Science Education in India

The term Science or Sciences is very broad. However, it is categorized as Natural Sciences and Applied Sciences. Natural sciences are primarily based on theory while applied science majorly focuses on lab hours. However, ‘need to reason is given utmost importance in any of the science subjects. After completing Class 10, students in India have the option to choose between science, commerce and humanities. However,most students opt for science. They choose between medical and non-medical streams. Science medical students opt for Biology as the main subject while non-medical science stream students have Mathematics or Computers as one of the main subjects. However, admission to science stream is based strictly on merit after completion of Class 12. Careful observation, experimentation, arithmetic aptitude, and analytical approach, are the per-requisites to pursue a career in the field of science.

Opportunities in Science

One can choose a career in microbiology, meteorology, forestry science, agricultural science, medicine, computers etc. Numerous government and private organizations hire science scholars. Research organisations are always in need for scientists. After completing graduation in the required field, one can go for higher studies and complete postgraduate and research work. In fact, the advantage of studying science, is that one can switch to any other stream after Class 12 or even after graduation which is possible if you study Commerce or Humanities.

Governing Bodies

University Grants Commission (UGC) is the administering body for science programmes across colleges, universities and institutes in India. The UGC approved bachelors, masters, and research programmes in science and provided guidelines to universities about conduct of courses and examinations etc.

Courses Available

Most students opt for Science with the dream to study engineering or medical after Class 12. However, there are vast career choices even if one doesn't want to study engineering or medical. One can opt for agriculture science, veterinary science, bio technology, geology, forensic medicine,computers, astronomy, defense, food technology & processing, aqua science, genetics, meteorology and oceanography, geosciences, marine science, plant pathology, horticulture, home science, physical sciences & allied field are some of the streams of science. B.Sc General, B.Sc Hons, MSc, Ph.D, Integrated programmes and Dual Degree programmes are top study programmes in Science subjects.

Top Science Colleges in India

Most of the universities in India offer science courses to the students. Indian Institute of Science (Bangalore), IITs, Jamia Milia Islamia, (New Delhi) University of Mumbai (Maharashtra), University of Delhi, Cochin University of Science and Technology (Kochi), and School of Applied Life Sciences (Kerala) are some of the universities ad institutes offering science stream. For details go to Universities Hub

Science Programs Admission

Tentatively you need following basic qualifications to enter into science education program

Senior School: Pass in Class 10th
Bachelor’s Degree: Pass in Secondary School Examination
Master’s Degree: Pass Bachelor’s degree program in related subject.
Research: Bachelors degree with Honors or Masters or equivalent

Often candidates are required to appear for entrance examination for admission.

Recognition of Indian Science Programs

The degrees and certificates awarded by any recognized college/university in India India whether Government or Private are valid to apply for study and work in India and overseas.

Top Institutions and Rankings

See rankings of Universities and Institutes of Higher Education (HEIs), click here.

Major Recruiters

Central and State Government through UPSC, State PSCs, University Grants Commission (UGC), Research Institutions and industry partners. Teaching institutions also offer placement facilities through which students are selected to work in India and abroad.

Self Employment Options

Science in India is a highly employable field. Self employment options are many. However, high level support is required from the government to work as an Entrepreneur. Some of the top options are; establishment of research centers, academic institutions, opening an NGO, consultancy work for government and industry etc.

Short Term Courses

In science there is very less scope for Short Term courses. However, some colleges/institutes offer short term programmes in applied areas. Course duration may range from 7 to 10 days to a couple of months.

Beyond Science

Generally, a qualification in science is treated as general qualification as well as technical qualification. It’s related to Science, Engineering, Technology and Mathematics (STEM). With a qualification in science you can work in all those areas where general degree is required. Opportunities are open worldwide both in Public and Private sector. Demand is high across industries for candidates with a degree and higher degree in science.

To know more about Science education in different states and UTs please go to:-