The shift from theory-based teaching to application-based learning has again popularised pure sciences among undergraduates, says Urmi Palan For a young adult, making the right career choice post-class XII is the most challenging task. Science is a popular stream, both among students and parents.
Pure science subjects, which faced stiff competition from professional courses such as medicine and engineering till a few years ago, are witnessing a surge in the number of applicants across the country. A major reason for this trend is the shift in focus from theory-based learning to understanding and applying pure sciences in the classroom. UG SCENARIO BSc, among the oldest yet most popular courses, offers a number of traditional as well as upcoming application-based specialisations.

The subjects taught under it include biochemistry, biotechnology, botany, chemistry, computer science, genetic engineering, geology, information technology, life science, maths, microbiology, molecular biology, physics, statistics and zoology.
The duration of the programme is usually three years, but it could vary from one university to another. For example, while the programme at the University of Mumbai spans three years, its Delhi counterpart offers a four-year degree. The programme is offered by most state universities and autonomous colleges that fall under their purview.
PG AVENUES Once students specialise in a subject at the undergraduate level, they can opt for an MSc in the same discipline or switch their specialisation. A Master's in pure sciences prepares a student to pursue research at the doctoral level. For
students who wish to study abroad, the pro gramme equips them with a better understanding of the sub jects they need to study to clear the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), a pre-requisite for PhD admissions overseas.

Since industries have started re cruiting graduates in pure sciences and training them as per their needs rather than employing senior-level managers, students puruing courses in pure sci ences no longer feel inferior to those taking technical and professional courses.

GOVERNMENT'S ROLE The Centre has emphasised bridging the skill gap, thereby increasing the number of Central-government-funded institutes offering UG degrees in pure sciences. The focus, at most of these institutes, is on using an integrated curriculum, which allows the student to select specialisations and learn a number of subjects, including those in humanities or sociology.

Another initiative by the government is the creation of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Bhopal, Kolkata, Mohali and Pune. These institutes pick candidates after class XII, giving them an opportunity to pursue various specialisations.Today, undergraduate and integrated programmes (undergraduate with Master's) in various science streams are offered by reputable institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), IISERs, among others. Integrated programmes are available at the postgraduate level, too, where students can enrol for an MSc with a PhD.

(The author is vice principal, Ramnarain Ruia College, Mumbai) Advertorial,Education Promotional Feature ADMISSIONS 2014-15 This month, Education Times will cover science. From course updates and an all-India institute directory to offbeat options and the latest industry trends, watch this space to clear your doubts. 
NEXT WEEK: PG in science, specialisations to choose from, career prospects, expert views, and more