M.Sc. Horticulture: Course, Eligibility, Admission Process, Fees, Syllabus, Scope
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M.Sc. Horticulture: Course, Eligibility, Admission Process, Fees, Syllabus, Scope

#M.Sc.
Team Careers360Updated on 03 Jul 2024, 02:31 PM IST

M.Sc. in Horticulture or Master of Science in Horticulture is a two-year postgraduate degree. M.Sc. in Horticulture focuses on the scientific study of plant cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. This Horticulture course provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on experience. In India, more than 60 colleges offer MSc in Horticulture courses.

This Story also Contains

  1. M.Sc. in Horticulture Highlights
  2. M.Sc. in Horticulture Eligibility Criteria
  3. M.Sc. in Horticulture Entrance Exam
  4. M.Sc. in Horticulture Subjects/Syllabus
  5. M.Sc. in Horticulture Fees Structure
  6. M.Sc. in Horticulture Scope
  7. MSc in Horticulture Career Options
  8. M.Sc. Horticulture Expected Salary Trends
  9. Top M.Sc. in Horticulture Colleges in India with Fees

To be eligible for an M.Sc. in Horticulture, students must complete either a B.Sc. in Agriculture, B.Sc. in Agriculture Hons., B.Sc. in Horticulture, or equivalent. Subjects like Growth and Development of Horticultural Crops, Systematic Horticulture, Nursery Husbandry, Orchard Management, Orchard Management, and Spices And Plantation Crops are covered in the curriculum of M.Sc. in Horticulture.

Candidates after doing an M.Sc in Horticulture can pursue a career role as a Horticulture Research Scientist, Crop Consultant, Nursery Manager, Agronomist, Plant Breeder, Crop Production Manager, and Botanical Garden Curator. Top recruiters for these profiles are the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), NHB, the Indian Department of Horticulture in various state governments, Bayer CropScience, Syngenta, and UPL Limited.

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M.Sc. in Horticulture Highlights

ParticularsValues

Degree Name

M.Sc. in Horticulture

Degree Type

Postgraduate Degree

Degree Duration

2 Years

Entrance Exams

CUET PG, JET

Eligibility Criteria

Bachelors in Agriculture/ Agriculture Hons./ Horticulture or equivalent

Admission Process

Entrance Test

Total Course Fees

Rs. 8,300 to Rs. 1.82 lakhs

Job Profiles

Horticulture Research Scientist, Crop Consultant, Nursery Manager, Agronomist, Plant Breeder, Crop Production Manager and Botanical Garden Curator

Top Recruiters

ICAR, NHB, IARI, Agriculture Universities and Colleges, Department of Horticulture in various state governments, Bayer CropScience, Syngenta, UPL Limited, Advanta Seeds, Bioseed Research India, and Horticulture farms and nurseries.

M.Sc. in Horticulture Eligibility Criteria

There is a specific eligibility criteria that aspiring candidates should consider before applying for an M.Sc. in Horticulture. This eligibility criteria is set by various colleges and universities that offer M.Sc. in Horticulture. Below are the eligibility criteria for M.Sc. in Horticulture.

  • Candidates need to successfully complete a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related fields.
  • They also need to qualify for a specific entrance exam like CUET PG to get admission to M.Sc. in Horticulture.
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M.Sc. in Horticulture Admission Process

The admission process for M.Sc. in Horticulture is simple. There are several steps involved in the admission process. Below is the list of steps, candidates need to follow for successful application submission for M.Sc. in Horticulture.

  • As the first step, candidates need to check their eligibility.
  • If they are eligible for M.Sc. in Horticulture, candidates can start by visiting the admission portal of the desired colleges and universities.
  • Candidates need to create their accounts and start filling out their admission forms.
  • Candidates also need to register for the specific entrance exams along with the application form.
  • They have to sit for the entrance exam on the specified date and centre as set by the conducting body.
  • If candidates qualify for the entrance exam, they can sit in the counselling process of the universities.
  • The colleges of the universities verify their applications, and entrance exam scores and verify the documents.
  • After performing the above step, colleges roll out their list of shortlisted candidates.
  • Candidates finalise their admissions by making complete payments for the programme.
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M.Sc. in Horticulture Entrance Exam

As per the eligibility criteria, candidates need to first qualify for the entrance exam to be able to sit in the counselling process for admission to M.Sc. in Horticulture programme. The specific entrances like CUET PG and JET are two entrance exams that candidates need to take for admission to M.Sc. in Horticulture.

Exam Name

LevelConducting BodyExam Schedule

CUET PG

National

NTA

CUET PG Schedule

JET

University

Jain University

-

Skills Required for M.Sc. in Horticulture

M.Sc. in Horticulture equips candidates with a blend of theoretical and aptitude skills that focus on plant cultivation and research. Aspiring candidates are required to possess some skills before the start of the programme. The list of skills required for an M.Sc. in Horticulture is given below.

Skills Required:

  • Data Analysis
  • Critical Thinking
  • Project Management
  • Communication Skills
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Research Methodology
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Horticultural Techniques

M.Sc. in Horticulture Subjects/Syllabus

The syllabus of the M.Sc. in Horticulture provides students with a comprehensive education in fields of plant science, crop cultivation techniques, and sustainable agricultural practices. The syllabus of the M.Sc. in Horticulture as prescribed by the Central University of Tamil Nadu is divided into four semesters over two years.

Semester 1

Growth and Development of Horticultural Crops

Basic Statistical Methods in Agricultural Research

Biodiversity and Conservation of Horticultural Crops

Biotechnology of Horticultural Crops

Organic Horticulture

Propagation and Nursery Management in Horticultural Crops

Semester 2

Protected Cultivation of Horticultural Crops

Post-Harvest Technology of Horticultural Crops

Tropical and Dryland Fruit Production

Breeding of Fruit Crops

Canopy Management in Fruit Crops

Research and Seminar

Semester 3

Laboratory Techniques, Library Information, and Technical Writing

Plant Molecular Stress Physiology

Intellectual Properties Rights and Its Management in Agriculture

Sub-Tropical and Temperate Fruit Production

Minor and Underutilised Fruit Crops

Research II (Field & Laboratory)

Semester 4

Elective Course for Other Specialisations (from Vegetable Science or Floriculture Farming Systems in Vegetable Crops to Environmental Horticulture)

Production & Breeding of Plantation and Medicinal Crops

Research III (Observation & Data Analysis)

Research IV (Interpretation & Dissertation, Viva)

Comprehensive Exam Qualifying Viva

-

M.Sc. in Horticulture Fees Structure

The fee structure of M.Sc. in Horticulture varies for different institutions and colleges. The average fee structure of M.Sc. in Horticulture ranges from Rs. 8,300 to Rs. 1.82 lakhs. This fee depends on factors like the type of institution, the location, the facilities available, and the faculty expertise.

M.Sc. in Horticulture Scope

M.Sc. in Horticulture provides students with a broad scope of career opportunities. It is a good course for candidates who aspire to contribute to plant biology, genetics, crop management, and sustainable agriculture. The candidates get to work in research institutions, governmental agencies, consulting firms, and non-profit organisations.

In recent times, there has been a lot of emphasis on organic farming and sustainable practices. The cities are also seen integrating modern high-technology techniques in the field of Horticulture like vertical gardens, rooftop gardens, and urban farming projects. Also, as the issue of global climate change is increasing, the research opportunities are expanded in the field of climate-resilient crops and Horticulture.

MSc in Horticulture Career Options

There are lots of career opportunities available for candidates after successful completion of an M.Sc. in Horticulture. It offers ample opportunities for meaningful and impactful careers in various sectors of agriculture and related fields. Candidates can pursue roles as Horticulture Research Scientists, Crop Consultants, Agronomists, Plant Breeders, and Crop Production Managers.

Research Scientist: Research Scientist is responsible for conducting experiments and analysing data related to plant biology and crop management. He or She can also publish his or her findings in reputed journals.

Crop Consultant: Crop Consultant is responsible for providing advice and consultancy to farmers and related businesses on crop selection, planting techniques, and its management. He or She has to ensure that the yields get optimised and profitability improves for his or her clients.

Extension Specialist: Extension Specialist is responsible for providing education and outreach programmes to farmers, gardeners, and communities. He or She provides information and awareness on horticulture techniques, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation.

Plant Breeder: Plant Breeder is responsible for developing new plant varieties using their judgement and planting techniques. He or She creates disease-resistant plants, that have higher yields and have improved nutritional content.

Greenhouse Manager: Greenhouse Manager is responsible for overseeing the management of facilities at greenhouses. He or She keeps a check on plant propagation, cultivation, pest control, and environmental management.

Agricultural Inspector: The Agricultural Inspector is responsible for overseeing the working of farms, nurseries, and agricultural facilities. He or She has to ensure that these locations have proper compliance with government regulations and industry standards.

Agronomist: Agronomist is responsible for optimising crop production through soil analysis, pest management, and crop rotation planning. He or She uses agriculture techniques and researches to improve agricultural practices and sustainability.

Top Recruiters:

  • National Horticulture Board (NHB)
  • Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI)
  • Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR)
  • National Seeds Corporation (NSC)
  • State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) and their research stations
  • Tata Chemicals
  • Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd.
  • Godrej Agrovet Limited

Benefits of Studying MSc Horticulture

Studying M.Sc. in Horticulture provides candidates with lots of benefits and opportunities. It equips candidates with specialised knowledge and skills required for a successful career in the agricultural sector or related. M.Sc.in Horticulture also provides candidates with hands-on experience which helps candidates gain critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation.

M.Sc. Horticulture Expected Salary Trends

The average expected salary of candidates for M.Sc. in Horticulture varies depending on location, level of experience, industry, and job role. Below is the list of average expected salaries for some of the career profiles that candidates can pursue after an M.Sc. in Horticulture.

Career ProfilesAverage Expected Salary

Research Scientist

Rs. 9.1 LPA

Crop Consultant

Rs. 2.5 LPA

Extension Specialist

Rs. 4.2 LPA

Plant Breeder

Rs. 5 LPA

Greenhouse Manager

Rs. 5.2 LPA

Agricultural Inspector

Rs. 2.9 LPA

Agronomist

Rs. 5.1 LPA

Source: AmbitionBox

The salary figures mentioned anywhere in these articles are just for reference purposes. Please treat them as such. Actual salaries may vary depending on respective candidates, employer, job location, and numerous other factors.

Top M.Sc. in Horticulture Colleges in India with Fees

India has renowned public and private colleges that offer M.Sc. in Horticulture. These colleges are renowned for their academic excellence and research facilities. Below is the list of some good 10 colleges in India that offer M.Sc. in Horticulture.

Top Private M.Sc. in Horticulture Colleges in India

Below is a list of some good private colleges that provide M.Sc. in Horticulture in India.

Top Government M.Sc. in Horticulture Colleges in India

India also has some renowned public colleges that offer M.Sc. in Horticulture. These colleges like are famous for their comprehensive curriculum, facilities, and experienced faculty. These colleges provide similar facilities as private colleges at a lower cost comparatively.


Overall, with the increasing demand for sustainable food production and green technologies, the scope for M.Sc. in Horticulture graduates is increasing. M.Sc. in Horticulture provides candidates with financially rewarding career opportunities along with advanced future prospects. It equips students with interpersonal and intellectual skills helping them excel in particular fields of agriculture or related fields.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the career prospects after completing an M.Sc. in Horticulture?
A:

Graduates can pursue diverse career paths as research scientists, crop consultants, extension specialists, plant breeders, or greenhouse managers.

Q: What skills are developed during an M.Sc. in Horticulture programme?
A:

M.Sc. in Horticulture equips students with skills like Plant Biology, Crop Physiology, Genetics and Breeding, Soil Science, Pest and Disease Management, Agronomy, Biotechnology, Research Methodology, Statistical Analysis, and Horticultural Techniques.

Q: What is the duration of an M.Sc. in Horticulture programme?
A:

The duration of an M.Sc. in Horticulture is two years and is divided into four semesters.

Q: What is horticulture?
A:

Horticulture is the science and art of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It involves plant propagation, cultivation, crop management, and landscape design.

Q: What are the eligibility criteria for admission to an M.Sc. in Horticulture programme?
A:

To be eligible, candidates require a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or related fields.

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Questions related to M.Sc.

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to M.Sc. ?

For the second question about choosing between M. Sc Clinical Research, M. Sc Clinical Embryology, and M. Sc Biotechnology after completing B. Sc MLT, the better option depends mainly on your career goals. If you are interested in the hospital and diagnostic side, M. Sc Clinical Research can be a suitable choice, as it opens opportunities in clinical trials, research coordination, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare research organisations. This field has growing demand, especially with the expansion of drug trials and medical research in India. M. Sc Clinical Embryology, on the other hand, is a highly specialised and skill-based programme with strong career potential, particularly if you are interested in working in IVF clinics, fertility centres, and assisted reproductive technology labs. However, it requires intensive hands-on training, and employment prospects depend heavily on the quality of the institute and clinical exposure. M. Sc Biotechnology is a broader academic and research-oriented course that offers flexibility for careers in research, higher studies (PhD), teaching, and biotech industries, but it is more competitive and may not give immediate clinical placement benefits compared to the other two. Overall, if you want faster clinical employment linked closely to your MLT background, Clinical Research or Clinical Embryology would generally be better choices, whereas Biotechnology is more suitable if you are inclined towards long-term research or academia.

Hello aspirant,

With an emphasis on graduation-level concepts with analytical questions, the CUET PG MSc Zoology syllabus for 2026 covers fundamental zoological topics such as Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Ecology, Evolution, Genetics, Animal Physiology, Developmental Biology, Immunology, Biotechnology, Biodiversity & Conservation, Biostatistics, Vertebrates & Invertebrates .

To know the complete syllabus, you can visit our site through following link:

https://university.careers360.com/articles/cuet-pg-zoology-syllabus-2026

Thank you

Hello

Yes, you can do an IGNOU B.Ed (distance mode) along with a regular M.Sc from another university at the same time.
UGC rules now allow students to pursue two degree courses simultaneously.
One course should preferably be in distance/ODL mode and the other in regular mode, which fits your case.
Both degrees will be considered valid, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for each course. You will need to manage your classes, exams, and schedules on your own. It’s always best to confirm once with IGNOU and your M.Sc university before final admission.

Hello,

Sorry, but the Fakir Mohan University in Balasore doesn't offer the MSc in distance education or any other correspondence course. This university only offers distance learning for programs like arts, commerce, and social work disciplines.

I hope it will clear your query!!

Hello,

Yes, you can pursue an MSc in Aquaculture after completing a Food Technology course, but it depends on the university and its eligibility criteria. Some universities may allow students from related fields like Food Technology, Biotechnology, or Life Sciences. Others may prefer candidates with a background in Fisheries, Zoology, or Aquaculture.

It’s best to check the specific eligibility requirements of the university or institute where you want to apply. You may also need to complete certain bridge courses or prerequisites in aquaculture.

Hope it helps !