M.Sc. in Genetics and Plant Breeding is a postgraduate course that focuses on the principles and practices of plant breeding, genetics, and biotechnology. It aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills required for the development of new plant varieties that are high yielding, disease-resistant, and adapted to changing environmental conditions. A Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Genetics and Plant Breeding is a specialized program that delves deep into the study of genetics, genomics, and breeding techniques applied specifically to plants. This field is crucial for enhancing crop productivity, improving plant traits, and ensuring food security in a rapidly changing world. The program typically covers a wide range of subjects including plant genetics, molecular biology, biotechnology, quantitative genetics, plant breeding methodologies, and bioinformatics. Students explore the principles of inheritance, genetic variation, and the application of advanced biotechnological tools in manipulating plant genomes for desirable traits such as disease resistance, improved yield, nutritional content, and environmental adaptability.
Course Type | Degree |
Course Name | Master of Science in Genetics And Plant Breeding |
Course Duration | 2 years |
Eligibility | B.Sc in Relevant Subject |
Application Mode | Online/Offline |
Fee Structure | Updated Soon |
Job Profile | Plant Breeder,Geneticist,Bio technologist etc. |
Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, or Biotechnology with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (may vary according to university/college)
Educational Background | A bachelor's degree in a related field is typically required. This might include:
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Minimum GPA | Some institutions may require a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) in undergraduate studies. This GPA requirement might vary across universities. |
Standardized Tests | Some institutions, particularly in certain countries or for international students, may require GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores as part of the application. |
English Proficiency | For non-native English speakers, providing proof of English language proficiency through tests like the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) might be necessary. |
Prerequisite Courses | Certain programs might have specific prerequisite courses that applicants need to have completed during their undergraduate studies. These prerequisites could include genetics, biology, chemistry, and other related subjects. |
Letters of Recommendation | Submitting letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential for success in the program might be required. |
Statement of Purpose | A well-written statement explaining your interest in the field, relevant experiences, career aspirations, and how the program aligns with your goals is often necessary. |
Entrance Exam scores, Academic Merit, and Interview
Average Course Fee:
INR 50,000 to 2 lakhs
Average Starting Salary:
INR 3 lakhs to 8 lakhs per annum
Top Recruiting Sectors:
Agriculture Research Institutes, Seed Companies, Biotech Companies, Plant Breeding Organizations, Government agencies, etc.
Various national and state-level entrance exams are conducted for admission to M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding courses. Some of the popular exams are:
ICAR AIEEA: Indian Council of Agricultural Research All India Entrance Examination for Admission JNU CEEB: Jawaharlal Nehru University Combined Entrance Examination for Biotechnology BHU PET: Banaras Hindu University Postgraduate Entrance Test |
The admission process for M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding typically starts with the submission of the application form. After the application deadline, the candidates who meet the eligibility criteria are shortlisted for the entrance exam. Based on the entrance exam scores, academic merit, and interview performance, the final selection is made.
The eligibility criteria for M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding may vary slightly across universities/colleges. However, the basic requirements are:
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The duration of M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding course is 2 years, comprising 4 semesters.
The selection of candidates for M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding is based on the following criteria:
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
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The candidates who score above the cutoff marks in the entrance exam are shortlisted for further rounds of selection.
Academic Merit:
Interview:
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The application process for M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding involves the following steps:
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The application form for M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding can be filled online on the official website of the university/college. The application form typically requires the following details:
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M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding is a Master Level Plant Pathology course. This course helps candidate to have gained fundamental knowledge in plant breeding. The course is suitable for those who want to improve varieties and genetic stocks for grain quality, yielding ability, and resistance to diseases and insect pests, maintain and evaluate the diversity of genetic stocks. Candidates those who want to develop special use varieties of species, such as soybean with improved seed composition for food use, corn with high and low protein or oil contents or perennial grasses for biofuel feedstocks.
Job Profile | Job Description |
Plant Breeder | Working in agricultural research institutions or private companies to develop new plant varieties with improved traits like higher yield, disease resistance, or better nutritional content. |
Geneticist | Conducting research in genetics labs, focusing on understanding plant genomes, traits, and genetic mechanisms to improve crop characteristics. |
Biotechnologist | Applying biotechnological tools to enhance plant genetics, including genetic modification, gene editing, or molecular breeding techniques. |
Agricultural Consultant | Providing expertise and advice to farmers, agribusinesses, or governmental agencies on crop selection, breeding strategies, and optimizing agricultural practices. |
Seed Technologist | Working in seed companies to develop and test new seed varieties, ensuring quality control and compliance with regulations. |
Academic or Research Scientist | Pursuing a career in academia or research institutions, conducting independent research, publishing scientific papers, and potentially teaching in higher education settings. |
Biotech Industry Professional | Joining biotech companies involved in agricultural innovation, product development, or commercialization of genetically modified crops or biotechnological solutions. |
Environmental Specialist | Contributing to environmental conservation efforts by developing plants that are more resilient to climate change or capable of thriving in challenging environmental conditions. |
Governmental Positions | Working for government agencies involved in agricultural policies, food security, or regulatory bodies overseeing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and crop improvement. |
Entrepreneurship | Starting a business related to plant breeding, biotechnology, or agricultural consulting services. |
Various Employment Areas M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding
Various Job Types in M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding
NOTE:- Students who are admitted must bring all the original documents to with them to the Institute Campus. Students failing to present all relevant original documents upon request may be denied admission or later told to leave the university.
Given below are few of the important highlights of the program.
Program Full Name | Master of Science in Genetics and Plant Breeding |
Program Level | Master Degree Courses |
Duration of the Program | 2 Years |
Examination Type | Semester |
Eligibility | Bachelor in Relevant Subject from a recognized University with a minimum of 50% marks. |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam and Merit Based |
Average Program Fee | Upto Rs. 1 Lakh |
Syllabus of Management as prescribed by various Universities and Colleges.
Paper Code | Subjects of Study |
1 | Mendelian Genetics |
2 | Techniques in Cell Biology |
3 | Cytology |
4 | Molecular Genetics |
5 | Cytogenetics |
6 | Plant Breeding |
7 | Plant Biochemistry |
8 | Genetic Engineering |
9 | Plant Biotechnology |
10 | Environmental Genetics |
11 | Modern Methods in Crop Breeding |
12 | Population Genetics |
13 | Developmental Genetics |
14 | Biosystematics |
15 | Elective Papers |
16 | Biophysics |
17 | Applied Palynology |
18 | Plant tissue culture |
19 | Transgenic plants |
20 | Biotechnology |
21 | Phytochemicals |
22 | Plant Cell Culture Technology |
Mentioned below are some states in India that offer the program.