M.Sc. Agriculture (Genetics & Plant Breeding)

...

Programme Overview

Genetics and Plant Breeding is a core discipline in agricultural sciences that deals with the study of heredity, genetic variation, and the improvement of crop plants through scientific breeding techniques. It plays a pivotal role in developing high-yielding, climate-resilient, disease-resistant, and nutritionally enriched crop varieties to meet the challenges of global food and nutritional security.

The M.Sc. in Genetics and Plant Breeding at Kaveri University is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of classical and molecular genetics, quantitative breeding methods, biotechnological interventions, and contemporary breeding strategies to accelerate crop improvement. Additionally, it prepares students to be leaders in scientific crop improvement and innovation. By integrating cutting-edge genetic technologies with field-based knowledge, the programme contributes to building a more food-secure, climate-resilient, and sustainable agricultural future.

Why This Programme?

Growing population, climate change, and shrinking arable land demand rapid development of improved crop varieties.

Advances in genomics, molecular markers, gene editing, and AI-based phenotyping are transforming the field of plant breeding.

There is a high demand for trained professionals in seed industries, biotech companies, and national breeding programs.

Government missions such as National Food Security Mission (NFSM) and National Innovation in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) require skilled plant breeders to drive varietal innovation.

The need for biofortified, pest-resistant, and abiotic stress-tolerant varieties has made this field increasingly relevant to both public and private sectors.

Objectives of the Programme

To provide foundational and advanced knowledge in plant genetics, cytogenetics, and molecular breeding.

To train students in conventional and modern plant breeding methods, including selection, hybridization, and backcrossing.

To develop expertise in biometrical techniques, genetic diversity analysis, and marker-assisted selection.

To expose students to genome editing tools (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9), QTL mapping, and plant phenomics

To equip students for research, seed technology, and policy-making roles in crop improvement programs.

To foster innovation in developing region-specific, climate-resilient, and nutrition-sensitive crop varieties.

Programme Structure

Kaveri University's School of Agriculture will provide apprenticeship in collaboration with agroindustry, as we focus on skill development & experiential learning.

This Undergraduate Programme at Kaveri University has a blended curriculum, and students have to acquire 167 credits to graduate.

...

Credit Load

Summary of Credit Distribution Among Different Categories of the
Course (Credit Hours)

Semester Major Courses Minor Courses Supporting Courses Common Courses Seminar Research Total
I 9 3 3 3 -- -- 18
II 11 5 -- 2 -- -- 18
III -- -- 3 -- 1 15 19
IV -- -- -- -- -- 15 15
Total 20 8 6 5 1 30 70

Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to candidates with a B.Sc. Honours in Agriculture or related fields. A strong foundation in crop science, soil science, and basic agricultural practices is essential for success.

Note:
Students getting admitted through State/ National mode need to have 60% or equivalent grade in 10+2 from any Statutory Board

Future Career Opportunities

Graduates of the M.Sc. Genetics and Plant Breeding programme will be well-prepared for careers in research, industry, academia, and development organizations:

Research & Academia

  • Research Associate or Scientist in ICAR institutes, SAUs, and international research organizations (e.g., ICRISAT, IRRI)
  • Ph.D. programmes in plant genetics, genomics, and breeding sciences
  • Faculty positions in agricultural universities and teaching institutions

Seed Industry & Agribusiness

  • Plant Breeder or Breeding Associate in seed companies (public and private sector)
  • Roles in germplasm evaluation, hybrid development, and trait integration
  • Field-level breeders and product development experts for commercial crop programs

Biotech and Genomics Sector

  • Genomic data analyst, molecular breeder, or bioinformatics specialist
  • Marker lab technician or genomic selection assistant in biotech firms
  • R&D roles in trait discovery, genetic transformation, and gene editing

Government & Regulatory Bodies

  • Crop development officer, seed certification officer, or policy advisor in agriculture departments
  • Consultants for national missions focused on crop productivity and variety release
  • Experts in varietal registration, DUS testing, and breeder seed production

Emerging Domains

  • AI and machine learning in precision phenotyping and predictive breeding
  • Entrepreneurship in seed startups, molecular diagnostics, or agri-biotech services
  • Genetic resource conservation and climate-resilient crop breeding for sustainable agriculture

Fee Structure

Students Under Indian Category ₹ Per Annum
Academic Fees ₹ 3,00,000
Hostel Fees
(Includes Room & Mess Charges)
₹ 1,65,000
Caution Deposit
(Refundable at the End of the Course or After Graduation)
₹ 20,000
Students Under NRI/PIO/FO Category $ USD Per Annum
Academic Fees $5,000
Hostel Fees
(Includes Room & Mess Charges)
$2,000
Caution Deposit
(Refundable at the End of the Course or After Graduation)
$400

Note:
Hostel stay is mandatory for students of B.Tech program & all fees are subject to revision every year

Refund Rules:
Fee refund & cancellation policy will be as per guidelines published by UGC/Statutory authorities.

Important Dates

Important Dates to Remember (Subject to Revision)

Don’t miss your chance…!!! Apply Now, Last Date of Application 30th May 2025

1st List of deserving Students who have made it to the next stage of Admissions Process: - 3rd June 2025

Secure your seat Provisional admissions opens on 5th/ 6th & 7th June 2025

Note:
Dates and schedules are subject to change.

Kaveri University was established as per the Telangana Private Universities (Establishment & Regulation) Act, 2018 under section 3.