Biotechnology Curriculum at Rayat Bahra University Mohali
The Biotechnology program at Rayat Bahra University Mohali is structured to provide a comprehensive and progressive learning experience over four years. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in core sciences, followed by specialized knowledge in biotechnology, and culminating in advanced research and practical applications.
The program is divided into 8 semesters, with each semester consisting of core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory sessions. The total credit hours for the program are 160, distributed across these semesters to ensure a balanced academic load.
Course Structure Overview
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credits (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BIO101 | Introduction to Biology | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | BIO102 | Chemistry for Biotechnology | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | BIO103 | Mathematics for Engineers | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | BIO104 | Physics for Biotechnology | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| 1 | BIO105 | Biotechnology Lab I | 0-0-3-1 | None |
| 2 | BIO201 | Molecular Biology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO101, BIO102 |
| 2 | BIO202 | Genetics | 3-0-0-3 | BIO101, BIO102 |
| 2 | BIO203 | Microbiology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO101, BIO102 |
| 2 | BIO204 | Cell Biology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO101, BIO102 |
| 2 | BIO205 | Biotechnology Lab II | 0-0-3-1 | BIO105 |
| 3 | BIO301 | Recombinant DNA Technology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO201, BIO202 |
| 3 | BIO302 | Bioprocessing | 3-0-0-3 | BIO203, BIO204 |
| 3 | BIO303 | Biotechnology Applications in Industry | 3-0-0-3 | BIO201, BIO202 |
| 3 | BIO304 | Biochemical Engineering | 3-0-0-3 | BIO201, BIO202 |
| 3 | BIO305 | Biotechnology Lab III | 0-0-3-1 | BIO205 |
| 4 | BIO401 | Genomics and Proteomics | 3-0-0-3 | BIO301, BIO302 |
| 4 | BIO402 | Bioinformatics | 3-0-0-3 | BIO301, BIO302 |
| 4 | BIO403 | Drug Discovery and Development | 3-0-0-3 | BIO301, BIO302 |
| 4 | BIO404 | Biotechnology in Agriculture | 3-0-0-3 | BIO301, BIO302 |
| 4 | BIO405 | Biotechnology Lab IV | 0-0-3-1 | BIO305 |
| 5 | BIO501 | Advanced Biotechnology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO401, BIO402 |
| 5 | BIO502 | Biotechnology Entrepreneurship | 3-0-0-3 | BIO401, BIO402 |
| 5 | BIO503 | Environmental Biotechnology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO401, BIO402 |
| 5 | BIO504 | Regenerative Medicine | 3-0-0-3 | BIO401, BIO402 |
| 5 | BIO505 | Biotechnology Lab V | 0-0-3-1 | BIO405 |
| 6 | BIO601 | Research Methodology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO501, BIO502 |
| 6 | BIO602 | Mini Project I | 0-0-3-3 | BIO505 |
| 6 | BIO603 | Mini Project II | 0-0-3-3 | BIO602 |
| 6 | BIO604 | Internship | 0-0-0-6 | BIO505 |
| 7 | BIO701 | Final Year Thesis | 0-0-0-12 | BIO603 |
| 7 | BIO702 | Capstone Project | 0-0-3-6 | BIO701 |
| 7 | BIO703 | Advanced Elective I | 3-0-0-3 | BIO701 |
| 7 | BIO704 | Advanced Elective II | 3-0-0-3 | BIO701 |
| 7 | BIO705 | Advanced Elective III | 3-0-0-3 | BIO701 |
| 8 | BIO801 | Special Topics in Biotechnology | 3-0-0-3 | BIO701 |
| 8 | BIO802 | Industry Internship | 0-0-0-6 | BIO701 |
| 8 | BIO803 | Final Project | 0-0-3-6 | BIO802 |
| 8 | BIO804 | Professional Development | 0-0-0-3 | BIO803 |
| 8 | BIO805 | Research Thesis | 0-0-0-12 | BIO803 |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
Advanced departmental elective courses are designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge in specialized areas of biotechnology. These courses are offered in the latter years of the program and are aligned with the latest trends and research in the field.
Genomics and Proteomics
This course delves into the study of genomes and proteomes, focusing on sequencing technologies, bioinformatics tools, and data analysis methods. Students learn to interpret genomic and proteomic data, understand gene regulation, and explore applications in personalized medicine and drug discovery.
Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics combines biology, computer science, and information technology to analyze and interpret biological data. This course covers algorithms, databases, and computational tools used in genomics, proteomics, and systems biology. Students gain hands-on experience with software tools and programming languages such as Python and R.
Drug Discovery and Development
This course explores the entire process of drug discovery, from target identification to clinical trials. Students study molecular design, lead optimization, and regulatory requirements. The course also covers pharmaceutical industry practices and case studies of successful drug development.
Biotechnology in Agriculture
This course focuses on the application of biotechnology in agriculture, including genetic modification, plant breeding, and biopesticides. Students learn about crop improvement, disease resistance, and sustainable farming practices using biotechnological methods.
Environmental Biotechnology
This course addresses the role of biotechnology in solving environmental challenges such as pollution, waste management, and sustainability. Students study bioremediation, biofuel production, and ecological restoration techniques.
Regenerative Medicine
This course explores the development of therapies for tissue repair and regeneration. Students study stem cell biology, tissue engineering, and gene therapy. The course also covers clinical applications and ethical considerations in regenerative medicine.
Biotechnology Entrepreneurship
This course prepares students for starting their own ventures in the biotechnology sector. Students learn about business planning, intellectual property, and venture capital. The course includes case studies of successful biotech startups and mentorship opportunities.
Advanced Biotechnology
This course covers emerging trends and cutting-edge technologies in biotechnology, including synthetic biology, CRISPR gene editing, and nanobiotechnology. Students engage in advanced research projects and learn about the future of the field.
Research Methodology
This course provides students with the skills and knowledge required for conducting research in biotechnology. Students learn about experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing. The course also covers ethical considerations in research and the importance of reproducibility.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department's philosophy on project-based learning emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, encouraging students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. The program includes mandatory mini-projects and a final-year thesis/capstone project, providing students with hands-on experience in research and development.
Mini-projects are conducted in the third and fourth years, allowing students to work on specific research questions under faculty mentorship. These projects are evaluated based on research methodology, data analysis, and presentation skills. The final-year thesis or capstone project is a comprehensive research endeavor that culminates in a detailed report and oral presentation.
Students select their projects based on their interests and career goals, with faculty mentors guiding them through the research process. The department provides resources and support for project development, including access to advanced laboratories and research facilities.