Last Updated on December 10, 2025 by Simran
The BTech Biotechnology syllabus in India for 2025 follows the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) model curriculum, integrated with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 for enhanced flexibility and industry relevance. This four-year undergraduate engineering program (eight semesters) combines foundational engineering principles with advanced biotechnology applications, covering areas like genetic engineering, bioprocess technology, and bioinformatics.
With the Indian biotech industry valued at $15 billion and growing at 15% annually, the curriculum emphasizes hands-on training, research projects, and ethical practices to prepare students for roles in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental engineering.
Under NEP-AICTE guidelines, the syllabus includes 160-180 credits, with 40% practicals/labs, mandatory internships (6-8 weeks after Sem 4), and electives in emerging fields like synthetic biology and nanobiotech. Admissions via JEE Main/CUET UG ensure merit-based entry, with assessments blending continuous evaluation (30%) and end-sem exams (70%). This guide outlines the semester-wise structure based on AICTE’s 2025 model, incorporating updates from NIRF-ranked institutes like IIT Kharagpur and Anna University, focusing on outcome-based learning for global competitiveness.
BTech Biotechnology Syllabus 2025: Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration & Structure | 4 years (8 semesters); 160-180 credits under NEP-AICTE |
| Core Subjects | Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetic Engineering, Bioprocess Engg., Bioinformatics |
| Engineering Foundations | Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Programming, Fluid Mechanics |
| Electives (NEP Add-ons) | Nanobiotech, Synthetic Biology, IPR in Biotech, AI in Drug Design |
| Practicals & Projects | 40% weightage; includes labs, 6-8 week internship, major project in Sem 7-8 |
| Assessment | Internals (30%: quizzes, labs) + End-sem (70%: theory/practicals); viva for projects |
| Books (Core) | Biochem: Lehninger; Micro: Prescott; Genetic Engg: Brown; Bioprocess: Shuler |
| Career Alignment | Prepares for MTech, industry (₹5-10 LPA starting), R&D (DBT-GATE) |
Semester-Wise BTech Biotechnology Syllabus 2025 (AICTE-NEP Model)
The curriculum starts with engineering basics in Sem 1-2, transitioning to biotech core in Sem 3-4, and advanced applications/electives in Sem 5-8. Each semester comprises 20-25 credits, with theory (3-4 hours/week), labs (2-4 hours), and tutorials. NEP enables choice-based credits (20%) and multidisciplinary minors (e.g., AI with biotech). Variations: IITs add research credits; Anna University emphasizes industrial safety. Focus: Application via case studies on CRISPR and biofuels.
Semester 1: Engineering & Basic Sciences (22-24 Credits)
Foundational semester blending engineering maths/physics with intro biology, per NEP’s holistic approach. Labs introduce basic instrumentation.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| Engineering Mathematics-I | Differential calculus; Matrices; Vector calculus; Multivariable functions; Limits/continuity | 4 (Theory) |
| Engineering Physics | Mechanics; Waves; Optics; Quantum physics; Materials science (biomaterials intro) | 3 + 1.5 (Lab) |
| Engineering Chemistry | Atomic structure; Thermodynamics; Organic reactions; Spectroscopy; Water treatment | 3 + 1.5 |
| Introduction to Biology/Biotech | Cell structure; Biomolecules; Enzymes; Basic genetics; Microbial diversity | 3 + 1.5 |
| Engineering Graphics/Programming | CAD basics or Python for bio-data analysis (NEP elective) | 3 |
| English/Communication Skills | Technical writing; Seminar presentation; Ethics in engineering | 2 |
| Workshop/Environmental Studies | Basic tools; Sustainability in biotech | 2 |
Practicals: Physics/chemistry experiments, simple bio-staining. Assessment: Assignments, viva.
Semester 2: Core Sciences & Microbiology (22-24 Credits)
Builds on Sem 1 with microbiology and biochemistry, introducing NEP’s skill courses like lab safety.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| Engineering Mathematics-II | Integral calculus; Differential equations; Laplace transforms; Series solutions | 4 |
| Basic Electrical/Electronics Engg. | Circuits; Semiconductors; Instrumentation for biotech (sensors) | 3 + 1.5 |
| Biochemistry | Carbohydrates/lipids/proteins; Metabolism (glycolysis, Krebs); Vitamins/coenzymes | 3 + 1.5 |
| Microbiology | Bacterial/fungal/viral structure; Sterilization; Culture media; Pathogens | 3 + 1.5 |
| Computer Programming | C/C++ basics; Algorithms for bio-sequence analysis | 3 + 1.5 |
| Professional Communication | Report writing; Group discussions; Biotech ethics | 2 |
Practicals: Microbial isolation, biochemical assays. NEP: Minor in data science.
Semester 3: Molecular Biology & Genetics (24 Credits)
Biotech core begins, with NEP’s research intro via mini-projects.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| Mathematics-III (Bio-stats) | Probability; Regression; Hypothesis testing; Design of experiments | 4 |
| Molecular Biology | DNA/RNA structure; Replication/transcription; Gene expression; Regulation | 3 + 1.5 |
| Genetics | Mendelian laws; Chromosomal inheritance; Mutations; Genetic mapping | 3 + 1.5 |
| Cell Biology | Prokaryotic/eukaryotic cells; Organelles; Signaling; Cancer biology | 3 + 1.5 |
| Immunology | Immune cells; Antigens; Humoral/cellular responses; Vaccines | 3 + 1.5 |
| Biochemical Engineering | Stoichiometry; Kinetics; Mass/energy balance in bioprocesses | 3 |
Practicals: DNA extraction, immunological assays. Project: Gene cloning basics.
Semester 4: Recombinant DNA & Bioprocess (24 Credits)
Engineering-biotech fusion, with NEP vocational in IPR.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| Genetic Engineering | Restriction enzymes; Vectors; Cloning; rDNA applications | 3 + 1.5 |
| Bioprocess Engineering-I | Media design; Kinetics; Fermentation types; Sterilization | 3 + 1.5 |
| Plant Biotechnology | Tissue culture; Transgenics; Secondary metabolites | 3 + 1.5 |
| Animal Biotechnology | Cell culture; Hybridoma; Transgenic animals; Stem cells | 3 + 1.5 |
| Fluid Mechanics & Heat Transfer | Flow in pipes; Pumps; Heat exchangers for bioprocess | 3 |
| IPR & Bioethics | Patents in biotech; Ethical issues in GMOs | 2 |
Practicals: Plasmid isolation, plant propagation. Internship prep.
Semester 5: Industrial & Environmental Biotech (24 Credits)
Applied focus, with NEP electives.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| Industrial Biotechnology | Enzyme tech; Bioreactors; Scale-up; Downstream processing | 3 + 1.5 |
| Environmental Biotechnology | Bioremediation; Waste management; Bioindicators | 3 + 1.5 |
| Bioinformatics | Databases; Sequence alignment; Phylogenetics; Tools (BLAST) | 3 + 1.5 |
| Biochemical Reactor Design | Batch/continuous reactors; Modeling; Optimization | 3 |
| OE-1 (Open Elective) | Food Biotech or Nanobiotech | 3 |
| PE-1 (Professional Elective) | Medical Biotech | 3 |
Practicals: Bioreactor simulation. Elective: AI in biotech.
Semester 6: Advanced Processes & Genomics (24 Credits)
Depth in genomics, NEP research project.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| Genomics & Proteomics | Genome sequencing; NGS; Protein structure; Functional genomics | 3 + 1.5 |
| Bioprocess Engineering-II | Upstream/downstream; Process control; Economics | 3 + 1.5 |
| Enzyme & Food Biotechnology | Immobilization; Food fermentation; Quality assurance | 3 + 1.5 |
| Process Control & Instrumentation | Sensors; PID controllers; Automation in bioprocess | 3 |
| OE-2 | Marine Biotech or Synthetic Biology | 3 |
| PE-2 | Forensic Biotech | 3 |
Practicals: Proteomics tools. Minor project.
Semester 7: Electives & Industry Focus (24 Credits)
Customization via NEP, with internship report.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| Advanced Genetic Engineering | CRISPR; Site-directed mutagenesis; Gene therapy | 3 + 1.5 |
| Biopharmaceuticals | Drug design; Bioprocessing for mAbs; Regulatory affairs | 3 + 1.5 |
| PE-3 | Stem Cell Tech or Cancer Biology | 3 |
| PE-4 | Bioenergy or Tissue Engineering | 3 |
| OE-3 | AI/ML in Biotech | 3 |
| Major Project-I | Industry-sponsored research; Proposal defense | 4 |
Practicals: Biopharma simulations. Internship: 6 weeks.
Semester 8: Capstone & Professional Development (20 Credits)
Project-centric, NEP exit with honors.
| Subject | Topics Covered | Credits |
| PE-5 | Advanced Bioinformatics or Regenerative Med | 3 |
| PE-6 | Intellectual Property or Entrepreneurship | 3 |
| Major Project-II | Thesis on real-world problem (e.g., vaccine dev); Publication potential | 8 |
| Comprehensive Viva/Seminar | Industry trends; Career skills | 3 |
| OE-4 | Sustainable Biotech | 3 |
Practicals: Project defense. NEP: Option for honors with extra credits.
AICTE-NEP Updates in BTech Biotechnology Syllabus 2025
AICTE-NEP 2025 has introduced major updates to the BTech Biotechnology syllabus to make it more multidisciplinary, skill-oriented, and industry-ready. The revised curriculum emphasizes outcome-based education, integrating biology, engineering, data science, and computational skills.
New additions include bioinformatics with Python, AI-powered biotechnology tools, CRISPR and genome editing basics, and advanced bioprocess analytics. The syllabus now promotes hands-on learning through mandatory internships, research projects, and startup-based innovation credits.
Flexible elective choices, multidisciplinary minors, and skill-enhancement courses have been included to boost employability. Overall, the 2025 NEP-aligned syllabus enhances practical exposure, innovation, and modern biotech competency.
Recommended Books for BTech Biotechnology Syllabus
| Subject / Area | Book Title | Author(s) | Why It’s Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Molecular Biology | Molecular Biology of the Cell | Bruce Alberts | Gold-standard book for understanding cell functions, DNA/RNA processes, and molecular mechanisms. |
| Molecular Biology of the Gene | Watson & Lewin | Excellent for in-depth gene regulation and recombinant DNA concepts. | |
| Microbiology | Prescott’s Microbiology | Willey Sherwood | Comprehensive coverage of microbial physiology, genetics, and industrial microbiology. |
| Brock Biology of Microorganisms | Madigan | Detailed microbial diversity and metabolism content. | |
| Genetics | Genetics: From Genes to Genomes | Hartwell | Clear explanations of classical and molecular genetics. |
| Biochemistry | Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry | Nelson Cox | Best for metabolic pathways, enzyme functions, and structural biology. |
| Biochemistry | Voet & Voet | Great for advanced biochemical mechanisms and molecular interactions. | |
| Chemistry | Organic Chemistry | Morrison & Boyd | Strong foundation for reaction mechanisms and stereochemistry. |
| Physical Chemistry | Atkins | Covers thermodynamics, kinetics, and chemical equilibrium. | |
| Inorganic Chemistry | JD Lee | Easy-to-grasp concepts relevant to biomolecular chemistry. | |
| Mathematics | Higher Engineering Mathematics | BS Grewal | Essential for matrices, calculus, probability, and engineering math. |
| Advanced Engineering Mathematics | Erwin Kreyszig | Best for differential equations and numerical methods. | |
| Genetic Engineering | Principles of Gene Manipulation | Old & Primrose | Standard reference for cloning, PCR, vectors, and genome tools. |
| Bioprocess Engineering | Bioprocess Engineering | Shuler & Kargi | Ideal for fermentation, bioreactor design, and scale-up principles. |
| Bioprocess Engineering Principles | Pauline Doran | Most widely used in Indian universities. | |
| Immunology | Kuby Immunology | Goldsby | Great for immune responses, vaccines, and immunotechniques. |
| Bioinformatics | Bioinformatics: Sequence and Genome Analysis | David Mount | Covers computational tools, sequence alignment, and database usage. |
| Cell Culture | Culture of Animal Cells | Freshney | Essential for cell line maintenance and tissue culture techniques. |
| Environmental Biotech | Environmental Biotechnology | Alan Scragg | Useful for environmental processes, waste treatment, and bioremediation. |
Preparation Tips for BTech Biotechnology 2025
Preparing for BTech Biotechnology requires strong conceptual clarity, practical skills, and consistent revision.
- Start by understanding the complete syllabus and categorizing subjects into core biotechnology, engineering basics, skill-based courses, and labs.
- Strengthen your foundational knowledge in physics, chemistry, and biology, as these support advanced topics like metabolic engineering and molecular modeling.
- Follow a balanced study schedule with daily hours for core subjects, numerical practice, revision, and short notes.
- Focus heavily on practical skills—PCR, electrophoresis, chromatography, enzyme assays, fermentation techniques, and bioreactor basics—while maintaining a neat lab record.
- Prepare short, diagram-based notes on pathways, vectors, fermentation types, and purification methods for quick revision.
- Solve previous years’ question papers to understand exam trends and important long-answer topics. Use online learning resources like NPTEL, Khan Academy, and MIT OCW for deeper clarity.
- Strengthen numerical topics such as kinetics, bioreactor calculations, thermodynamics, probability, and matrices.
- Stay updated with recent biotechnology developments such as CRISPR, mRNA vaccines, and synthetic biology for better project and viva performance.
- Maintain strong attendance, score well in internal assessments, and participate in seminars or mini-projects.
- Lastly, build scientific writing and presentation skills, as they are essential for final-year projects and future placements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is included in the BTech Biotechnology syllabus 2026?
The BTech Biotechnology syllabus 2026 includes molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, engineering mathematics, bioprocess engineering, immunology, cell biology, bioinformatics, and laboratory practicals.
2. Does the 2026 syllabus include advanced topics like CRISPR and synthetic biology?
Yes, many universities have updated the 2026 syllabus to include CRISPR technology, synthetic biology fundamentals, genome editing applications, and modern biotechnological tools for industry use.
3. Are programming or computational biology subjects included in BTech Biotechnology 2026?
Yes, most institutes now include bioinformatics, Python programming basics, statistical analysis, sequence alignment, and computational tools to prepare students for modern biotechnology research.
4. How many semesters are there in the BTech Biotechnology syllabus?
The BTech Biotechnology program consists of eight semesters, each covering theory subjects, practical labs, project work, electives, and skill-based biotechnology training modules.
5. Is mathematics compulsory in the BTech Biotechnology syllabus 2026?
Yes, engineering mathematics is compulsory in initial semesters, covering calculus, probability, matrices, and differential equations essential for bioprocess calculations and analytical concepts.
6. What practical labs are included in the updated syllabus?
The syllabus includes microbiology lab, molecular biology lab, biochemistry lab, cell culture techniques, genetic engineering experiments, fermentation technology, and computational bioinformatics practical sessions.
7. Does the BTech Biotechnology syllabus include internships or industrial training?
Yes, most universities require mandatory industrial training or internships during later semesters to provide real-world exposure in biotech companies, research labs, and production units.
8. Are elective subjects available in the 2026 syllabus?
Yes, elective subjects such as pharmaceutical biotechnology, agricultural biotechnology, immunotechnology, nanobiotechnology, and environmental biotechnology allow students to specialize according to their interests.
9. What engineering subjects are included in the course?
Engineering subjects include bioprocess engineering, transport phenomena, chemical engineering basics, reactor design, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and analytical instrumentation essential for biotech applications.
10. Does the syllabus prepare students for research and higher studies?
Yes, the syllabus includes project work, research methodology, lab training, and advanced subjects that help students build strong foundations for MTech, MSc, and PhD programs.