The much valued three-year degree course B.Sc. (Hons) Microbiology attracts the cream of
students from all over India. Institute of Home Economics is one of the six colleges of
University of Delhi to offer this course. The curriculum which includes both theory and
rigorous practical work is designed to equip the students in various aspects of Microbiology
and Biotechnology. Each year comprises of two semesters. The programme includes core
courses (CC) and elective courses. The core courses are all compulsory courses. There are
three kinds of elective courses: Discipline-Specific Elective (DSE), Generic Elective (GE)
and Skill Enhancement Course (SEC). In addition, there are two compulsory Ability
Enhancement Courses (AEC). Subjects offered by college may be subject to change*.
At the completion of the course, the students can opt for the placement in the industry or
pursue Masters and research programmes in Microbiology, Biotechnology and allied fields
from premier institutes within the country and abroad, before being placed in jobs.
Programme Learning Outcomes:
Students of the B.Sc. (Hons) Microbiology programme will learn to use scientific logic as
they explore a wide range of contemporary subjects spanning various aspects of basic
microbiology such as Bacteriology, Virology, Biochemistry, Microbial Physiology,
Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Systems Biology, Immunology and
Molecular biology, in addition to becoming aware of the applied aspects of microbiology
such as Industrial Microbiology, Food and Dairy Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology
and Medical Microbiology to name just a few.
Students will appreciate the biological diversity of microbial forms and be able to
describe/explain the processes used by microorganisms for their replication, survival, and
interaction with their environment, hosts, and host populations. They will become aware of
the important role microorganisms play in maintenance of a clean and healthy environment.
They will learn of the role of microorganisms in plant, animal and human health and
diseases.
Students will gain knowledge of various biotechnological applications of microorganisms
and will learn of industrially important substances produced by microorganisms. They will
gain familiarity with the unique role of microbes in genetic modification technologies.
Students will become familiar with scientific methodology, hypothesis generation and
testing, design and execution of experiments. Students will develop the ability to think
critically and to read and analyze scientific literature.
Students will acquire and demonstrate proficiency in good laboratory practices in a
microbiological laboratory and be able to explain the theoretical basis and practical skills of
the tools/technologies commonly used to study this field.
Students will develop proficiency in the quantitative skills necessary to analyze biological
problems (e.g., arithmetic, algebra, and statistical methods as applied to biology).
Students will develop strong oral and written communication skills through the effective
presentation of experimental results as well as through seminars
Graduates of the B.Sc. (Honours) Microbiology programme will be informed citizens who
can understand and evaluate the impact of new research discoveries in the life sciences, and
will be able to pursue a wide range of careers, including biological and medical research in
higher education institutions as well as careers in public and global health, scientific writing,
environmental organizations, and food, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology industries.