M.Sc: Course Details, Duration, Fees, Admission, Eligibility
Duration
2 Years
Average Fees
INR 20,000 TO 3 LPA
Updated on Mar 27, 2023 by Roumik Roy
Updated on Mar 27, 2023 by Roumik Roy
MSc or Master of Science is a 2-year postgraduate program that deals with advanced studies and research of scientific concepts with several specializations such as Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Microbiology etc. MSc course graduates have various job opportunities in the field of Agricultural Research centers, Chemical & Oil enterprises, Healthcare facilities, Educational Institutes, and Geological Survey departments.
MSc Course Details
| Degree | Masters |
| Full Form | Master of Science |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Age | There is no age limit |
| Entrance Exam | BHU-UET, OUCET, MGU-CAT, IIT JAM |
| Minimum Percentage | 55% |
| Average Fees | INR 20,000 TO 3 LPA |
| Average Salary | INR 8.4 LPA [Source: PayScale] |
| Employment Roles | Data Scientist, Chemist, Biology Researcher, Clinical Research Specialist, Geneticist, Lecturer, |
| Opportunities | General Electric Co, Biocon, Genpact, Cisco Systems Inc, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd, |
MSc Latest Updates:
- March 27, 2023: Admission is open at Adesh University for the MSc course 2023. Read More
What is MSc course?
MSc full form stands for Master of Science, which is a postgraduate course designed for imparting advanced knowledge and insights into core functionalities of scientific fields with emphasis on several specializations such as Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Botany, Biotechnology, Microbiology, etc.
MSc admission requires candidates to have Bachelor's degree in Science or technology with a minimum score of 50% from recognised university and qualify entrance exams such as BHU-UET, OUCET, IIT JAM etc, based on the college requirements.
The average MSc fees ranges between INR 20,000 TO 3 LPA. The MSc duration in India is for two years and spans over 4 semesters. MSc syllabus and subjects are well-structured and help students to obtain relevant knowledge to grasp the fundamentals of the topics.
The average MSc salary ranges from INR 2 - 8.4 LPA. Some of the popular MSc job roles include Data Scientist, Chemist, Clinical Research Specialist, Lecturer, etc.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose MSc Degree?
- Who should pursue MSc course?
- MSc Eligibility Criteria
- MSc Admission Process
- MSc Courses
- MSc Entrance Exams
- MSc course fees
- Top MSc Colleges
- Syllabus and Subjects for MSc
- MSc Course Comparison
- Preparation Tips for MSc
- Courses after MSc
- MSc Salary
- Career Options After MSc
- MSc Scholarships
- Skills to Excel
Why Choose MSc Course?
When students decide to pursue an MSc degree, they should evaluate MSc course details to ensure they are familiar with the curriculum they are enrolled in. Students frequently inquire, "what is the full form of MSc?" and "What is MSc course?"
To understand these questions, we can make them simpler by breaking them down into the following points:
- According to IBEF, the nation's R&D expenditures in Science and Technology are expected to reach almost 2% of its GDP in FY22 - FY 23 which establishes a great scope for science graduates in terms of career opportunities.
- In recent times there has been significant improvement in scientific research and innovation across the country as various global companies are investing in the infrastructure and technology of several science fields.
- The course helps graduates to obtain relevant knowledge in Medicine, Science, and Engineering which aids them in terms of pursuing higher studies and getting skilled to grow professionally.
- The science and technology sector has generated 1,497,501 jobs across the country, becoming India's leading sector for job creation that makes the future scope of MSc graduates adequately opportunistic.
- There are several job opportunities waiting for students after the MSc degree graduation such as Biology Researcher, Geneticist, Taxonomist, Science Advisor, Lecturer, Oceanographer, Doctor, Biochemist, etc.
Read more: MSc Job scope and opportunities
Who Should Pursue MSc Course?
MSc full form in education stands for Master of science which is a postgraduate program that includes various specializations in science-related subjects. The MSc course details are provided below, along with a basic overview of those who should pursue the MSc course.
- Students seeking advanced-level specialisation in a science or engineering field can pursue this course
- Students who have passed a Bachelor of Science in any specilization can pursue the course.
- Students who are keen to obtain advanced knowledge about various specialised Science fields can pursue this MSc course.
MSc Eligibility Criteria
The basic MSc qualification is similar to most colleges but they can differ for some. The basic MSc eligibility criteria are given below:
- The MSc eligibility criteria for students are required to have a Bachelor's degree in the science/Technology stream or qualify for any other equivalent examination in BSc from any recognized institution.
- The criteria for MSc admission is securing a 55% mark in a BSc or Btech Degree.
- There is no age limit for applying to an MSc course.
- students must pass the MSc entrance exam of the particular institution with sound performance to get selected for MSc admission.
MSc Admission process
Applications for MSc registration may be availed from the college website or by directly visiting the admission office of the institute. some colleges may have an MSc qualification based on merit, while other institutes need candidates to clear the MSc entrance exam for MSc admission. The details of the MSc admission process are listed below:
The details of the MSc admission process are listed below:
- The MSc admission for students is available both online and offline modes.
- Students need to meet basic MSc eligibility criteria with a minimum of 55% in the BSc/BTech Degree.
- students need to clear the MSc entrance exam to become eligible for MSc admission.
- After qualifying MSc entrance exam, students may need to appear for personal interviews and group discussion rounds for final selection.
- Students need to provide valid documents for the document verification process after getting selected.
MSc Entrance Exam
The top MSc colleges in India ensure they select the best candidates having adequate knowledge and skillset required for For MSc admission in India. There are state-level and national-level MSc Entrance Exams for candidates. Listed below are some of the popular collage based entrance exams for the 2-year MSc duration:
State-level MSc Entrance Exam
An applicant who wants to pursue an MSc course can gain admission to the university of their choosing by passing certain entrance exams held at the state level. The following is a list of state MSc entrance exams:
| SL No. | State | MSc Entrance Exam |
| 1 | Uttar Pradesh | UPCET |
| 2 | Maharashtra | MCAER PG CET |
| 3 | West Bengal | GNIHM JET |
| 4 | Karnataka | DSAT |
| 5 | Madhya Pradesh | ITM NEST |
| 6 | Telangana | KU PGCET, IITH PGEE |
| 7 | Gujarat | SPSAT |
| 8 | Tamilnadu | VEE |
| 9 | Orissa | OJEE |
| 10 | Kerala | CUCAT CAT |
National-level MSc Entrance Exam
There are several national-level entrance exams for MSc aspirants to get selected for the best MSc colleges in India. The following is a list of National level MSc entrance exams:
| SL No. | MSc Entrance Exam |
| 1 | CUCET |
| 2 | NEST |
| 3 | GATE |
A Quick Glance at the MSc Entrance Exam
The entrance exams are the gateway to the top MSc colleges in India. Questions such as ‘What is MSc’ and its requirements should be a part of the mental schema of the aspirants. The standard pattern for the M Sc exam is listed below:
- The MSc entrance exams are conducted for approximately 120 mins to 180 mins.
- The question is based on MCQ Format.
- The mode of the exam is either online or offline.
- The medium of languages is English and Hindi.
- The syllabus is either PCMB or NCERT 10+2.
MSc Entrance Exam Syllabus
This MSc entrance exam syllabus will help the candidates to prepare for the MSc entrance exam by delivering the necessary knowledge and information about the exam pattern. The syllabus of the popular entrance exams for MSc is given below :
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- General Ability
- Biology
- Statistics
- Economics
- Biotechnology
- Geology
MSc Course Fees
The average MSc course fees in India range from INR 20,000 to 3 LPA. The varying range of MSc fees in colleges may depend on the institutional facilities, faculty, prestige, infrastructure, and government quotas. Listed below is the MSc fee structure for various colleges in India:
| Sl. No. | Name of the Institute | Total Fee Structure |
Admission Fees |
Miscellaneous Fees |
| 1. | Chandigarh University, Chandigarh | INR 1 LPA |
INR 2,000 |
INR 20,000 |
| 2. | Jain University, Bangalore | INR 1.2 LPA |
INR 2,000 |
INR 25,000 |
| 3. | Loyola College, Chennai | INR 85,250 PA |
INR 1,500 |
- |
| 4. | Teresian College, Mysuru | INR 65,000 PA |
INR 1,000 |
- |
| 5. | Christian Medical College, Vellore | INR 42,830 PA |
INR 1,000 |
INR 9,000 |
MSc Courses
MSc full form stands for Master of Science and the MSc duration in India is 2 years. There are various types of MSc courses after Bsc that graduates can pursue following their professional needs. MSc full form is Master of Science. Given below is the MSc course list of several MSc specializations offered in India:
- MSc Agriculture
- MSc Mathematics
- MSc Inorganic Chemistry
- MSc Clinical Research
- MSc Physics
- MSc Biochemistry
- MSc Microbiology
- MSc Botany
- MSc Life Science
- MSc Electronics
- MSc IT
- MSc Zoology
This MSc course list represents the popular MSc specialization available.
Integrated MSc Course (BSc + MSc)
MSc integrated course comprises of BSc course plus MSc course. The duration of the course is Five years. The eligibility requirements for the course require students to have 60% above in their High school degrees (10+2) degree from the Science stream. There are very renowned colleges that provide MSc-integrated courses. Some of the top MSc colleges in India which are popular for this course are listed below.
| Eligibility | 10+2 with 60% minimum aggregate along with MSc Entrance Exams |
| Course Duration | 5 Years ( 3+2 years) |
| Average Fees | INR 2 LPA - 8 LPA |
| Top Colleges | VIT, IIT, BIT, DU, YVU, MRIIRS |
Read more: BSc + MSc Integrated Course
Integrated MSc Course (MSc + PhD)
It is a five-year program that allows students to simultaneously pursue a master's and a doctorate (MSc for the first two years and a PhD for the next three years). Candidates mostly study science, engineering, and technology in this course. The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore is known for its integrated MSc course. Candidates can get admission to the integrated M Sc courses through the IIT JAM entrance exam.
Top MSc Colleges in India
MSc stands for Master of science. An MSc college is one of the most in-demand institutions in the country offering students a wide range of MSc specializations and job opportunities. Listed below are the best MSc colleges in India:
| Sl no. | Name of the Institute | Average Fees |
| 1. | St Xavier’s College, Kolkata |
INR 51,000 PA |
| 2. | Presidency College, Kolkata |
INR 3,000 PA |
| 3. | Fergusson College |
INR 50,000 PA |
| 4. | IISc, Bangalore |
INR 50,000 PA |
| 5. | Jawaharlal Nehru Technical University, New Delhi |
INR 10,000 PA |
| 6. | PSG College of Arts and Science |
INR 30,000 PA |
| 7. | Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University |
INR 10,000 PA |
| 8. | University of Hyderabad |
INR 13,000 PA |
| 9. | Oxford College of Science |
INR 50,000 PA |
| 10. | St Joseph’s College of Arts and Science, Bangalore |
INR 70,000 PA |
MSc Colleges in Bangalore
The table below shows the top MSc colleges in Bangalore:
| SI.No. | Top MSc Colleges in Bangalore |
| 1 | Jain University |
| 2 | Christ University |
| 3 | REVA University |
| 4 | St. Joseph's College (SJC) |
| 5 | Mount Carmel College (MCC) |
Read More: MSc Colleges in Bangalore
MSc Colleges in Pune
The table below shows the top MSc colleges in Pune:
|
SI.No. |
Top MSc Colleges in Pune |
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1 |
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2 |
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3 |
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| 4 | |
| 5 |
Read More: MSc Colleges in Pune
MSc Colleges in Hyderabad
The table below shows the top MSc colleges in Hyderabad:
| SI.No. | Top MSc Colleges in Hyderabad |
| 1 | |
| 2 | |
| 3 | |
| 4 | |
| 5 |
Read More: MSc Colleges in Hyderabad
MSc Colleges in Mumbai
The table below shows the top MSc colleges in Mumbai:
Read More: MSc Colleges in Mumbai
MSc Colleges in Delhi
The table below shows the top MSc colleges in Delhi:
| SI.No. | Top MSc Colleges in Delhi |
| 1 | Hindu College |
| 2 | Miranda House |
| 3 | St Stephens College |
| 4 | Hansraj College |
| 5 | Sri Venkateswara College |
Read More: MSc Colleges in Delhi
MSc Colleges in Kolkata
The table below shows the top MSc colleges in Kolkata:
| SI.No. | Top MSc Colleges in Kolkata |
| 1 | Institute of Engineering and Management (IEM) |
| 2 | JD Birla Institute |
| 3 | Bethune College |
| 4 | The Neotia University (TNU) |
| 5 | West Bengal University of Health Sciences (WBUHS) |
Read More: MSc Colleges in Kolkata
MSc Colleges in Chennai
The table below shows the top MSc colleges in Chennai:
| SI.No. | Top MSc Colleges in Chennai |
| 1 | Madras Christian College (MCC) |
| 2 | Loyola College |
| 3 | Stella Maris College |
| 4 | Women`s Christian College (WCC) |
| 5 | Ethiraj College for Women |
Read More: MSc Colleges in Chennai
Top MSc Government Colleges
Check the table below for the top MSc government colleges in India:
|
Sl.No |
Institution |
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1 |
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2 |
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3 |
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4 |
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5 |
Maulana Azad College |
IGNOU MSc Courses
IGNOU MSc courses are known for being excellent courses with distance education Methodology in mind. Under distance education, MSc duration is two years. Although MSc admission to IGNOU is primarily based on merit, applicants who pass an entrance exam and prefer to study at a distance mode can apply. This is a table for IGNOU MSc courses:
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Science as a major stream. |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Courses | Mathematics, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Psychology |
| Average Fees | INR 5,000 PA |
IIT MSc courses
IITs are among the finest universities in India. IITs in India provide numerous MSc courses in different course curriculums which includes joint MSc-PhD, Integrated MSc-PhD, and MSc-PhD dual degree. Students can pursue various specilization based on their interests. Students have to appear for the IIT JAM entrance exam to get enrolled in the courses offered by them. MSc Chemistry, MSc Mathematics, and MSc physics are renowned MSc courses provided by maximum IIT.
| Eligibility | B.Sc/B.Tech with 60% minimum aggregate along with IIT JAM Entrance Exams |
| Course Duration | 2 and 5 Years |
| Courses | Physics, Chemistry, Geology, Geophysics, Mathematics, Biotechnology, Economics |
| Average Fees | INR 25,000 PA - 40,000 PA |
| Top Colleges | IIT Bombay, IIT KGP, IIT Roorkee, IIT K |
Syllabus and Subjects for MSc degree
The syllabus of the MSc degree is structured in such a manner that the students get both theoretical and practical knowledge of ‘what is MSc degree’ is. The syllabus of the 2-year MSc course duration is divided into 4 semesters. Some of the popular subjects for an MSc degree are listed below:
- Mathematical Physics
- Physics of Semiconductor Devices
- Inorganic Semimicro
- Coordination Chemistry
- Genes and Genomics
- Introduction to Pharmacology
- Cell Biology
- Mathematical Statistics
- Electromagnetic Theory
Read More: MSc Syllabus and Subjects
MSc Course Comparison
MSc full form in education stands for Master of Science which is a postgraduate degree based on scientific studies. Below is a list of courses and the comparisons between an MSc degree with another course.
MBA vs MSc
Here are some of the differences between the MSc course and Business Administration regarding the fees, eligibility, Admission Process, and Average Salary.
| Particulars | MSc | MBA |
| Full-Form | Master of Science | Master of Business Administration |
| Course Duration | 2 Years | 2 Years |
| Entrance Exam | BHU ET, TISS NET | CAT, MAT |
| Eligibility | 50-60 % in Undergraduate Courses | 50% in Undergraduate courses |
| Average Course Fees (INR) | INR 2 - 6 LPA | INR 5 - 20 LPA |
| Average Salary (INR) | INR 5 - 7 LPA | INR 10 - 30 LPA |
| Colleges | SXC, Presidency College, Fergusson College | IIM A, IIM B, IIM C |
Read More: MBA vs MSc
MS vs MSc
Here are the differences between MS and MSc regarding the fees, eligibility, Admission Process, and Average Salary.
| Particulars | MS | MSc |
| Full-Form | Master of Surgery | Master of Science |
| Course Duration | 3 Years | 2 Years |
| Admission Process | AIPGMEE, CMC, BHU PET | BHU ET, TISS NET |
| Eligibility | 50-60 % in MBBS | 50-60 % in Undergraduate Course |
| Average Course Fees (INR) | INR 54,000PA - 18 LPA | INR 2 - 6 LPA |
| Average Salary (INR) | INR 9 - 15 LPA | INR 5 - 7 LPA |
| Colleges | AIIMS, AFMC, BJMC | SXC, Presidency College, Fergusson College |
Read more: MS
MSc vs MCA
Here are some of the differences between the MSc degree and MCA regarding the fees, eligibility, Admission Process, and Average Salary.
| Particulars | MSc | MCA |
| Full-Form | Master of Science | Master of Computer Application |
| Course Duration | 2 Years | 3 Years |
| Entrance | BHU ET, TISS NET | TANCET, OJEE, VITMEE |
| Eligibility | 50-60 % in Undergraduate Courses | 50% in Undergraduate Courses |
| Average Course Fees (INR) | INR 2 - 6 LPA | INR 30,000 PA - 2.4 LPA |
| Average Salary (INR) | INR 5 - 7 LPA | INR 5 - 7 LPA |
| Colleges | SXC, Presidency College, Fergusson College | NIT Rourkela, Jamia Milia New Delhi, PU |
Read more: MCA
BSc vs MSc
Here are some of the details of the courses related to science and the contrast between undergraduate degrees with the fees, eligibility, Admission Process, and Average Salary.
| Particulars | BSc | MSc |
| Full-Form | Bachelor of Science | Master of Science |
| Course Duration | 3 Years | 2 Years |
| Admission Process | NEST, UP SEE, NPAT | BHU ET, TISS NET |
| Eligibility | 50-60 % in High Scool Degree | 50-60 % in Undergraduate Courses |
| Average Course Fees (INR) | INR 10,000 - 2 LPA | INR 2 - 6 LPA |
| Average Salary (INR) | INR 4 - 6.5 LPA | INR 5 - 7 LPA |
| Colleges | Miranda House, LSRC, SXC | SXC, Presidency College, Fergusson College |
Read more: B.Sc
MPhil vs MSc
Here are some of the details of the courses related to Science and doctorate degree regarding the fees, eligibility, Admission Process, and Average Salary.
| Particulars | MPhil | MSc |
| Full-Form | Master of Philosophy | Master of Science |
| Course Duration | 2 Years | 2 Years |
| Admission Process | GATE, UGC NET, CUCET | BHU ET, TISS NET |
| Eligibility | 50-60 % in Postgraduate Courses | 50-60 % in Undergraduate Courses |
| Average Course Fees (INR) | INR 2,000 to 1 LPA | INR 2 - 6 LPA |
| Average Salary (INR) | INR 4 - 5 LPA | INR 5 - 7 LPA |
| Colleges | BHU, DU, MDU | SXC, Presidency College, Fergusson College |
Read more: MPhil vs MSc
Preparation Tips For MSc
MSc degree full form stands for Master of Science which requires aspirants to prepare adequately for the different aspects of the MSc exam. Preparation for MSc exam should begin well beforehand to ensure timely preparation. Some preparation tips for MSc exam are listed below:
Time Management: Aspirants of the course should carve out a proper timetable for the different topics so that they can devote their time adequately to each topic.
Mock Practice: Question papers from previous years should be downloaded by the students to practice and examine the exam pattern for better results.
Core Topics: Several core topics are essential features in the MSc question paper. Students should practice these topics with greater importance to crack the exam.
Practice Regularly: Regular practice is a must for all the important topics to increase the chance of passing the exam with a sound performance.
Courses After MSc
MSc full form in education stands for Mater in Science which is a master's degree in the specialized study of scientific fields which also prepares candidates to obtain Higher education to get more potential knowledge and skillsets for MSc degree holders. This ensures a higher salary pay when graduates choose to enter any industry. Some of the courses after MSc course are listed below:
Read more: MBA after MSc
Salary of an MSc Graduate
According to Payscale, the average salary offered to an MSc graduate is INR 8.4 LPA. Variation in salary among Master of Science graduates depends on factors such as industry, skill set, dedication, and diligence. The pay range increases as the graduate experience increase over time. Higher education after MSc ensures higher pay when entering the field.
Read More: MSc Salary
Career Options After MSc
Career opportunities after MSc are available in both the public and the private sectors. The field and the sector in which the graduates can apply for a job depends highly on the specializations in Master of Science. Students who want to take up teaching as a profession after an MSc degree can opt for the NET exam and UPSC for civil service.
Listed below are some of the popular MSc roles that are available to students after graduation:
- Biology Researcher
- Doctor
- Science Advisor
- Lecturer
- Biochemist
- Pharmacist
- Taxonomist
- Oceanographer
- Geneticist
- Marine Biologist
- Plant Biochemist
Read more: MSc Job Scope
MSc Scholarship
The Indian government offers a number of scholarships to students who aspire to pursue MSc courses for financially disabled, minorities, and physically challenged individuals. There are several private and government scholarships available to qualified individuals. Listed here are various MSc Scholarships:
- Merit cum Means Scholarship for Professional and Technical Courses CS (Minorities)
- Post Matric Scholarships Scheme for Minorities
- Scholarships for Top-Class Education for Students with Disabilities
- National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students
- AICTE PG (GATE/GPAT) Scholarship
- S.N. Bose Scholars Program
- Khorana Program for Scholars
- Chief Minister’s Urban Leaders Fellowship
- Focus Area Science Technology Summer Fellowship
- Post-Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child
- Post Graduate Merit Scholarship for University Rank Holders
- Post Graduate Scholarship for Professional Courses for SC/ST
Read more: MSc Scholarships
Skills That Make You The Best MSc Graduate
The field of science is one of the most competitive fields in academia. Due to this, MSc demands a very detailed study of the course. Apart from the detailed study in the MSc course, one should possess a certain set of soft and hard skills to stand out from the rest when pursuing career options. Some of these skills are listed below:
- Critical thinking
- Accuracy in research
- Numerical skills
- Technical skills
- Time management skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Problem-solving skill
| Other Popular PG Courses | |
| MBA | MCA |
| MA | MD |
| MTech | MSW |
| PGDCA | M.Phil |
| MIM | PGDM |
| MPT | MPA |
Top MSc [Master of Science] Colleges
Top Science Entrance Exams
MSc Fee Structure
FAQs
Which is better MS or MSc?
MS is a professional course, perceived to be a better program than the MSc program. Those who have completed MSc can also do the MS program.
What is MSc salary?
The average MSc graduate salary is INR 8.4 LPA.
What are the specializations available in MSc?
MSc specializations includes Computer Science, Environmental Sciences, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Statistics, Life Sciences, etc.
What job opportunities are available after MSc?
Graduates after MSc can work as project manager, data analyst, research analyst, statistical trainer, consultant, etc., in both private and public sectors.
Which companies offer placement to MSc graduates?
The companies offering job to an MSc graduate may differ according to the specialization choosen, few of the top companies include TCS, Wipro, Google, Microsoft, etc.
