Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Agronomy

 Duration: 2 Year
 Type: Master's degree
 Stream: Agriculture
 Average Fee: 20,000 to 2,00,000
 Entry Course: Bachelor of Science
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Agronomy, is a Regular Master's degree program, designed for students successfully completing their Bachelor of Science. This course is conducted by many institutes in India. Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Agronomy is mainly focused on Agriculture and Forestry.
The course is spread over a time duration of 2 Years. The average course fee charged for this course is 20,000 to 2,00,000 varying across institutes.

M.Sc. in Agronomy is a postgraduate program focused on the scientific study of soil management and crop production. This program covers various aspects of agronomy, including crop science, soil fertility, pest management, irrigation, and sustainable agriculture practices. The goal is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for improving agricultural productivity and sustainability.This program equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in agronomy, preparing them for various roles in research, academia, industry, and government sectors.

Specializations

Some common specializations in M.Sc. in Agronomy include:

  • Crop Physiology
  • Soil Fertility Management
  • Weed Science
  • Agroforestry
  • Irrigation and Water Management
  • Sustainable Agriculture
  • Precision Farming
  • Crop Protection

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Agronomy eligibility criteria

Eligibility Criteria

  • Educational Qualification: Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, or related fields from a recognized university.
  • Minimum Marks: Generally, a minimum aggregate score of 50-60% in the qualifying examination is required, but this may vary by institution.
  • Entrance Exams: Admission is often based on entrance exams. Some common entrance exams include ICAR AIEEA (PG), state-level entrance exams, and university-specific tests.

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Agronomy admission process

Admission Process

  1. Eligibility Criteria:

    • Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, or related fields.
    • Minimum aggregate score of 50-60% (may vary by institution).
  2. Entrance Exams:

    • National Level: Indian Council of Agricultural Research All India Entrance Examination for Admission (ICAR AIEEA) for postgraduate studies.
    • State Level: State-specific entrance exams.
    • University Level: Some universities conduct their own entrance exams.
  3. Application Process:

    • Fill out the application form (online/offline) for the respective entrance exam or university.
    • Submit required documents, including academic certificates, photograph, and signature.
    • Pay the application fee.
  4. Selection Process:

    • Based on the entrance exam scores, candidates are shortlisted for counseling or further rounds of selection.
    • Final selection is based on merit, entrance exam score, and availability of seats.
  5. Counseling and Admission:

    • Attend counseling sessions as per the schedule.
    • Choose the preferred course and institution based on rank and availability.
    • Complete the admission formalities, including document verification and fee payment.

Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Agronomy career options

Career Opportunities

Graduates of M.Sc. in Agronomy have diverse career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some potential career paths include:

  • Agronomist: Advising farmers on crop management and soil health.
  • Research Scientist: Conducting research in crop science and agronomy.
  • Soil Scientist: Studying soil properties and recommending soil management practices.
  • Extension Officer: Educating and assisting farmers on best agricultural practices.
  • Agriculture Consultant: Providing expertise to agricultural businesses and organizations.
  • Farm Manager: Managing large-scale farming operations.
  • Quality Control Manager: Ensuring the quality and safety of agricultural products.
  • Seed Technologist: Working on the development and improvement of seed varieties.
  • Academic Positions: Teaching and research roles in universities and colleges.
  • Government Jobs: Positions in various departments related to agriculture, rural development, and natural resources management.
  • Entrepreneur: Starting own agricultural consultancy or farm.

Higher Education

Graduates can pursue further studies such as:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Agronomy or related fields for advanced research and academic careers.

Top Institutions Offering M.Sc. in Agronomy

  1. Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi
  2. Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana
  3. Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore
  4. University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bangalore
  5. G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT), Pantnagar
  6. Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU), Guntur
  7. Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCSHAU), Hisar
  8. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi
  9. Anand Agricultural University (AAU), Anand
  10. Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar