MSc Chemistry in India: Course, Syllabus, Jobs, Scope, Salary, Colleges and Admission 2024

December 13, 2023
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Are you considering a career in Chemistry? Are you curious about the opportunities that await you after completing an MSc Chemistry degree? Look no further! In this blog post, we will explore the various aspects of pursuing an MSc Chemistry and the career prospects that follow.

MSc Chemistry, also known as Master of Science in Chemistry, is a prestigious two-year postgraduate program. It delves into the intricacies of the subject, covering advanced topics such as Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physical Chemistry. This intensive degree program prepares students for a wide range of career paths in the field of Chemistry.

To gain admission to an MSc Chemistry program, universities typically require candidates to clear a written entrance exam and undergo a personal interview. Top colleges and universities offer this sought-after degree, providing students with a solid foundation in chemical principles and laboratory techniques.

Once you complete your MSc Chemistry, an array of exciting job opportunities awaits you. Graduates can pursue careers as Chemists, Toxicologists, Research Scientists, or Laboratory Assistants. Industries like paint, cement, paper, leather, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals frequently seek professionals with expertise in Chemistry. The scope for employment is vast, enabling you to explore diverse sectors and contribute to scientific advancements.

Scope of MSc Chemistry in India

Chemistry is one branch of Science that has maintained steady popularity among students. There is plenty of opportunities both in terms of jobs and higher education. Students can pursue a variety of jobs with high sustainability that offer chances of progressing to high ranks.

On the other hand, if MSc Chemistry student opts to earn a higher education, they can also apply for better-paid jobs and work in research and development. If one wishes to opt for the latter route, the two most liked choices are PhD and also M.Phil. However, there are many other courses to choose from.

1. Certification in Forensic Science

Forensic Science courses in certification form are of shorter terms of around 12 to 18 months. This is a branch of Science that deals with observing crime scenes. Individuals with this certificate would primarily be collecting evidence and testing them for further evidence. The goal is to understand how the criminal committed the crime and the personal details of the victim.

Forensic Scientist is a significant part of criminal investigations as it unlocks specific details of the crime that helps solve it. Forensic Science combines the principles of Biology and Chemistry. An individual with an MSc degree in Chemistry can allow to switch careers and explore a completely different career path.

These certificate courses are available in both online and offline formats. The online format is self-paced and also most are free of cost. Admissions or application process is easy and on merit basis. However, one must have a minimum of 55% aggregate score at the previous examination.

2. Certification in Laboratory Technique

Another course that adds considerably to the scope after MSc Chemistry course is certification in laboratory techniques. Unlike most certificate courses, the certification in Laboratory Techniques can last upto 2 years. Chemistry students generally work full-time in laboratories.

In this course, people learn how to use sensitive chemicals and also equipment. Candidates who wish to learn about working in laboratories and also proper handling techniques should take up this course. This course includes not only theoretical but also practical classes. With this certification, one can work as a laboratory assistant and also research assistant in laboratories.

School leaving students who have completed their class 12th in Science are eligible to apply to this course. However, both bachelor’s and master’s degree holders can apply. Admissions, like most certification courses, are on a merit basis. Applicants must also ensure they have a 55% to 60% aggregate score in the previous examination.

3. Certification in Biochemistry

Biochemistry combines both Chemistry and Biology making it perfect for MSc Chemistry students. Students in biochemistry learn about what different chemical processes in a body are and how they work. In particular, students learn these topics at a cellular level. This is then used to study diseases and find out cures for them.

Biochemistry is a major subject area that is available in full-term degrees. For MSc Chemistry students, a certification in Biochemistry will enable them to work in the medical and pharma industries.

Most certificate in Biochemistry students concentrates on one area of Biochemistry or basic topics. Moreover, most colleges that offer this course are on the offline form. Both class 12th Science students and degree holders can get admission to this certificate course. Like other certificate courses, for this course, applicants should also have at least a 50% to 60% aggregate score.

4. M.Phil Chemistry

After completing the MSc Chemistry most students opt to enrol for a doctorate. There are two options for research degrees, the first of which is an M.Phil degree. The two-year-long programme is meant for individuals who wish to work as teachers or in Chemistry research.

Students in the M.Phil degree pick a topic on Chemistry on which they conduct research. The findings of the research are then put in a form of a dissertation. The course is meant to deepen the knowledge of Chemistry by working hands-on with a problem.

Admission to the M.Phil degree is unlike the process for certificate courses. Most applicants have to take an entrance test and also attend a personal interview round. However, they must also have a minimum qualifying aggregate mark of 55% before taking the written test. Candidates who have significant work experience in Chemistry can get merit-based admissions too.

5. PhD in Chemistry

To further explore the MSc Chemistry scope, there is the PhD in Chemistry degree. This is the highest level of degree one can earn in any subject in India. Generally, the PhD degree lasts for around three to five years. This is also a research-based degree like an M.Phil but of a longer duration.

The syllabus is also lengthy where one learns research techniques too. PhD students work on a real-life problem related to a chosen research topic. Their findings are put in a form of a dissertation that they have to defend in front of professors.

Most PhD course applicants need to have a national, state or university-level test score. Qualifying applicants then have to attend an interview round where a research proposal is to be submitted. Here it is noteworthy that some universities require their PhD candidates to have work experience in the same field as the research topic.

​MSc Chemistry Eligibility & Syllabus 2024

To pursue a Master of Science degree in Chemistry, it is essential to fulfill specific eligibility requirements. Only after meeting these criteria can candidates proceed with the admission process. The primary criterion is holding a bachelor’s degree in Science, with a particular emphasis on Chemistry, and securing an aggregate of at least 55% to 60% marks. Once these prerequisites are met, candidates can proceed to take the written entrance test and subsequently seek admission.

While the syllabus for the master’s degree in Chemistry may vary across universities, applicants can refer to a general syllabus to gain a preliminary understanding of the subject matter.

First SemesterSecond Semester
Inorganic Chemistry 1Inorganic Chemistry 2
Organic Chemistry 1 and 2Organic Chemistry 3
Physical Chemistry 1Physical Chemistry 2
Mathematics for ChemistsSpectroscopy 1
PracticalsBiophysical and Photochemistry
 Photoinorganic Chemistry
 Chemistry of Selected Elements
 Practicals
Third SemesterFourth Semester
Spectroscopy 2Organometallic Chemistry & Catalysis
Solid State ChemistryBioinorganic Chemistry
Inorganic Reaction Mechanisms and Chemistry of Lanthanides and ActinidesChemistry of Materials
ElectivesSpectroscopy 3
PracticalsPracticals

​Career Opportunities in MSc Chemistry

A student average student can expect several job opportunities after MSc Chemistry degree. There are jobs not just in research and development but also in Sales and in laboratories in different capacities. To fully understand the scope of a chemistry degree and job options, it is best to look at the private jobs and also Government jobs open to a Chemistry student.

​Private Jobs after MSc Chemistry

Scientific job roles are abundant in the private sector at different product manufacturers. For instance, the cosmetics, pharmaceutical and agriculture sectors are some of the biggest employers for MSc Chemistry graduates. The right candidate with the appropriate skills and also mindset can make a successful career in the private sector. Within these employers, there are also many job roles one can work at:

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  2. Pharma Sales Executives
  3. Toxicologist
  4. Quality Control Manager
  5. Research Scientist

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2. Pharma Sales Executives

Pharmaceutical and medical equipment manufacturing companies that have several products have a dedicated sales department. Under this department, Sales Executives are hired whose sole responsibility is to promote sales and get more customers. They typically are an expert in the product and have a relevant degree like MSc Chemistry.

Pharmaceutical Sales Executives generally approach hospitals and doctors to sell them their offerings. One must not only be attentive to detail to understand what the client needs but also know how to convince them. They work on monthly and also annually targets on which they receive commissions with regular pay. In this role, in particular, one can work with an average pay of INR 3,10,000 LPA.

3. Toxicologist

Toxicologists are experts that combine both Chemistry and Biology to determine if certain substances are toxins or not. This is one post where all work is done in a laboratory setting where the individual is conducting tests and doing research. The tests are done in a controlled environment on humans or animals whose results are then used in different industries.

Toxicologists, in particular, work with drugs and pharmaceuticals to determine if they are safe to use and consume. They will also create guidelines or training reports on how to use these ingredients. This is a well-paid role where one can earn around INR 7,50,757 LPA.

4. Quality Control Manager

The term Quality Control Manager is a broad term found in many different industries and also employers. For Chemistry graduates, this role is primarily available in pharmaceutical or cosmetics manufacturers. The Quality Check Manager will inspect and also test out the manufactured products to ensure they meet all set standards.

Thereafter, they put their findings in a report and sent it to upper management for changes to be implemented. Without the role of a Quality Control Manager, no products are sent to be sold out in the market. Irrespective of the field, a Quality Control Manager makes around INR 6,22,611 LPA.

5. Research Scientist

One of the best sought out MSc Chemistry jobs is, in particular, that of a Research Scientist. In the private sector, Research Scientists work with chemicals and analyse them to make different products and treatments. This is a core laboratory role where the Research Scientist generally works in a team. Besides the experiments and tests, they will also analyse the data and results.

Other duties include supervising junior staff, writing reports and also coordinating with senior managers. The Research Scientist must also keep up to date with the latest developments in the field of Chemistry. Most employers offer INR 7,09,657 LPA for their Research Scientists.

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​Government Jobs after MSc Chemistry

Government jobs for Chemistry students are normally available in organizations and research centres under Government management. These organizations typically hold an entrance examination along with a personal interview round to select candidates. Like with the private sector, the range of jobs and also employers vary greatly in the Government sector as well:

  1. Clinical Research Associate
  2. Professor/Teacher
  3. Laboratory Assistant
  4. Chemist

1. Clinical Research Associate

Clinical Research Associates work in Government or privately run laboratories conducting clinical trials. They conduct the tests to find out any benefits, risks and also how to use them. Most Clinical Research Associates work at testing new drugs on test subjects.

All aspects of the test from setting up the test to initiation and also monitoring the results are done by the Clinical Research Associate. This work is done in liaison with doctors and also drug authorities. One can expect to earn around INR 3,36,543 LPA in this role.

2. Professor/Teacher

Another of the more prestigious career after MSc Chemistry is in education. As teachers or professors, one can work in schools and also universities teaching Chemistry. To teach at Government colleges, individuals could be required to have a national test score. Government school teachers have high salaries and also long-term sustainability. For higher teaching positions, universities also require a doctorate in Chemistry. Indian professors in any subject earn on average around INR 12,00,000 LPA.

3. Laboratory Assistant

This is one role that is self-explanatory. Laboratory Assistants will primarily work with senior scientists in laboratories. Their role is to assist the scientists in any way possible. From prepping for the experiments and tests to recording results, cleanup, sterilization and also preparing reports.

Laboratory Assistant will also collect and handle samples for the test and take care of administrative tasks for the senior scientist. This is a starting job role whose average salary is INR 2,13,999 LPA.

4. Chemist

Chemists are core Chemistry job roles where all one does is work with different chemicals, testing and also analysing them. Their work efforts are to not only create a new more secure but also stable product. When testing, the Chemist will look at the properties of the chemical and how it reacts with different products.

Regular tasks in the laboratory like cleaning and sanitising the test equipment are also part of the Chemist’s duties. The range of responsibilities will vary but Chemists receive around INR 2,59,022 LPA every year.

Also, read: Jobs You Can Bag after a MSc Degree

​Top MSc Chemistry Colleges in India

Chemistry is, in truth, offered at most colleges that have a Science division. Some, however, stand out in terms of their rankings, placements and infrastructure. Admissions to most universities that offer an MSc Chemistry degree is through a written test and a personal interview. For prospective applicants, it is worth exploring what these colleges are and what they offer.

  1. ​Christ University
  2. ​Chandigarh University
  3. ​Delhi University
  4. ​The Oxford College of Science
  5. Jamia Milia Islamia University

​1. Christ University

Christ University, one of the leading universities in Bangalore, offers MSc in Chemistry in three specialisations. They are General, Analytical and also Materials Chemistry. They aim to teach students to develop an analytical mindset in their subject area. Admissions to their programme are entirely on a university-level test, presentation and also a personal interview. One must, in particular, have a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and at least 50% marks.

​2. Chandigarh University

Another one of the best universities to explore career options after MSc Chemistry is Chandigarh University. This two-year-long programme also admits students through a university-level entrance test. Based on the performance on the test not only will the candidates get admission but also get scholarships. However, to take the test one must have a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry.

​3. Delhi University

Delhi University, in the nation’s capital, is one of the most well-ranked universities. It is also one of the most competitive universities to get admission to. Annually, the university holds its entrance test for admission to the MSc Chemistry course. However, there is also merit-based admission for candidates with over 60% aggregate marks. The course admits a total of 306 students annually.

​4. The Oxford College of Science

A private institute from Bangalore, the Oxford College of Science provides all courses with affiliation to Bangalore University. The institute, in particular, offers a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry degree. Like in most colleges, a qualifying examination takes place for candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry with also a 40% score. After the written test, chosen candidates also attend a personal interview round before taking admission.

5. ​Jamia Milia Islamia University

Among all universities mentioned, Jamia Milia University offers both full-time and part-time master’s degrees in Chemistry. Classes are small with 44 students at this central university. There are four concentrations to choose from, Materials, Inorganic, Organic and also Physical Chemistry. Admission takes place based on the university written test and also a personal interview. Moreover, all applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry with no less than 50% aggregate marks.

Related Article: MSc Colleges in India: Where to Study for Your Master’s Degree

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​Frequently Asked Questions

What is MSc chemistry?

MSc Chemistry is a postgraduate degree program that focuses on advanced study and research in the field of chemistry. It involves in-depth coursework, laboratory work, and a research project, allowing students to specialize in areas such as organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, or other related sub-disciplines.

What are the job opportunities after MSc Chemistry?

A MSc in Chemistry graduate can work in several job profiles. There are jobs in both the private and public sectors and also not all are in core research. In the private sector, for instance, one can work as a Toxicologist, Sales Executive and Quality Control Manager. On the other hand, government roles are Chemist, Research Assistant, Professor etc.

What is the highest salary after MSc Chemistry?

After MSc Chemistry jobs and salary are higher in profiles that are in research and development. The final salary of candidates will not only depend on the skillset but also on previous experience. In addition, the profiles with the highest salaries are Toxicologist, Research Scientists and Professors. They have salaries of INR 7,50,000 LPA, INR 7,09,657 LPA and also INR 12,00,000 LPA each.

Can I get placement after M.Sc Chemistry?

Yes. Chemistry students can get jobs after MSc Chemistry through placements. Most universities have placement drives at the end of each final academic year. The range of jobs varies and also so do the salary ranges. For Government jobs, one might have to qualify for a written test.

Can I join ISRO after M.Sc Chemistry?

Yes. Not only MSc in Chemistry students but also MSc in Physics and Mathematics graduates are eligible to apply to ISRO. There is a written test for candidates who have, in particular, achieved first class in their previous examination. There are even different age limits for different research posts.

Is MSc chemistry a good career?

Yes, pursuing a Master of Science (MSc) in Chemistry can lead to a rewarding and promising career. Chemistry is a broad field with diverse applications, and a master’s degree in this discipline can open up various opportunities in industry, academia, research, and other sectors.

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