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Once popular, microbiology is now often included in broader disciplines like biotechnology, genetics, and immunology, making it less viable as a standalone career option.
Biochemistry is now less opted by students after Class 12.
Choosing the right career path after completing class 12 can be daunting, especially when considering future job prospects and master’s degree options. For students with a science background, making informed college decisions is crucial. In today’s era of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning, some traditional subjects have seen a decline in relevance and value. Therefore, students need to choose courses that align with both current trends and future career opportunities.
If you are considering enrolling in a BSc or other science course, it’s important to take time and think carefully. You could spend three years studying for a degree, only to find yourself uncertain about pursuing a Master’s degree or securing a job. Many science courses have lost their relevance and value in the job market. Opting for these programs without proper consideration could jeopardise your future career prospects. Selecting courses aligned with evolving trends and promising career paths is crucial.
Here are a few science courses that should be reconsidered when making career choices:
1. Botany: Many plant science programmes are now integrated with fields like genetics, biotechnology, and environmental science. As a result, pursuing a standalone Botany degree no longer holds the same value or relevance.
2. Zoology: Zoology-related subjects are now primarily covered within programmes in Wildlife Conservation, Ecology, and Biology. This shift has led to a decline in students choosing Zoology as a dedicated course.
3. Microbiology: Once popular, microbiology is now often included in broader disciplines like biotechnology, genetics, and immunology, making it less viable as a standalone career option.
4. Physiology: If you’re considering specialising in physiology, it’s worth noting that the study has been incorporated into subjects like biology, biophysics, and neuroscience, so pursuing it separately may not offer significant advantages.
5. Geology: The study of geology is now commonly part of fields such as environmental science, geophysics, and petroleum engineering. It’s advisable to choose a subject with broader career opportunities and more scope for growth.
6. Meteorology: Meteorology is typically offered within specialised courses in Atmospheric Science, Climate Change, and Weather Forecasting. Pursuing meteorology from a reputable institute might be more beneficial.
7. Space Science: Space science has evolved into specialised fields like Astrophysics, Planetary Science, and Astronautics. If you are passionate about space, enrolling in Astrophysics will likely offer better prospects.
8. Biochemistry: This subject is commonly incorporated into programmes focused on molecular biology, genetics, and pharmacology. The standalone study of biochemistry has become less relevant compared to these interdisciplinary courses.
Why Has the Demand for These Science Courses Decreased?
Several factors contribute to the decline in demand for these science courses among students after class 12:
Technological Advancements and Automation: Rapid progress in technology and automation has shifted focus to fields that integrate modern tools and processes.
Industry Changes and New Technological Developments: Evolving industries and emerging technologies have reduced the relevance of some traditional courses, making it essential to adapt to updated fields.
Changes in Education and Training: Educational programmes have incorporated interdisciplinary subjects, blending specialised knowledge areas, which reduces the demand for some traditional courses.
Economic and Social Shifts: Broader economic and societal changes have altered career landscapes, affecting the popularity of certain fields.
While these courses have not disappeared, their demand and scope have evolved to meet the changing needs of industries and society.
