Career in genetics

Genetics is study of genes and variations in organisms. Genetic Engineering is manipulation of genes to obtain the targeted results and is closely related to biotechnology and microbiology.
In India, genetics, as an academic option is available at various levels. There are several specialised areas in the field, which include Human Genetics, Molecular Genetics and Medical Genetics. Its prospects for research and employment are quite promising.

The technology related to genetics finds its application in health care, food processing, brewing, horticulture, beauty care, agriculture and animal science. They can also find employment in research and development institutes, educational institutions and government departments. University of Delhi offers M.Sc in Genetics. The eligibility criterion is B.Sc (Honours.) in any branch of Life Sciences or B.Sc (General) with at least 60 per cent marks in their main subject (for Honours) or in aggregate (for General). For details, log on to www.du.ac.in

Sri Ramachandra University offers M.Sc in Human Genetics. The eligibility criterion is B. Sc in Biology/ Life Sciences/ Agriculture/ Biotechnology/ Biochemistry/ Botany/ Genetics/ Microbiology/ Zoology or Allied Health Sciences. Candidates with MBBS/ BDS/ B.Sc (Hon.), B. Tech (Biotechnology) and B. V. Sc are also eligible. For details, log on to www.srmc.edu

Andhra University offers M.Sc in Applied Genetics, Human Genetics and Molecular Genetics. The admission is based on performance at entrance examination. For details, log on to www.andhrauniversity.info

Mahatma Gandhi Mission Institute of Biosciences and Technology, affiliated to University of Health Sciences, Mumbai offers M.Sc Medical Genetics.

The eligibility criterion is B. Sc in Botany, Zoology, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or MLT/ B.V.Sc/ B.Pharma/ MBBS/ BDS or any equivalent examination. For details, log on to www.mgmibt.com

Forensic science

Forensic science deals with criminal investigation and demands a lot of mental skills from the person using the science.

Many subjects including Fingerprints, Classification and analysis of Fingerprint, Toxicology, Hairs, Fibres and Paint, Chain of evidence, Organic Analysis, Inorganic Analysis, DNA analysis have to be studied in depth.

The employment opportunities are in government laboratories/ organisations and private detective agencies.

Osmania University offers M.Sc Forensic Science. The university conducts Post Graduate Degree and Diploma Entrance Tests and Admissions for selecting the students for various postgraduate and diploma courses. For details, log on to www.osmania.ac.in

MBA option

Coming to MBA, for students from science background and especially for those like you who have interest and aptitude in science, it should be used as a support in your career. That is you take up a job in your field and gain MBA to become eligible for higher positions. So, you can opt for MBA after you gain some experience in your field.

Or you can do it in part-time or distance mode without taking a break from your job.

So, think about opting for MBA now only if you are sure that you do not want to continue in the science field and you have all the traits to become a good manager.