmetics
|
This course focuses on imparting basic analytical skills related to chemical substances.
|
Chemical Technology and Society
|
- Chemical Technology
- Society
|
This course explores the possible relation between Chemical Technology and Society.
|
Chemoinformatics
|
- Introduction to Chemoinformatics
- Representation of molecules and chemical reaction
- Searching Chemical Structures
- Applications
|
Chemoinformatics is the study of application of computer and information technology to problems related to Chemistry.
|
Business Skill for Chemists
|
- Business Basics
- Chemistry in Industry
- Making Money
- Intellectual Property
|
This is a paper specific to business skills and knowledge for aspiring chemists.
|
Analytical Chemical Biochemistry
|
- Basic understanding of the structures, properties and functions of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins
- Biochemistry of disease: A diagnostic approach by blood/ urine analysis
|
This paper focuses on structural and functional analysis of Biochemical compounds.
|
Pharmaceutical Chemistry
|
- Drugs & Pharmaceuticals
- Fermentation
|
This paper delves into the science of Pharmaceuticals and its processes.
|
Some other electives are:
- Fuel Chemistry
- Chemistry of Cosmetics and Perfumes
- Pesticide Chemistry
- Green Methods in Chemistry
- Intellectual Property Rights
B.Sc. Chemistry: Career Prospects
After successful completion of B.Sc. Chemistry, a student can opt from many post-graduate courses available in India. A natural progression for a B.Sc. Chemistry student is an M.Sc. in Chemistry which is available at universities the likes of University of Delhi and Christ University, Bangalore. Other options in the field of Chemistry include, M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry which is available at Fergusson College, Pune or an M.Sc. in Inorganic Chemistry available at Nizam College, Hyderabad. Some other options are:
- M.Sc. in Biochemistry
- M.Sc. in Applied Chemistry
- M.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry
- M.Sc. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry
A Bachelor degree in Chemistry opens up job prospects in both private and public sector. While the course aims at employment mostly in fields which require knowledge of chemical processes, this courses reach is to other sectors as well in terms of employment.
In Public Sector, a B.Sc. graduate can apply for various government job vacancies which require a candidate to have a Bachelor’s degree to be eligible. There are job opportunities for B.Sc. Chemistry graduates in PSUs, Government departments etc.
In Private sector, B.Sc. Chemistry graduates can find employment in the following sectors:
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Chemical Laboratories
- Clinical Laboratories
- Educational Institutes
- Health Care Industry
- Cosmetics and Perfume Industry
Some of the top companies in Chemical, Petrochemical and Pharmaceutical industry are:
- SRF Limited
- Reliance Industries Limited
- Gujarat Fluorochemicals
- Deepak Nitrite Limited
- Gharda Chemicals
- Cipla
- Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
- Biocon
The current salary trend for various job profiles in the pharmaceutical industry and its aligned fields are given in the graph below:

The course offers up opportunity to work in some interesting job profiles. Some of the job profiles are described below:
Job Profile
|
Description
|
Chemist
|
A Chemist’s primary job is to analyze how different chemicals react to each other and develop drugs, cosmetics and other daily use products.
|
Pharma Assistant
|
A Pharma Assistant helps in administrative duties in a Pharmaceutical company.
|
Clinical Research Associate
|
A Clinical Research Associate is responsible for coordinating the collection, distribution and storage of data obtained during clinical research trials.
|
Lab Assistant
|
Lab Assistants are generally employed at clinics, pharmaceutical companies and education institutes’ laboratories. Their job is to assist in experiments conducted in laboratories.
|
Technical Writer
|
A Technical Writer writes about topics which relate to technology and advancement in Chemistry.
|
Taxicologist
|
A Taxicologist studies the adverse effects of chemicals on living organism.
|
Pharmaceutical Sales Executive
|
A Pharmaceutical Sales Executive is the point of contact between customers and a pharmaceutical company. They represent a company and generate awareness about drugs and medicines among potential consumers.
|
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