MFSc: Full Form, Admission 2024, Fees, Syllabus, Exams, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Sep 6, 2024 03:53 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtContent Writer

MFSc full form is Master of Fisheries Science, which is a 2-year postgraduate degree program. It deals with the main areas of the Science involved in Oceanography, Marine Biology, Marine Conservation, Ecology, Population Dynamics, Economics, and Management to provide an integrated picture of fisheries. 

The MFSc course curriculum covers topics such as Aquaculture, Fisheries Economics, Fisheries Biotechnology, Fish Pathology, etc. Candidates interested in this program must have a bachelor's degree in BFSc or any relevant discipline from a recognized university. 

The admissions are majorly based on entrance exams such as ICAR AIEEA, MCAER CET, and CUET-PG. Some popular MFSc colleges in India include Cochin University, GP Pant University, CCS HAU, Odisha University, and Vidyasagar University. The average course fee ranges between INR 10,000 to INR 1.6 Lakh.

MFSc students can seek career opportunities in industries such as Marine Research Institutes, Agricultural Universities, FMCG, CMFRI, Public Fishery Departments, etc. Some popular job profiles in the field include Aquaculture Manager, Fisheries Officer, Marine Biologist, Feed Mill Manager, etc. The average salary of an Aquaculture Specialist in India is INR 4.8 LPA.

Interested candidates can continue reading the article for more MFSc course details.

Recommended read for MFSc Course:

Branches of Science and Their Subfields

Table of Contents
  1. MFSc Course Details: Highlights
  2. All About MFSc Course
  3. Why Study MFSc?
  4. MFSc Eligibility Criteria
  5. MFSc Entrance Exams 2024
  6. MFSc Syllabus 2024
    • 6.1 MFSc Specialisations
  7. Best Colleges for MFSc
    • 7.1 Best Government Colleges for MFSc 
    • 7.2 Best Private Colleges for MFSc
  8. MFSc Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
    • 8.1 MFSc Salary in India
    • 8.2 MFSc Top Recruiters
  9. MFSc Course FAQs

MFSc Course Details: Highlights

MFSc course is a 2-year postgraduate academic degree program offered in many universities, particularly those with a focus on fisheries and aquatic sciences. The MFSc course usually covers various aspects of Fisheries Science, including fish biology, aquaculture, fisheries management, fish nutrition, fish genetics, fish pathology, and related subjects.

Candidates can check the table below to see the key highlights of the MFSc course.

Parameters

MFSc Course Details

MFSc Course Level

Postgraduate

MFSc Course Duration

2 years

MFSc Course Fees

INR 10,000 - INR 1.6 Lakh

MFSc Admission Process

Entrance-Based

MFSc Course Eligibility Criteria

BFSc or other relevant UG courses with at least 50% - 60% marks

MFSc Course Entrance Exams

ICAR AIEEA, MCAER CET, and CUET-PG

Popular Colleges for MFSc

Cochin University of Science and Technology, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, etc.

MFSc Job Profiles

Aquaculture Manager, Fisheries Officer, Marine Biologist, Feed Mill Manager, etc.

MFSc Average Salary

INR 1.5 LPA - INR 10 LPA

MFSc Top Recruiters

Aquariums, Fish farmers' development agencies, Feed manufacturing units, Ornamental fish culture and breeding centres, Fish farms, etc.

Note: This information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

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Q:   What is an M.F.Sc course?

A:

MFSc is an acronym for Master of Fisheries Science, a postgraduate degree programme that focuses on fisheries Science and related fields. The programme provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in the management, conservation, and sustainable development of aquatic resources. 

Q:   What is the duration of M.F.Sc?

A:

The duration of an MFSc in India typically spans two years. This 2-year MFSc is generally divided into 4 semesters, with each semester lasting approximately six months. During MFSc, students study about fisheries science, including fish biology, aquaculture techniques, fisheries management, and related subjects. 

All About MFSc Course

MFSc courses typically cover various aspects of fisheries science, including fish biology, aquaculture techniques, fisheries management, fish nutrition, fish genetics, fish pathology, and aquatic ecology.

The curriculum of an MFSc course usually includes a combination of core courses, elective courses, practicals, seminars, and a research project or thesis. 

Overall, the MFSc course plays a crucial role in training professionals who contribute to the sustainable management and conservation of aquatic resources, addressing challenges related to food security, environmental sustainability, and economic development in the fisheries sector.

Why Study MFSc?

  • Specialized Knowledge: An MFSc course provides in-depth and specialized knowledge in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. 
  • Career Opportunities: Graduates with an MFSc course have access to a wide range of career opportunities in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. 
  • Industry Demand: Fisheries and aquaculture are critical industries that provide a significant portion of the world's seafood. 
  • Government and Research Positions: MFSc course graduates are often well-suited for government positions related to fisheries management, regulatory compliance, and environmental conservation.

Relevant Links for MFSc Course:

Zoology

Horticulture

Q:   What are the benefits of pursuing M.F.Sc course?

A:

When it comes to a degree like MFSc there is less competition in terms of opportunities as the field is not very cluttered. Not many people choose a degree like fishery as their postgraduate program.

Although not a wide number of people are a part of this field it does not mean the field does not have much to offer. The field of fishery has so many job opportunities for individuals. But, unfortunately, there is a lack of educated individuals in this field with specialised knowledge. Therefore, an individual who pursues MFSc will get several opportunities to choose from.

Q:   What courses can I do after M.F.Sc?

A:

After completing an MFSc (Master of Fisheries Science) in India, you have the option to pursue further education and specialisation in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. Here are some courses and academic pathways you can consider:

  • PhD in Fisheries Science
  • Post-Doctoral Research
  • Certificate and Diploma Programs:
  • MBA

MFSc Eligibility Criteria

The MFSc eligibility criteria may vary slightly depending on the university offering the course. Prospective applicants should carefully review the specific MFSc eligibility criteria and admission requirements provided by the university they are interested in to ensure they meet all the necessary qualifications before applying.

  • Candidates must have completed a bachelor's degree in Fisheries Science (BFSc), Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Zoology, or a related field from a recognized university or institution.
  • Candidates should be a minimum of 19 years or more in age to be eligible for MFSc.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.   

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Q:   Can I do an M.F.Sc degree after graduating in Zoology?

A:

Yes, candidates can pursue an MFSc degree after graduating in Zoology, but they may need to meet certain prerequisites and requirements.

MFSc programs typically focus on fisheries and aquatic sciences, which are closely related to Zoology in which they both involve the study of animal biology. However, the emphasis in an MFSc programme is specifically on aquatic and fish-related topics.

Q:   Can I pursue M.F.Sc course without having a B.F.Sc degree?

A:

Of course, you don't need to complete the Bachelor of Fisheries Science course to get admission to an MFSc course. Though it is mandatory to have a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline related to Fisheries or Biological Sciences. It helps students to set a base knowledge for their further studies.  

MFSc Entrance Exams 2024

For the MFSc course in India, there are a few admission tests that candidates can take depending on the universities. An excellent merit score from the graduate degree programme in Science is also a requirement, as is taking the entrance tests. Graduate students can enrol in MFSc courses at a reputable college or university.

Some of the top and required MFSc entrance exams are as follows.

MFSc Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

ICAR AIEEA

July'25

ICAR AIEEA Schedule

MCAER CET

May'25

CUSAT CAT Schedule

CUET-PG

March'25

CUET-PG Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Helpful Links for MFSc Course Preparation: 

Class 11 PCM NCERT Solutions  Click here Class 11 Physics NCERT Solutions Click here
Class 11 Chemistry NCERT Solutions Click here Class 11 Math NCERT Solutions Click here

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates

02 Jan '25 -

01 Feb '25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process

ONGOING

10 Nov '24 -

08 Apr '25

KIITEE 2025 application form phase 1

ONGOING

21 Jan '25 -

22 Jan '25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling Round 2: Seat Allotment & Document Upload

23 Jan '25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling Round 2: Document Verification by the Universities

23 Jan '25 -

21 Feb '25

KCET 2025 application form

24 Jan '25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling Round 2: Seat Acceptance Fee, Document Verification & re-submission of documents

27 Jan '25 -

28 Jan '25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling Round 3: Seat Allotment & Document Upload

DatesPast Exam Dates

18 Jan '25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling 1st Round: Seat Acceptance Fee, Document Verification & re-submission of documents

17 Jan '25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling 1st Round: Online Document Verification

15 Jan '25 -

16 Jan '25

ICAR AIEEA PG 2024 Counselling 1st Round: Seat Allotment, Document Upload

Q:   What is the difficulty level of CUET PG exam?

A:

The CUET PG exam difficulty level is depicted in the range of moderate to high. CUET PG examination is conducted into various streams and master's subjects, therefore it is difficult to say the difficulty level of the examination subject wise. However, the difficulty level of the exam varies from subject to subject. 

The difficulty level of the exam also differs from subject to subject. As compared to the other national level entrance exam like IIT JAM, ISI Admission Test, GATE-B, IISER Entrance exam, JEST, NEST examination, the level of CUET PG examination is comparatively low-level. Candidates can expect the high difficulty level of the examination in comparison to State level entrance examinations like- GNDU, UPCATET, SHIATS, MCAER-CET, RUASAT, OUAT.

Q:   What is NTA score in ICAR AIEEA PG exam?

A:

The NTA score is a percentile score of the candidate in the test in which he/she appeared. It indicates the candidate's position visà-vis others who appeared in it. It is not mark.

It is an indicator of the relative position of the candidates amongst those who appeared in the ICAR AIEEA PG test. 

Q:   What are the participating colleges for MCAER CET exam?

A:

The following colleges participate in the MCAER CET exam:

1. Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri
2. Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola
3. Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani
4. Dr Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli

These colleges offer a variety of postgraduate degree programs in agriculture and allied sciences, such as:

1. Master of Science in Agriculture (MSc (Ag.)
2. Master of Science in Horticulture (MSc (Hort.)
3. Master of Science in Forestry (MSc (For.)
4. Master of Science in Food Science and Technology (MSc (FST)
5. Master of Science in Dairy Science and Technology (MSc (DST)
6. Master of Science in Agricultural Economics (MSc (Ag. Eco.)
7. Master of Science in Agricultural Extension (MSc (Ag. Ext.)
8. Master of Science in Agricultural Biotechnology (MSc (Ag. Biotech.)
9. Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering (MSc (Ag. Engg.)

Candidates can choose the colleges and courses they want to apply for while filling out the MCAER CET application form.

MFSc Syllabus 2024

The MFSc syllabus may vary depending on the institution offering the course, as well as the specialization tracks available within the program. However, a general outline of the MFSc subjects can be found in the table below:

MFSc Syllabus Semester I

Aquatic Environment and Biodiversity

Chemical Interactions In The Aquatic Environment

Integrated Coastal Zone Management

Aquatic Pollution And Wastewater Management

MFSc Syllabus Semester II

Master’s Research

Advances In Aquatic Environment Studies

Biotechnology

Benthic Ecology

MFSc Syllabus Semester III

Fisheries Oceanography

Aquatic Microbiology

Master’s Seminar

-

MFSc Syllabus Semester IV

Dispersal and Ocean

Restoration Ecology

Doctoral Seminar I & II

-

Note: This information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

The detailed MFSc Syllabus

Suggested Links for MFSc Course:

Top Fisheries Science Colleges in India

BSc in Fisheries Science Colleges in India 

MFSc Specialisations

MFSc specializations allow students to focus their studies and research on specific areas of interest within the broader field of Fisheries Science and aquaculture.

While the availability of specializations may vary depending on the institution offering MFSc, here are some common specializations that students may find:

MFSc Specialisations

Aquaculture

Fisheries Resource Management

Fisheries Economics

Fisheries Extension

Fish Processing Technology

Fishing Technology and Fisheries Engineering

Fisheries Biotechnology

Fish Pathology and Health Management

Aquatic Environment Management

Fish Quality Assurance and Management

Note: This information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

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Popular Specializations

Q:   Are there any specializations offered in M.F.Sc course?

A:

Yes, there are some specializations in MFSc under which students can get specific subject's knowledge:

  • M.Sc in Industrial Fisheries
  • Master of Fisheries Sciences
  • Aquaculture Fishery Biology and Resource Management
  • Fisheries Environment
  • Fish Processing Technology
  • Fishery Engineering
  • Fishery Economics & Statistics

Q:   What are the most important subjects of M.F.Sc course curriculum?

A:

The MFSc syllabus is structured in such a way that the students get a better understanding of the different subjects of the course. The Master of Fisheries Science in India has multiple programming, assignments, project submissions, and research as a part of the course curriculum. Some of the important subjects of the Master of Fisheries Science course are:

  • Management and Utilization of Wastewater
  • Application of Remote Sensing and GIS in Fisheries
  • Environment Impact Assessment
  • Management and Utilization of Wastewater
  • Organic Production and Plant Pigments

Best Colleges for MFSc

There are around 30 MFSc colleges in India, of which, around 19 are government institutions. Candidates can find the details of these colleges in the tables below:

Best Government Colleges for MFSc 

Cochin University, GP Pant University, Odisha University, Vidyasagar University, etc., are among the best MFSc government colleges in India. Here are some more similar options:

MFSc Government Colleges

Tuition Fee

Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi INR 53,960
GBPUAT INR 91,200
CCS HAU INR 11,160
OUAT INR 54,520
Vidyasagar University INR 39,975
GADVASU INR 76,000
RPCAU INR 10,000
Barkatullah University INR 44,400
College of Fisheries, Mangalore INR 45,530
Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies INR 64,420

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Useful Links for MFSc Course:

MSc in Fisheries Science colleges in India 

Best Private Colleges for MFSc

There is only one private college that offers MFSc courses in India. The details are given below:

MFSc Private Colleges

Tuition Fee

Doon Group of Colleges

INR 1.05 Lakh

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

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Q:   Which M.F.Sc college offer placement options in India?

A:

Almost every MFSc college in India offer great placement opportunities to students. Here are some top options among them:

MFSc collegesAverage Package Offered
Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & AHINR 8.46 LPA
Faculty8 of Fisheries, GendarbalINR 8.46 LPA
Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and TechnologyINR 7.08 LPA
Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, UdaipurINR 6.5 LPA
Rajasthan College of AgricultureINR 6.5 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from the official body and may vary.

Q:   Does IIT offer M.F.Sc courses?

A:

No, IITs in India only offer MSc degrees related to technology and research. If you want to get admission to an IIT, you can go for courses like MSc in Applied Geology, MSc in Applied Geophysics, MSc in Biotechnology, MSc in Chemistry, etc.

Popular Private M.F.Sc. (Master of Fisheries Science) Colleges in India

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MFSc Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

An MFSc course opens up a range of career opportunities in India, especially in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. The career scope after the MFSc course for graduates is diverse and includes opportunities in government organizations, research institutions, private companies, and non-governmental organizations. 

The career scope after the MFSc course for graduates is not limited to a single sector and can encompass a wide range of roles. The fisheries and aquaculture sector in India continues to evolve, offering promising opportunities for those with expertise in sustainable resource management and responsible aquaculture practices. 

MFSc Salary in India

The average salary for graduates after the MFSc course in India can vary significantly based on factors such as specialization, experience, location, employer, and the specific role within the fisheries and aquaculture sector. 

Some of the popular job profiles after the MFSc course for candidates along with the average salary are mentioned in the table below.

Job Profiles 

Job Description

Average Salary 

Aquaculture Manager

An aquaculture manager directs and coordinates the activities of workers engaged in fish hatchery production for different corporations and cooperatives.

INR 7.6 LPA

Fisheries Officer

A fisheries officer is responsible for monitoring, managing as well and protecting farmed and wild fish stocks and their habitats like rivers and lakes

INR 6 LPA

Marine Biologist

A marine biologist (sometimes also referred to as a marine scientist) studies the ocean and the life within it. The biologist researches the sea and examines its interactions with the organisms, coastal areas and the atmosphere.

INR 4.5 LPA

Feed Mill Manager

A feed mill manager is a professional who oversees the production, costs, quality and safety of the mill which produces feed for fish and other animals.

INR 5.4 LPA

Hatchery Technician

A hatchery technician is responsible for maintaining as well as repairing equipment (like screens, pumps, fish feeders, egg trays etc) that keeps the fish ponds running.

INR 2.4 LPA

Aquaculturist

An aquaculturist is a marine farmer who specialises in fresh or seawater animals. The professional raises as well as breeds aquatic animals like fish, shrimp and oysters in a controlled environment.

INR 6.3 LPA

Fish Hatchery Manager

A fish hatchery manager looks after all the administrative tasks for a fish hatchery. Some of the responsibilities of a hatchery manager include overseeing the trapping and spawning of fish and the movement of mature fish to ponds, streams or commercial tanks.

INR 2.5 LPA

Note: The average salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

MFSc Top Recruiters

Graduates of MFSc courses are sought after by various employers across different sectors related to fisheries science, aquaculture, and marine industries. Once candidates complete MFSc courses, they can find ample employment opportunities at several companies and industries. 

Candidates can check the table below to see the top recruiters for MFSc graduates:

MFSc Top Recruiters
Aquariums Fish farmers' development agencies
Feed manufacturing units Ornamental fish culture and breeding centres
Fish farms Fish processing and marketing firms
Hatchery and seed production companies Educational institutes

Suggested MFSc Course Reading:

BSc in Fisheries Science colleges in India

Top Colleges offering MFSc in India

Q:   What are the career options after completing M.F.Sc?

A:

After completing an MSc in Fisheries in India, you have various career options in both the public and private sectors. Here are some potential career paths:

Job Profiles

Average Salary

Research Scientist

INR 10.8 LPA

Fisheries Officer

INR 5 LPA

Aquaculture Manager

INR 8.2 LPA

Fisheries Biologist

INR 12.7 LPA

Fisheries Extension Officer

INR 6 LPA

Q:   Is there a career scope of M.F.Sc abroad?

A:

Apart from the scope for higher education in Fisheries in countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, China and European countries, there is a requirement for fisheries specialists in the aquaculture and processing sectors in Gulf and African countries. Several fisheries graduates are doing business in foreign countries in the fields of aquaculture, fish processing export and import.

MFSc Course FAQs

Candidates can refer to this section for MFSc Course FAQs.

Q:   Which is better among Agriculture and Fishery Science?

A:

While Agriculture and Fishery Science share commonalities in terms of resource management and economic considerations, they differ in their focus on land-based (agriculture) and aquatic (fishery) ecosystems. 

Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two courses.

Particulars

Details

Agriculture

Course Level

UG, PG, Doctoral

 UG and PG

Course Duration

2-3 years

2-3 years

Course Fees

INR 2,600 - INR 6.5 Lakh

INR 2, 000 - INR 10 Lakh

Admission Criteria

Merit-based

ICAR AIEEA,  KCET,  AP EAPCET (AP EAMCET)

Popular Colleges

Kerala University,  LPU,  Alagappa University,  Cochin University of Science and Technology, etc.

Banaras Hindu University,  Bharathidasan University,  Calcutta University,  Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology

Job Profiles

Fisheries Extension Officer, Fishery Manager, Fisheries Scientist, Fishery Technician, etc.

Agricultural Scientist, Production Manager, Food Microbiologist, Crop Specialist, Agricultural Engineer, etc.

Average Salary

INR 1.5 LPA - INR 8 LPA

INR 2.6 LPA - INR 8.4 LPA

Top Recruiters

Export Inspection Agency, Marine Product Export Development Authority, Coastal Aquaculture Authority of India, Fisheries Survey of India, etc.

Agrotech Food, Research labs, ITC Limited, Government institutes, Colleges (as lecturers), etc.

Note: The information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

Q:   What are the future prospects of M.F.Sc course?

A:

Since there is a high scope of Master of Fisheries Science in India for Aquaculturists, Fishery Technician, Fishery Officer, Fishing Trader, Fishing Export and Import, and Environmentalist, the demand for Master of Fisheries Science courses in India and abroad is good in numbers. The Master of Fisheries Science course has excellent career opportunities for graduates in the private and public sectors of various reputed organizations in India and abroad.

Some of the best scopes for Master of Fisheries Science Freshers are:

  • Fisheries Biologist
  • Fisheries Officer
  • Fishery Manager
  • Fishery technician
  • Fishery Observer
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