MS Biotechnology is a 2-year research-based postgraduate program that combines biology, chemistry, and engineering fields with specializations in plant, animal, industrial, and environmental biotechnology. MS Biotechnology and MSC Biotechnology are almost the same. The main difference is that the MSC program has a balance of both theory and practical aspects, while the degree of MS is more focused on research and project work, according to publication requirements.
To be eligible for an M.S. in Biotechnology, one needs a bachelor's degree in biotechnology or life science majors with a minimum of 50% marks. Admission is generally based on entrance exam scores. Commonly accepted exams are CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA, IIT JAM, AP PGCET, and JNU-CEEB. Universities also conduct their entrance test. Assam University, Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Advanced Studies, and NIPER are the top institutes to pursuean MS in Biotechnology.
The course fee ranges from INR 20,000 to 50,000 for government institutes. Private colleges may charge up to INR 2,00,000. Graduates can work in pharmaceuticals, research firms, healthcare, agriculture, and forensic fields after completing the MS in Biotechnology.
MS Biotechnology: Course Highlights
Key highlights of MS Biotechnology are tabulated below.
Particulars | Details |
Program Name | Master of Science in Biotechnology |
Duration | 2 years (3 years with research extension) |
Eligibility | 50% marks in BSc or B.Tech with Biotechnology or equivalent field |
Admission | Graduation/ entrance exam merit
Entrance Exams: CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA, IIT JAM, AP PGCET |
Average Course Fee | Government institutes: INR 20,000 to 50,000
Private institutes: INR 1 to 2 lakhs |
Average Starting Salary | INR 4 to 6 LPA |
Top Recruiting Companies | Drug Manufacturing Companies, Industrial Laboratories, Educational Institutes, Agriculture and Fisheries, Forensic Science, Research and Development Firms, Hospitals, Cosmetic Industries, etc. |
Job Positions | Analytical Chemist, Biomedical Scientist, Healthcare Scientist, Clinical Scientist, Clinical Research Associate, Forensic Scientist, Laboratory Technician, Toxicologist, etc. |
MS Biotechnology Course Benefits
An MS in Biotechnology offers specialized knowledge, career advancement, and networking opportunities in the biomedical field.
- The biotechnology industry is experiencing significant growth, creating numerous job opportunities in areas like pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science.
- While pursuing the course, students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, internships, and research projects.
- The course emphasises research projects and thesis writing, equipping the learner with scientific writing skills and credible publications.
MS Biotechnology Eligibility
Eligibility to pursue MS Biotechnology is a BSc or B. Tech in Biotechnology or a related background with a minimum score of 50%.
- Candidates with Zoology and Pharmacy backgrounds are also eligible to enrol in MSc Biotechnology.
- Selection is either based on graduation merit or entrance exam scores.
- Some universities require entrance exam qualification such as CUET-PG, ICAR AIEEA, IIT JAM, AP PGCET, JNU-CEEB.
MS Biotechnology Admission Process 2025
The admission process of MS Biotechnology varies from university to college. It is recommended that the candidates should check the principles of admission and the selection of the selected organization in advance.
The main steps to follow to enter the MS Biotechnology are:
Step 1: Visit the official reception portal of the Institute.
Step 2: Write the application form with the necessary information such as individual, qualification, and contact details.
Step 3: Pay registration and apply to MS Biotechnology.
Step 4: If this is the case, it appears on the entrance exam.
Step 5: Wait for the university confirmation.
MS Biotechnology Top Colleges in India
There are very limited colleges offering MS Biotechnology in India. Colleges use MS Biotechnology and MSc Biotechnology interchangeably. Also, NIPER considers MS Biotechnology as MS (Pharm) Biotechnology. Hence, it is important to confirm the specialisation offered by a particular institute beforehand.
Name | Ranking | Selection based on | Avg. Course Fee (INR) |
Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Advanced Studies - JNIAS | 2 (University) | JAM merit | 30,000 |
NIPER, Raebareli | 14 (Research) | GATE or NIPER JEE merit | 2,00,000 |
Sri Sathya Sai (Autonomous) College for Women | - | Graduation merit | 50,000 |
Moolji Jaitha College | - | Graduation + MJ CET merit | 20,000 |
Assam Don Bosco University - ADBU | - | DBU-PGET merit | 1,30,000 |
MS Biotechnology Syllabus
MS Biotechnology involves a research project, publication, and thesis defense along with the fundamentals of life sciences.
The table below represents the syllabus of MS Biotechnology followed by NIPER, Raebareli.
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
Cell Biology | Molecular Biology |
Microbial Genetics | Recombinant DNA Technology |
Biochemistry | Immunology and Immunotechnology |
Microbiology | Analysis, Diagnostics, and Cell-Based Screening |
Biochemical Engineering Fundamentals | Sequence Analysis |
Spectral Analysis | Seminar |
Separation Techniques | General Lab Experience in the Area of Specialization |
Biostatistics | - |
Seminar | - |
General Laboratory Experience | - |
Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
Project | Thesis |
Synopsis | - |
Presentation | - |
MS Biotechnology Job Prospects
With an MS in Biotechnology, one can explore diverse careers in research, regulatory affairs within the biopharmaceutical industry, healthcare, and academia.
Top job positions to consider in this field are research scientist, clinical research associate, and regulatory affairs specialist.
- Those looking to extend their research project can further pursue a PhD in Biotechnology.
- Graduates seeking an academic career can prepare for competitive exams like SET or NET to secure positions in universities.
- An average earning after MS Biotechnology is INR 8 to 15 LPA. Salaries depend on various factors like job roles, industry type, experience, and location.
Some of the well-paying jobs are tabulated below.
Job Position | Job Description | Avg. Salary (INR) |
Clinical technician | They work in laboratories to collect and process research and medical specimens. They prepare laboratory equipment, set up appropriate testing conditions, sterilize and clean scientific tools, and prepare lab reports. | 3 to 4 LPA |
DNA analyst | DNA analysts collect DNA samples and conduct tests to gather genetic information. They compare DNA samples to determine familial relationships, genetic background, medical history, and other details. | 4 LPA |
Forensic Scientist | They work with a forensic investigation team. Their job is to analyze the samples collected from the crime scene to provide scientific evidence in court. | 5 to 8 LPA |
Product Manager | They work in drug manufacturing companies or clinical R&D centers. Their job is to manage the production of various drugs or diagnostic kits by researching and developing new methods. | 10 LPA |
Professor | They teach UG and PG students in a university/college and also conduct research. They have to publish research outcomes, review papers, and books while guiding PhD students. | 10 to 18 LPA |
MS Biotechnology Vs. MTech Biotechnology
MS Biotechnology and M.Tech Biotechnology differ in certain parameters like eligibility, career paths, and curriculum.
Parameters | MS Biotechnology | M.Tech Biotechnology |
Focus | The course focuses is basic science and research in biotechnology. | The major focus area is engineering and industrial applications of biotechnology. |
Curriculum | It covers advanced topics in molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, and related fields. | It emphasizes process engineering, bioreactor design, bioprocess development, and instrumentation. |
Career Paths | Research positions in academia, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech industries, as well as roles in quality control, regulatory affairs, and teaching. | Positions in biomanufacturing, process development, quality assurance, and industrial biotechnology. |
Eligibility | Typically requires a BSc in Biotechnology or a related field. | It requires a B.Tech. in Biotechnology or a related engineering field. |
Admission | Through graduation or entrance exam merit | Through the GATE merit |
MS Biotechnology FAQs
Can any BSc graduate do an MS in Biotechnology?
No, graduates with physics and maths are not eligible for MS Biotechnology. Only those having Biology or Life Science majors in BSc are eligible to pursue this course.
Can a Mechanical Engineer do an MS in Biotechnology?
Generally, MS Biotechnology requires a sound knowledge of Biotech subjects. Therefore, graduates with a BSc Biotechnology or B. Tech Biotechnology students are eligible to apply for the MS Biotechnology. However, Mechanical Engineers can pursue the course if they undertake some foundational courses in biology and chemistry to build a strong base for the program.
Which is better, MS Biotechnology or MSc Biotechnology?
MS is more research-focused, while MSc (Master of Science) is broader and can lead to various career paths. Both deal with biotechnology principles with application in animal, plant, environmental, and industrial biotechnology. Thus, choosing a degree solely depends on an individual's career goal.
Does MS Biotechnology require a paper publication to complete the course?
Although MS Biotechnology is a research-based course, it is not mandatory to have a paper publication to complete the course. However, one needs to defend the thesis during the dissertation. Publishing papers would add extra credits to the scholar’s profile that further help in enrolling for a PhD.
