MSc in Virology is a two-year biomedical course at the postgraduate level. It deals with a detailed study and analysis of the structure, mechanism, and evolution of different viruses and how to prevent various viral diseases. This course focuses on animal virology, immunology, bioinformatics, and virus replication among other topics. In this blog, you will find a detailed guide on MSc in Virology- from particulars about the course and its fees to its eligibility, syllabus, and more.
Highlights:
- Best Universities for MSc in Virology: Harvard University, MIT and Cambridge University.
- MSc Virology Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in Science/Microbiology/Biochemistry/Chemistry, minimum 50% aggregate in Bachelor’s
- MSc Virology Syllabus: Tissue Culture Techniques, Cellular Immunology, Bioinformatics, and more, along with internships and research projects in the last semester.
- MSc Virology Scope: Research Associate, Lab Assistant, Professor
If you are interested in pursuing Virology at the master’s level, but you’re confused about where and how to apply- don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. With Yocket Premium, you get expert counselors with years of experience to guide you through every aspect of your higher education. We have helped 10,000+ students get admitted into top universities around the world. Head over to Yocket Premium to learn more!
| Table of Contents |
MSc Virology: Course Details
MSc in Virology is one of the specialisations offered under the MSc program. It has a wide scope for research. This course is divided into 4 semesters over 2 years and includes topics of study like Virology Methods, Tissue Culture and Cell Biology, Virus Latency, and more. Students with a bachelor’s degree in subjects like microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, and other related fields can apply for this course for their master’s. The average course fees for MSc Virology abroad can range from INR 28 lakhs to 38 lakhs.
MSc in Virology has a lot of scope in research and career opportunities. Ever since the Covid-19 pandemic, research on viral diseases has greatly increased and the demand for virologists and lab assistants is greater than ever before. Hence, pursuing this course can land you lucrative career opportunities. Follow this guide on MSc in Virology to learn more.
Below is a table summarising the basic course details of MSc Virology.
|
Name of Degree |
Master of Science in Virology |
|
Duration |
2 years |
|
Minimum Age |
21 years |
|
Minimum Percentage Required |
50% aggregate in Bachelor’s |
|
Average Fees |
INR 28L-38L |
|
Average Salary |
INR 3-15 LPA |
|
Scope of Employment |
Virologist, Research Assistant, Professor, Lab Assistant |
Suggested: Cost of Studying Courses in USA after 12th Science
MSc Virology: Course Fees
The average course fees for MSc Virology can range from INR 20,000 to 2.5 lakh. But it depends on the universities and their fee structure. Given below are the course fees for MSc Virology for some of the most renowned universities in India.
|
University |
QS World University Ranking 2025 |
Average Course Fees |
|---|---|---|
|
4 |
INR 47L |
|
|
1 |
INR 55L |
|
|
5 |
INR 46L |
|
|
6 |
INR 91L |
|
|
3 |
INR 51L |
|
|
12 |
INR 28L |
|
|
7 |
INR 1.37L |
|
|
23 |
INR 41L |
|
|
42 |
INR 28L |
|
|
72 |
INR 29L |
MSc Virology: Eligibility Criteria
There are various criteria you must meet to be eligible for pursuing an MSc in Virology. Here are some of the basic requirements for admission to this course:
- You must have completed your Bachelor’s degree in a related scientific discipline (such as microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, etc.) with a minimum aggregate of 50%.
- You must be at least 21 years of age.
- Your Bachelor’s degree must be obtained from a recognised state university.
MSc in Virology: Admission Process
The admission process for this course involves researching the best universities and sitting for entrance exams. Below are the fundamental steps for admission.
- Research the course details, fees, and scope of the top universities before you shortlist which ones to apply to.
- Apply to the universities online or offline by filling out their application form.
- Upload scanned copies of all the relevant documents, including your Bachelor’s transcripts, CV, Personal Statement, English proficiency scores, and more.
- Regularly check your application status and wait for a decision.
MSc in Virology: Syllabus
MSc in Virology offers various topics and subjects of study. Some of these topics include:
- Tissue Culture Techniques
- Cellular immunology
- Viral Respiratory Diseases
- Antivirals and Vaccines
- Bioinformatics
- Virological Methods
- Vector Biology
- Virus Replication
Here is a detailed guide on the syllabus for each semester of this course:
1st Year:
|
Semester 1 |
Semester 2 |
|---|---|
|
Basic Virology |
Virus Replication |
|
Tissue Culture Techniques |
Biochemical Methods |
|
Cell Biology |
Serological Methods |
|
General Microbiology |
Bioinformatics |
|
Basic Epidemiology |
Antivirals and Vaccines |
|
Biological Chemistry |
Virus Cell Interaction |
|
Immunology I |
Immunology II |
2nd Year:
|
Semester 3 |
Semester 4 |
|---|---|
|
Viral Enteric Diseases and Cancers |
Animal and Human Viral Diseases |
|
Viral Hepatitis |
Internship |
|
Viral Respiratory Diseases |
Research Project/Master’s Thesis |
|
Plant Virology |
|
|
Human Virology |
|
|
Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers |
|
|
Exanthematous Diseases of Virus Aetiology |
Suggested: What is Master's Degree? Types & Courses
What to Study After MSc in Virology?
The MSc in Virology course has a lot of scope after its completion. If you wish to continue your higher studies after completing this degree, there are several options you can choose to pursue. Some of them are:
-
MPhil. In Microbiology
-
PhD in Microbiology
-
PhD in Virology
MSc Virology: Jobs and Salaries
After completing an MSc in Virology, you will have a lot of scope with regard to your career. There are several job opportunities available in the fields of medicine and research. Below is a list of job opportunities and their salaries.
|
Job Profile |
Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
|
Virologist |
INR 2.5L-3.5L |
|
Research Associate |
INR 3L-4L |
|
Lab Assistant |
INR 2L-3L |
|
Professor |
INR 2.5L-5L |
|
Medical Scientist |
INR 9L-10L |
From the Desk of Yocket
An MSc in Virology is a very useful degree that’s very much in demand in the world today. After completing this degree, you can find lucrative job opportunities in both private and public sectors- in the domains of research, medicine, teaching, lab assistance, and more. This guide on MSc in Virology and its courses, fees, eligibility, and syllabus is sure to help you choose the right university that suits your profile.
If you’re looking for further help with university shortlisting or any other higher education issues, hop on a FREE call with our Yocket counselors today to clear your doubts! Our experts are sure to guide you in the right direction and help you secure a bright future. Happy studying!
