Complete Guide to Agriculture Courses: Programs, Scope, Fees, and Career Options

Agriculture is a vital component of any prosperous economy. India is considered as a land of agriculture. About 55% of India's population depends on agriculture as their main source of income, making it one of the world's leading agricultural nations. According to India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) foodgrain production in India touched 330.5 million metric tonnes (MT) in 2022-23 (3rd Advance Estimate). India is the world’s 2nd largest producer of food grains, fruits and vegetables and the 2nd largest exporter of sugar.

Thus, there is a need of agricultural advancement which is why new technological advances in agriculture have made agricultural careers very much in demand. Agricultural sciences is a sector that is rapidly expanding in opportunities for employment and is not only financially rewarding but also future-focused.

Scope of agricultural sciences in today’s time

The scope of agricultural sciences is much more than traditional farming today. With the introduction of precision farming, agribusiness management, genetic engineering, integrated farming, and agricultural biotechnology, the industry is opening new doors for a plethora of career options for the aspirants. An agricultural sciences graduate will have options for careers in research, agribusiness, public sector agencies, food technology, and environmental sustainability.

SGT University’s Agriculture Programs: Transforming Future Farming

SGT University, the best university in Delhi NCR to receive an Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) accreditation, has developed a comprehensive curriculum in agricultural sciences, giving students a thorough understanding of agricultural issues and in-field application for innovation in the agriculture sector.

SGTU, one of the renowned universities in Gurugram, provides diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate programs in agricultural sciences. The programs are designed to emphasize both theoretical and practical aspects of contemporary agriculture.

What makes SGT the top college for agricultural studies?

SGT University, one of the top ICAR-approved colleges in India , distinguishes itself because of the following Key Feature:

Curriculum Designed by Industry Experts: To bridge the gap between academics and industry, the curriculum is well-designed in consultation with the industry experts.

Modern Facilities: The university provides students with hands-on experience to learn about modern agricultural practices with the following 8 state-of-the-art laboratories:

• Soil Testing Lab: Funded by the government and horticulture structures, it focuses on soil testing and its fertility.
• Hydrophonic Lab: Explores soil-less farming techniques using modern technology and automation.
• Genetics and Plant Breeding: Supports research on crop improvement, biotechnology application, and hybrid seed generation.
• Agronomy Lab: Focuses on production techniques and soil fertility.
• Entomology Lab: Focuses on the study of pests & insects in the agriculture sector and their management.
• Horticulture Lab: Focuses on research and development of new techniques for production and post-harvesting of fruits, vegetables, and floriculture.
• Nursery: A specific area for seedling of plants and plant propagation.
• Mushroom Unit: Focuses on research and development techniques in mushroom production and post-harvest management.

Broad Practical Training: The university has 75 acres of farmland, helping students have real-world experiences through research projects, live demonstrations, and field learning that ensure they receive necessary competencies to work in the agricultural sector.

100% Placement & Internship Support: With its strong industry tie-ups, the university provides 100% placement assistance, helping students find jobs and industry experience.

SGT’s Top Recruiters: CSSRI, ICAR, UPL, Earth Analytics India, IISWC, and Navjyoti India Foundation are among our top recruiters.

Global Collaborations: SGT University has relationships with some of the top national and international universities and agricultural organizations globally, which assist students with internships, research, curriculum, and job placement.

Government-Funded Research: We can proudly say that we have 10 crore+ extramural grants, 2 crore+ seed money and incentives, 20+ startups, 10000+ publications, and 280+ patents, which mark our proficiency in R&D. Students get opportunities to participate in high-impact projects funded by the Department of Science and Technology and the National Medicinal Plant Board. These projects fundamentally engage students in agricultural sustainability and innovation. These provide SGT University a fantastic place for agricultural education, engaging course content, and future career planning.

Industry-aligned courses offered at SGT University

SGT offers a wide range of cutting-edge programs in the field of agricultural sciences at the diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate levels, which are aligned with the industry demands. Here is a full list of programs offered with their details:

Diploma courses

1. Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) (Certified by MANAGE Hyderabad)

Duration:: 1 Year

Fees: (per semester)

2. Diploma in Seed Production Technologies

Duration:: 1 Year

Fees: 50000 (per semester)

Undergraduate Programs

B.Sc. (Hons.) (Agriculture)

Duration: 8 Semesters

Fees: 87500 (Per semester)

Postgraduate Programs

1. M.Sc. Agriculture (Agronomy)

2. M.Sc. Agriculture (Plant Pathology)

3. M.Sc. Agriculture (Genetics & Plant Breeding)

4. M.Sc. Agriculture (Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry)

5. M.Sc. Agriculture (Agricultural Extension & Communication)

6. M.Sc. Agriculture (Agricultural Economics)

7. M.Sc. Horticulture (Fruit Science)

8. M.Sc. Horticulture (Vegetable Science)

9. M.Sc. Agriculture Horticulture (Floriculture & Landscaping)

10. M.Sc Agriculture (Entomology)

11. MBA (Agri-Business)

Duration: 4 Semesters

Fees for M.Sc. Agriculture (Agronomy): 125000(Per semester)

Fees for other M.Sc. Agriculture programs: 75000 (Per semester)

Doctorate Programs:

1. Ph.D. (Agricultural Sciences) [Agronomy]

2. Ph.D. (Agricultural Sciences) [Horticulture]

3. Ph.D. (Agricultural Sciences) [Genetics & Plant Breeding]

4. Ph.D. (Agricultural Sciences) [Soil Science]

Duration: As per UGC norms

Fees: 150,000 (Per year)

Student-friendly admission process:

SGT University has a very simple and student-friendly admissions process.

• Create an account on the website and send in your inquiry.
• Receive individualized counseling.
• Create an account on the university's website and complete the online or offline application.
• Assessment via in-person conversation or interview.
• If chosen, pay to reserve your seat. Send in your paperwork to be registered.

Career opportunities after pursuing agriculture courses:

After pursuing courses in agricultural sciences, one can join the industry in various sectors:

Private Sector: Farm Manager, Food Safety Expert, Agribusiness Manager, Plantation Manager.

Entrepreneurship: Agro-startups, organic farming, agricultural export business, hydro farming expert.

Research and Academics: Agricultural Scientist, Agronomist, Professor, Plant Pathologist.

Allied sectors: Climate change analyst, commodity trader, precision agriculture expert.

Government organizations: Agricultural officer, soil conservationist, horticulture officer, agricultural loan officer, seed officer.

Conclusion

SGT University's agricultural sciences programs are designed in order to equip future agricultural leaders with the newest developments in technology, research, and sustainable farming methods. For students who want to succeed in the agricultural industry, SGT University is the best option because of its top-notch instruction, exposure to the industry, and state-of-the-art research facilities.