Patna University PhD in Agricultural Science Admission 2024-25, Event, Faculties, Direct Admission

PhD in Agricultural Science About

A doctoral program in Agricultural Science is a graduate-level academic program designed to train students in advanced research in the field of agriculture. The program typically focuses on developing students' research skills and expertise in agricultural science, including plant science, soil science, animal science, agricultural economics, food science, and related fields.

The program typically takes 3-5 years to complete, and requires students to complete advanced coursework in agricultural science and related fields. Students are also expected to conduct independent research in their chosen area of study, which culminates in the submission of a doctoral thesis or dissertation.

Some of the core courses that students may take in a doctoral program in Agricultural Science include agricultural research methods, crop physiology, soil fertility and nutrient management, plant breeding and genetics, animal nutrition, food microbiology, agricultural economics, and agribusiness management.

Graduates of a doctoral program in Agricultural Science are well-prepared to pursue careers as researchers, educators, and consultants in the agricultural industry, government agencies, and academic institutions. They may also work in private industry, developing new agricultural products and technologies, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

PhD in Agricultural Science Highlights

PhD in Agricultural Science Eligibility Criteria

Different PhD Agriculture courses have different eligibility criteria. Let us look at some of the most important PhD Agriculture eligibility criteria for the course:

1. A candidate must complete his masters in agriculture or any other relevant discipline with a minimum of 50% marks.
2. The student must have at least 50% marks in higher secondary and bachelor degree courses.
3. If the college organizes an entrance test, the cut-off for the entrance test will have to be cleared.
4. In case there is an interview round, the student must perform really well in the interview.

PhD in Agricultural Science Entrance Exam

UGC NET

AAU VET

CSIR UGC NET

OUAT

PhD in Agricultural Science Duration

PhD in Agricultural Science Admission Process

The admission process for the PhD Agriculture course is quite basic. It is done either on the basis of the candidate’s performance in the admission test or the rank secured by the candidate in the Master degree course. 

Most colleges conduct a counselling process prior to admission. After the counselling is done, a merit list is prepared on the basis of which admissions are done. For colleges which conduct an entrance test, there is no specific cut-off. The cut-off for the admission process is determined each year by the respective college or university. 

Following are the the steps of direct admission to PhD Agriculture:

Step 1: Fill the application form

The application forms need to be filled up before the deadline. Otherwise, you will not be able to take admission to the college. 

Step 2: Admission to the college

After the application forms are submitted, a merit list is prepared on the basis of which admissions are done.

Following are the the steps of PhD Agriculture admission through entrances:

Step 1: Fill the application form

Even if your college conducts an entrance test, you are required to fill up the application form for the entrance test so that you can sit for the test.

Step 2: Appear for the entrance test

The dates for the entrance test are released by the university shortly after the application deadline. The students need to prepare well for the entrance test to get a good rank. 

Step 3: Appear for an interview (optional)

The interview process is completely optional. Only a few colleges conduct interviews for the candidates who have cleared the entrance test. It may either be a personal interview or a technical one. 

Step 4: Admission to the college

The candidates who have cleared all the previous stages of the admission process will be allowed to take admission. 

PhD in Agricultural Science Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for admission to a doctoral program in Agricultural Science may vary by program and institution.

However, some common factors that are considered include academic performance, research experience and potential, test scores, letters of recommendation, and fit with the program's research focus and faculty expertise.

PhD in Agricultural Science How to Apply

To apply for a doctoral program in Agricultural Science, candidates should first research the programs that interest them and their admission requirements.

They should then prepare the required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores (if required), and complete the online application form.

It is important to meet the application deadline and to follow the instructions provided by the university or institution.

PhD in Agricultural Science Application Form

The application form for a doctoral program in Agricultural Science can usually be found on the website of the university or institution offering the program. Candidates will need to create an account and complete the application form, which may include personal information, academic history, and other required documents.

PhD in Agricultural Science Application Process

The application process for a doctoral program in Agricultural Science typically involves submitting the online application form along with the required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores (if required). Some programs may also require a research proposal or a writing sample. Candidates should follow the instructions provided by the university or institution, and meet the application deadline.

PhD in Agricultural Science Fee Structure

Syllabus of PhD in Agricultural Science

1. Advanced Agricultural Marketing And Price Analysis
2. Environmental Economics
3. Agricultural Chemistry
4. Food And Nutrition
5. Advanced Insecticide Toxicology
6. Doctoral Seminar-i
7. Natural Resources Management
8. Agricultural Meteorology
9. Agricultural Physics
10. Advanced Host Plant Resistance
11. Insect Behaviour
12. Doctoral Research

PhD in Agricultural Science Job Scope

Farm manager: Farm managers take care of agricultural farms. They look after the production and sale of agricultural products.

Research Associate: Research associates carry out research activities in various fields related to agriculture. They also perform various advanced experiments.

Agricultural Officer: An agricultural officer deals with various agricultural offices and looks after agricultural farms and productions.

Production Manager: The main work of the production manager is to take care of the production and management of agricultural products.

Lecturer: Lecturers impart knowledge to the students on topics related to agriculture. They may either work in research institutes or conduct their own research.

PhD in Agricultural Science Career Opportunities

Research Scientist: PhD graduates can work as research scientists in agricultural research institutions, universities, government agencies, or private companies. They conduct research to improve crop yields, develop new agricultural technologies, enhance soil fertility, optimize livestock production, and address challenges related to climate change, pests, and diseases.

Academic Professor/Researcher: Many PhD holders pursue academic careers as professors or researchers at universities and colleges. They teach courses in agricultural science, mentor graduate students, and research topics such as plant breeding, agronomy, agricultural economics, and food security, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

Agricultural Extension Specialist: Graduates may work as agricultural extension specialists or agents, providing outreach and education to farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. They deliver training programs, workshops, and demonstrations on best practices in agriculture, pest management, soil conservation, and sustainable farming techniques to improve productivity and livelihoods.

Crop Consultant/Adviser: PhD holders can work as crop consultants or advisers for agricultural businesses, cooperatives, or consulting firms. They provide expertise on crop management, soil fertility, irrigation practices, pest control, and agronomic decision-making, helping farmers optimize yields, reduce inputs, and increase profitability.

Food Scientist/Food Technologist: Individuals with a PhD in Agricultural Science may work in the food industry as food scientists or technologists. They develop new food products, improve food processing methods, ensure food safety and quality, and conduct research on food preservation, packaging, and nutritional value to meet consumer demands and regulatory standards.

Agricultural Policy Analyst: PhD graduates can work as agricultural policy analysts or advisers for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups. They research agricultural policies, analyze their economic and environmental impacts, and provide recommendations to policymakers on issues such as farm subsidies, trade regulations, and environmental conservation programs.

Seed Breeder/Geneticist: Graduates may specialize in plant breeding or genetics, working for seed companies, research institutes, or agricultural biotechnology firms. They develop new crop varieties with improved traits such as yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nutritional value through traditional breeding techniques or biotechnological methods.

Environmental Scientist: PhD holders can work as environmental scientists or consultants, focusing on agricultural sustainability, soil and water conservation, and environmental protection. They assess the environmental impacts of agricultural practices, develop conservation plans, and implement strategies to minimize pollution, erosion, and habitat destruction.

Agricultural Economist: Individuals with a PhD in Agricultural Science may specialize in agricultural economics, analyzing economic trends, market conditions, and policy implications for agricultural businesses and industries. They conduct economic research, evaluate farm management strategies, and provide recommendations to optimize resource allocation and improve farm profitability.

International Development Specialist: PhD graduates may work in international development organizations, NGOs, or government agencies, focusing on agricultural development, food security, and rural livelihoods in developing countries. They design and implement projects to improve agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming practices, and enhance food access and nutrition for vulnerable populations.

PhD in Agricultural Science Top Colleges

Some of the top colleges offering doctoral programs in Agricultural Science include:

Admission Process for PhD in Agricultural Science

1. Application for the entrance exam 
2. Result declaration
3. Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
4. Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
5. Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
6. Course work examination
7. Result declaration of coursework
8. Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
9. Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
10. A registration letter shall be issued
11. Research work started by scholar
12. 6 progress reports shall be submitted
13. Soft copy thesis submit
14. plagiarism report check by the university
15. Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
16. After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
17. After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
18. Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Admission Process for PhD in Agricultural Science

• Documents (10th onwards)
• Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
• Migration Certificate (Original)
• NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
• Affidavit (undertaking)
• Guide Willing
• Assignments
• Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
• Library No Dues
• Lab Letter
• Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
• No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
• Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
• C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
• Conference Certificate - 2
• Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
• summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
• Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD in Agricultural Science 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D. Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.