Aspiring students who successfully complete the biology-focused 12th grade curriculum are at the edge of a wide range of professionally fulfilling and intellectually challenging fields in the life sciences and healthcare. Their individual professional fulfilment and future contributions to society will be significantly influenced by the academic path they ultimately choose. This list provides a thorough overview of the top biology-focused programs and related subjects that these discriminating individuals may choose from, enabling them to make wise decisions and open doors to successful and influential careers in Indian science.
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What are the top biology courses after 12th? The field of biology is vast and encompasses various specialized areas. These are the top 20 biology courses after 12th:
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): The most sought-after option for aspiring doctors, MBBS provides comprehensive training in medical science, leading to a career as a physician. This course typically involves rigorous academic study and clinical rotations.
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS): If you are interested in oral health, BDS is the path to becoming a dentist. This program focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental diseases and conditions.
Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm): For those inclined towards the pharmaceutical industry, B.Pharm is an excellent choice. This course covers drug formulation, development, quality control, and dispensing. Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Nursing: Nursing is a noble profession focused on providing care to patients. A B.Sc. Nursing degree equips you with the skills to assist doctors, administer medication, and provide emotional support to patients and their families.
Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT): Physiotherapy focuses on rehabilitation and improving mobility through physical exercises and other techniques. BPT graduates work with patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or dealing with chronic conditions.
Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT): Occupational therapists help individuals with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities to perform daily tasks. BOT focuses on improving a person’s ability to live independently and participate in meaningful activities.
Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS): If you are interested in traditional Indian medicine, BAMS offers a comprehensive understanding of Ayurveda, its principles, and treatments.
Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS): BHMS focuses on homeopathy, an alternative system of medicine that uses highly diluted substances to stimulate the body’s healing process.
Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS): BUMS is another traditional system of medicine, originating in ancient Greece and further developed in the Middle East and South Asia. It focuses on maintaining the body’s equilibrium.
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V.Sc.) & Animal Husbandry: For those with a love for animals, B.V.Sc. provides the knowledge and skills to become a veterinarian, focusing on animal health, welfare, and breeding.
B.Sc. Biotechnology: Biotechnology is a rapidly growing field that applies biological processes to develop technologies and products. This course covers areas like genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and pharmaceuticals.
B.Sc. Microbiology: Microbiology focuses on the study of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Microbiologists play crucial roles in healthcare, research, and industry.
B.Sc. Biochemistry: Biochemistry explores the chemical processes within living organisms. This field is essential for understanding diseases, developing new drugs, and advancing our knowledge of life at the molecular level.
B.Sc. Zoology: Zoology is the study of the animal kingdom, covering their evolution, behavior, physiology, and classification. This course is ideal for those interested in animal life and conservation.
B.Sc. Botany: Botany focuses on the study of plants, including their physiology, genetics, ecology, and economic importance. This field is crucial for agriculture, forestry, and environmental conservation.
B.Sc. Genetics: Genetics explores heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics. This field has revolutionized medicine, agriculture, and our understanding of life.
B.Sc. Environmental Science: Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that studies the interactions between the physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment. This course is ideal for those passionate about sustainability and conservation.
B.Sc. Food Science and Nutrition: This course focuses on the science of food and its impact on human health. Food scientists and nutritionists play vital roles in ensuring food safety and promoting healthy eating habits.
B.Sc. Agriculture: Agriculture is the science and art of cultivating plants and rearing animals. This course provides knowledge about crop production, horticulture, animal husbandry, and agricultural economics.
B.Sc. Marine Biology: For those fascinated by ocean life, marine biology explores the organisms that inhabit the marine environment, their interactions, and the conservation of marine ecosystems.
Diploma Courses After 12th Biology
These are some of the top diploma courses after 12th biology:
Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (DMLT): This is one of the most popular diploma choices for biology students. DMLT professionals play a crucial role in healthcare by performing various diagnostic tests on patient samples. They work in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic labs.
Diploma in Nursing (GNM – General Nursing and Midwifery): GNM is a diploma program focused on training nurses to provide care to patients. GNM nurses are in high demand in hospitals, nursing homes, and community health centers.
Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm): D.Pharm focuses on pharmaceutical science, preparing individuals to work as pharmacists or pharmacy assistants. They are involved in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing patient counseling.
Diploma in Physiotherapy: This diploma equips you with the skills to assist physiotherapists in helping patients recover from injuries and improve mobility through exercises and other techniques.
Diploma in Occupational Therapy: Similar to physiotherapy, this diploma focuses on helping individuals with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities to perform daily tasks. Occupational therapy assistants work under the guidance of occupational therapists.
Diploma in Radiography/Medical Imaging Technology: This program trains individuals to operate medical imaging equipment like X-ray, CT scan, and MRI machines. Radiographers are essential in diagnosing various medical conditions.
Diploma in Dialysis Technology: With the increasing prevalence of kidney diseases, dialysis technicians are in demand. This course trains you to operate dialysis machines and care for patients undergoing dialysis.
Diploma in Operation Theatre Technology: Operation theatre technicians assist surgeons and other medical professionals during surgeries. This course covers sterilization techniques, handling surgical instruments, and monitoring patients.
Diploma in Health Inspector: Health inspectors play a vital role in maintaining public health by ensuring hygiene and sanitation standards in various establishments.
Diploma in Dental Hygiene: Dental hygienists work alongside dentists, providing preventive dental care, cleaning teeth, and educating patients on oral hygiene.
Diploma in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (DVSAH): For those interested in animal care, DVSAH provides foundational knowledge in animal health, breeding, and management.
Diploma in Agriculture: This diploma focuses on the practical aspects of agriculture, covering crop production, horticulture, and animal husbandry. It’s suitable for those interested in working in the agricultural sector.
Diploma in Horticulture: Horticulture focuses on the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. This diploma can lead to careers in nurseries, landscaping, and agricultural businesses.
Diploma in Food Processing: This course trains individuals in the techniques of preserving, processing, and packaging food products. The food processing industry offers various job opportunities.
Diploma in Biotechnology: While a B.Sc. is common, some institutions offer diplomas in biotechnology, focusing on specific applications like medical biotechnology or agricultural biotechnology.
Diploma in Environmental Science: Similar to biotechnology, some institutions offer diplomas in environmental science, focusing on areas like pollution control or waste management
Entrance Exam After 12th Biology
What are the main entrance exams available after completing 12th grade with Biology as a subject? Different entrance examinations are specific to each field, depending on the course or career path you choose, such as medicine, veterinary science, agriculture, biotechnology, or allied health sciences. The article by Amrita Online, Amrita University will help you to get an idea about different entrance exams after 12th Biology.
Exam Name
Conducting Body
Courses Offered
Eligibility Criteria
Exam Pattern
National Level Exams
NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test)
National Testing Agency (NTA)
MBBS, BDS, AYUSH courses (BAMS, BUMS, BHMS, etc.), and other undergraduate medical courses.
Passed/appearing in 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English. Minimum age 17 years by Dec 31st of the admission year.
Offline (Pen & Paper). 180 MCQs from Physics, Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology. Total marks: 720. Negative marking. Duration: 3 hours.
AIIMS BSc Nursing Entrance Exam
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi
BSc (Hons) Nursing
Passed/appearing in 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English. Minimum 55% aggregate marks (50% for SC/ST). Only female candidates are eligible for BSc Nursing at AIIMS.
Online (CBT). 100 MCQs from Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and General Knowledge. Total marks: 100. Negative marking. Duration: 2 hours.
JIPMER Entrance Exam (NEET from 2020 onwards)
Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research (JIPMER) (Now through NEET)
MBBS (at JIPMER Puducherry and Karaikal)
Passed/appearing in 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology, and English. Minimum 50% marks in PCB. Age limit: 17 years at the time of the exam.
As per NEET exam pattern since 2020.
State Level Exams
Respective State Government/Examining Bodies
Various Medical, Dental, AYUSH, and other paramedical courses offered by colleges within the specific state.
Varies depending on the state. Generally, 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology is required. Specific percentage requirements and domicile rules apply.
Varies depending on the state. Often includes MCQs in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Some may have additional sections like English or Aptitude. Mode of exam (online/offline) and duration also vary.
University Level Exams
Individual Universities/Institutions
Various undergraduate Biology courses like B.Sc. Nursing, B.Pharm, B.Sc. Biotechnology, B.Sc. Agriculture, etc.
Passed/appearing in 10+2 with Biology as a compulsory subject. Some courses may have specific subject requirements (e.g., Physics and Chemistry for B.Pharm). Percentage criteria vary.
Varies significantly depending on the university and the course. Can be MCQs, written tests, or a combination. Syllabus focuses on subjects relevant to the chosen course.
What to do After 12th Science with Biology?
What to do after 12th science with biology? There are so many career opportunities available for you after 12th science with biology. These are some of the most popular career paths:
1. The Medical Field (Requires NEET):
MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery)
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery)
BUMS (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery)
BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery)
BYNS (Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences)
BSMS (Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery)
2. Allied Health Sciences (Various Entrance Exams/Merit):
Diploma in Nursing (GNM – General Nursing and Midwifery)
Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm)
Diploma in Physiotherapy
Diploma in Occupational Therapy
Diploma in Radiography/Medical Imaging Technology
Diploma in Dialysis Technology
Diploma in Operation Theatre Technology
Diploma in Health Inspector
Diploma in Dental Hygiene
Diploma in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (DVSAH)
Diploma in Agriculture
Diploma in Horticulture
Diploma in Food Processing
Diploma in Biotechnology
Diploma in Environmental Science
Conclusion
In conclusion, the realm of biology after 12th grade presents a diverse array of promising pathways, ranging from the highly competitive medical fields accessed through NEET, to specialized B.Sc. degrees in areas like Biotechnology and Microbiology, and vocational diploma courses offering quicker entry into healthcare and related industries. The choice ultimately hinges on individual interests, career aspirations, and aptitude, with thorough research into eligibility criteria, entrance exams, and future prospects being crucial for navigating these exciting opportunities in the life sciences. By going through the article by Amrita Online, Amrita University, you will get a clear idea about the top biology courses after 12th in India.
