Comprehensive Course Structure
The Biotechnology program at Prestige University Indore is structured over 8 semesters to provide a progressive learning experience that builds foundational knowledge while introducing specialized areas of study. The curriculum includes core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and mandatory laboratory components designed to foster both theoretical understanding and practical application.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BIO101 | Introduction to Biology | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 1 | CHEM101 | Chemistry for Biotechnology | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 1 | MATH101 | Calculus and Differential Equations | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 1 | PHYS101 | Physics for Biotechnology | 3-1-0-4 | None |
| 1 | BIO102 | Biology Laboratory | 0-0-3-1 | None |
| 1 | CHEM102 | Chemistry Laboratory | 0-0-3-1 | None |
| 2 | BIO201 | Molecular Biology | 3-1-0-4 | BIO101, CHEM101 |
| 2 | CHEM201 | Organic Chemistry | 3-1-0-4 | CHEM101 |
| 2 | MATH201 | Statistics and Probability | 3-1-0-4 | MATH101 |
| 2 | BIO202 | Cell Biology | 3-1-0-4 | BIO101 |
| 2 | BIO203 | Molecular Biology Laboratory | 0-0-3-1 | BIO101, BIO201 |
| 3 | BIO301 | Genetics | 3-1-0-4 | BIO201, BIO202 |
| 3 | BIO302 | Biotechnology Principles | 3-1-0-4 | BIO201 |
| 3 | BIO303 | Protein Chemistry | 3-1-0-4 | CHEM201, BIO201 |
| 3 | BIO304 | Genetics Laboratory | 0-0-3-1 | BIO201, BIO301 |
| 4 | BIO401 | Recombinant DNA Technology | 3-1-0-4 | BIO301, BIO302 |
| 4 | BIO402 | Bioprocess Engineering | 3-1-0-4 | BIO302 |
| 4 | BIO403 | Immunology | 3-1-0-4 | BIO202 |
| 4 | BIO404 | Biotechnology Laboratory | 0-0-3-1 | BIO301, BIO401 |
| 5 | BIO501 | Genomics and Bioinformatics | 3-1-0-4 | BIO301, MATH201 |
| 5 | BIO502 | Pharmacology | 3-1-0-4 | BIO201 |
| 5 | BIO503 | Biotechnology Applications | 3-1-0-4 | BIO401 |
| 5 | BIO504 | Advanced Biotechnology Laboratory | 0-0-3-1 | BIO404, BIO501 |
| 6 | BIO601 | Drug Development | 3-1-0-4 | BIO502 |
| 6 | BIO602 | Bioreactor Design | 3-1-0-4 | BIO402 |
| 6 | BIO603 | Environmental Biotechnology | 3-1-0-4 | BIO302 |
| 6 | BIO604 | Research Methodology | 3-1-0-4 | BIO501, MATH201 |
| 7 | BIO701 | Capstone Project I | 0-0-6-3 | All previous courses |
| 8 | BIO801 | Capstone Project II | 0-0-6-3 | BIO701, BIO604 |
Detailed Departmental Elective Courses
Departmental electives in our Biotechnology program offer students the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of interest and gain deeper knowledge in advanced topics. These courses are designed to build upon foundational knowledge while introducing cutting-edge concepts and methodologies.
Advanced Molecular Biology Techniques
This course provides students with in-depth knowledge of advanced molecular biology techniques including CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, RNA sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and next-generation sequencing technologies. Students learn to design and execute complex molecular biology experiments while gaining proficiency in data analysis and interpretation using bioinformatics tools.
The course emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience with state-of-the-art equipment including high-throughput sequencers, real-time PCR machines, and advanced microscopy systems. Students work on individual projects that contribute to ongoing research initiatives in the department.
Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
This interdisciplinary course bridges the gap between biology and computer science by introducing students to computational methods for analyzing biological data. Topics include sequence alignment algorithms, protein structure prediction, gene expression analysis, and machine learning applications in genomics.
Students gain practical experience with popular bioinformatics software packages such as BLAST, ClustalW, and Galaxy. The course includes programming components using Python and R, enabling students to develop custom tools for biological data analysis.
Biophysics and Biomechanics
This course explores the physical principles underlying biological systems, including protein folding, membrane dynamics, and cellular mechanics. Students learn to apply mathematical models and computational methods to understand complex biological phenomena at the molecular level.
The curriculum includes laboratory sessions on biophysical techniques such as atomic force microscopy, fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), and dynamic light scattering. Students gain experience in experimental design and data interpretation using specialized software for biophysical analysis.
Industrial Biotechnology and Process Development
This course focuses on the application of biotechnology principles to industrial processes including fermentation technology, enzyme production, and bioprocess optimization. Students learn about scale-up strategies, process control, and quality assurance in biomanufacturing environments.
The course includes visits to local biotechnology companies and guest lectures from industry professionals. Students work on projects that address real-world challenges in industrial biotechnology, developing skills in problem-solving and innovation.
Environmental Biotechnology and Sustainability
This course addresses the role of biotechnology in solving environmental challenges including pollution control, waste management, and sustainable resource utilization. Students explore topics such as bioremediation, biofuel production, and green chemistry principles.
The curriculum includes laboratory experiments on biodegradation processes, waste treatment technologies, and sustainable manufacturing practices. Students develop projects that propose innovative solutions to environmental problems using biotechnological approaches.
Medical Biotechnology and Drug Discovery
This course provides comprehensive coverage of drug discovery and development processes in the pharmaceutical industry. Students learn about target identification, lead optimization, preclinical testing, and clinical trial design.
The course includes case studies of successful drug development projects and discussions on regulatory requirements for drug approval. Students gain exposure to industry practices through visits to pharmaceutical companies and interactions with drug discovery professionals.
Genetic Engineering and Synthetic Biology
This advanced course delves into the principles and applications of genetic engineering including gene regulation, synthetic circuits, and metabolic pathway engineering. Students learn about design-build-test-learn approaches in synthetic biology and gain experience with molecular cloning techniques.
The curriculum includes laboratory sessions on DNA manipulation, protein expression systems, and genetic modification of organisms. Students work on projects that involve designing novel biological systems for specific applications such as biosensors or biofuel production.
Cellular and Molecular Pathology
This course explores the molecular mechanisms underlying disease processes including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Students learn to analyze cellular and molecular changes associated with pathological conditions using advanced laboratory techniques.
The curriculum includes lectures on disease pathogenesis, laboratory sessions on histopathology, and case studies of clinical applications. Students gain experience in diagnostic techniques and develop skills in interpreting molecular data for clinical decision-making.
Protein Engineering and Design
This course focuses on the rational design and engineering of proteins for specific functions including enzyme optimization, protein folding, and therapeutic applications. Students learn about protein structure-function relationships and computational methods for protein design.
The laboratory component involves mutagenesis experiments, protein purification techniques, and functional assays. Students develop projects that involve designing novel proteins with desired properties for industrial or medical applications.
Biotechnology Entrepreneurship
This course prepares students for careers in biotechnology entrepreneurship by covering topics such as business planning, intellectual property protection, venture capital funding, and regulatory compliance. Students learn to identify market opportunities and develop innovative business models for biotechnology startups.
The curriculum includes guest lectures from successful entrepreneurs, case studies of biotechnology companies, and interactive workshops on business development. Students work on individual projects that involve developing a complete business plan for a hypothetical biotechnology venture.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
Our department's philosophy on project-based learning is rooted in the belief that students learn best when they engage in authentic, meaningful research experiences that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications. This approach recognizes that biotechnology is not just about memorizing facts but about developing skills to solve real-world problems.
The program implements a progressive project structure that begins with guided mini-projects in early semesters and evolves into independent capstone projects in the final year. Students start with structured laboratory experiments that introduce them to research methodologies, then progress to more complex investigations that require critical thinking and creativity.
Mini-Projects Structure
Mini-projects are integrated throughout the curriculum from semester 3 onwards, providing students with opportunities to apply concepts learned in lectures and laboratories. These projects typically last 4-6 weeks and involve small teams of 2-4 students working under faculty supervision.
The evaluation criteria for mini-projects include experimental design, data collection and analysis, presentation skills, and written report quality. Students are encouraged to propose their own project ideas while ensuring they align with course learning objectives and departmental capabilities.
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
The final-year capstone project represents the culmination of students' academic journey in biotechnology. This extended research experience typically spans 8-12 weeks and involves a significant independent investigation under faculty mentorship.
Students select their projects based on departmental offerings, faculty expertise, and personal interests. The project must demonstrate originality, scientific rigor, and practical relevance to the field of biotechnology. Students are required to present their findings at departmental symposiums and submit a comprehensive thesis document.
Mentor Selection Process
The mentor selection process ensures that students receive appropriate guidance throughout their research experience. Faculty mentors are chosen based on their expertise in relevant areas, availability, and track record of successful student supervision.
Students participate in a formal mentorship matching process where they submit project proposals and faculty members express interest in supervising specific projects. This ensures that students work with mentors whose expertise aligns with their research interests while also providing opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.