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B-SC-HONS-HORTICULTURE in General at College of Agriculture
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is General at College of Agriculture Ayodhya?
This B.Sc (Hons) Horticulture program at College of Agriculture, Ayodhya, focuses on the scientific study and cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It encompasses advanced techniques in crop production, post-harvest management, and value addition, addressing India''''s growing demand for skilled professionals in diverse horticultural sectors. The program emphasizes sustainable practices and technological innovations.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 science graduates (PCMB/Agriculture) seeking a career in the dynamic field of horticulture. It targets aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs, researchers, and extension officers. Individuals passionate about plant science, food security, and environmental sustainability, who wish to contribute to India''''s agricultural prosperity, will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as horticulture officers, farm managers, floriculturists, fruit breeders, and food processors. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 LPA. Opportunities exist in government departments, private companies, research institutions, and agri-business ventures.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Agricultural Sciences- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate ample time to understanding fundamental concepts in genetics, soil science, plant pathology, and entomology. These subjects form the bedrock for advanced horticulture studies. Actively participate in practical sessions and laboratory exercises to grasp hands-on skills.
Tools & Resources
University labs, Reference textbooks, Online agricultural science tutorials (e.g., e-Krishi Shiksha portal), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation enables effective problem-solving in crop management, disease identification, and pest control, crucial for roles like farm supervisors or extension agents.
Develop Practical Observation & Field Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly visit the college''''s experimental farms, nurseries, and horticultural gardens. Learn to identify different crops, plant diseases, insect pests, and nutrient deficiencies. Document observations, take detailed notes, and seek clarification from professors.
Tools & Resources
Field diaries, Magnifying glass, Mobile apps for plant identification, Interaction with farm staff and senior students
Career Connection
Hands-on identification and diagnostic skills are vital for practical roles in farm management, crop advisory services, and quality control.
Cultivate Basic Communication & Report Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving both written and oral communication skills through regular assignments, presentations, and group discussions. Practice structuring reports, presenting data clearly, and articulating ideas effectively, especially from practical observations.
Tools & Resources
University language labs, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Peer feedback, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
Essential for clear communication with farmers, colleagues, and stakeholders in extension services, research, and corporate roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Specialized Horticultural Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively seek out mini-projects or research opportunities related to specific horticultural crops (fruits, vegetables, flowers) or techniques (protected cultivation, nutrient management). This allows for deeper learning and practical application of theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research projects, Faculty guidance, Scientific journals, Online databases (AGRIS, CABI)
Career Connection
Builds expertise in niche areas, making graduates highly desirable for specialized roles in research, breeding, or specific crop production companies.
Pursue Internships & Field Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Secure internships during semester breaks at government horticulture farms, private nurseries, food processing units, or agricultural NGOs. Gain real-world experience in various aspects like propagation, pest management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
Tools & Resources
Career services, Alumni network, Direct applications to horticultural companies/organizations, Government schemes
Career Connection
Provides invaluable industry exposure, builds professional networks, and often leads to pre-placement offers or informed career choices.
Develop Entrepreneurial Thinking & Business Acumen- (Semester 3-5)
Attend workshops on agri-business management, marketing, and financial planning. Explore opportunities for small-scale horticultural ventures or value-added product development. Understand market dynamics and consumer preferences for horticultural produce.
Tools & Resources
Entrepreneurship cells at university, Industry expert talks, Business case studies, Local market surveys
Career Connection
Equips students to start their own ventures, manage horticultural enterprises, or work in agri-marketing and supply chain management roles.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Experiential Learning/RAWE Program- (Semester 7)
Fully commit to the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) or Experiential Learning Program (ELP). Take initiative in understanding farmer problems, implementing solutions, and documenting experiences thoroughly. This is a critical bridge between academia and practical application.
Tools & Resources
RAWE/ELP manuals, Faculty supervisors, Local farmers, Extension officers
Career Connection
Provides practical project management skills, fosters leadership, and enhances problem-solving abilities directly applicable to field officer or managerial roles.
Specialize Through Advanced Electives & Project Work- (Semester 6-8)
Choose electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Hi-Tech Horticulture, Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, Value Addition). Dedicate significant effort to the final year project, focusing on an innovative solution or in-depth research relevant to the horticulture industry.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, Advanced research papers, Industry reports, Expert mentors
Career Connection
Deepens expertise, positions you as a specialist, and provides a strong portfolio for advanced studies, research careers, or specialized industry roles.
Prepare for Placements & Higher Studies- (Semester 7-8)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, refine resume/CV, and practice interview skills (technical and HR). For those interested in higher studies, prepare for competitive exams like ICAR-PG/JRF, and research potential universities/specializations.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell, Mock interviews, Aptitude test preparation platforms, Career counseling, Alumni mentoring
Career Connection
Maximizes chances of securing desirable placements in public/private sectors or gaining admission to prestigious postgraduate programs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 192 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-111 | Fundamentals of Horticulture | Core | 3 | Importance & Scope of Horticulture, Branches of Horticulture, Climate and Soil for Horticultural Crops, Plant Propagation Methods, Nursery Management |
| GPB-111 | Fundamentals of Genetics | Core | 3 | History of Genetics, Mendelian Principles of Inheritance, Gene Interactions, Chromosomes and Cell Division, Mutation and its Types |
| AGRON-111 | Fundamentals of Agronomy | Core | 3 | Principles and Scope of Agronomy, Crop Classification and Ecology, Tillage and Seedbed Preparation, Planting Methods and Practices, Weed Management Principles |
| SSAC-111 | Fundamentals of Soil Science | Core | 3 | Soil Formation and Composition, Physical Properties of Soil, Chemical Properties of Soil, Soil Organisms and Organic Matter, Soil Water and its Management |
| PP-111 | Fundamentals of Plant Pathology | Core | 3 | History and Scope of Plant Pathology, Classification of Plant Diseases, Causal Organisms (Fungi, Bacteria, Viruses), Disease Cycle and Epidemics, Principles of Plant Disease Management |
| ENT-111 | Fundamentals of Entomology | Core | 3 | Importance of Entomology, Insect Morphology and Anatomy, Insect Physiology and Reproduction, Insect Ecology and Behaviour, Principles of Insect Pest Management |
| FMPE-111 | Fundamentals of Agricultural Engineering | Core | 3 | Farm Power and Machinery, Tillage and Planting Equipment, Irrigation Equipment and Methods, Harvesting and Threshing Machinery, Post-Harvesting and Processing Equipment |
| STAT-111 | Fundamentals of Statistics | Core | 2 | Data Collection and Classification, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability and Probability Distributions, Sampling Methods and Design, Hypothesis Testing (t-test, F-test, Chi-square) |
| EXT-111 | Rural Sociology & Educational Psychology | Core | 2 | Concepts of Rural Sociology, Social Stratification and Change, Community Development and Rural Institutions, Educational Psychology Principles, Learning, Motivation and Personality Development |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-121 | Growth and Development of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Plant Growth Regulators, Physiological Processes (Photosynthesis, Respiration), Flowering and Fruiting Physiology, Dormancy and Senescence, Stress Physiology in Plants |
| GPB-121 | Principle of Plant Breeding | Core | 3 | Modes of Plant Reproduction, Methods of Plant Breeding (Selection, Hybridization), Heterosis and Inbreeding Depression, Breeding for Disease and Pest Resistance, Role of Biotechnology in Plant Breeding |
| CROP-121 | Crop Production Technology (Rabi Crops) | Core | 2 | Production Principles of Rabi Crops, Cultivation of Wheat, Barley, Chickpea, Mustard, Lentil, Potato, Nutrient Management for Rabi Crops, Water Management Practices |
| SSAC-121 | Manures, Fertilizers and Soil Fertility Management | Core | 3 | Classification and Properties of Manures, Types and Characteristics of Fertilizers, Nutrient Deficiencies and Toxicity, Soil Testing and Fertilizer Recommendations, Integrated Nutrient Management |
| AGMET-121 | Agricultural Meteorology | Core | 2 | Weather Elements and Climate, Atmosphere and Solar Radiation, Weather Forecasting and Agro-advisories, Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture, Agro-climatic Zones of India |
| BBM-121 | Introductory Microbiology | Core | 2 | Classification of Microbes, Microbes in Soil and Plant Health, Beneficial Microorganisms (Biofertilizers), Microbial Growth and Metabolism, Basic Microbiological Techniques |
| ECON-121 | Fundamentals of Agricultural Economics | Core | 2 | Basic Economic Principles, Production, Consumption and Supply, Market Structure and Price Determination, Agricultural Policy and Farm Problems, Role of Agriculture in Indian Economy |
| ENGG-121 | Soil & Water Conservation Engineering | Core | 3 | Hydrological Cycle and Runoff, Soil Erosion (Water and Wind), Mechanical Measures for Soil Conservation, Gully Control and Bunding, Water Harvesting Structures |
| HORT-122 | Commercial Floriculture | Core | 3 | Scope and Importance of Floriculture, Cultivation of Major Cut Flowers (Rose, Gladiolus), Cultivation of Loose Flowers (Marigold, Jasmine), Pot Plants and Foliage Ornamentals, Post-Harvest Management of Flowers |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-231 | Production Technology of Fruit Crops (Tropical and Subtropical) | Core | 3 | Production of Mango, Banana, Citrus, Guava, Papaya, Litchi, Propagation and Planting Techniques, Nutrient and Water Management, Pest and Disease Management |
| HORT-232 | Production Technology of Vegetables and Spices | Core | 3 | Cultivation of Solanaceous Vegetables, Cucurbitaceous and Leguminous Vegetables, Cole Crops and Root Crops, Cultivation of Major Spices (Ginger, Turmeric), Varieties and Cultural Practices |
| HORT-233 | Production Technology of Root & Tuber Crops and Mushrooms | Core | 3 | Production of Potato, Sweet Potato, Tapioca, Yam, Taro and Colocasia, Mushroom Cultivation (Oyster, Button), Varieties and Agronomic Practices, Pest and Disease Management |
| GPB-231 | Principles of Seed Production & Technology | Core | 3 | Types of Seeds and Seed Quality, Seed Dormancy and Germination, Seed Testing and Certification, Seed Processing and Storage, Hybrid Seed Production |
| PP-231 | Diseases of Horticultural Crops & their Management | Core | 3 | Major Diseases of Fruit Crops, Major Diseases of Vegetable Crops, Major Diseases of Flower Crops, Symptoms, Etiology and Epidemiology, Integrated Disease Management Strategies |
| ENT-231 | Pests of Horticultural Crops & their Management | Core | 3 | Major Pests of Fruit Crops, Major Pests of Vegetable Crops, Major Pests of Flower Crops, Identification, Life Cycles and Damage Symptoms, Integrated Pest Management Strategies |
| SSAC-231 | Nutrient Management in Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Essential Plant Nutrients and their Functions, Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms, Soil and Plant Analysis, Fertilizer Application Methods (Fertigation, Foliar), Biofertilizers and their Application |
| FSc-231 | Fundamentals of Food Technology | Core | 3 | Principles of Food Processing, Food Preservation Methods, Food Additives and Ingredients, Food Packaging Technologies, Food Quality Control and Standards |
| EL-231 | Environmental Science | Elective | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution (Air, Water, Soil), Global Environmental Issues (Climate Change), Renewable Energy Resources, Environmental Legislation and Protection |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-241 | Production Technology of Fruit Crops (Temperate and Arid Zone) | Core | 3 | Production of Apple, Pear, Peach, Plum, Grape, Strawberry, Pomegranate, Fig, Date Palm, Ber, Propagation and Training Methods, Specific Cultural Practices for Temperate/Arid Zones |
| HORT-242 | Protected Cultivation of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Importance of Protected Cultivation, Types of Protected Structures (Greenhouses, Polyhouses), Environmental Control (Temperature, Humidity, CO2), Soilless Culture (Hydroponics, Aeroponics), Crop Selection and Management under Protection |
| HORT-243 | Ornamental Horticulture & Landscape Gardening | Core | 3 | Principles of Landscape Design, Elements of Landscape Gardening, Lawns and Hedges, Cultivation of Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Climbers, Indoor Plants and their Management |
| AGRO-241 | Weed Management in Horticultural Crops | Core | 2 | Weed Biology and Ecology, Classification of Weeds, Crop-Weed Competition, Integrated Weed Management, Herbicides and their Application |
| BBM-241 | Bio-chemistry | Core | 3 | Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids, Enzymes and Co-enzymes, Vitamins and Hormones, Plant Metabolism (Photosynthesis, Respiration), Nucleic Acids and Genetic Code |
| ECON-241 | Farm Management & Agricultural Finance | Core | 3 | Principles of Farm Management, Farm Planning and Budgeting, Agricultural Production Functions, Sources of Agricultural Finance, Risk and Uncertainty in Agriculture |
| ENGG-241 | Irrigation and Drainage Engineering | Core | 3 | Water Requirement of Crops, Irrigation Methods (Surface, Sprinkler, Drip), Design of Irrigation Systems, Drainage Systems and their Types, Water Quality for Irrigation |
| EXT-241 | Entrepreneurship Development and Business Management | Core | 2 | Concepts of Entrepreneurship, Business Planning and Project Formulation, Marketing Management Basics, Financial Management for Start-ups, Government Schemes for Agri-entrepreneurs |
| HORT-244 | Post Harvest Management of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Maturity Indices and Harvesting Techniques, Pre-cooling and Packaging of Produce, Storage Technologies (Cold Storage, CA Storage), Grading, Sorting and Waxing, Value Addition and Processing of Horticultural Produce |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-351 | Breeding of Fruit Crops | Core | 3 | Breeding Objectives in Fruit Crops, Germplasm Collection and Evaluation, Breeding Methods (Selection, Hybridization), Rootstock Breeding, Biotechnological Approaches in Fruit Breeding |
| HORT-352 | Breeding of Vegetable and Flower Crops | Core | 3 | Breeding Objectives for Vegetables, Breeding Objectives for Flower Crops, Hybrid Seed Production in Vegetables, Disease and Pest Resistance Breeding, Molecular Tools in Vegetable and Flower Breeding |
| HORT-353 | Production Technology of Plantation Crops | Core | 3 | Production of Tea, Coffee, Rubber, Coconut, Arecanut, Cashew, Cocoa and Oil Palm, Processing Techniques of Plantation Crops, Varieties and Cultural Practices |
| HORT-354 | Production Technology of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants | Core | 3 | Importance and Scope of MAPs, Cultivation of Major Medicinal Plants (Aloe vera, Ashwagandha), Cultivation of Major Aromatic Plants (Mentha, Citronella), Processing and Value Addition of MAPs, Quality Control and Certification |
| PP-351 | Biocontrol of Plant Pests and Diseases | Core | 3 | Principles of Biological Control, Biocontrol Agents (Predators, Parasitoids), Bio-pesticides (Botanicals, Microbial), Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Integrated Disease Management (IDM) |
| FST-351 | Principles of Fruit and Vegetable Preservation | Core | 3 | Canning and Bottling, Drying and Dehydration, Freezing and Refrigeration, Jam, Jelly, Marmalade Preparation, Pickles, Chutneys and Sauces |
| AEX-351 | Extension Methodologies & Transfer of Agri-Technology | Core | 2 | Concepts of Extension Education, Communication Models and Channels, Teaching Methods in Extension, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), Diffusion and Adoption of Innovations |
| HORT-355 | Horticultural Crop Nutrition | Core | 3 | Role of Macro and Micro Nutrients, Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms, Foliar Nutrition and Fertigation, Plant Analysis and Soil Testing, Nutrient Management for Specific Horticultural Crops |
| EL-351 | Agri-Business Management | Elective | 3 | Agri-Business Environment, Market Analysis and Segmentation, Marketing Mix for Agricultural Products, Supply Chain Management in Agriculture, Agricultural Project Management |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-361 | Principles of Organic Farming | Core | 3 | Concepts and Principles of Organic Farming, Organic Manures and Composting, Organic Pest and Disease Management, Crop Rotation and Green Manuring, Organic Certification and Standards |
| HORT-362 | Value Addition of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Principles of Value Addition, Product Development from Fruits (Jams, Squashes), Product Development from Vegetables (Pickles, Sauces), Packaging and Branding of Value-Added Products, Quality Control and Food Safety |
| HORT-363 | Hi-Tech Horticulture | Core | 3 | Precision Farming in Horticulture, Remote Sensing and GIS Applications, Automation and Robotics in Horticulture, Smart Irrigation Systems, Greenhouse and Polyhouse Technologies |
| HORT-364 | Seed Production of Horticultural Crops | Core | 3 | Principles of Horticultural Seed Production, Genetic Purity and Seed Quality Maintenance, Seed Testing and Seed Health, Hybrid Seed Production Techniques, Seed Village Concept and Seed Business |
| AEC-361 | Agricultural Marketing & Price Analysis | Core | 3 | Functions of Agricultural Marketing, Marketing Channels and Efficiency, Price Determination and Analysis, Market Intelligence and Information, Agricultural Cooperatives and Policies |
| AEX-361 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Core | 2 | Effective Communication (Verbal and Non-verbal), Public Speaking and Presentation Skills, Group Discussion and Interview Techniques, Time Management and Goal Setting, Professional Etiquette and Personality Grooming |
| EL-361 | Food Safety and Quality Management | Elective | 3 | Concepts of Food Safety and Quality, Food Quality Standards (HACCP, ISO 22000), Food Adulteration and Contaminants, Food Laws and Regulations in India, Quality Management Systems in Food Industry |
| EL-362 | Landscaping & Urban Greening | Elective | 3 | Principles of Urban Landscape Planning, Urban Green Spaces and their Benefits, Vertical Gardens and Rooftop Gardening, Xeriscaping and Water-Efficient Landscapes, Sustainable Urban Development |
| EL-363 | Horticultural Therapy | Elective | 3 | Introduction to Horticultural Therapy, Therapeutic Benefits of Gardening, Applications for Special Populations, Program Design and Implementation, Role of Horticultural Therapists |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-471 | Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) / Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) | Experiential/Practical | 20 | Village Attachment and Socio-economic Survey, Crop Production and Management Practices, Animal Husbandry and Integrated Farming Systems, Agricultural Extension Activities, Horticultural Enterprise Development |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT-481 | Experiential Learning Programme (ELP) / Project Work | Experiential/Project | 20 | Identification of Research Problem/Project Idea, Literature Review and Methodology Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Innovative Solutions for Horticultural Challenges |
