BSc Agriculture – Scope, Fees, Admission, Eligibility, Jobs & Salary

What is Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Admission Criteria

The requirements for getting into a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture course vary from one college to the next. But most colleges and universities have a similar process for letting students in, which includes the steps below: 

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as mandatory subjects. Some universities might also require Mathematics as a mandatory subject.
• Minimum Marks: The minimum marks required in 10+2 to be eligible for admission into BSc Agriculture program is 50% for general category students and 45% for SC/ST/OBC candidates.
• Age Limit: There is no specific age limit to apply for admission into BSc Agriculture. However, candidates must fulfill the age criteria as specified by the respective universities or colleges.
• Entrance Exams: Some universities or colleges may conduct an entrance exam for admission into the BSc Agriculture program. Some of the common entrance exams are university-level entrance exams and state-level entrance exams.
• Merit-Based: Some universities or colleges may offer admission based on merit as well. In such cases, the admission is offered based on the candidate’s performance in 10+2.
• Reservation: The reservation policy of the Government of India is applicable to BSc Agriculture admission. Some universities or colleges may also have a separate reservation policy.

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Eligibility

There may be a variety of entry requirements for the course “Bachelor of Science in Agriculture” depending on the universities. The following prerequisites must be satisfied by applicants in order to be considered for a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture:

• Educational Qualification: The candidate must have at least 50% of their 10+2 grade in biology, physics, chemistry, and any other required subjects in the scientific stream (40-45% of their grade for candidates from the reserved category).
• Age: The age limit for admission to BSc Agriculture varies from institution to institution. Typically, candidates are mandated to fall within the age range of 17 to 25 years.
• Entrance Exams: Candidates for the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture must have passed the entrance exams required by the university where they wish to be admitted, particularly in the case of some universities (university, or state level entrance exams).

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Entrance Exams

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Fee Structure

The fee structure for a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture varies widely in India. This course costs between Rs. 40,000 and Rs. 70,000 per month, on average. But the fee may be different depending on things like the type of institution (government or private), its reputation, its location, and the facilities it offers.

Courses after Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Career Opportunities after Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

A Bachelor of Science in Agricultural offers up many public and private sector job possibilities. It is a professional undergraduate degree that aims to develop student’s skills in various aspects of Agricultural. Some common Private and Public sector jobs for people who finish this programme are:

Public Sector Opportunities:

1. Agricultural Development Officer: Agricultural Development Officers (ADOs) promote new technology, practices, and policies to boost agricultural output and sustainability. And the salary range for an ADO in India is between Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 45,000 per month,
2. Extension Officer: Extension officers conduct training programs and workshops for farmers on crop management, crop production, and soil management. The average salary of an extension officer is between Rs. 25,000 and Rs. 40,000 per month.
3. Soil Conservationist: Soil conservationists protect soil fertility and promote sustainable land use in agriculture. Soil Conservationists earn around Rs. 30,000–Rs. 50,000 per month.
4. Agricultural Inspector: Agricultural Inspectors get Rs. 20,000–Rs. 40,000 per month. They prevent pests and diseases that threaten crops, livestock, and humans to ensure product safety and quality.
5. Horticulture Development Officer: Horticulture Development Officers earn Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 50,000 a month promoting the growth of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants.
6. Farm Manager: Farm Managers work in a variety of sectors, including private companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. And the average salary is between Rs. 30,000-50,000.
7. Seed Technologist: Seed technologists develop and maintain high-quality agricultural seeds. Seed technologists in India earn between INR 3 lakh and INR 8 lakh annually.
8. Research Officer: Research officers work at universities, government agencies, and commercial firms. Research officers in India earn between INR 3 lakh and 10 lahks per year.

Private Sector Opportunities:

1. Agricultural Economist: agricultural economist analyze the production, distribution, and consumption of agricultural goods and services, and assess the impact of policies and regulations on agricultural markets. the average salary range for an agricultural economist in India is approximately INR 4 lakh to INR 12 lakh per annum.
2. Agricultural Consultant: An agricultural consultant advises farmers, agricultural enterprises, and government organizations on agriculture. Indian agricultural consultants earn between INR 3 lakh and INR 12 lakh annually.
3. Agronomist: Agronomists optimise agricultural practises and crop yields using plant physiology, genetics, and soil science. he average salary range for an agronomist in India is approximately INR 3 lakh to INR 8 lakh per annum.
4. Plant Breeder: Plant breeders can work in agricultural research institutions, seed companies, or government organizations. The average salary range for a plant breeder is approximately INR 4 lakh to INR 12 lakh per annum.
5. Food Scientist: Food scientists produce new goods, improve quality, ensure safety and preservation, and explore nutrition and consumer preferences. Indian food scientists earn between INR 3 lakh and 10 lakh per year.
6. Precision Agriculture Specialist: Precision Agriculture Specialists use GPS, remote sensing, and data analytics to optimise agricultural practises and resource allocation. The average salary per year between INR 6 lakhs to 12 lakhs.
7. Seed Technologist: Seed Technologist research and development for superior agricultural types, including seed production, testing, and quality control. The average salary of between INR 3 lakhs to 6 lakhs per year.
8. Horticulturist: A horticulturist is someone who works with and studies fruits, vegetables, flowers, and decorative plants. The average salary of between INR 3 lakhs to 6 lakhs per year.

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Scope, Salary & Employers

A Bachelor of Science in Agricultural has various windows of opportunity in the future. Graduates are able to pursue careers in Agricultural Research, Food Processing & Quality Control, Agricultural Finance, Horticulture, Agricultural Extension, Plant Breeding & Genetics, and among others.

The salary for different roles differs depending on the employer. The average salary for a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural is Rs. 200,000 to 800,000 per annum.

The graduates and postgraduates of a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural can get placements in the following companies such as Syngenta, Bayer CropScience, DuPont Pioneer, Dow AgroSciences, Pioneer Hi-Bred, John Deere, Kubota, Case IH, Nestle, Cargill, Tyson Foods, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), ConAgra,PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola.

Required Skills for Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Agriculture students are required to possess a combination of technical and soft skills. Biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics knowledge are essential technical skills. Here are some of the essential soft skills required for a BSc Agriculture student:

• Analytical Skills
• Leadership Skills 
• Adaptability 
• Attention to Detail 
• Interpersonal Skills

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)