I’ll be completing my B.Pharma next year. I am interested in research, particularly in biotechnology. Am I eligible for a postgrad programme in biotechnology?
Shanker Iyer, Chennai
Since biotechnology is a multidisciplinary field, students of a spectrum of bioscience subjects, including B.Pharma, are eligible to study it at the postgraduate level. The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi conducts a Combined BiotechnologyEntrance Exam on behalf of 34 universities (whose M.Sc biotechnology programmes are supported by the Union government’s department of biotechnology) as well as a Combined Entrance Exam for admission into M.Sc (Agri) biotech and M.VSc degree programmes. In addition, several other universities offer Masters degrees in biotechnology.
You could also consider signing up for a two-year M.Tech programme in biotechnology. The eligibility requirement is a B.Tech/B.Pharm/M.Sc degree in relevant disciplines and a valid GATE score (mandatory) for admission into the IITs and other reputable institutions.
The integrated Ph D programme offered by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore and Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) is another option. The eligibility requirement is a first class B.Sc or an equivalent degree in biological sciences. The future is very bright for biotech postgrads and a career in research is financially rewarding as well.
I’m a second year B.Sc student interested in a career in astronomy/astrophysics. Please provide details of institutes offering postgraduate programmes in this discipline.
Sunil Kelkar, Pune
For the M.Sc astrophysics degree programme, you could shortlist Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathawada University, Nanded and for M.Sc astronomy, you could apply to Osmania University, Hyderabad and Punjabi University, Patiala. Andhra University and University of Pune also offer degrees in M.Sc space sciences with specialisations related to astrophysics. Gujarat University, Ahmedabad offers a postgrad diploma in space science. Astronomy/astrophysics is also a subject within the M.Sc physics programme offered by several reputed universities, including the University of Mumbai. Your target should be to follow up the Masters degree with a Ph D in astrophysics/astronomy.
I’m a final year BAF (bachelor’s in accounting and finance) student. What are the best postgrad subjects I can sign up for?
Aruna Rao, Bangalore
You could opt for commerce-related subjects such as banking, insurance, accountancy, finance and cost accounting or even pursue law, library science, management, humanities, education, social work, hospitality, travel and tourism, etc. But before making a higher study choice, self-evaluate your aptitudes and capabilities.
I want to enroll in a B.Sc (aviation) study programme after completing class XII (science) next year. Does the degree programme incorporate training for a commercial pilot’s licence (CPL)?
Rakesh Sharma, Mumbai
A B.Sc (aviation) programme is offered by the Institute of Aviation and Aviation Safety, Mumbai. To qualify, you need Plus Two (maths and physics) certification, and fluency in English. CPL training is also included in the course. However, CPL holders are also eligible to enroll in the B.Sc course. Since they have already completed their CPL course, fees vary.
Mumbai University is also launching its own B.Sc (aviation) course from 2016-17. The university’s Garware Institute of Career Education and Development has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bombay Flying Club to offer a B.Sc programme in aviation. Students who have completed Plus Two with physics and maths can apply.
Career opportunities in the aviation industry are excellent and rewarding.
I’m a BMM (bachelor’s in mass media) graduate with a major in advertising. I’m unable to get a good break in the advertising industry. Please advise.
Rahul D’Souza. Mumbai
I strongly recommend that you complete a Masters degree programme. You can sign up for a postgrad degree in your preferred area of advertising at the Mudra Institute of Communication, Ahmedabad or Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune among other institutions. Your chances in the jobs market will improve considerably after successful completion of a Masters degree programme. Alternatively, you could also enroll in an MBA programme in marketing.
After completing class XII (science) next year, I want to apply for a bachelor of mass media (BMM) or related degree programme. What are my study options?
Sushmita Chatterjee, Kolkata
You should also consider a B.Com degree programme and diploma courses in advertising and marketing. BMM offers the chance of specialising in journalism or advertising. It will give you insights into careers related to mass media — journalism, advertising and public relations. Thereafter, you can decide whether you want to start working right away or to specialise through a Masters degree in journalism, mass communication, communication studies or allied courses. Each college conducts its own entrance test for admission into BMM programmes.