Unlock the Molecular Secrets of Life with M.Sc. Organic Chemistry

In 1828, German chemist Friedrich Wöhler accidentally synthesised urea in a laboratory, shattering the belief that organic compounds could only arise from living organisms. This single achievement gave rise to modern organic chemistry, a field that now covers everything from life-saving drugs to eco-friendly plastics.
The current worth of the global chemical industry is $5.7 trillion, with organic chemistry driving innovations in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and renewable energy. In India alone, the pharmaceutical sector employs 2.7 million people, many of whom owe their expertise to advanced degrees like an M.Sc. Organic Chemistry.
If you’re fascinated by carbon-based molecules, reaction mechanisms and the science behind everyday marvels like aspirin or nylon, this degree is your key to a world where lab discoveries reshape industries. On that note, let’s explore what an M.Sc. Organic Chemistry entails, from syllabus to salaries and why it serves as an avenue for jobs in pharmaceuticals, research, and other fields.
What is M.Sc. Organic Chemistry?
The Master’s in Organic Chemistry is a postgraduate course focusing on the structures, reactions, and applications of molecules that contain carbon. Students are prepared for careers in R&D, academia, and industry through a combination of lab-intensive instruction and theoretical understanding.
M.Sc. Organic Chemistry Course Highlights
An M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry delves into the structures, properties, synthesis, reactions and practical applications. The course also examines the behaviour of organic molecules in the presence of inorganic substances, emphasising their reactivity and real-world applications.
Degree |
Post Graduate |
Full form |
Master of Science in Organic Chemistry |
Duration |
2 years |
Age |
The candidate must be at least 23 years old |
Minimum Eligibility |
Graduates who have secured 40% marks in the aggregate of all subjects and 50% marks in Chemistry (cognate subject) and studied Mathematics at least at the 10+2. |
Average Fees |
INR 96,000 |
Average Salary |
INR 6.50 L - 9.40 LPA |
Employment Roles |
Research chemist, chemistry project assistant, toxicologist, research associate, laboratory assistant |
Employment Sectors |
Research Centres, Colleges, Medical Equipment Manufacturing companies, Pharmaceutical Companies, Hospitals and clinics |
Top Recruiters |
Cipla, Surya Pharma Limited, Dr.Reddy Laboratories, Ajanta Pharmaceuticals |
Why Study M.Sc. Organic Chemistry?
An M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry provides an in-depth knowledge of a variety of topics and lays a solid foundation for a career in research, industry and academia. This field is vital for the development of new drugs and technologies. Here are some of the reasons why you should opt for this degree:
Advantage |
Details |
High Demand |
Growing need for organic chemists in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, dyes, and polymers. |
Research Opportunities |
Involvement in cutting-edge research areas like drug development, green chemistry, and sustainable materials. |
Competitive Salaries |
Attractive salary packages in India and abroad for qualified postgraduates. |
Interdisciplinary Edge |
Skills are valuable in biotechnology, medicine, and nanotechnology sectors. |
Eligibility Criteria For M.Sc. Organic Chemistry
To be eligible for an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry, candidates typically need:
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Minimum 40% aggregate marks in all subjects in the undergraduate degree.
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At least 50% marks in Chemistry (as a core subject).
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Mathematics must have been studied at the 10+2 or PUC level.
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Must have passed the undergraduate programme before August 31 of the admission year.
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Admission is based on entrance test scores.
M.Sc. Organic Chemistry Admission Process
The admission process for an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry typically involves:
Stage |
Details |
Application Process |
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Entrance Exams (If Applicable) |
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Selection Process |
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Document Verification & Registration |
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M.Sc. Organic Chemistry Subjects and Syllabus
A Master’s in Organic Chemistry dives into a variety of exciting topics, like advanced chemical reactions, spectroscopy, and designing molecules. You’ll also explore areas like physical organic chemistry, bioorganic chemistry, and even medicinal chemistry. The M.Sc. Organic Chemistry subjects blend theory with hands-on practice, helping you sharpen your research skills and master cutting-edge methods.
Semester 1
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Physical Chemistry
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Inorganic Chemistry
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Organic Chemistry
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Instrumental Methods of Analysis
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Physical Chemistry Laboratory
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Qualitative & Quantitative Analysis of Inorganic Compounds
Semester 2
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Computational Chemistry
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Computational Techniques in Chemistry
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Qualitative & Quantitative Analysis of Organic Compounds
Semester 3
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Retrosynthetic, Stereochemical and Spectroscopic Analysis
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Photochemical, Pericyclic and Organocatalytic Reactions
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Natural Products and Green Synthetic Methods
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Advanced Heterocyclic Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Products Synthesis
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Research Methodology
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Advanced Organic Chemistry Laboratory
Semester 4
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Internship
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Seminar
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Dissertation Work
M.Sc. Organic Chemistry vs M.Sc. Chemistry: Key Differences
While both M.Sc. Organic Chemistry and M.Sc. Chemistry is a postgraduate programme rooted in chemical science; it differs in scope, focus, and career orientation. Here is a breakdown of the key differences:
Criteria |
M.Sc.Organic Chemistry |
M.Sc.Chemistry |
Focus |
Specialised study of carbon-based compounds |
Comprehensive study of all major branches of chemistry |
Scope |
In-depth knowledge of organic chemistry |
Broader knowledge across organic, inorganic, physical and analytical chemistry |
Core Subjects |
Organic synthesis, spectroscopy, reaction mechanisms, natural products |
Electrochemistry, polymer chemistry, inorganic, physical, analytical and organic chemistry |
Industrial Relevance |
Strong focus on pharmaceutical and industrial organic processes |
Applicable across multiple sectors (materials, energy, pharma, environment) |
Research Area |
Process chemistry, drug design and synthetic methodologies |
Interdisciplinary topics, including catalysis, nanotechnology, etc. |
Specialisation Level |
Highly specialised |
General with options to specialise later |
Career Path |
Organic chemist, pharmaceutical R&D, synthetic chemistry labs |
Research scientist, QA/QC analyst, chemical industry roles, teaching |
Flexibility in Curriculum |
Limited to organic-focused courses |
Offers electives across various chemistry disciplines |
Best For |
Students aiming for deep expertise in organic chemistry |
Students seeking a well-rounded chemistry education or are unsure of specialisation |
M.Sc. Organic Chemistry Jobs & Salary in India
Pursuing an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry in India opens up a range of career opportunities across research, industry, pharmaceuticals and academia. Graduates can expect competitive salary packages that grow significantly with experience and specialisation.
Job Role |
Key Responsibilities |
Research Scientist |
Designing and conducting experiments, developing new molecules and working in R&D units. |
Quality Control/Assurance Analyst |
Monitoring production quality, ensuring regulatory compliance, conducting inspections. |
Organic Chemist |
Synthesising and analysing organic compounds, performing lab research. |
Academic Faculty |
Teaching organic chemistry, mentoring students and publishing research in journals. |
Lab Technician |
Supporting scientific experiments, managing laboratory equipment and chemical inventory. |
Pharmacist |
Assisting in drug development, formulation and dispensing in hospitals or pharma firms. |
Annual Salary Range for Specialised Roles (Approximate)
Role |
Estimated Annual Package |
R&D Analyst |
₹30 LPA – ₹80 LPA |
Academician |
₹25 LPA – ₹90 LPA |
Pharmacist |
₹30 LPA – ₹80 LPA |
Research Chemist |
₹30 LPA – ₹80 LPA |
Lab Technician |
₹23 LPA – ₹32 LPA |
Chemical Engineer |
₹40 LPA – ₹60 LPA |
QC Analyst |
₹25 LPA – ₹40 LPA |
QA Analyst |
₹38 LPA – ₹47 LPA |
Top Recruiters for M.Sc. Organic Chemistry Graduates
These companies hire M.Sc. Organic Chemistry graduates for roles in:
Pharmaceutical Companies
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Sun Pharma
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Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
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Cipla
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Lupin Limited
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Aurobindo Pharma
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Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
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Zydus Lifesciences
Chemical & Agrochemical Companies
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BASF India
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Bayer CropScience
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SRF Limited
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Pidilite Industries
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Atul Ltd
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Tata Chemicals
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United Phosphorus Limited
Research & Development Organisations
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Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
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Indian Institute of Chemical Technology
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National Chemical Laboratory
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Indian Institute of Science
FMCG & Manufacturing
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Hindustan Unilever Limited
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ITC Limited
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Procter & Gamble
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Nestlé
International Recruiters / MNCs
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Pfizer
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Johnson & Johnson
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GlaxoSmithKline
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Novartis
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Roche
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Merck Group
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DuPont
Future Scope of M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry
A master's in organic chemistry offers a brighter and wider spectrum for the future in pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, research and development, and teaching. The ever-increasing demand for expert organic chemists in drug design, green chemistry, and materials synthesis will provide avenues for graduates to make better careers out of it.
Career Path |
Description |
Potential Salary Range (India) |
Pharmaceutical Industry |
Medicinal chemistry, Drug development and synthesis |
₹3 – ₹12 LPA |
Chemical Manufacturing |
Synthesis of dyes, polymers, agrochemicals and industrial compounds |
₹3.5 – ₹10 LPA |
R&D (Private & Govt) |
Research on new compounds, reaction mechanisms and sustainable materials |
₹4 – ₹15 LPA |
Academia |
Teaching and research positions in colleges and universities |
₹3 – ₹9 LPA |
FMCG/Cosmetic Industry |
Formulation of consumer products, quality testing and innovation |
₹3 – ₹8 LPA |
Environmental Chemistry |
Green chemistry, waste management and pollution control |
₹4 – ₹10 LPA |
Government Labs |
CSIR, DRDO, BARC, ISRO – scientific and technical roles |
₹6 – ₹12+ LPA |
Higher Education (PhD) |
Doctoral studies in India or abroad with scholarships |
Depends on fellowship (₹25K – ₹60K/month) |
M.Sc. Organic Chemistry Books
To acquire proficiency in M.Sc.Organic Chemistry students utilise a variety of textbooks and reference materials that present theoretical knowledge, practical insights and advanced approaches to problem-solving. A well-chosen selection of textbooks proves invaluable in achieving academic excellence and preparing for competitive examinations.
Book Title |
Author(s) |
Focus Area |
Advanced Organic Chemistry |
Jerry March |
Comprehensive coverage of reaction mechanisms and synthetic strategies |
Organic Chemistry |
Clayden, Greeves, Warren |
Clear explanations with a strong focus on reaction mechanisms |
Principles of Organic Synthesis |
Norman and Coxon |
Detailed coverage of the synthetic strategy and planning |
Organic Synthesis: The Disconnection Approach |
Stuart Warren |
Focus on retrosynthetic analysis and planning of synthetic routes |
Modern Organic Synthesis |
H.O. House |
Overview of synthetic methods and organic reactions |
Vogel's Textbook of Practical Organic Chemistry |
Furniss et al. |
Essential techniques and procedures in organic chemistry labs |
A Guidebook to Mechanism in Organic Chemistry |
Peter Sykes |
Detailed understanding of organic reaction mechanisms |
Stereochemistry of Organic Compounds |
D. Nasipuri |
Explores stereochemical concepts in organic molecules |
A Textbook of Organic Chemistry (Dalal Institute) |
Dalal Institute |
Multi-volume resource ideal for graduate-level organic chemistry |
Wiley’s Problems in Organic Chemistry |
Wiley Publications |
Excellent for problem-solving and exam preparation |
M.Sc. Organic Chemistry at Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences: Advancing Innovation Through Molecular Science
Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences offers a world-class M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry through its Faculty of Natural Sciences, empowering students to delve into the exciting frontiers of molecular science. This programme is designed to cultivate scientific curiosity, critical thinking and advanced research skills. As the foundation of chemical sciences, organic chemistry fuels innovation in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, material science and sustainable energy.
At RUAS, students gain hands-on experience in designing novel molecules, understanding complex reaction mechanisms and transforming natural products into valuable compounds. The curriculum blends academic rigour with real-world relevance, aligning with global industry standards. The programme fosters a spirit of creativity, research excellence and innovation, while encouraging students to tackle pressing challenges across technical, social and economic sectors.
Final Thoughts
Studying for an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry serves as an excellent entry point to exciting innovation pathways. Through this programme students discover how organic chemistry abilities drive both drug creation advancements and sustainable technological development. Graduates of this program gain access to research positions and teaching jobs and international research and development careers. The M.Sc. program at Ramaiah University integrates academic foundation with hands-on learning to develop students who create meaningful, long-term professional careers. Ready to begin your journey? Apply now and take the next step towards your future.
FAQs
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What is the scope of M.Sc. Organic Chemistry?
The course opens up many areas of career development in research, academia, and industry. However, graduates can also find pathways into careers such as pharmaceutical, biotechnology, materials science, cosmetics, and other fields.
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What is the highest package of M.Sc. Organic Chemistry?
The salary packages of M.Sc. Organic Chemistry graduates typically earn between 5-20 Lakhs, with the highest package reaching as high as 20 Lakhs and more, depending on experience.
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Which branch of M.Sc. chemistry has the highest scope?
Organic chemistry is the most broadly accepted branch with the best scope, as it truly forms the foundation for the synthesis of countless compounds-from pharmaceuticals to polymers.
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Which chemistry field is in demand?
Several fields in chemistry are currently in high demand. Chemical engineering, analytical chemistry and materials science are particularly high-demand areas, along with roles in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.