BSc Agriculture
Course

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSc Agriculture) is a four-year undergraduate degree program that teaches students about the application of scientific principles and technologies to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. The course covers various aspects of agriculture, including Genetics, Plant Breeding, Agricultural Microbiology, Soil Science, Plant Pathology, etc. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical training in the form of fieldwork and internships, getting hands-on experience in various aspects of farming and agricultural management.

ELIGIBILITY

The candidates who want to pursue BSc Agriculture must meet the following eligibility criteria:-

• Candidates must have passed their Class 12th exams in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as mandatory subjects.
• The aggregate percentage of all the subjects should be a minimum of 50%, though this may vary by institution. Some universities also accept students with Mathematics or Agriculture subjects in their 12th curriculum.
• Admission is generally based on merit, but for some universities, entrance examinations are conducted, such as ICAR AIEEA, KEAM, or university-specific tests.

DURATION AND COURSE STRUCTURE

The BSc Agriculture program spans four years and is divided into eight semesters. During the course, the students also have to go on field trips and practical training. Along with that, internships are also important with this course.

SYLLABUS AND SUBJECTS

The course includes a wide range of subjects, including Principles of Agronomy, Fundamentals of Soil Science, Agricultural Microbiology, Introduction to Horticulture, Principles of Agricultural Economics, Crop Physiology, Soil Fertility and Fertilizers, Agricultural Meteorology, Principles of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Principles of Weed Management, Plant Pathology, Agricultural Extension Education, Farm Machinery and Power, Principles of Agribusiness Management.

These subjects help students have a deeper understanding of the agricultural sciences. In addition to theoretical studies, students participate in fieldwork, practical training, and internships, getting hands-on experience in various aspects of farming and agricultural management. This diversified approach to education makes the course a very practical one, with significant time spent in the field learning about plant science and more.

FEES STRUCTURE

The fees for the BSc Agriculture course vary from college to college.

• Government colleges: 25,000 to 35,000 per annum
• Private colleges:- 60,000 to 3,00,000 per annum

TOP JOB OPPORTUNITIES AFTER BSc AGRICULTURE

AGRICULTURAL OFFICERS:
They are responsible for promoting agricultural development in rural regions by implementing government policies, providing technical assistance to farmers, and ensuring adherence to government rules and agricultural regulations.

SCOPE: Employment opportunities in government departments, agricultural boards, and rural development agencies.

SALARY: The average starting salary ranges from ?4 to ?6 lakh per annum, depending on experience and location.

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SCIENTISTS: They engage in research to improve crop yields, develop new farming techniques, and enhance pest control methods.
SCOPE: Opportunities in research institutions, universities, and private sector companies focusing on agricultural innovation.
SALARY: The average salary ranges from ?5 to ?7 lakh per annum, depending on experience and the organization.

AGRICULTURAL ASSISTANT: They provide expert advice to farmers and agricultural businesses on crop selection, soil management, and sustainable farming practices.
SCOPE: Employment in consultancy firms, NGOs, and as independent advisors.
SALARY: Average salary ranges from ?3 to ?6 lakh per annum, depending on their expertise and client base.

AGRONOMY SALES MANAGER: They focus on marketing and selling agricultural products such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides while providing technical support to clients.
SCOPE: Roles in agribusiness companies, agrochemical firms, and agricultural equipment manufacturers.
SALARY: The average salary ranges from ?4 to ?8 lakh per annum, influenced by sales performance and experience.

PLANT BREEDER: A Plant breeder, as the name suggests, develops new plant varieties with improved traits such as higher yield, disease resistance, and climate adaptability.
SCOPE: Positions in seed companies, research institutions, and agricultural universities.
SALARY: The Average salary of a plant breeder can range from ?5 to ?7 lakh per annum