Master of Science in Horticulture (Agriculture) is a post graduate degree program which deals with the science and technology of production of fruits, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants. Horticultural management and sustainable production of horticultural crops requires an integration of both theoretical and practical skills. It offers extended practical knowledge on some of the specific subtopics like plant physiologist, soil specialist, and Pest control expert and plant breeder. Major disciplines being taught are Fruit Science, Vegetable Science, Floriculture and Landscaping, Plantation Crops and Medicinal Plants.

This makes the curriculum to encompass classroom learning and real life experiences through excursions, lab sessions and projects respectively. This practical approach allows students to gain practical skills for horticulture practices and acquire knowledge on the improved methods of crop production, protection and handling.

Students in M.Sc. in Horticulture (Agriculture) focus on:

• Fruit Science
• Vegetable Science
• Floriculture and Landscape Gardening
• Plantation Crops
• Medicinal plants or medicinal aromatic plants.
• Post-harvest Technology
• Crop Protection
• Soil Science
• Plant Breeding and Genetics
• Plant Biotechnology
• Protected Agriculture (Green Houses)
• Organic Farming
• Crop Physiology
• Environmental Horticulture
• Nursery Management
• Pest and Disease Management
• Seed Technology
• Hydroponics and Vertical Farming

It is also possible for students to take extra specialty classes in this course such as Urban Horticulture, Turf grass Management and Biology of Horticultural Therapy to further refine their skill in horticulture.

Eligibility Criteria:

Candidates must have completed a B.Sc. (Agriculture) or an equivalent degree in a related field, typically with a minimum aggregate score of 50%.

Job profiles and salaries

Below are some job profiles with average salaries for Horticulturist graduates:

• Horticulture Officer 

Job Profile: Oversees horticultural projects, advises farmers, and ensures sustainable horticulture practices.  

Average Salary: ₹5-₹10 lakhs per annum  

• Floriculturist 

Job Profile: Specializes in flower cultivation, ornamental plants, and landscaping.  

 Average Salary: ₹5-₹12 lakhs per annum  

• Plant Breeder 

 Job Profile: Develops new plant varieties with improved traits for better yield and disease resistance.  

 Average Salary: ₹6-₹14 lakhs per annum  

• Crop Consultant 

 Job Profile: It advises on crop management practices, pest control, and sustainable farming.  

 Average Salary: ₹5-₹10 lakhs per annum  

• Soil Scientist  

Job Profile: It studies soil properties and recommends appropriate soil management practices.  

Average Salary*: ₹6-₹12 lakhs per annum  

• Agricultural Research Scientist  

  Job Profile: Agriculture Research Scientist is responsible for conducting research on horticultural crops, plant nutrition, and pest management.  

  Average Salary: ₹7-₹13 lakhs per annum  

• Nursery Manager 

Job Profile: The responsibility of Nursery Manager is to manage nursery operations, including plant propagation and sales.  

Average Salary: ₹5-₹11 lakhs per annum  

• Post-Harvest Technologist 

  Job Profile: Post-Harvest Technologist is responsible for focusing on the preservation, processing, and storage of horticultural produce.  

  Average Salary: ₹6-₹13 lakhs per annum  

• Landscape Architect 

  Job Profile: The role of Landscape Architect is to designs landscapes and outdoor spaces with horticultural expertise.  

  Average Salary: ₹7-₹14 lakhs per annum  

• Horticultural Therapist  

  Job Profile: It uses plants and gardening activities for therapeutic purposes in hospitals or clinics.  

  Average Salary: ₹5-₹10 lakhs per annum  

After M.Sc. in Horticultural (Agriculture):

1. Specialized Courses in Horticulture and Related Fields

• Plant Genetics and Breeding
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Organic Horticulture
• Landscape and Urban Horticulture
• Protected Cultivation and Hydroponics
• Post-Harvest Management of Horticultural Crops
• Nursery Management and Seed Production
• Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Cultivation

2. Certification Courses

• Certified Horticulturist
• Post-Harvest Technology Certification
• Certification in Greenhouse Management
• Organic Farming Certification

3. Ph.D. in Horticulture
4. M.Phil in Horticulture

Top Hiring Companies 

• National Horticulture Board 
• Indian Agricultural Research Institute
• State Department of Agriculture
• Syngenta
• Bayer CropScience
• Monsanto
• World Wildlife Fund
• The Nature Conservancy
• Food and Agriculture Organization
• University if Agricultural Sciences
• Indian Agricultural Universities
• Horticultural Universities
• Horticultural Consulting Services
• Crop Care Consulting
• Sustainable Agriculture Consulting
• Namdhari Seeds
• Kaveri Seeds
• Mahyco Seeds
• Ball Horticulture
• Landscape Design Associates
• TaTa Chemicals

FAQs

Q: What is the eligibility criterion for MSc in Horticulturist course?

A: Candidates must have completed a B.Sc. (Agriculture) or an equivalent degree in a related field, typically with a minimum aggregate score of 50%.

Q: What are the job profiles available after a Master of Science in Horticulture (Agriculture)?

• Horticulture Officer
• Floriculturist
• Plant Breeder
• Crop Consultant
• Soil Scientist
• Agricultural Research Scientist
• Nursery Manager
• Post-Harvest Technologist
• Landscape Architect
• Horticultural Therapist

Q: Are there opportunities for higher studies after completing a M.Sc. in Horticulture (Agriculture)?

A: Yes, graduates can pursue a Ph.D., M.Phil, and specialized courses in horticulture. They may also obtain certifications in areas like organic farming, greenhouse management, and post-harvest technology.