2 Years
Post Graduate
Agriculture
Full Time
Master of Science in Plant Breeding & Genetics is a two-year postgraduate study which aims at acquainting students with scientific principles and skills that are requited to bring an improvement in plant varieties. The course encompasses genetic engineering, crop improvement, molecular breeding, biotechnology, seed technology, and plant genomics. The students get to apply the modern breeding techniques to breed disease-resistant, high-yield, and climate-resilient crops.
M.Sc. (Ag.) in Plant Breeding & Genetics graduates usually take up positions as plant breeders or research assistants with a starting salary of around INR3.6 L to INR6 L per annum. Their salaries are regularly increased to INR7–9 L per annum, after 3–5 years of working experience, if they have some specific skills like molecular breeding, biotechnology, or data analysis. Some government jobs, for instance, that of an agricultural officer, not only assure the candidate a salary within the range of INR4–8 L annually but also provide them with perks and job security.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture (B.Sc. Ag) is the prerequisite for a Master of Science degree (Ag.) in Plant Breeding & Genetics. The minimum percentage of marks to be scored is 50-60%. Candidates who wish to be admitted to such a program have to pass entrance exams like ICAR AIEEA (PG), state-level agricultural entrance tests, or university-specific exams. The procedure includes the submission of the application form through an online platform, paying the fees, and uploading the necessary documents.
A Master of Science in Agriculture in Plant Breeding and Genetics provides the graduates with the choice of various professions in the field of agriculture, research, and biotechnology. These graduates have the ability to take up jobs as plant breeders, geneticists, seed technologists, research scientists, agronomists, or agricultural officers. They can be employed in the government departments, agricultural universities, ICAR research institutes, seed companies, or the biotechnology industry and be a source of the development of new crops, seed production, and the implementation of sustainable agriculture. Besides, they can also be found working in such areas as quality control, molecular breeding, and as agricultural consultants which are some of the major fields of work.
The M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics is a 2-year postgraduate program that centers on the scientific upgrading of plants with the help of breeding and genetic methods. Some of the topics taught in this course include plant genetics, molecular breeding, biotechnology, seed technology, and statistical methods for plant improvement. The program is mainly composed of classroom teaching, laboratory experiments, and field research that is aimed at developing the varieties that are high- yielding, disease resistant and climate resilient. Students thus acquire knowledge in traditional breeding methods, marker-assisted selection and genetic engineering. Graduates are brought up to be professionals who can take up research work in agriculture, seed companies, government organizations, and colleges after completing this program. It is a huge help in food security and sustainable agriculture as it forms the right set of professionals to take on the challenge of feeding the world.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Course Details:
| Field | Details |
| Course Name | Master of Science in Agriculture (M.Sc. Ag.) in Plant Breeding & Genetics |
| Level | Postgraduate (Master’s Degree) |
| Duration | 2 Years (4 Semesters) |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or related field witd minimum required marks |
| Admission Process | Entrance exam (e.g., ICAR AIEEA PG, university-level exams) and/or merit-based selection |
| Course Type | Full-time |
| Average Annual Fee | INR30,000 – INR1,00,000 (varies by institution) |
| Major Subjects | Principles of Plant Breeding, Genetics, Cytogenetics, Molecular Breeding, Biostatistics, Plant Biotechnology |
| Skills Developed | Genetic analysis, crop improvement techniques, data analysis, lab skills, research metdodology |
| Internship/Project | Mandatory research project or tdesis during final semester |
| Career Opportunities | Plant breeder, geneticist, research scientist, agricultural officer, crop consultant |
| Top Recruiters | Agricultural universities, research institutes, seed companies, government agriculture departments |
| Higher Studies | Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, Biotechnology or related fields |
| Average Starting Salary | INR4 LPA – INR8 LPA |
M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics is a course that trains the students of post-graduation level, to mend crop plants through advanced breeding and genetic principles. The main focus of the curriculum is to create new varieties with higher yield, more nutritional value, lower susceptibility to diseases, and better adaptability to climate variation. Students take up subjects such as cytogenetics, plant biotechnology, molecular markers, quantitative genetics, and seed science. The syllabus also includes an emphasis on research methodology and statistical analysis for breeding programs. Its graduates are equipped with such skills that they can be employed in agricultural research institutions, seed production companies, and biotechnology firms, as well as they can go to further research like Ph.D. programs. This degree is a must for the resolution of the problem of crop improvement and for the practice of farming which is environmentally friendly.
A Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or any of the related fields such as Horticulture, Forestry, and Agricultural Biotechnology from a recognized university is a must for the candidates who want to apply for M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics. Most institutions commonly set the graduation percentage of marks as the minimum criteria with the limit being somewhere between 50-60%. The reserved category is usually given a 5% relaxation in accordance with the government regulations. Additionally, a few universities can consider how well the applicants have done in the areas of genetics and plant breeding while pursuing their bachelor's degree. Supporting that, a candidate may be required to qualify for the entrance exams conducted by ICAR, State Agricultural Universities, or other recognized bodies. Good communication skills, research aptitude, and a solid background in biological sciences will be a great asset to the aspiring students.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Eligibility Criteria 2026:
| Step | Details |
| Application | Fill online/offline application form on university or exam conducting body’s portal |
| Entrance Exam | Appear for entrance exams like ICAR AIEEA PG, university-specific exams |
| Merit List Preparation | Based on entrance scores and/or academic performance |
| Counseling & Seat Allotment | Participating candidates attend counseling for course and college selection |
| Document Verification | Submission and verification of required documents |
| Fee Payment | Payment of admission fees to confirm seat |
| Commencement | Start of academic session and orientation |
M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Admission process 2026 starts the candidates being online applicants through the official websites of the universities or the examination authorities. Along with meeting the eligibility criteria, applicants are also expected to provide some documents like academic transcripts, ID, and caste certificates (if applicable). Generally, admission is based on the performance in the entrance exam, e.g., ICAR AIEEA (PG), state-level tests, or university-specific exams. Those candidates who are on the merit list are sent invitations for the counseling sessions where the distribution of seats is done as per the merit, category, and availability. In some institutes, interviews and group discussions are also held. After the payment of the fee and the verification of the documents, the confirmation of the final admission is made.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Admission process 2026:
| Step | Details |
| Application | Fill online/offline application form on the university or the exam conducting body’s portal |
| Entrance Exam | Appear for entrance exams like ICAR AIEEA PG, university-specific exams |
| Merit List Preparation | Based on entrance scores and/or academic performance |
| Counseling & Seat Allotment | Participating candidates attend counseling for course and college selection |
| Document Verification | Submission and verification of required documents |
| Fee Payment | Payment of admission fees to confirm a seat |
| Commencement | Start of academic session and orientation |
M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics admissions are usually made based on merit in entrance examinations, which could be held at the level of the country, state, or university. The most popular one is the ICAR AIEEA (PG) that is acknowledged by lots of agri universities all over India. Certain states might e holding separate exams, and even some universities could be having their own entrance tests. The topics covered in the syllabus are mainly genetics, plant breeding, biotechnology, crop science, and other related subjects of agriculture. The question paper of the exams is objective in nature, and in some cases, there is a provision for negative marking. The shortlisted candidates are then sent for the allotment of seats through counseling. A thorough knowledge of undergraduate agriculture concepts and mastering of the allotted time are very important for these exams.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Entrance Exam:
| Exam Name | Conducting Body | Level | Frequency | Mode |
| ICAR AIEEA PG | Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) | National | Once a year | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| University PG Entrance Exams | Various State Agricultural Universities | State/University | Once a year | Online/Offline |
| JNU Entrance Exam | Jawaharlal Nehru University | University | Once a year | Online/Offline |
| BHU PET | Banaras Hindu University | University | Once a year | Offline |
| GBPUAT Entrance Exam | Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology | University | Once a year | Offline |
The M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Syllabus 2026 is simply an ideal combination of concept-based learning and practical training with a focus on developing skills for modern crop improvement. The major core subjects for the course include Principles of Genetics, Cytogenetics, Quantitative Genetics, Plant Biotechnology, Molecular Breeding, Seed Technology, and Genomics. Besides, students learn Biostatistics, Plant Physiology, and Crop Improvement for a few specific plants like cereals, pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables. The practical training involves field trials, hybridization techniques, marker-assisted selection, and genetic diversity analysis. Research methodology and a dissertation project, which are the two essential parts of the curriculum, pave the way for students to work on their independent research. The syllabus is constructed in such a way that it reflects the current developments in agricultural biotechnology and international crop improvement strategies.
Here are the key details about theM.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Syllabus 2026:
| Semester | Core Subjects |
| Semester 1 | Principles of Plant Breeding, Genetics, Cytogenetics, Biostatistics |
| Semester 2 | Quantitative Genetics, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Plant Cytogenetics |
| Semester 3 | Plant Breeding Techniques, Population Genetics, Plant Biotechnology |
| Semester 4 | Plant Breeding Research Metdodology, Crop Improvement, Thesis/Project Work |
To gain knowledge in technologies and scientific ways to enhance the genetic makeup of plants, this program is designed for students. M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Course Skills include genetics analysis, hybridization methods, marker-assisted selection, molecular biology tools, and plant tissue culture. Students acquire the skills and knowledge of seed technology, interpretation of quantitative data, and strategies for crop improvement.They are also taught research skills like experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis, which go hand in hand with the use of agricultural software. The learners also acquire the skills of critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and scientific communication. All these skills equip graduates to take on the different positions in research institutions, seed companies, biotechnology firms, and government agencies, making it possible for them to be the driving force of sustainable agriculture and food security.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Course Skills:
| Skill Category | Key Skills Developed |
| Technical Skills | Plant breeding techniques, genetic analysis, molecular marker technology, cytogenetics, lab skills |
| Analytical Skills | Data interpretation, biostatistics, quantitative genetics, experimental design |
| Research Skills | Research metdodology, scientific writing, tdesis/project development, data collection |
| Biotechnology Skills | DNA analysis, genetic engineering, molecular biology techniques |
| Problem-solving Skills | Crop improvement strategies, pest and disease resistance development |
| Communication Skills | Report writing, presentation skills, scientific communication |
| Environmental Awareness | Sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, eco-friendly breeding practices |
India is home to a number of well-known institutions that offer the M.Sc. Ag. program in Plant Breeding & Genetics accompanied by high-end research facilities. Top M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Colleges in India are Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi; Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana; Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore; University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore; and Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh. The institutions are characterized by their excellent faculty members, state-of-the-art laboratories, and cooperative research programs. They also facilitate internship, practical training, and familiarity with the most recent biotechnological instruments. In most cases, admission to these colleges is done on a merit basis which includes ICAR AIEEA (PG) or university level entrance exam. Alumni of these institutions secure the best jobs in both Indian and overseas agricultural sectors.
Here are the key details about the Top M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Colleges in India:
| College Name | Location | Affiliated University | Average Annual Fee (INR) |
| Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) | New Delhi | Deemed University | 40,000 – 70,000 |
| Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) | Ludhiana, Punjab | PAU | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu | TNAU | 20,000 – 45,000 |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | BHU | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology (GBPUAT) | Pantnagar, Uttarakhand | GBPUAT | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) | Bangalore, Karnataka | UAS Bangalore | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University | Guntur, Andhra Pradesh | ANGRAU | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) | Bhubaneswar, Odisha | OUAT | 20,000 – 40,000 |
Top M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Private Colleges in India are Amity University, Noida; Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab; Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Tamil Nadu; and Shoolini University, Himachal Pradesh. These universities not only provide well-equipped laboratories and greenhouse facilities but also have collaborations with agricultural research organizations. The curriculum is mostly industry-oriented and it integrates the latest developments in molecular breeding, biotechnology, and genomics. Most of the private colleges provide their students with the flexibility of research, campus placements, and international collaborations. Even though the tuition fees in private institutions are usually higher than those of government colleges, they offer a wide range of academic resources and career-oriented training which makes them a good choice for students if they want to work in the industry.
Here are the key details about the Top M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Private Colleges in India:
| College Name | Location | Affiliated University | Average Annual Fee (INR) |
| Amity University | Noida, Uttar Pradesh | Amity University | 80,000 – 1,50,000 |
| Shoolini University | Solan, Himachal Pradesh | Shoolini University | 90,000 – 1,40,000 |
| Lovely Professional University | Phagwara, Punjab | LPU | 75,000 – 1,20,000 |
| Integral University | Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh | Integral University | 70,000 – 1,10,000 |
| Graphic Era Hill University | Dehradun, Uttarakhand | GEHU | 80,000 – 1,20,000 |
Top M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Government Colleges in India are the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi; Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana; Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore; and University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. Low fee universities are highly ranked for their good faculty staff and major research infrastructures. Students get exposure to the practical aspects of the field through field trials, breeding programs, and collaborations with ICAR and other agricultural organizations. Most of the time, government-funded colleges usually have better access to funds for research projects and provide scholarships to the top-ranking students. Graduates get the advantage of good industry and government connections resulting in a high number of job offers in the public sector, research institutes, and agricultural extension services.
Here are the key details about the Top M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Government Colleges in India:
| College Name | Location | Affiliated University | Average Annual Fee (INR) |
| Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) | New Delhi | Deemed University | 40,000 – 70,000 |
| Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) | Ludhiana, Punjab | PAU | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu | TNAU | 20,000 – 45,000 |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh | BHU | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Govind Ballabh Pant University (GBPUAT) | Pantnagar, Uttarakhand | GBPUAT | 20,000 – 40,000 |
| Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) | Bhubaneswar, Odisha | OUAT | 20,000 – 40,000 |
The M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Fee Structure 2026 varies from one institution to another. The fees in government agricultural universities are usually around INR20,000 to INR80,000 per year, thus making them comparatively cheaper for the students. The private universities might have a range of fees from INR1.2 lakh to INR3.5 lakh per year, which depends on the facilities and research infrastructure. The students also have to pay for the hostel (INR30,000–INR80,000 per year), laboratory fees, and fieldwork. The financial burden can be reduced with the help of scholarships, fellowships, and ICAR stipends. The international students, in general, have to pay a higher fee. The price, in general, is an indication of the institution’s prestige, research facilities, and the presence of industry exposure, internships, and collaborative projects.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Fee Structure 2026:
| Institute/University | Average Annual Fee (INR) | Total Course Fee (2 Years) (INR) |
| Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) | 40,000 – 70,000 | 80,000 – 1,40,000 |
| Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) | 25,000 – 50,000 | 50,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) | 20,000 – 45,000 | 40,000 – 90,000 |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | 25,000 – 50,000 | 50,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Govind Ballabh Pant University (GBPUAT) | 20,000 – 40,000 | 40,000 – 80,000 |
| Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) | 20,000 – 40,000 | 40,000 – 80,000 |
| Amity University (Private) | 80,000 – 1,50,000 | 1,60,000 – 3,00,000 |
| Shoolini University (Private) | 90,000 – 1,40,000 | 1,80,000 – 2,80,000 |
M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Job opportunities in the field of research, teaching, various industries, and government administration. Some of the typical positions are plant breeder, geneticist, seed technologist, agronomist, research scientist, and agricultural officer. They may be employed in agricultural universities, ICAR institutes, biotechnology firms, seed production companies, and the pesticide industry. Besides that, a good number of them also become members of NGOs and international organizations that are working in the fields of crop improvement and food security. There are vacancies in the sector of quality control, molecular breeding, plant pathology, and consultancy. Moreover, those who are passionate about academics and research can become professors through a Ph.D. program. The demand for skilled plant breeding professionals is rising due to the worldwide necessity of climate-resilient and high-yielding crops.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Job opportunities:
| Job Role | Description | Potential Employers |
| Plant Breeder | Develops improved crop varieties witd better yield and resistance | Agricultural Universities, Seed Companies |
| Geneticist | Study the genetic makeup to enhance plant traits | Research Institutes, Biotech Firms |
| Research Scientist | Conducts experiments for crop improvement and biotech applications | ICAR, CSIR, Agricultural Research Bodies |
| Crop Consultant | Advises farmers on crop varieties, disease control, and management | Agrochemical Companies, NGOs |
| Agricultural Officer | Implements agricultural policies and schemes | Government Agricultural Departments |
| Biotechnologist | Works witd molecular tools for plant genetic improvement | Biotech Firms, Research Labs |
| Seed Production Manager | Oversees seed quality and distribution | Seed Companies |
| Extension Specialist | Educates farmers and stakeholders on new technologies | Government Extension Services, NGOs |
M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Salary in India vary from INR3.5 lakh to INR6 lakh per annum. The extent of the salary depends on the position and the employer. Being an agricultural officer in the public sector is a very good work choice, which is capable of giving you 4-8 lakh INR/year along with the standard benefits of the job and other perks.The private sector offers various types of jobs such as positions in seed companies, biotechnology firms, and agro-industries which can get you a salary of INR5–9 lakh for the mid-level professionals. Combining skills as the Plant Breeding Managers and with the deep research experience, one can make INR12–15 lakh per annum, while the top experts in foreign multinational companies are likely to get packages well above INR20–25 lakh. Additionally, the salary of the employees increases when they get more years of experience, have advanced skills in molecular breeding or biotechnology and also higher qualifications such as a Ph.D.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Salary:
| Job Role | Entry-Level (INR/year) | Mid-Level (INR/year) | Senior-Level (INR/year) |
| Plant Breeder | 4,00,000 – 6,00,000 | 7,00,000 – 9,00,000 | 10,00,000 – 15,00,000 |
| Geneticist | 3,50,000 – 5,50,000 | 6,50,000 – 8,50,000 | 9,00,000 – 14,00,000 |
| Research Scientist | 4,50,000 – 7,00,000 | 8,00,000 – 11,00,000 | 12,00,000 – 18,00,000 |
| Crop Consultant | 3,00,000 – 5,00,000 | 6,00,000 – 8,00,000 | 9,00,000 – 12,00,000 |
| Agricultural Officer | 3,50,000 – 6,00,000 | 7,00,000 – 10,00,000 | 11,00,000 – 16,00,000 |
M.Sc. Ag. students of Plant Breeding & Genetics will find numerous scholarship opportunities that will help them to overcome the financial problems. Among national-level possibilities, there is the ICAR-PG Scholarship which, apart from covering the student's tuition fees, will also provide a monthly stipend for the outstanding students. State governments allow schemes for the reserved category candidates and for the economically weaker sections of society. University-specific scholarships, research fellowships, and merit-based awards are the principal sources of both government and private institutions. Additionally, private organizations and seed companies are also willing to donate certain students with good academic records. Moreover, international funding agencies may grant scholarships to support joint research work. Generally, eligibility criteria would be based on scholastic excellence, scores of the entrance exams, or submission of research proposals, thereby ensuring that talented students receive financial support for their advanced agricultural studies.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Scholarships:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Benefits | Provider |
| ICAR National Talent Scholarship | Based on the ICAR AIEEA PG exam performance | Monthly stipend, tuition fee waiver | Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) |
| INSPIRE Scholarship | Top 1% students in 12td boards pursuing science | INR80,000 per annum | Department of Science & Technology |
| Maulana Azad National Fellowship | Minority students witd merit | Tuition fee waiver, stipend | Ministry of Minority Affairs |
| National Fellowship for OBC Students | OBC category students witd a good academic record | Financial assistance, stipend | Ministry of Social Justice |
| State Government Scholarships | Varies by state and category | Tuition fee reimbursement, stipend | Respective State Governments |
M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Top Recruiters in the field of agriculture and biotechnology. Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), ICAR institutes, State Agriculture Departments, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras are some of the major employers in the public sector. In the private sector, companies like Mahyco, Syngenta, Monsanto (Bayer), Rasi Seeds, Nuziveedu Seeds, and Corteva Agriscience have a wide range of hiring. Plant breeding experts are also recruited by agrochemical giants like UPL and BASF. Moreover, international organizations such as CIMMYT and IRRI provide the opportunity for research. Academic institutions and universities hire graduates as lecturers and researchers. These recruiters look for the skilled professionals in the field of crop improvement, molecular breeding, and sustainable agriculture practices.
Here are the key details about the M.Sc. Ag. in Plant Breeding & Genetics Top Recruiters 2026:
| Recruiter Name | Sector | Roles Offered |
| Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) | Government | Research Scientist, Plant Breeder |
| National Seed Corporation | Public Sector | Seed Production Manager, Geneticist |
| Private Seed Companies | Private Sector | Plant Breeder, Crop Consultant |
| Government Agriculture Departments | Government | Agricultural Officer, Extension Specialist |
| Biotech Firms | Private Sector | Molecular Biologist, Biotechnologist |
| Research Institutes & Universities | Academic/Research | Lecturer, Research Scientist |
| Agrochemical Companies | Private Sector | Crop Consultant, Research Analyst |
| NGOs in Agriculture & Environment | Non-Profit | Extension Specialist, Project Manager |
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