Class XII – Biology issues

What are the prospects for students following biology in SeniorSecondary Schoollevels?

Biology syllabus takes into consideration a wide spectrum in microbiology, agriculture genetics, forestry, biotechnology, forensic sciences and environmental studies. Once a student passes in subjects of chemistry, physics and biology, they can explore the possibility of entering medical college to follow programs such as MBBS, Veterinary Science, and BDS. They could also carry out further studies in subjects of Nursing, Homeopathy, and Physiotherapy or alternatively opt to follow programs in B.Sc. Botany or Zoology. Students have further prospects of electing to take specialized advanced studies in subjects of bio chemistry, biotechnology or bio medical studies in B. Pharma or B.Sc with the modern biology aspect being integrated into their course of studies.

What are the long term objectives and goals for students pursuing biology?

Students after graduation can look for higher studies in agriculture, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, biotechnology or M.C in Botany or Zoology. The subject of Bio Education is popular among girls on a noticeable level as they aim to become teachers in the subject of biology. More ambitious students can also set objectives of pursuing Ph.D. programs or teaching on university levels. Joining a research institute as a scientist is another option available for such students. There are many career prospects open for biology students in the fields of biotechnology, Indian forest service, Indian central service and environmental management organizations.

Despite such bright career prospects why does students hesitate in selecting biology courses?

In most circumstance choices of student subjects are determined by prevailing market conditions. Therefore students opt for more popular subjects such as engineering in physics, mathematics and Chemistry as well as Commerce and Economics subjects. Pursuing these subjects with the possibility of higher studies in MBA leads to higher paying career opportunities. On the other hand some students are reluctant to wait a long period of 8-10 years with a lot of hard work and commitment in studying for MBBS. Equally students and parents consider B.Sc and M.sc courses for biology to require a lot of hard work and commitment without the guarantee of a well placed position in future.

Despite student reluctance is there brighter prospects for students in their aspired future careers?

There will be ample career opportunities with great benefits for students opting for biology studies. It is considered that though 20th century was considered the era of technologies 21st century will belong to biotechnology and its great innovation. With potential opportunities being created for a large skilled workforce in areas such as molecular biology, genetics, agricultural, industrial biotechnology, bio medical sciences, students who patiently follow this stream of studies stand to benefit in great extents. However, students who are pursuing biology and related subjects should be highly competent in all aspects of the subject including both theoretical knowledge and practical work. The Government of India recognizing the potential and future developments in this sector, with the aid of Educational Boards such as CBSE is currently setting up relevant infrastructure and training of professional skills in order to meet with future demands.

Is biology considered as a single subject or does it interact with other CBSE disciplines?

Biology with its modern applications interacts with subjects such as physics, chemistry, economics, mathematics, physiology, geography, sociology etc. Therefore, students who have already chosen Biology can later on select any of the interacting subjects for specialized higher studies. These students can base their future career depending on aptitude skills and expertise on relevant areas of subjects.