WE continue with our series on 50 graduate degrees that you must know. Part 5 explores a range of emerging degrees from clinical research to defence studies:

Part 1: Acturial Science, Hospitality, Graphic Design...more

Part 2: Physiotheraphy, tourism studies, Office admin...more

Part 3: Architecture, Performing Arts, Fine Arts...more

Part 4: Forestry, BBA, Agriculture, Horticulture, Linguistics..more


From Clinical Research to fashion, these programmes came in response to critical needs of the market, either perceived or real.


Though rosy pictures regarding possibilities of employment do exist, none of these disciplines have established themselves.


So join them not because they are popular but because you have a real interest and aptitude.  


 

Clinical Research

Duration: 3 to 4 years; Eligibility: 10+2 or graduation. A science background gives you an edge.; Job Profiles: Clinical Research Associate (around Rs. 15,000 a month), Bio-statistician

Clinical research is the study of medicines and equipment used in the broad field of medicine. A part of pharmaceutical industry, clinical researchers are required to research thoroughly about the benefits and threats of a particular product.  Before any drug is launched for human consumption, it is important to study the positive and negative effects of the particular drug.

Course overview:
You will be delving into the world of science, biology and chemistry. Your course, apart from understanding these sciences in the context of production of drugs will also open up the world of testing of drugs. You will be trained in using equipment for carrying out various processes of evaluation. Ethical behaviour needs to be imbibed and should be first nature in your work. The course is a combination of theory and practicals. Examination of drugs involves several processes that you need to master.

Job opportunities
Statistics indicate that India is the second largest pharmaceutical market in Asia, creating a lot of job opportunities in this field. India is also seen as a viable option for outsourcing. A fresher usually begins work as a Clinical Research Associate, earning around Rs. 15,000 a month. With experience you can expect more, usually you are taken more seriously in the field after pursuing further studies.


 

Environmental Science

Duration: 3 years; Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology/Mathematics as subjects; Job Profiles: Environmental Scientist (Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 per month), Environmental Researcher, Research Scientist, Project Coordinator

With the growing awareness about the environment, you would be required to pave the way towards sustainable development in this field. Explore it if you really want to make a difference and change the future of the world.

Course overview
You will look closely at issues like pollution control, industrial hygiene, radiation protection and hazardous waste management.  Toxic materials control, water supply and other allied areas, as well as  the impact of technology on the environment as well as communities will also be part of the arena.

Job opportunities
You can work in Central and State pollution control boards, as well as organisations such as TERI that work extensively on environmental issues.  International firms also recruit on environmental projects across the globe.


 

Criminology

Duration: 3 years; Eligibility: You need to have completed your 10+2.; Job Profiles: Counsellor (Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 as a fresher)  Criminologist, Researcher, Human Rights officer, Project Officer

The study of crime on the individual or social level is known as Criminology.  Comprises studying various forms of crime, reasons for incidence of crime and its consequences.

Course overview
Your area of study is multifaceted, covering causes, prevention, statistics and penology of crime. You will also try to understand criminal behaviour and the sociology of law. An in depth and evaluative understanding of criminal justice agencies must be developed along with knowledge about criminal law.

Job opportunities
You can work in public, private and social welfare departments.  You can work in NGOs, research organisations, private security and detective agencies as well as human rights.  Finding prospects abroad after completing your degree is also very high.  The salary varies depending on your area of work.
 

Defence Studies

Duration: 3 years; Eligibility: 10+2, entrance exams also held; Job Profiles: Junior Research Fellow (Rs. 12,000 + HRA in DRDO), Project Assistant, Defence Research Analyst

The call of the day is addressing defence and security problems in nations around the globe.  As terrorist attacks increase, so do the need for trained individuals in this field.  No longer is direct combat between countries the way of warfare, the nature of war has changed drastically through history.  This is an interesting option to explore without working in the area of combat.

Course overview
As part of your course, you will look deep into the world of security of a nation. In addition, you will learn about various aspects of history as well.  Also, you will need to understand political stability, geo-strategic environment, economics and international relations.  Advancements in armaments and allied technologies need to be clearly understood.

Job opportunities
Defence and security issues are a focus for countries around the globe, including India. Various opportunities are available to those who opt for this sector. You can work for the government or private security firms. The DRDO and the IDSA in India are places to explore. You can also opt to work in war-affected or terrorist risk areas. At the state level, especially those with International boundaries may require your expertise for strategic planning. Multinational companies also seek your  expertise. Salaries vary drastically according to position.

 

Part 1: Acturial Science, Hospitality, Graphic Design...more

Part 2: Physiotheraphy, tourism studies, Office admin...more

Part 3: Architecture, Performing Arts, Fine Arts...more

Part 4: Forestry, BBA, Agriculture, Horticulture, Linguistics..more