Career Talk

Which pure science courses have scope in India?

I’m studying in Class 10. I don’t like Maths but I’m very interested in Science. In the higher secondary we can pick subjects of our choice, so I would like to know about pure science courses (excluding MBBS) and other courses which we need to clear the NEET exam. Which pure science courses have scope in India? What salary can be expected from careers related to these courses?
Priyadharshini (15) / St Joseph’s

National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is held for admission to the undergraduate medical courses in all medical institutions. Since you’re interested in pure science courses, you’re not required to appear in NEET.

Pure sciences are usually classified into two categories — physical sciences and biological sciences.

Physical sciences deal with non-living things — from the tiny particles that make up an atom to the universe itself. Its subject areas include Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Mathematics and Physics. Study in this field can lead to careers like actuary, architect, computer programmer, engineer, horticulturist, merchant navy personnel, meteorologist, scientist, etc.

Biological sciences deal with the relationships between all living things, their environments, and the ways to maintain certain conditions to preserve life. Zoology, Botany and Microbiology come under this category. Graduates in these fields have found work as physiologists, physicians, physical therapists, medical illustrators, microbiologists, teachers, speech pathologists, pharmacologists, nurses, veterinarians, bioinformatics, horticulturists, etc.

Work in any of these fields requires a minimum of graduation in that stream. Most courses in physical sciences are open only to students with 10+2 in Mathematics and Science, but courses in biological sciences do not require Mathematics as a subject in 10+2. For some professionals like physicists, higher study is required.

Dr Vibha Gupta, a feature writer, is a Ph.D. in Mathematics from IIT Roorkee. Her book Careers: A Pathfinder and articles in various publications are an attempt to guide students in choosing a career according to their natural strengths, talents and skills.

Dr Vibha Gupta

Dr Vibha Gupta, a feature writer, is a Ph.D. in Mathematics from IIT Roorkee. Her book Careers: A Pathfinder and articles in various publications are an attempt to guide students in choosing a career according to their natural strengths, talents and skills.