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M-SC in Agricultural Extension at Navsari Agricultural University
Navsari, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Agricultural Extension at Navsari Agricultural University Navsari?
This M.Sc. Agricultural Extension program at Navsari Agricultural University focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and skills in agricultural knowledge dissemination, rural development, and community empowerment. It is highly relevant in India''''s agrarian economy, emphasizing effective communication strategies for technology transfer from research institutions to farmers. The program differentiates itself by integrating social sciences with agricultural practices, addressing the last-mile delivery challenges in the Indian agricultural sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Agriculture (B.Sc. Agri) or allied science graduates seeking entry into agricultural development roles. It also suits working professionals from agricultural departments or NGOs looking to upskill in extension methodologies, and career changers aiming to contribute to rural upliftment. Candidates with a strong interest in community engagement, policy implementation, and farmer welfare would find this specialization fulfilling.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in central and state agricultural departments, NGOs, agribusiness companies, and rural banks across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. Growth trajectories include roles as Extension Officers, Rural Development Managers, Project Coordinators, and Subject Matter Specialists, contributing directly to food security and sustainable agriculture in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Deep Dive into Extension Theories and Models- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core concepts like diffusion of innovations, program planning, and communication theories. Form study groups to discuss case studies of successful and unsuccessful extension interventions in India, analyzing their theoretical underpinnings. Focus on understanding the ''''why'''' behind farmer behavior and adoption patterns.
Tools & Resources
ICAR e-courses on Agricultural Extension, scholarly articles from Indian Journal of Extension Education, local KVK reports
Career Connection
Builds a strong theoretical base for designing effective extension programs, crucial for roles in government departments and NGOs.
Develop Strong Research and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Research Methodology course, practicing data collection techniques (surveys, interviews) and basic statistical analysis. Actively participate in Seminar I and II, honing presentation skills and scientific writing. Seek feedback from professors on clarity and conciseness, especially for communicating complex agricultural information to diverse audiences.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for data analysis, Microsoft PowerPoint, academic writing guides, public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Essential for conducting impactful field studies, writing project proposals, and effectively disseminating research findings, a core skill for Extension Officers.
Immerse in Rural Sociology and Psychology- (Semester 1-2)
Understand the socio-economic fabric of Indian rural communities by observing local villages during field visits. Relate classroom learnings in Rural Sociology and Social Psychology to real-world interactions. Identify key social structures, leadership patterns, and psychological factors influencing decision-making among farmers. Engage in empathy-building exercises.
Tools & Resources
Field trip reports, ethnographic studies, local news articles on rural issues
Career Connection
Provides critical insights into farmer needs and community dynamics, enabling the design of culturally appropriate and acceptable extension interventions.
Intermediate Stage
Initiate and Conduct Thesis Research Effectively- (Semester 3)
In Semester 3, the focus shifts entirely to research. Work proactively with your guide to define clear objectives, develop a robust methodology, and commence primary data collection in the chosen rural settings. Regularly review progress, troubleshoot challenges, and meticulously record observations and findings.
Tools & Resources
Research proposal templates, questionnaire design software, field survey tools, NAU research facilities
Career Connection
Demonstrates capability in independent research, problem-solving, and project management, crucial for research roles, policy analysis, and program implementation.
Engage in Advanced Academic Discourse- (Semester 3)
For Seminar III, present a well-structured research proposal or a comprehensive review of literature on your chosen topic. Actively participate in departmental seminars, critically evaluating others'''' research and presenting your own work to receive constructive feedback. This refines analytical thinking and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Scientific presentation software, research databases (e.g., AGORA, Web of Science), departmental seminar series
Career Connection
Prepares for academic positions, grant writing, and effective communication of complex research findings to a wider audience.
Seek Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Semester 3)
While focusing on your specialization, explore relevant topics from allied fields like agricultural economics, rural management, or statistics. Collaborate with peers or faculty from other departments if your research demands interdisciplinary insights. This broadens your understanding and problem-solving approach.
Tools & Resources
Inter-departmental seminars, collaboration tools, specialized journals from related fields
Career Connection
Enhances versatility and ability to work in multi-functional teams, particularly valuable in integrated rural development projects and agribusiness.
Advanced Stage
Master Thesis Writing and Defense- (Semester 4)
Dedicate Semester 4 to meticulously analyzing your collected data, drawing conclusions, and writing a high-quality thesis. Practice mock viva-voce sessions with peers and faculty to refine your presentation and defense skills. Ensure your thesis adheres to all university formatting and academic integrity standards.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, plagiarism detection software, presentation practice sessions, NAU library resources for referencing
Career Connection
A strong thesis and confident defense are critical for academic progression, research positions, and demonstrate high-level analytical and communication capabilities to employers.
Strategic Career Planning and Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell and departmental faculty to explore career opportunities in government, NGOs, and the private sector. Prepare a tailored resume, cover letter, and practice interview skills, highlighting your research findings and practical experience in agricultural extension.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell resources, career counseling workshops, online job portals (e.g., Naukri, LinkedIn), mock interviews
Career Connection
Directly translates into securing desirable job roles in agricultural development, extension services, or agri-business.
Develop Leadership and Mentorship Qualities- (Semester 4)
Towards the end of your program, consider mentoring junior M.Sc. students, sharing your research experiences, and offering guidance. Take initiative in organizing departmental events or collaborative projects. This fosters leadership skills and contributes to the academic community.
Tools & Resources
Student organizations, departmental initiatives, peer-mentoring programs
Career Connection
Enhances soft skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication, making you a more valuable asset in any professional role.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelors’ degree in Agriculture / Horticulture / Forestry / Agril. Engg. / Sericulture / Agril. Biotechnology / B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture / B.Sc. (Hons.) Horticulture / B.Sc. (Hons.) Forestry / B.Tech. Agril. Engg. / B.Tech. Food Technology / Food Processing Technology / B.Sc. (Fisheries) from SAUs / CAUs / ICAR DUs / any other recognized University with at least 60% marks or OGPA of 6.00/10.00 scale. (Source: NAU Regulations for Master Degree Programmes)
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 54 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 501 | Extension Education: Principles and Dimensions | Core | 3 | Concepts of Extension Education, Principles, Scope, Dimensions, Philosophy, Objectives, Historical Development, Extension systems in India, New trends in Extension |
| EXT 502 | Programme Planning and Evaluation in Extension | Core | 3 | Concepts of Programme Planning, Principles, Models, Approaches, Steps in Programme Planning, Concept of Evaluation, Types, Methods, Measurement of programme effectiveness |
| EXT 503 | Rural Sociology | Core | 3 | Concepts of Rural Sociology, Social groups, Social stratification, Social institutions, Rural leadership, Social change and its theories, Culture and personality |
| EXT 504 | Communication and Diffusion of Innovations | Core | 3 | Concepts of Communication, Elements, Models, Theories of Communication, Types, Diffusion of Innovations, Elements of Diffusion, Adopter categories, Diffusion process, Communication channels and their effectiveness |
| EXT 505 | Research Methodology in Extension Education | Core | 4 | Concepts of Research, Types of Research, Research process, Problem identification, Hypothesis formulation, Research design, Sampling techniques, Data collection methods, Data analysis and interpretation |
| EXT 591 | Seminar I | Core | 1 | Review of relevant literature, Scientific writing and presentation skills, Identifying research gaps, Academic integrity, Question and answer sessions |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 506 | Social Psychology | Core | 3 | Concepts of Social Psychology, Group dynamics, Leadership, Attitude, Motivation, Personality theories, Social learning, Social perception, Interpersonal communication |
| EXT 507 | Training and Teaching Methods in Extension | Core | 3 | Concepts of Training, Principles, Models, Methods of teaching and learning, Training needs assessment, Training evaluation and impact assessment, Use of audio-visual aids |
| EXT 508 | Entrepreneurship Development and Management in Extension | Core | 3 | Concepts of Entrepreneurship, Characteristics, Types of entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial development programmes, Business planning, Project formulation and appraisal, Management principles, Marketing strategies, Financial management for agri-ventures |
| EXT 509 | Information and Communication Technologies in Extension | Core | 3 | Concepts of ICTs, Role of ICTs in agriculture, E-governance, Mobile communication applications, Social media for extension, Expert systems, Use of multimedia and digital tools |
| EXT 510 | Gender and Development in Extension | Core | 3 | Concepts of Gender, Gender roles and relations, Gender analysis frameworks, Women empowerment, Rural women in agriculture, Gender mainstreaming, Participatory approaches for gender equity, Policies and programmes for women''''s development |
| EXT 592 | Seminar II | Core | 1 | Advanced review of literature in extension, Developing research questions, Public speaking and presentation skills, Critical analysis of extension issues, Formulation of a research problem |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 691 | Seminar III | Core | 1 | Presentation of research proposal, Methodology defense, Advanced critical review of literature, Peer review and feedback, Ethical considerations in research |
| EXT 699 | Master''''s Research | Core | 10 | Problem identification and literature review, Research design and methodology development, Data collection in field settings, Preliminary data analysis, Manuscript preparation for thesis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 699 | Master''''s Research | Core | 10 | Advanced data analysis and interpretation, Drawing conclusions and formulating recommendations, Thesis writing and formatting, Thesis submission and viva-voce examination, Scientific paper writing from thesis findings |
