.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-SC-AGRICULTURE in Horticulture at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Horticulture at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This Horticulture program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on the scientific cultivation, management, and post-harvest handling of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It emphasizes modern horticultural techniques crucial for India''''s diverse agro-climatic zones, addressing food security and economic growth. The curriculum integrates traditional knowledge with advanced practices to foster sustainable agricultural development.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for agriculture graduates seeking to specialize in the dynamic field of horticulture. It targets fresh B.Sc. Agriculture or Horticulture graduates aiming for research, extension, or entrepreneurship roles. Working professionals in related agricultural sectors can upskill, while career changers with a strong science background can transition into this high-demand industry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as horticulturists, farm managers, landscape designers, extension officers, and post-harvest technology specialists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in government departments, private nurseries, food processing industries, and export companies, aligning with growing demand for quality produce.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Horticultural Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding fundamental concepts in agronomy, genetics, soil science, and basic horticulture. Attend all lectures, actively participate in practicals, and use textbooks and research papers to deepen your knowledge. Engage in peer study groups to clarify doubts and consolidate learning.
Tools & Resources
University Library, ICAR e-courses, Agricultural textbooks, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation in these core subjects is critical for understanding advanced horticultural techniques and excelling in subsequent semesters, paving the way for research and practical application roles.
Develop Practical Field Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all laboratory and field practical sessions. Pay close attention to techniques for plant propagation, soil testing, pest identification, and basic crop management. Document observations meticulously in practical records and seek feedback from instructors to refine your skills.
Tools & Resources
University farms and labs, Practical manuals, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Hands-on skills are highly valued in the agricultural sector. Proficiency in practical applications directly enhances employability for roles like farm manager, nursery supervisor, or field officer.
Explore Indian Agricultural Landscape- (Semester 1-2)
Read widely about current trends, challenges, and government initiatives in Indian agriculture and horticulture. Follow agricultural news, magazines, and attend webinars related to crop science and food production. Understand the specific context of food production and policy in India.
Tools & Resources
''''Agriculture Today'''' magazine, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare website, ICAR publications
Career Connection
Understanding the national agricultural scenario helps in identifying relevant research topics, potential career opportunities, and tailoring skills to meet industry demands in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Crop-Specific Production and Management- (Semester 3-4)
Focus on detailed study of production technologies for fruit, vegetable, and floricultural crops. Take initiative to visit local farms, nurseries, and markets. Relate classroom learning to real-world practices and identify challenges faced by growers. Consider an independent mini-project on a specific crop.
Tools & Resources
Local farms/nurseries, Horticulture department resources, Case studies of Indian farms
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge in crop production is crucial for roles in commercial horticulture, agribusiness, and agricultural extension services, directly contributing to India''''s horticultural output.
Internship and Industry Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek and complete an internship in a relevant horticultural industry, such as a large-scale farm, nursery, food processing unit, or a research institution. This provides invaluable practical exposure, networking opportunities, and a chance to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Networking with faculty/alumni, Online internship portals like Internshala
Career Connection
Internships are often a direct pathway to placements and provide crucial industry experience that sets candidates apart in the competitive Indian job market for agricultural scientists.
Develop Post-Harvest and Value Addition Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Pay special attention to subjects like post-harvest management and processing. Look for opportunities to visit food processing units or cold storage facilities. Learn about packaging, quality control, and value addition techniques essential for reducing post-harvest losses in India.
Tools & Resources
Food processing industry visits, APEDA guidelines, National Horticultural Board publications
Career Connection
Proficiency in post-harvest technology and value addition opens doors to roles in food processing, supply chain management, and export, addressing a critical need in Indian agriculture.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a project topic of significant relevance to current horticultural challenges or innovations in India. Dedicate substantial effort to literature review, experimental design, data collection, analysis, and thesis writing. Seek regular guidance from your faculty mentor.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Statistical software (e.g., R, SAS), Plagiarism checker tools
Career Connection
A well-executed research project demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and specialized expertise, crucial for academic research, government positions, or R&D roles in private firms.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
Start preparing for campus placements by refining your resume, practicing interview skills, and attending mock interviews. Simultaneously, explore options for competitive exams like ARS/NET or further Ph.D. studies, if interested. Network with alumni for career guidance.
Tools & Resources
Career guidance cells, Online aptitude test platforms, ARS/NET study materials
Career Connection
Proactive preparation significantly increases your chances of securing a desirable job in leading agricultural companies or public sector undertakings, or gaining admission to prestigious Ph.D. programs in India or abroad.
Cultivate Entrepreneurial and Leadership Skills- (Semester 4)
Engage in workshops or short courses on agribusiness management, entrepreneurship, and rural development. Participate in student clubs or organizations to develop leadership and teamwork skills. Develop a business plan for a horticultural venture, even if theoretical.
Tools & Resources
Entrepreneurship cells, Agri-startup incubators, Business model canvas
Career Connection
These skills are invaluable for starting your own agri-business, managing horticultural enterprises, or taking up leadership roles in agricultural cooperatives and NGOs, fostering growth in India''''s rural economy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates who have studied B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture / Horticulture / Forestry / Sericulture / Agricultural Biotechnology / Food Technology / Food Science and Nutrition / Dairy Science / Agricultural Engineering / Fishery Science / Home Science / Co-operation & Banking / Animal Husbandry / Veterinary Science / B.Tech. (Agricultural Engineering) / B.Sc. (Agriculture) / B.Sc. (Horticulture) from any recognized University and have secured not less than 60% aggregate marks are eligible to apply.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 70 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (Theory), 50% (Practical), External: 60% (Theory), 50% (Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AGR21F101T | Principles of Agronomy | Core Theory | 3 | Crop production, Soil management, Nutrient management, Water management, Weed control, Cropping systems |
| GPB21F102T | Principles of Genetics | Core Theory | 3 | Mendelian inheritance, Chromosome structure, Gene interactions, Plant breeding principles, Mutation breeding, Polyploidy |
| SSC21F103T | Principles of Soil Science | Core Theory | 3 | Soil formation, Physical properties, Chemical properties, Soil organic matter, Soil biology, Nutrient cycles |
| HORT21F104T | Principles of Horticulture | Core Theory | 3 | Scope of horticulture, Plant propagation, Growth regulators, Nutrition, Protected cultivation, Post-harvest technology |
| HORT21F105L | Horticultural Practical-I | Core Practical | 2 | Propagation techniques, Budding and Grafting, Layering, Nursery management, Seed treatment, Planting operations |
| AGR21F101L | Agronomy Practical | Core Practical | 1 | Field layout, Fertilizer application, Weed identification, Irrigation methods, Crop growth analysis, Harvesting |
| GPB21F102L | Genetics Practical | Core Practical | 1 | Mitosis and Meiosis, Genetic crosses, Chromosome mapping, Breeding tools, Mutation identification, Statistical analysis |
| SSC21F103L | Soil Science Practical | Core Practical | 1 | Soil sampling, Soil testing, Nutrient analysis, pH measurement, Organic carbon estimation, Soil moisture |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT21F201T | Production Technology of Vegetable Crops | Core Theory | 3 | Crop classification, Cultivation practices, Nutrient management, Pest and disease control, Harvesting, Post-harvest handling |
| HORT21F202T | Production Technology of Fruit Crops | Core Theory | 3 | Major fruit crops, Propagation, Planting systems, Training and pruning, Nutrient management, Physiological disorders |
| HORT21F203T | Post Harvest Management of Horticultural Crops | Core Theory | 3 | Maturity indices, Harvesting, Pre-cooling, Storage, Packaging, Processing, Value addition |
| HORT21F204T | Commercial Floriculture and Landscape Gardening | Core Theory | 3 | Cut flowers, Loose flowers, Pot plants, Ornamental plants, Garden design, Landscaping principles |
| HORT21F205L | Horticultural Practical-II | Core Practical | 2 | Crop identification, Pest and disease diagnosis, Nutrient deficiency symptoms, Pruning and training, Plant growth regulator application, Protected cultivation practices |
| HORT21F206L | Horticultural Practical-III | Core Practical | 2 | Post-harvest treatments, Storage techniques, Packaging methods, Processing technologies, Product quality evaluation, Value-added products |
| HORT21F207L | Horticultural Practical-IV | Core Practical | 2 | Flower arrangement, Garden planning, Ornamental plant identification, Nursery operations, Marketing strategies, Entrepreneurship |
| AEC21F208T | Agricultural Marketing and Trade | Core Theory | 3 | Market structure, Marketing functions, Price determination, Agricultural policies, International trade, Supply chain |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT21F301T | Principles of Plant Propagation and Nursery Management | Core Theory | 3 | Seed dormancy, Vegetative propagation, Micropropagation, Nursery infrastructure, Media preparation, Pest and disease in nursery |
| HORT21F302T | Breeding of Horticultural Crops | Core Theory | 3 | Breeding objectives, Selection methods, Hybridization, Molecular breeding, Disease resistance, Cultivar development |
| HORT21F303T | Protected Cultivation of Horticultural Crops | Core Theory | 3 | Greenhouses, Polyhouses, Environmental control, Soilless culture, Hydroponics, Fertigation |
| HORT21E304T | Elective-I (Choice from below options) | Elective Theory | 3 | Advances in Landscape Architecture, Organic Horticulture, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Hi-Tech Horticulture, Urban Horticulture, Value Chain Management of Horticultural Produce, Entrepreneurship in Horticulture |
| HORT21E305T | Elective-II (Choice from below options) | Elective Theory | 3 | Advances in Landscape Architecture, Organic Horticulture, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Hi-Tech Horticulture, Urban Horticulture, Value Chain Management of Horticultural Produce, Entrepreneurship in Horticulture |
| HORT21F306L | Horticultural Practical-V | Core Practical | 2 | Micropropagation techniques, Explant sterilization, Media formulation, Hardening, Tissue culture lab, Molecular markers |
| HORT21F307L | Horticultural Practical-VI | Core Practical | 2 | Greenhouse design, Climate control systems, Hydroponic setup, Fertigation system, Pest and disease management, Yield optimization |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HORT21P401 | Project | Core Project | 20 | Research methodology, Experimental design, Data analysis, Thesis writing, Presentation skills, Viva-voce |
