What is Bio-Chemistry

Biochemistry is a branch of medicine. It involves study and analysis of chemical processes such as respiration and metabolism in living organisms at a cellular or molecular level. The individuals who study biochemistry are also known as biochemists. They focus on processes such as cellular multiplication, the functioning of the brain and communication between cells and organs. A significant work task of a biochemist is to perform experiments for the study and analysis of the behavior of protein molecules, lipids, vitamin and minerals, hormones and nucleus inside a cell. They also need to have a good understanding of the structure and functions of the DNA.

Biochemistry Course Highlights

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Bio-Chemistry

For admission into the Biochemistry course, the candidates need to fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria to apply for admissions. The eligibility criteria for admissions to this course is as follows:

a) For undergraduate courses in Biochemistry

The minimum requirement for an undergraduate course is the marks of the 10+2 examinations with a minimum 50 percent aggregate in either PCB, PCM or PCMB (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology).

b) For post-graduate courses in Biochemistry

This requires a minimum 50 percent in the previous bachelor’s graduation degree of a relevant field, preferably in Science.

c) For Ph.D. in Biochemistry

This usually requires a post-graduation in Biochemistry for being eligible.

Biochemistry Entrance Exams

The admission to this course happens on both merit basis as well as on Biochemistry entrance exam basis. Some colleges have an entrance exam for the applicants, while some do not. Below mentioned are the relevant details of the entrance exams and the institutes conducting them.

For Bachelor’s courses:

• MGU CAT

This exam is conducted by the Mahatma Gandhi University and is considered for the admission process to various undergraduate, post-graduate and doctoral levels in multiple subjects. The subjects can belong under any of the mentioned faculties namely Arts, Science and Commerce.

• LPUNEST

This national level entrance test is conducted by Lovely Professional University for admission into their MSc. Courses.

• IISER BSc Entrance Exam

This exam is taken by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research to grant admission to its BS-MS programs across all seven campuses of IISER.

• UPCATET

This exam refers to the UP Combined Agriculture and Technology Entrance Test. It is meant for the admission process of the candidates to various UG and PG programs across the affiliated colleges. The exam is particularly belonging to the Uttar Pradesh state domicile.

For Master’s courses:

To secure admission into the Biochemistry course for the master’s program, a student needs to be qualified in a national level entrance exam. Various national level exams are conducted to test the knowledge of a candidate. Some exams include GSAT, Amity JEE, BHU-PET, AIIMS Biochemistry entrance exams, etc. The details for the exams are as mentioned below:

• BHU-PET

This exam is conducted by the Banaras Hindu University. It is taken in an offline mode and has a duration of 2 hours. The exam grants admission to the post graduate courses of the university.

• GSAT 2020

It is conducted by GITAM Institute of Science. This national level exam is taken once in a year in an offline mode with a duration of one hour for granting admissions into various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

• Jain Entrance Test

This exam is conducted by the Jain university for admission to various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The exam is conducted in both modes: online and offline, and has a duration of 3 hours.

In many colleges, the merit list is made on the basis of 10+2 marks as well as scores in an entrance test conducted by the college. If one is applying for the college that is offering admissions on the basis of entrance exams then he/she needs to apply for the entrance exams of the college too. If there is an entrance test, the cut off is decided, and then a merit list is prepared.

Required Skillset for Bio-Chemistry

Candidates must possess certain skills to ensure the best utilization of their time as well as maximum learning from the courses. These skills will not only enhance a candidate’s learning but also will help them become successful and prosperous in future careers they choose to work in.

• Laboratory and Research Skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Computer Skills - As most laboratories are computerized, good skills in information technology can be beneficial.
• Precision - Focused and attention to detail is a must for biochemistry.
• Teamwork - Comfortable and cordial relations while working in teams is essential for successful completion of work.
• Strong analytical and research skills
• Communication Skills – Being able to communicate the ideas well and interact with colleagues in the field of research is essential for growth.

A willingness and ability to keep updated with the latest scientific and medical research in the field of Biochemistry is the only way that one can attain success. This kind of keen interest in the course is a must for any aspiring candidate.