Comprehensive Course Structure
The Biotechnology program at The Svkms Nmims Global University Dhule is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and rigorous academic experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The curriculum is structured over eight semesters, ensuring a progressive development of skills and expertise from foundational sciences to advanced specializations.
Semester-wise Course Structure
| Year | Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Year | I | BT101 | General Biology | 3-1-2-4 | - |
| BT102 | Chemistry for Life Sciences | 3-1-2-4 | - | ||
| First Year | II | BT103 | Physics of Living Systems | 3-1-2-4 | - |
| BT104 | Mathematics for Life Sciences | 3-1-2-4 | - | ||
| Second Year | III | BT201 | Molecular Biology | 3-1-2-4 | BT101, BT102 |
| BT202 | Biochemistry | 3-1-2-4 | BT101, BT102 | ||
| Second Year | IV | BT203 | Genetics | 3-1-2-4 | BT101, BT102 |
| BT204 | Cell Biology | 3-1-2-4 | BT101, BT102 | ||
| Third Year | V | BT301 | Bioprocess Engineering | 3-1-2-4 | BT201, BT202, BT203, BT204 |
| BT302 | Bioinformatics | 3-1-2-4 | BT201, BT202, BT203, BT204 | ||
| Third Year | VI | BT303 | Synthetic Biology | 3-1-2-4 | BT201, BT202, BT203, BT204 |
| BT304 | Industrial Biotechnology | 3-1-2-4 | BT201, BT202, BT203, BT204 | ||
| Fourth Year | VII | BT401 | Advanced Research Project | 4-0-4-6 | All previous courses |
| BT402 | Capstone Thesis | 3-0-3-6 | All previous courses | ||
| Fourth Year | VIII | BT403 | Special Topics in Biotechnology | 3-1-2-4 | All previous courses |
| BT404 | Industry Internship | 0-0-0-6 | All previous courses |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
The department offers a range of advanced departmental elective courses that allow students to deepen their knowledge in specialized areas of biotechnology. These courses are designed to provide students with exposure to cutting-edge research and practical applications in the field.
Course: Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (BT302)
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of computational methods used in biological research. Students learn to analyze large-scale biological data sets using programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL. The course covers topics including sequence analysis, protein structure prediction, gene expression analysis, and machine learning applications in biology.
The learning objectives include developing proficiency in bioinformatics tools and databases, understanding the principles of computational modeling in biological systems, and applying computational methods to solve real-world biological problems. Students work on projects that involve analyzing genomic data sets, predicting protein structures, and designing algorithms for biological data analysis.
Course: Synthetic Biology (BT303)
Synthetic biology is an emerging field that combines engineering principles with biological systems to design and construct new biological parts, devices, and systems. This course explores the fundamental concepts of synthetic biology including genetic circuits, biological oscillators, and biosensors.
Students learn to design and build synthetic biological systems using standardized biological parts such as promoters, ribosome binding sites, and terminators. The course emphasizes hands-on laboratory work where students construct and test their synthetic biological devices in living cells. Learning objectives include understanding the principles of biological engineering, designing synthetic genetic circuits, and applying synthetic biology approaches to solve practical problems.
Course: Industrial Biotechnology (BT304)
This course focuses on the application of biotechnology in industrial processes including pharmaceutical manufacturing, biofuel production, and environmental remediation. Students learn about fermentation technology, bioreactor design, downstream processing, and quality control in biomanufacturing.
The course covers both theoretical principles and practical applications, with students working on projects that involve optimizing bioprocesses for industrial applications. Learning objectives include understanding the principles of bioprocess engineering, designing and operating bioreactors, and developing strategies for product purification and quality control.
Course: Regenerative Medicine (BT305)
This course explores the field of regenerative medicine including stem cell biology, tissue engineering, and clinical applications. Students learn about different types of stem cells, their properties, and applications in therapeutic interventions.
The course covers topics such as embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and adult stem cells. Students also study tissue engineering principles including biomaterials, scaffolding techniques, and cell culture methods for tissue regeneration.
Course: Plant Biotechnology (BT306)
This course focuses on the application of biotechnology in agriculture and plant breeding. Students learn about genetic modification of crops, plant breeding techniques, and sustainable agricultural practices.
The course covers topics including gene transformation, marker-assisted selection, and development of disease-resistant crop varieties. Students work on projects involving plant tissue culture, genetic engineering of crops, and development of biotechnological solutions for food security challenges.
Course: Microbial Engineering (BT307)
This course explores the application of engineering principles to microorganisms for industrial applications. Students learn about microbial physiology, metabolic engineering, and fermentation technology.
The course covers topics including strain improvement, bioreactor design, and optimization of microbial processes. Students work on laboratory projects involving genetic modification of microorganisms and optimization of fermentation conditions.
Course: Environmental Biotechnology (BT308)
This course addresses environmental challenges through biotechnological solutions including bioremediation, waste management, and bioenergy production. Students learn about microbial degradation of pollutants, treatment of wastewater, and sustainable energy generation.
The course covers both theoretical principles and practical applications, with students working on projects that involve developing biological solutions for environmental problems. Learning objectives include understanding the principles of environmental biotechnology, designing bioremediation strategies, and developing sustainable waste management systems.
Course: Pharmacogenomics (BT309)
This course explores the relationship between genetic variations and drug response. Students learn about pharmacogenomic testing, personalized medicine approaches, and clinical applications of pharmacogenomics.
The course covers topics including genetic polymorphisms, drug metabolism, and individualized treatment strategies. Students work on projects involving analysis of genetic data for drug response prediction and development of personalized medicine protocols.
Course: Protein Engineering (BT310)
This course focuses on the design and modification of proteins for specific applications. Students learn about protein structure-function relationships, rational design approaches, and directed evolution techniques.
The course covers topics including enzyme engineering, protein folding, and stability optimization. Students work on laboratory projects involving design and testing of modified proteins with improved properties.
Course: Advanced Molecular Biology Techniques (BT311)
This advanced course provides in-depth knowledge of modern molecular biology techniques including CRISPR gene editing, next-generation sequencing, and advanced cloning methods. Students learn to apply these techniques in research and industrial applications.
The learning objectives include mastering advanced molecular biology techniques, understanding the principles behind gene editing technologies, and applying these methods to solve complex biological problems. Students work on hands-on laboratory projects that involve designing and executing experiments using cutting-edge molecular biology tools.
Course: Biochemistry of Metabolic Pathways (BT312)
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of metabolic pathways in living organisms. Students learn about the biochemical mechanisms underlying cellular metabolism, enzyme regulation, and metabolic engineering approaches.
The course covers topics including glycolysis, citric acid cycle, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Students work on projects involving analysis of metabolic networks and development of strategies for metabolic engineering.
Course: Developmental Biology (BT313)
This course explores the biological processes underlying development from fertilization to adult organism formation. Students learn about developmental genetics, cell signaling pathways, and morphogenetic processes.
The course covers topics including embryonic development, stem cell biology, and tissue differentiation. Students work on laboratory projects involving analysis of developmental processes and understanding of cellular mechanisms during development.
Course: Immunology (BT314)
This course provides comprehensive knowledge of the immune system including innate and adaptive immunity, immunological disorders, and immunotherapy approaches. Students learn about immune cell function, antigen recognition, and immune response regulation.
The course covers topics including immune cell types, cytokine signaling, and vaccination strategies. Students work on projects involving analysis of immune responses and development of immunological applications.
Course: Virology (BT315)
This course focuses on the study of viruses including their structure, replication mechanisms, pathogenesis, and therapeutic approaches. Students learn about viral genetics, host-pathogen interactions, and antiviral strategies.
The course covers topics including virus classification, replication cycles, and emerging viral diseases. Students work on laboratory projects involving analysis of viral genomes and development of diagnostic methods for viral infections.
Course: Microbial Pathogenesis (BT316)
This course explores the mechanisms by which microorganisms cause disease in host organisms. Students learn about pathogenic mechanisms, virulence factors, and host defense responses.
The course covers topics including bacterial pathogenesis, fungal pathogenesis, and parasitic diseases. Students work on projects involving analysis of pathogenic mechanisms and development of therapeutic approaches.
Course: Systems Biology (BT317)
This course introduces students to the principles of systems biology including network analysis, computational modeling, and integration of biological data. Students learn to apply systems approaches to understand complex biological phenomena.
The learning objectives include understanding biological networks, developing computational models for biological systems, and integrating multi-omics data for systems-level understanding of biological processes.
Course: Nanobiotechnology (BT318)
This course explores the application of nanotechnology in biological systems including drug delivery, biosensors, and nanomedicine. Students learn about nanomaterials, nanodevices, and applications in biotechnology.
The course covers topics including nanoparticle synthesis, targeted drug delivery, and biosensor development. Students work on projects involving design and testing of nanobiological devices for specific applications.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department's philosophy on project-based learning is rooted in the belief that hands-on experience is essential for developing competent professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the field of biotechnology. Our approach emphasizes active learning, research immersion, and real-world problem-solving.
Mini-Projects Structure
Mini-projects are integral components of the curriculum, beginning in the second year and continuing through the third year. These projects provide students with opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges while developing essential skills such as experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
Each mini-project is designed to be completed over a 12-week period, allowing students sufficient time to develop their research skills and produce meaningful results. Projects are typically small-scale investigations that address specific questions or problems in biotechnology. Students work in teams of 3-4 members, fostering collaboration and communication skills essential for professional success.
The evaluation criteria for mini-projects include the quality of experimental design, execution of methodology, analysis of results, scientific writing, and presentation skills. Students are required to submit detailed project reports and present their findings to faculty members and peers.
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
The final-year thesis/capstone project represents the culmination of students' academic journey in the Biotechnology program. This substantial research project allows students to demonstrate their mastery of the field and contribute original knowledge to the scientific community.
The capstone project typically spans 24 weeks, providing students with adequate time to conduct comprehensive research, collect data, analyze results, and prepare a detailed thesis. Students work closely with faculty mentors who guide them through the research process and provide expertise in their specific areas of interest.
Project selection involves a process where students identify research topics aligned with their interests and career goals. Faculty mentors are assigned based on students' preferences and research areas. The department provides resources including laboratory facilities, equipment, and funding for student projects.
The evaluation criteria for the final thesis include originality of research, depth of analysis, quality of scientific writing, adherence to ethical standards, and presentation skills. Students must defend their thesis before a committee of faculty members and demonstrate their understanding of the broader context of their research.
Research Mentorship
Faculty mentorship is a cornerstone of our project-based learning approach. Each student is paired with a faculty member who provides guidance throughout their academic journey, particularly during project work. This mentorship system ensures that students receive personalized attention and support in developing their research skills.
Mentors help students select appropriate research topics, design experiments, analyze data, and prepare presentations. They also provide career guidance and advice on graduate school applications or industry opportunities. The faculty members involved in this mentoring process are experienced researchers who actively contribute to the field through their own research programs.
Industry Collaboration
The project-based learning approach is enhanced by strong connections with industry partners. Students often work on projects sponsored by companies, providing them with exposure to real-world challenges and professional environments. These collaborations ensure that students' research is relevant to current industry needs and provides valuable experience for future employment.
Assessment Criteria
The assessment of project-based learning experiences is multifaceted, incorporating both individual and team evaluations. Students are assessed on their contribution to group projects, their ability to work independently, their communication skills, and their overall development as researchers.
Regular progress reports are required throughout the project period, allowing faculty mentors to provide feedback and guidance. Final assessments include thesis presentations, written reports, and peer evaluations. This comprehensive evaluation approach ensures that students develop both technical competence and professional skills essential for success in the biotechnology field.