I’m a final year B.Sc (maths) student keen on a research career in astronomy or astrophysics. Which universities offer Masters degrees in these subjects?
Avinash Parikh, Mumbai
For Masters degree programmes in astronomy or astrophysics check out Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded 431603; Punjabi University, Patiala 147002; Osmania University, Hyderabad 500007; Birla Planetarium, Kolkata (postgrad diploma). You could also sign up for an M.Sc in applied maths or physics and press on for doctoral studies in astrophysics/astronomy at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai; Raman Research Institute, Bangalore; Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad; Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore; Gujarat Department of Physics, Ahmedabad; Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune; and the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
I’m a commerce graduate working in the accounts department of a company. I am intent on a career change as I’m interested in foreign affairs. Please advise on specific requirements to qualify as a diplomat.
Nalini Sawant, Pune
For career diplomats, the launching pad is usually the Indian Foreign Service (IFS). Entry into this cadre is through the Civil Services Examination conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission). There is no direct route from academia into the diplomatic service. However, a specialist in international relations working in a research institution or as senior faculty at a prestigious university may be recruited into the IFS by the Union government.
I’m keen on a career in the fashion industry. Which institutes in India/abroad offer postgraduate courses in fashion design?
Tina Anand, New Delhi
There are numerous reputed education institutions offering postgraduate courses in fashion design in every country including India. Some of the most highly reputed schools for fashion abroad are the Fashion Institute of Technology, New York; Parsons and Pratt School of Design, USA; London College of Fashion, Winchester School of Art, Nottingham Trent and Falmouth universities (all in the UK); Instituto Europeo di Design, Milan; Instituto Marangoni, Paris; and Florence Design Academy among others. In India, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Delhi and other metros offer excellent postgrad programmes. For admission into foreign institutions, applications must be made several months before beginning of term. Admissions are based on academic records, referrals, personal statement of objectives, additional essays (if solicited), IELTS or TOEFL scores. A portfolio showcasing applicants’ talent and aptitude is an essential component of the admission process.
What’s the difference between the CAE (Cambridge English Advanced) and TOEFL exams?
Suchitra Raghavan, Bangalore
CAE tests all-round English language capability for academic and professional competence while TOEFL tests English language skills for higher education. This means that clearing CAE will not only help you with your university and visa applications abroad, but also certify you for the workplace. If you’re planning to study abroad, make sure you take the exam within two years of your application to study abroad.
I’m a diploma holder in civil engineering. Am I eligible to enroll in an MBA programme?
Srinivas Iyer, Chennai
You need to possess a bachelor’s degree (in any stream) before applying for all MBA programmes.
I’m a postgraduate interested in working online from home. Please advise.
Sameera Dias, Panjim
Some online work options include web designing, teaching basic computer usage, preparing/assisting in project work for school/college students, writing columns/articles for websites, data entry, etc. You need to choose what interests you.
I will complete Plus Two (science) next year and am interested in mechanical/automobile/aeronautical engineering. Which universities offer these subjects? I also want to know if such courses are offered in Indian institutes affiliated to American universities.
Srinivas Rao, Mangalore
Success in the common entrance test conducted by state governments qualifies you for admission into a large number colleges offering mechanical and automobile engineering degree programmes. However the number of undergrad colleges offering aeronautical engineering is limited and it would be advisable to enroll in colleges affiliated with reputable Indian universities. You could check on the UGC website (www.ugc.ac.in) if any colleges have been granted permission to affiliate with American universities. If you want to study in the US, it would be advisable to apply or transfer to an American college after completing two years in India. However, the latter course of action would require research and correspondence to arrive at the right fit.
I want to pursue a career in biotechnology after completing Plus Two in 2013. Which reputed universities offer B.Tech in biotechnology?
Cyrus Wadia, Mumbai
After completion of Plus Two with physics, chemistry and maths you can apply for the B.Tech (biotech) programme of the Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore (www.vit.ac.in); Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute for Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Navi Mumbai (www.dypatil.com), Dr. D.Y. Patil University, Pune (www.dypatil university.org); Vinayaka Mission University (www.vinayakamission.com), and/or SRM University (www.srmuniv. ac.in).
You will also become eligible for admission into the B.Tech (biotechnology) degree programme of the Directorate of Technical Education, Maharashtra (www.dtc.org.in) through CET if you clear the Plus Two state board exam with physics, chemistry, maths and biology (PCMB). B.Tech (biotech) is also offered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).