B.Sc. Plant Biology & Plant Biotechnology

The Department began to offer a B.Sc degree programme in Botany from the year 1921 under Branch V, but since 2000, the programme is being offered as Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology.  Since then both conventional areas of study and recent developments in the study of plant life have been incorporated into the curriculum. In 1994, the University Grants Commission funds enabled the Department to offer a Vocational Training Course in ‘Industrial Microbiology’. More recently, under the Choice Based Credit System that was implemented from 2004, the students gain an exposure to subjects in Botany, Microbiology and Biotechnology. 

This century-old Department has faculty with specialisation in diverse disciplines of Plant Science, and they periodically undergo FDPs to enhance their teaching skills. Being a Department that offers an undergraduate programme, the primary focus is on teaching and learning. Student-centric methods such as experiential learning, participative learning, and problem-solving methodologies are used for enhancing the learning experience of students. Special training is offered to students in Organic Gardening, Landscaping, Hydroponics, Mushroom Cultivation, and Plant Tissue Culture to enhance their entrepreneurial skills. Additionally, guest lectures, workshops, and seminars are conducted from time to time by experts to enlighten the students about the recent advancements in diverse fields.  

To promote the research culture among students, the final year students are given an option to register for an intensive project for 15 credits instead of enrolling in three core elective papers. This provides them with a basic training in botanical research. Also, the students are encouraged to undergo ‘On the Job Training’ for 15 days/30 days  during the summer vacation in an industry/research organisation in order to enhance skill development. 

Many eminent scientists have taught in the Department like Dr. Alma Stokey, Padma Shri Dr. E.K. Janaki Ammal (1921–1928; also an awardee of D.Sc. in 1931), Dr. S.N. Chandrasekaran (a famous geneticist and plant breeder), and Dr. Florence Thivy (1931; a renowned algologist). Dr. Anna Zachariah, who headed the Department later served as the Principal of the College from 1965–1972. Dr. Indrani Michael, Principal from 1981 to 1994 was also a faculty member of the Department.