Curriculum Overview
The Biotechnology program at Institute of Engineering Jiwaji University is meticulously designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of biological processes and their applications in technology. The curriculum spans eight semesters, integrating foundational science courses with specialized biotechnology subjects and hands-on laboratory experiences.
Year One
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | BIO101 | Introduction to Biology | 3-1-2-4 | - |
| I | CHM101 | General Chemistry | 3-1-2-4 | - |
| I | MAT101 | Mathematics for Engineers | 3-1-2-4 | - |
| I | PHY101 | Physics for Engineers | 3-1-2-4 | - |
| I | BIO102 | Biology Lab | 0-0-6-2 | - |
| I | CHM102 | Chemistry Lab | 0-0-6-2 | - |
| I | MAT102 | Mathematics Lab | 0-0-6-2 | - |
| I | PHY102 | Physics Lab | 0-0-6-2 | - |
Year Two
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| II | BIO201 | Cell Biology | 3-1-2-4 | BIO101 |
| II | BIO202 | Genetics | 3-1-2-4 | BIO101 |
| II | BIO203 | Microbiology | 3-1-2-4 | BIO101 |
| II | CHM201 | Organic Chemistry | 3-1-2-4 | CHM101 |
| II | BIO204 | Cell Biology Lab | 0-0-6-2 | BIO201 |
| II | BIO205 | Genetics Lab | 0-0-6-2 | BIO202 |
| II | BIO206 | Microbiology Lab | 0-0-6-2 | BIO203 |
Year Three
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| III | BIO301 | Molecular Biology | 3-1-2-4 | BIO201, BIO202 |
| III | BIO302 | Biotechnology Principles | 3-1-2-4 | BIO201 |
| III | BIO303 | Bioprocess Engineering | 3-1-2-4 | BIO201 |
| III | BIO304 | Protein Chemistry | 3-1-2-4 | CHM201 |
| III | BIO305 | Molecular Biology Lab | 0-0-6-2 | BIO301 |
| III | BIO306 | Bioprocess Lab | 0-0-6-2 | BIO303 |
Year Four
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IV | BIO401 | Advanced Biotechnology | 3-1-2-4 | BIO301, BIO303 |
| IV | BIO402 | Bioinformatics | 3-1-2-4 | BIO301 |
| IV | BIO403 | Biotechnology in Medicine | 3-1-2-4 | BIO301 |
| IV | BIO404 | Industrial Biotechnology | 3-1-2-4 | BIO303 |
| IV | BIO405 | Advanced Molecular Biology Lab | 0-0-6-2 | BIO401 |
| IV | BIO406 | Capstone Project | 0-0-12-6 | BIO301, BIO303 |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
Advanced Molecular Biology Techniques: This course delves into advanced techniques such as CRISPR gene editing, RNA sequencing, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Students learn how to design experiments, analyze data, and interpret results in a research context.
Bioprocess Control and Optimization: Focuses on the principles of bioreactor design, process monitoring, and optimization strategies. Students gain practical experience in controlling fermentation parameters for maximum yield and product quality.
Pharmacogenomics: Explores how genetic variations affect drug response. The course combines theoretical knowledge with computational tools to predict individualized therapy regimens.
Bioethics in Biotechnology: Addresses ethical dilemmas arising from biotechnological innovations, including gene editing, cloning, and human enhancement. Students engage in debates and case studies to develop critical thinking skills.
Biological Safety and Risk Assessment: Covers biosafety protocols, hazard identification, and risk management practices. The course prepares students for roles in regulatory affairs and safety compliance.
Regulatory Affairs in Biotechnology: Introduces the regulatory framework governing biotechnology products. Students learn about FDA guidelines, international regulations, and submission processes for approvals.
Entrepreneurship in Biotech Startups: Provides insights into launching and managing biotechnology enterprises. Topics include business planning, intellectual property management, and fundraising strategies.
Microbial Diversity and Ecology: Explores microbial communities in various environments. Students study biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and applications in bioremediation and biofuel production.
Advanced Protein Engineering: Focuses on protein design, modification, and characterization techniques. Students apply computational tools to engineer proteins with desired properties.
Environmental Biotechnology: Pollution Control: Examines methods for treating industrial waste using biological systems. The course includes case studies of successful bioremediation projects and emerging technologies.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department's philosophy on project-based learning is centered on experiential education, where students engage in meaningful research activities that mirror real-world challenges. Projects begin in the third year with mini-projects involving literature review, experimental design, and data analysis. The final-year capstone project allows students to pursue an independent research topic under faculty mentorship, culminating in a thesis presentation and publication opportunities.
Students are encouraged to form interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with peers from related fields such as computer science or chemical engineering. This approach fosters innovation and prepares graduates for collaborative environments in industry or academia.