IISc designs unique inter-disciplinary programme

To provide a multi-disciplinary training in science, engineering, and humanities, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has designed a ‘unique’ inter-disciplinary four-year BS programme with specialisations in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Materials and Environmental Science. It will be equivalent to the traditional Master of Science (MSc).

The course aims to teach basic sciences in active research atmosphere and will provide an ideal launch-pad for research in cutting-edge areas of science and technology. Students who have passed second PUC or its equivalent courses from India and abroad can apply for the course. As many as 110 students will be admitted in the first batch beginning 2011-2012.

Candidates will be admitted based on their performance in the existing national-level tests such as the Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY), IIT-JEE and AIEEE. According to the IISc, this is to be spare the ‘overtaxed’ students from another entrance exam.

While a formal announcement about the course will be made in December, application forms will be received from January 1 to March 31, 2011.

The first set of admission will be offered to KVPY candidates in April whereas the next set will be conducted in June. Counselling will be held in the third week of June and classes will commence from August 1.