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M-SC-AGRICULTURE in Entomology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Entomology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This Entomology program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on the comprehensive study of insects, their biology, ecology, and their critical role in agricultural ecosystems. It delves into advanced pest management strategies, including biological control, molecular entomology, and integrated approaches, addressing the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices in India. The program equips students with expertise to tackle pest challenges impacting food security and crop productivity.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor''''s graduates in Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, or related fields aspiring to specialize in insect science. It suits individuals keen on research, pest control, and agricultural sustainability. It also caters to professionals in the agri-food sector seeking to enhance their knowledge in entomology for career advancement or those looking to transition into specialized roles in plant protection and agricultural research in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as entomologists in agricultural research institutes (ICAR, SAUs), pest control experts in private companies, extension officers, or academic researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for roles in agri-input companies, government departments, and contributes to national agricultural development.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Entomological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in insect classification, anatomy, physiology, and ecology. Regularly review lecture notes, engage in practical lab sessions to identify insects, and utilize museum collections.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks on general and agricultural entomology, Insect identification guides, SRM''''s insect museum/lab facilities
Career Connection
Essential for understanding pest biology, which forms the basis for effective pest management and research roles.
Develop Strong Research Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to courses like Biostatistics and Research Methodology. Practice experimental design, data collection, and basic statistical analysis using relevant software. Participate in departmental seminars.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R (basic level), Research papers on agricultural entomology, Library resources for literature review
Career Connection
Crucial for any research-oriented career in agriculture, including roles in ICAR, SAUs, and private R&D.
Engage in Peer Learning & Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss complex topics, share insights from lab work, and prepare for exams. Actively participate in class discussions and seek clarifications.
Tools & Resources
Collaboration platforms, Shared notes, Informal study sessions
Career Connection
Enhances understanding, develops communication skills, and builds a professional network within the field.
Intermediate Stage
Practical Application of IPM Strategies- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in field visits and practical sessions for Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Learn to identify pest outbreaks, assess economic thresholds, and apply various control tactics (cultural, biological, chemical) in an integrated manner.
Tools & Resources
Field guides for pest identification, Pest surveillance tools, Local agricultural farms, Guest lectures from IPM practitioners
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for roles in crop protection, farm advisory, and extension services in the agri-industry.
Explore Molecular Techniques in Entomology- (Semester 3)
Deep dive into Molecular Entomology coursework. Seek opportunities for hands-on experience with molecular diagnostics, PCR, and basic bioinformatics. Read current research papers on gene editing or RNAi applications in pest control.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory manuals, Online bioinformatics tools, Scientific journals (e.g., Journal of Economic Entomology), Workshops if available
Career Connection
Positions in advanced agricultural research, biotechnology firms, and R&D departments focusing on novel pest control solutions.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend agricultural exhibitions, seminars, and webinars related to entomology and pest management. Connect with faculty members, alumni, and guest speakers to understand industry trends and potential career paths.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences (e.g., meetings of the Entomological Society of India), University career fairs
Career Connection
Opens doors for internships, mentorship, and future job opportunities in both public and private sectors.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation Research- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the dissertation project. Choose a research topic aligned with current agricultural challenges in India, develop a robust methodology, conduct thorough experiments, and meticulously analyze data. Focus on clear scientific writing for the thesis.
Tools & Resources
University research labs, Statistical software, Scientific writing guides, Guidance from research supervisor
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capability, a key requirement for R&D roles, PhD admissions, and specialized entomologist positions.
Maximize Internship Learning- (Semester 4)
Approach the internship with a proactive mindset. Seek opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems in the field or industry. Ask questions, observe experienced professionals, and build practical skills in pest identification, monitoring, and control.
Tools & Resources
Internship host organization''''s facilities and personnel, Daily logbooks, Project reports
Career Connection
Directly translates into job readiness, provides hands-on experience, and often leads to pre-placement offers or strong professional references.
Prepare for Career Placement/Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in campus placements, prepare a strong resume highlighting entomological skills and research. For those pursuing higher studies, prepare for entrance exams (e.g., NET, ARS, GATE) and identify potential PhD advisors.
Tools & Resources
Career services, Mock interviews, Online aptitude test platforms, Study materials for competitive exams
Career Connection
Secures employment in relevant organizations or enables progression to advanced academic pursuits, ensuring a well-planned career trajectory.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. (Agriculture) / B.Sc. (Horticulture) / B.Sc. (Forestry) / B.Tech. (Agriculture Engineering) / B.Sc. (Food Technology) or an equivalent degree from a recognized university with an aggregate of 60% or 6.5 CGPA in a 10-point scale.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 75 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAGC1101 | Principles of Agronomy | Core | 3 | Definition, Scope, and Importance of Agronomy, Crop Growth and Development Factors, Tillage and Soil Management, Weed Management Principles, Crop Rotations and Cropping Systems |
| MAGC1102 | Biostatistics | Core | 3 | Statistical Methods and Data Presentation, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability and Distributions, Sampling Techniques and Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression Analysis |
| MAGC1103 | Research Methodology | Core | 2 | Fundamentals of Agricultural Research, Research Design and Experimentation, Sampling and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
| MAGC1104 | Advanced Soil Science | Core | 3 | Soil Genesis and Classification, Soil Physical and Chemical Properties, Soil Fertility and Nutrient Dynamics, Soil Microbiology and Organic Matter, Problem Soils and their Management |
| MAGE1101 | Principles of Insect Classification | Core | 4 | Principles and History of Insect Classification, Taxonomic Hierarchy and Nomenclature, Classification of Phylum Arthropoda, Identification of Insect Orders and Families, Modern Systematics and Taxonomic Keys |
| MAGE1102 | Insect Anatomy and Physiology | Core | 4 | External and Internal Morphology of Insects, Digestive and Excretory Systems, Circulatory and Respiratory Systems, Nervous and Endocrine Systems, Reproductive System and Life Cycles |
| MAGE1103 | Insect Ecology | Core | 3 | Concepts of Insect Ecology, Insect Populations and Communities, Factors Affecting Insect Abundance, Insect-Plant Interactions, Ecological Succession and Pest Outbreaks |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAGC1201 | Advanced Plant Pathology | Core | 3 | Concepts of Plant Diseases and Pathogens, Disease Epidemiology and Management, Fungal, Bacterial, and Viral Diseases, Nematode and Phytoplasma Diseases, Molecular Diagnostics in Plant Pathology |
| MAGC1202 | Advances in Plant Biotechnology | Core | 3 | Tissue Culture and Micropropagation, Genetic Engineering in Crop Improvement, Molecular Markers and Genomics, Transgenic Crops and Biosafety, Gene Editing Technologies |
| MAGC1203 | Advanced Plant Breeding | Core | 3 | Genetic Basis of Plant Breeding, Breeding Methods for Self and Cross Pollinated Crops, Heterosis and Hybrid Breeding, Breeding for Stress Resistance, Molecular Breeding and Variety Release |
| MAGC1204 | Agricultural Extension Management | Core | 2 | Principles of Agricultural Extension, Extension Approaches and Systems, Communication and Teaching Methods, Diffusion and Adoption of Innovations, Program Planning and Evaluation |
| MAGE1201 | Pest Management | Core | 4 | Principles of Pest Management, Insect Pest Surveillance and Forecasting, Cultural and Mechanical Control Methods, Host Plant Resistance to Pests, Chemical Control and Pesticide Application |
| MAGE1202 | Toxicology of Insecticides | Core | 3 | Principles of Insecticide Toxicology, Classification and Mode of Action of Insecticides, Insecticide Resistance and Management, Environmental Impact of Insecticides, Pesticide Residues and Safety Measures |
| MAGE1203 | Biological Control of Pests | Core | 3 | Principles of Biological Control, Parasitoids and Predators of Pests, Pathogens of Insects (Entomopathogens), Mass Rearing and Release Techniques, Conservation and Augmentation Biocontrol |
Semester 3
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAGD1401 | Dissertation | Project | 20 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Methodology Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Original Research Contribution |
| MAGI1401 | Internship | Lab/Practical | 2 | Field Training in Agricultural Practices, Industry Exposure and Skill Development, Practical Application of Entomological Knowledge, Report Preparation and Presentation, Professional Networking |
