As an Indian we always have our sentiments and emotions attached with agriculture. Simply because, agriculture has been and will continue to be the backbone of our economy ensuring food security and development. Not just the food we eat, every fiber in the clothing, raw material to support industry and a significant part of our environment depends on agriculture. With the growing population needs, and rising climate concerns, agriculture is no more just about farming or tilling the soil, it is also about innovation, climate resilience and sustainability. And an Msc degree in agriculture sciences offers the best careers in this regard. In this blog we will explore all the details regarding the Msc in Agriculture course, from eligibility, application and colleges to future scope and careers.
What is MSc in Agriculture?
MSc in Agriculture is a two-year postgraduate program that delves into the scientific principles and modern techniques of farming, crop production, agronomy, horticulture, soil science, plant breeding, and more. Both theoretical and practical aspects are emphasized here aiming to develop advanced knowledge and research skills in agricultural sciences. Masters of science in agriculture opens up door to
Latest News related to Msc in agriculture course
1. Allahabad University PGAT-II 2025 Admit Cards Released
The University of Allahabad has issued admit cards for the Post Graduate Admission Test (PGAT-II) 2025, which includes MSc programs like Food Technology. Candidates can download their admit cards from the university’s official website. timesofindia
2. Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) Admissions Open
KAU is accepting applications for various programs, including B.Sc.-M.Sc. (Integrated) and PG, Ph.D., and PG Diploma courses. The last date for submitting online applications is June 30, 2025.
3. Rajasthan JET 2025 Application Period Closed
The application window for the Rajasthan Joint Entrance Test (JET) 2025, essential for MSc Agriculture admissions in Rajasthan, closed on May 31, 2025. The exam is scheduled for June 29, 2025
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Eligibility Criteria for MSc in Agriculture
To apply for MSc in Agriculture, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:
- Degree: A Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture (BSc Agriculture) or equivalent (like BSc Horticulture, BSc Forestry, BSc Agronomy) is a must.
- Percentage Requirements: Generally a minimum 50-60% aggregate marks (varies by institution) is required to get admission.
- Entrance Exams: Some universities may require valid entrance exam scores (e.g., ICAR AIEEA PG).
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MSc Agriculture Syllabus
The MSc Agriculture syllabus varies based on the chosen specialization. However, common subjects include:
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Practical training, lab work, and thesis/dissertation are integral components.
Common Entrance Exams for Msc in Agriculture
After meeting the basic eligibility requirements related to bachelors degree and minimum aggregate percentage, you might have to appear for entrance exams for getting admissions in some of the top universities. I have listed some of the common exams below:-
CUET PG
CUET PG stands for common university entrance test for Post Graduation. This test is conducted by NTA (National testing agency) for admissions in enrolled universities. The test is computer based and duration is 2 hours which aims to test both the general knowledge and subject skills of the students.
ICAR AIEEA (PG) – Indian Council of Agricultural Research All India Entrance Examination for Admission (Postgraduate)
It is a national level exam conducted by NTA for admissions in agriculture universities across India. This test is a computer based examination undertaken in duration of 2 hours to test the knowledge of students in specific subjects.
PAU MET – Punjab Agricultural University Master’s Entrance Test
If you want admissions in Punjab Agricultural University then you need to appear for PAU MET. This entrance exam is conducted by PAU, Ludhiana to test the agriculture related knowledge. It is an offline test and both subject-specific and General Agriculture MCQs are asked.
AGRICET
AGRICET (Agriculture Common Entrance Test) is a state-level entrance exam conducted by Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) in India. It’s primarily for Diploma holders in Agriculture, Seed Technology, and Organic Farming who want to pursue a Bachelor of Science (Hons.) Agriculture degree. The exam is an online, objective-type test with 120 questions in a 1.5-hour duration.
Top MSc Agriculture Colleges in India (2025)
| College Name | Location | Notable Features |
| Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) | New Delhi | Premier research institute; under ICAR; top choice for MSc & PhD Agriculture |
| Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu | Offers a wide range of PG specializations; great placement & research infrastructure |
| Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) | Ludhiana, Punjab | Renowned for agronomy and plant breeding; strong ICAR ranking |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi, UP | One of India’s oldest universities; offers MSc in multiple agricultural branches |
| GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology | Pantnagar, Uttarakhand | Known as the “Harbinger of Green Revolution”; excellent MSc programs |
| University of Agricultural Sciences | Bangalore, Karnataka | High-end research labs; recognized across Asia for agri education |
| Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) | Guntur, Andhra Pradesh | Offers diverse MSc programs; strong field and lab research training |
| Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University | Hisar, Haryana | One of Asia’s largest agri universities; highly reputed for soil science & extension |
| Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University | Samastipur, Bihar | Offers advanced PG programs with ICAR accreditation |
| Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) | Bhubaneswar, Odisha | State university with good MSc specialization and rural focus |
Top International Universities for MSc in Agriculture (2025)
| University | Country | Notable Features |
| Wageningen University & Research | Netherlands | Ranked #1 in agriculture globally; strong in sustainability & food sciences |
| University of California, Davis (UC Davis) | USA | Top-tier agri-biotech, viticulture, and plant sciences |
| Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences | Sweden | Leader in forest sciences, plant protection, and rural development |
| Cornell University | USA | Ivy League; pioneering research in agribusiness and food systems |
| ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology | Switzerland | High-end research in agri-environmental science, sustainable agriculture |
| University of Reading | UK | Known for its MSc in Agriculture & Development and crop production systems |
| University of Melbourne | Australia | Offers agri-food chain, water management, and sustainable ag tech programs |
| Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) | Norway | Sustainable farming, animal science & agroecology focus |
| University of Guelph | Canada | Premier Canadian institution for food, soil, and plant science research |
| University of Hohenheim | Germany | Renowned for agriculture, food security, and climate-change research |
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Career Opportunities After Pursuing an MSc in Agriculture
As already discussed, agriculture is no longer limited to traditional farming and as such the future of agriculture is being reshaped by climate change, technological innovations, and the growing need for sustainable and resilient food systems. An MSc in Agriculture degree not only equips you with specialized knowledge but also opens a wide spectrum of high-impact opportunities across research, education, policy-making, agri-business, and international development sectors.
An MSc in Agriculture opens doors to a multitude of career pathways. Graduates can find roles in government research institutions, private agro-based companies, non-profit organizations, and academic bodies. The demand for qualified professionals who can manage resources, improve crop yields, and implement sustainable practices is growing, making this field a hotbed for innovation and job growth.
Let’s explore the future scope of MSc Agriculture in detail:
Potential Career Paths
- Agricultural Scientist: Conducts research on crop improvement, pest control, and sustainable farming practices.
- Agronomist: Focuses on crop and soil management, offering guidelines to optimize production and safeguard soil health.
- Soil Scientist: Studies soil composition, fertility, and ecology, providing recommendations on soil conservation and resource management.
- Horticulturist: Specializes in the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
- Agricultural Consultant: Advises farmers, corporations, or government bodies on best practices, policy implementation, and strategic planning.
- Researcher: Works in laboratories or field stations to develop new varieties of crops and farming methods.
- Extension Officer: Acts as a liaison between research institutions and farmers, ensuring that modern techniques and knowledge reach local communities.
Emerging Roles with AI Integration
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making significant strides in the agricultural domain. Integrating AI-driven solutions helps in real-time monitoring, predictive analysis, and optimized resource usage. Jobs focusing on AI are on the rise, offering exciting prospects for those merging technology with agriculture:
- AI-Based Farm Management: Using data analytics for detecting plant diseases or pests, thereby reducing chemical inputs and improving yield.
- Precision Agriculture Expert: Employing satellite imagery and sensors to deliver targeted irrigation, fertilization, and crop management strategies.
- Robotics and Automated Systems Designer: Developing drones, farm robots, and automated machinery to perform tasks like sowing, harvesting, and spraying.
- Data Scientist in Agriculture: Utilizing large datasets to predict climate impacts, price fluctuations, and production trends for better decision-making.
AI-driven roles are particularly appealing to students who want to blend a masters degree in agriculture with cutting-edge technological expertise. This fusion not only modernizes conventional farming methods but also fosters sustainability and scalability on a global scale.
Government Sector Jobs
Pursuing a career in the government sector is a prestigious and secure option for MSc Agriculture graduates. The Indian government offers a wide array of roles in its central and state-level departments, research institutions, and rural development schemes. These positions not only offer stability and attractive pay scales but also enable professionals to contribute to national food security and rural upliftment.
1. Agricultural Officer
You can take up a role of Agricultural Officer and work under the Department of Agriculture in state or central government services. Your primary role as Agricultural Officer is to implement agricultural schemes, advise farmers on scientific methods, and promote sustainable farming.
Employers:
- State Agriculture Departments
- NABARD
- Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare
Salary:
- ₹4 LPA – ₹6.5 LPA (Level 7 pay matrix; higher with promotions)
2. Soil Scientist
Soil Scientists are experts who analyze and improve soil conditions for better crop productivity and sustainable land use. They often work in state agricultural universities, soil testing labs, and government research departments.
Employers:
- ICAR Institutes (e.g., IISS Bhopal)
- Soil & Water Conservation Departments
- National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP)
Salary:
- ₹4.5 LPA – ₹7 LPA (with periodic revisions and grade pay)
3. Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Specialist
KVK Specialists work as knowledge disseminators, acting as a bridge between research institutions and farmers. They are responsible for field demonstrations, farmer training, and extension education.
Employers:
- Krishi Vigyan Kendras (under ICAR and State Agricultural Universities)
- NGOs and development agencies working with ICAR
Salary:
- ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6 LPA (may vary with grade and seniority)
4. Research Associate (ICAR, DRDO, IARI, etc.)
Research Associates contribute to scientific studies in crop science, biotechnology, climate-resilient agriculture, and pest management. These roles are often research-based and may involve publishing papers, developing new techniques, or working on government-funded projects.
Employers:
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
- Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO)
- Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI)
- State Agricultural Universities (SAUs)
Salary:
- ₹35,000 – ₹47,000 per month (varies with institute and funding agency)
5. State Agriculture Departments
These departments recruit MSc Agriculture graduates as Assistant Agriculture Officers, Agriculture Development Officers, or Block Technology Managers for field implementation and policy execution.
Employers:
- Department of Agriculture in various states (e.g., Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu)
- District-level Agricultural Technology Management Agencies (ATMAs)
Salary:
- ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6 LPA (may increase with service duration and promotions)
Competitive Exams for Government Services
In order to pursue the government roles under centre or state government, you must qualify agriculture-based competitive exams, including:
- ICAR NET/JRF/SRF for research fellowships
- Agriculture Officer exams (State PSCs, IBPS AFO, NABARD Grade A)
- Indian Forest Service (IFS)
- UPSC and State Civil Services with agriculture as an optional subject
These exams are cut-off based and you secure the job only if you clear the cut-offs.
Teaching & Research:
Apart from the basic roles you can also apply for Lecturer or Assistant Professor in Universities or practice as Research Fellow in National/International Institutes
Entrepreneurship Opportunities:
As a Baniya personally, I always look for business opportunities in any sector. So here are the business opportunities that you can explore after Bsc or Msc agriculture:-
- Organic Farming Ventures
- Agri-Tech Startups
- Horticulture Business
- Agri Export Firms
MSc Agriculture Abroad: Opportunities and Scope
Many students also pursue MSc Agriculture abroad for better research facilities and global exposure. Countries like the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and the Netherlands offer globally-recognized MSc programs in agriculture. By pursuing your masters in science in agriculture abroad you can also benefit with global exposure, excellent networking and job opportunities from around the world.
The demand for agricultural scientists with postgraduate qualifications is high in international development organizations and research bodies. You can work with:
- FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN)
- CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center)
- IRRI (International Rice Research Institute)
- IFPRI (International Food Policy Research Institute)
- World Bank and USAID agricultural development projects
- International NGOs focusing on rural upliftment, food nutrition, and sustainable farming
Conclusion
An MSc in Agriculture is not just a higher education qualification—it’s a gateway to becoming a change-maker in the world of agriculture. Whether you dream of working in research, policymaking, agribusiness, or entrepreneurship, this degree offers a diverse platform for growth. With India being an agriculture-intensive economy and global food demand increasing, qualified agricultural professionals will always be in demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the average salary after MSc in Agriculture?
The starting salary ranges from INR 3 to 6 LPA, depending on job profile and sector (government/private).
Q2. Is MSc Agriculture better than MBA in Agri-Business?
Both are excellent choices. MSc is research/science-oriented, while MBA Agri-Business focuses on management and commerce in agriculture.
Q3. Can I go for a PhD after MSc in Agriculture?
Yes. MSc Agriculture is a common pathway to pursue PhD in agricultural sciences or related specializations.
Q4. Which entrance exams are required for MSc Agriculture?
Popular exams include ICAR AIEEA PG, BHU PET, UPCATET, and state-level agricultural university exams.
