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B-F-SC in General at Assam Agricultural University
Jorhat, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is General at Assam Agricultural University Jorhat?
This Bachelor of Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) program at Assam Agricultural University focuses on comprehensive knowledge and practical skills across aquaculture, fish processing, fisheries management, and aquatic environment conservation. Integrating ICAR''''s V Deans’ Committee recommendations, the program addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in India''''s vibrant aquaculture and marine industries, emphasizing sustainable practices and technological advancements. Its holistic approach prepares graduates for diverse roles in the national and global fisheries sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates with a strong interest in aquatic life, sustainable resource management, and food technology. It suits individuals aspiring for careers in aquaculture farming, fish processing, fisheries research, or related government and private sectors. Working professionals in allied fields seeking to specialize in fisheries science can also benefit, as can career changers aiming to contribute to India''''s blue economy. A background in Biology, Physics, and Chemistry is essential.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in aquaculture farms, seafood processing units, fisheries extension, research institutes (like CIFE, CIFRI), and government departments. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15 LPA. Growth trajectories include farm managers, quality control officers, researchers, and entrepreneurs. The curriculum aligns with national standards, enhancing employability and fostering professional certifications relevant to the Indian fisheries industry.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Science Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding foundational subjects like Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Soil/Water Chemistry. These principles are crucial for advanced fisheries concepts. Form study groups with peers to clarify doubts and consolidate learning, focusing on practical applications of theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, academic journals, online science tutorials (Khan Academy, NPTEL for basic sciences), laboratory manuals
Career Connection
Strong scientific basics underpin all specialized fisheries roles, enhancing problem-solving skills for aquaculture health management and water quality analysis in future careers.
Develop Effective Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in group discussions, presentations, and workshops. Utilize the Communication Skills and Personality Development course to enhance public speaking, report writing, and interpersonal communication. Engage in debates or quizzes to improve articulation and critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters clubs (if available), university language labs, online communication courses, peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Excellent communication is vital for extension work, presenting research, marketing fishery products, and leading teams, significantly boosting employability and leadership potential.
Engage in Early Field Visits and Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Seek opportunities for early exposure to local fish farms, hatcheries, and processing units, even if informal. Observe different aquaculture practices, interact with farmers, and note practical challenges. This builds context for theoretical learning and sparks interest in specific areas.
Tools & Resources
Local government fisheries departments, nearby aquaculture cooperatives, university''''s own experimental farms
Career Connection
Early practical exposure helps students connect classroom learning with real-world scenarios, aiding in career path selection and demonstrating genuine interest to potential employers.
Intermediate Stage
Participate in Fisheries-Related Internships and Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively pursue short-term internships or volunteer for departmental projects in areas like freshwater aquaculture, marine biology, or fish processing. This allows practical application of knowledge, skill specialization, and understanding of industry operations beyond regular coursework.
Tools & Resources
University career services, faculty advisors, local and national fisheries organizations, ICAR institutes
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable industry exposure, build professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong references crucial for placements in India''''s competitive job market.
Specialize in a Niche Area- (Semester 3-5)
Identify a specific area of interest within fisheries science (e.g., shrimp farming, fish nutrition, post-harvest technology) and focus elective choices, project work, and self-study on that domain. This deepens expertise and makes you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals, online certifications (e.g., NIFPHATT courses), industry workshops, expert mentorship
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge positions you as an expert, leading to higher-paying roles and faster career progression in niche segments of the Indian fisheries industry, such as consulting or advanced research.
Network with Industry Professionals and Researchers- (Semester 3-5)
Attend fisheries conferences, workshops, and industry events (e.g., Aqua Aquaria India, national fisheries summits). Connect with professors, industry leaders, and researchers. Join professional online groups focused on Indian fisheries to stay updated and explore collaborations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, industry association websites (e.g., Aquaculture Association of India), university alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is paramount for job referrals, mentorship, and identifying new opportunities. It also helps in understanding industry trends and demands, crucial for aligning career goals with market needs.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Experiential Learning and Project Work- (Semester 6-8)
Approach the Experiential Learning Program (ELP), Rural Awareness Work Experience (RAWE), and Project Work semesters with utmost dedication. Treat these as real-world assignments. Focus on meticulous planning, execution, data analysis, and professional reporting to maximize learning and outcomes.
Tools & Resources
Project management software, statistical analysis tools (R, SPSS), scientific writing guides, faculty supervision
Career Connection
These modules directly demonstrate your practical competence and problem-solving abilities to potential employers, making your CV stand out and preparing you for industry roles.
Prepare Rigorously for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 6-8)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, prepare a compelling CV highlighting practical experience, and practice interview skills. For higher studies, research relevant postgraduate programs and entrance exams (e.g., ICAR-JRF, GATE) and begin preparation early.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, mock interview sessions, online aptitude test platforms, previous year question papers for entrance exams
Career Connection
Thorough preparation directly translates into successful placements in leading aquaculture firms, food processing companies, government jobs, or securing admission to prestigious M.F.Sc. / Ph.D. programs.
Develop Entrepreneurial Acumen- (Semester 6-8)
Explore the feasibility of starting your own venture in aquaculture, fish processing, or related services. Utilize the project management and entrepreneurship courses to develop a detailed business plan. Seek guidance from incubators or successful fisheries entrepreneurs.
Tools & Resources
Small business development centers, government schemes for agri-preneurs (e.g., PMMSY), mentorship from successful alumni
Career Connection
This fosters an innovative mindset, providing an alternative career path and contributing to job creation, aligning with India''''s focus on ''''Startup India'''' and ''''Atmanirbhar Bharat'''' initiatives in the food sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- H.S.S.L.C. (10+2) or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English. General/OBC candidates require minimum 50% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/DAC category). Age minimum 16 years, maximum 21 years as on 01.09.2024.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 182 (calculated from listed courses, official document states 170) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FIS 111 | Principles of Aquaculture | Core | 3 | Aquaculture concepts and history, Culture systems and practices, Water quality management, Fish seed resources, Common aquaculture diseases |
| AEC 111 | Principles of Economics | Core | 2 | Basic economic concepts, Demand, supply and market equilibrium, Production theory and cost analysis, Market structures, National income and economic policies |
| FBT 111 | Elementary Biochemistry | Core | 3 | Biomolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, Enzymes: classification and kinetics, Metabolism: glycolysis, Kreb''''s cycle, Bioenergetics and ATP, Amino acids and nucleic acids |
| EXT 111 | Rural Sociology and Educational Psychology | Core | 2 | Rural society and social stratification, Social change and community development, Basic principles of psychology, Theories of learning, Communication and personality development |
| FPT 111 | Fishing Craft and Gear | Core | 2 | Types of fishing crafts, Materials for fishing gear, Netting and knotting, Principles of trawl and gillnetting, Longlines, traps and other gears |
| FOT 111 | Principles of Food Processing and Preservation | Core | 3 | Food spoilage and safety, Heat processing: pasteurization, sterilization, Chilling and freezing technologies, Drying and dehydration, Chemical and biological preservation |
| MBL 111 | General Microbiology | Core | 2 | Classification of microorganisms, Bacterial growth and nutrition, Sterilization and disinfection, Beneficial and harmful microbes, Basic bacteriology and mycology |
| SSAC 111 | Fundamentals of Soil and Water Chemistry | Core | 2 | Soil formation and composition, Physical and chemical properties of soil, Water quality parameters, Nutrient cycles in aquatic systems, Water pollution and remediation |
| ENG 111 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Skill | 1 | Verbal and non-verbal communication, Listening skills and active feedback, Public speaking and presentation, Group discussions and interviews, Personality traits and self-awareness |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 121 | Fisheries Economics and Marketing | Core | 3 | Fisheries market structure and functions, Demand and supply of fish, Pricing policies and trade, Fisheries cooperatives, Economic policies in fisheries |
| FBT 121 | Aquaculture Biochemistry | Core | 2 | Nutritional biochemistry of fish, Metabolic pathways in aquatic animals, Hormonal regulation in fish, Stress physiology and immunology, Digestive enzymes in fish |
| FIS 121 | Limnology | Core | 3 | Physical and chemical properties of freshwater, Biological characteristics of lentic and lotic environments, Primary and secondary productivity, Plankton and benthos ecology, Eutrophication and aquatic pollution |
| FIS 122 | Freshwater Aquaculture | Core | 3 | Pond construction and management, Culture of carps and catfish, Breeding and seed production of freshwater fish, Integrated fish farming systems, Ornamental fish culture |
| FPT 121 | Fish Processing Technology | Core | 3 | Post-harvest changes in fish, Handling and storage of fresh fish, Chilling and freezing technology, Drying, salting, and smoking, Canning of fish and fishery products |
| MBL 121 | Aquaculture Microbiology | Core | 2 | Microbial ecology of aquaculture systems, Fish pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, Probiotics and prebiotics in aquaculture, Water and sediment microbiology, Hygiene and sanitation in hatcheries |
| PFE 121 | Engineering for Fisheries | Core | 2 | Basic engineering principles, Pumps, pipes and filtration systems, Aeration devices and water circulation, Refrigeration and insulation, Power sources and electrical safety |
| EXT 121 | Fisheries Extension Education | Core | 2 | Principles of extension education, Extension teaching methods, Communication process in extension, Planning and evaluation of extension programs, Role of extension in fisheries development |
| AGM 121 | Principles of Genetics and Cytogenetics | Core | 3 | Mendelian principles of inheritance, Chromosome structure and function, Gene interactions and linkage, Mutations and chromosomal aberrations, Genetic variation and population structure |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AEC 231 | Fisheries Business Management | Core | 3 | Business planning and feasibility analysis, Financial management and accounting, Human resource management, Marketing strategies for fishery products, Entrepreneurship development in fisheries |
| AGM 231 | Population Genetics and Breeding | Core | 3 | Genetic variation in fish populations, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, Selection methods in aquaculture, Hybridization and polyploidy, Genetic improvement programs |
| FIS 231 | Marine Biology | Core | 3 | Marine ecosystems and ocean zones, Physical and chemical properties of seawater, Marine flora: phytoplankton, seaweeds, Marine fauna: invertebrates, fish, mammals, Coral reefs, mangroves and estuaries |
| FIS 232 | Coastal Aquaculture | Core | 3 | Brackishwater aquaculture systems, Shrimp culture: species, practices, diseases, Finfish culture in coastal areas, Crab and mollusc culture, Cage and pen culture in estuaries |
| FIS 233 | Nutrition and Feed Technology | Core | 3 | Nutrient requirements of cultivated species, Feed ingredients and their evaluation, Feed formulation techniques, Feed manufacturing processes, Feeding practices and efficiency |
| FPT 231 | Fish Product Development | Core | 2 | Value-added fishery products, Surimi and surimi-based products, Fish meal, oil and protein concentrates, By-products utilization, Product quality and safety |
| PATH 231 | Fish Health Management | Core | 3 | Principles of fish pathology, Diagnosis of fish diseases, Prevention and control measures, Immunology in fish, Biosecurity in aquaculture |
| SST 231 | Statistics and Computer Application | Core | 2 | Descriptive statistics and probability, Hypothesis testing and ANOVA, Regression and correlation analysis, Introduction to computer hardware and software, Data analysis using spreadsheets and statistical tools |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 241 | Aquaculture Extension and Technology Transfer | Core | 3 | Extension approaches and strategies, Participatory rural appraisal, Training and capacity building, Diffusion and adoption of innovations, Impact assessment of extension programs |
| FIS 241 | Inland Capture Fisheries | Core | 3 | Riverine and estuarine fisheries, Reservoir and lake fisheries, Wetland and flood plain fisheries, Management and conservation of inland fish stocks, Fishing methods in inland waters |
| FIS 242 | Ornamental Fish Culture and Management | Core | 2 | Important ornamental fish species, Breeding and rearing techniques, Feeding and disease management, Aquarium set-up and maintenance, Trade and marketing of ornamental fish |
| FIS 243 | Fish Genetics and Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Chromosome manipulation: gynogenesis, androgenesis, Gene transfer and transgenic fish, Genetic markers and QTL mapping, Cryopreservation of gametes, Molecular diagnostics in aquaculture |
| FIS 244 | Mariculture | Core | 3 | Mariculture practices and systems, Culture of marine finfish: seabass, cobia, Culture of shellfish: oysters, mussels, clams, Seaweed culture and utilization, Pearl culture and open sea cage farming |
| PFE 241 | Fishing Technology | Core | 2 | Principles of fishing gear operation, Trawl net fishing and modifications, Gillnetting and entangling nets, Purse seining and longlining, Gear selectivity and responsible fishing |
| SST 241 | Experimental Designs and Biostatistics | Core | 2 | Principles of experimental design, Completely randomized design, Randomized block design, Factorial experiments, Non-parametric tests and data interpretation |
| EXT 242 | Communication and Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 2 | Effective communication strategies, Public speaking and negotiation skills, Entrepreneurial mindset and traits, Business plan development, Market analysis and financial projections |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FIS 351 | Reservoir Fisheries and Management | Core | 2 | Reservoir characteristics and productivity, Fish stock assessment in reservoirs, Stocking and enhancement strategies, Management of reservoir fisheries, Conflicts and conservation issues |
| FIS 352 | Aquatic Pollution and Toxicology | Core | 3 | Types and sources of aquatic pollutants, Effects of pollution on aquatic organisms, Biomagnification and bioaccumulation, Ecotoxicology and toxicity testing, Pollution control and waste management |
| FIS 353 | Fish Physiology and Endocrinology | Core | 3 | Respiratory and circulatory systems in fish, Osmoregulation and excretion, Digestive system and metabolism, Reproductive physiology and hormonal control, Stress physiology and adaptation |
| FIS 354 | Fishery Oceanography | Core | 3 | Oceanographic parameters: temperature, salinity, currents, Tides, waves and their impact on fisheries, Upwelling and primary productivity, Influence of oceanography on fish distribution, Remote sensing applications in fisheries |
| FPT 351 | Packaging of Fish and Fishery Products | Core | 2 | Functions and types of packaging materials, Packaging methods: vacuum, MAP, Active and intelligent packaging, Shelf life extension through packaging, Environmental aspects of packaging |
| PATH 351 | Aquatic Animal Health Management | Core | 3 | Disease surveillance and monitoring, Quarantine and biosecurity measures, Immunostimulants and probiotics, Prophylactic measures and vaccination, Therapeutic measures and drug resistance |
| AEE 351 | Fishery Cooperatives and Legislation | Core | 2 | Principles and types of cooperatives, Formation and management of fishery cooperatives, Fishery policies and regulations in India, Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules, International fishery conventions |
| EL 351 | Elective | Elective | 2 | Specific topics vary based on chosen elective |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FIS 361 | Capture Fisheries Management | Core | 3 | Principles of stock assessment, Population dynamics models, Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), Fisheries regulations and effort control, Co-management and participatory approaches |
| FIS 362 | Fish Nutrition and Feed Formulation | Core | 3 | Nutrient requirements of different fish species, Alternative feed ingredients, Manual and software-based feed formulation, Quality control of feeds, Feed additives and binders |
| FIS 363 | Reproductive Physiology and Broodstock Management | Core | 3 | Reproductive cycles in fish, Gametogenesis and spawning behavior, Hormonal induction of breeding, Broodstock nutrition and conditioning, Hatchery management and seed rearing |
| FPT 361 | Fish By-products and Waste Utilization | Core | 2 | Fish processing waste management, Production of fish meal and oil, Chitin, chitosan and collagen extraction, Value-added products from by-products, Bioremediation of fish waste |
| FPT 362 | Quality Control and Assurance in Fish Processing | Core | 3 | HACCP principles and implementation, ISO standards in food processing, Microbial quality and safety of fish, Chemical contaminants and food additives, Sensory evaluation of fishery products |
| PATH 361 | Fish Pathology | Core | 2 | Gross and microscopic pathology, Diagnosis of bacterial and viral diseases, Parasitic infestations in fish, Fungal infections in aquaculture, Immunopathology and host response |
| AEC 361 | Fishery Project Management and Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Project cycle management, Feasibility study and project appraisal, Financial analysis and resource mobilization, Risk management in fishery projects, Developing a successful business plan |
| EL 361 | Elective | Elective | 2 | Specific topics vary based on chosen elective |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELP 471 | Experiential Learning Program Module I | Experiential Learning | 10 | Hatchery operations and seed production, Aquaculture farm management, Fish feed production and quality control, Water quality and disease diagnostics, Biofloc and RAS farming techniques |
| ELP 472 | Experiential Learning Program Module II | Experiential Learning | 10 | Fish processing and value addition, Quality control in processed fish, Fishery product marketing strategies, Entrepreneurship in fisheries, Export procedures for fishery products |
| RAWE 471 | Rural Awareness Work Experience | Experiential Learning | 10 | Socio-economic survey of fishing communities, Farmer needs assessment and problem identification, Extension methodologies and technology transfer, Demonstration of improved aquaculture practices, Documentation of rural fisheries initiatives |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPT 481 | In-Plant Training | Practical/Training | 15 | Industry exposure and practical skill development, Observation of operational procedures, Participation in daily tasks and problem-solving, Understanding supply chain and logistics, Application of academic knowledge in real-world settings |
| PRJ 481 | Project Work | Project | 10 | Formulation of research problem, Literature review and experimental design, Data collection and analysis, Scientific report writing, Presentation of research findings |
| PRJ 482 | Seminar | Seminar | 1 | Review of scientific literature, Critical analysis of research topics, Developing effective presentation skills, Scientific communication ethics, Addressing audience questions and feedback |
