Top 10 Agriculture Courses After 12

Are you in Class 12 or passed your board exams in the science stream? Are you interested in taking courses in agricultural science streams? Read this Shiksha article to learn about the top agriculture courses after 12. Candidates will also be able to get insight into the eligibility criteria of the particular course and top agriculture institutes which they can plan to complete their undergraduate courses.

After completing your Class 12 exams, you may be considering various career paths. If you have a passion for nature, a knack for problem-solving, and a desire to contribute to sustainable food production, then agriculture courses could be the perfect choice for you.

Also Read: Top Agricultural Exams in India 2024  

Agriculture, the backbone of our society, has evolved from a traditional practice to a high-tech industry. With a growing global population and increasing demand for food, the need for skilled professionals in the agricultural sector has never been greater. Agriculture courses offer a comprehensive understanding of agricultural principles, modern technologies, and sustainable practices, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to address the challenges and opportunities in this dynamic field. Whether you aspire to become a farmer, an agricultural scientist, an agribusiness entrepreneur, or a policymaker, pursuing an agriculture course can open doors to a rewarding and impactful career.

Candidates can check out the list of top agriculture courses after class 12, eligibility criteria, course period and list of top agriculture colleges in India in this Shiksha article here.

What is an Agriculture Course?

An agriculture course is an academic program that focuses on the science and practice of cultivating crops and raising livestock. It covers a wide range of subjects, including:  

• Plant Science: Study of plant growth, development, and physiology. 
• Soil Science: Understanding soil properties, fertility, and management. 
• Crop Production: Learning about crop cultivation techniques, including planting, irrigation, and fertilization.
• Animal Science: Studying animal nutrition, breeding, and health.
• Agricultural Economics: Analyzing economic principles as applied to agriculture.
• Agricultural Engineering: Applying engineering principles to agricultural problems.

Agriculture courses are offered at various levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. They equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address challenges in the agricultural sector, such as food security, sustainability, and rural development.

Also Read: Top 10 Universities in India 2024: Check NIRF Ranking 

Agriculture Courses After 12

Candidates can pursue their undergraduate degree in the agriculture domain and its allied sector from many top agriculture universities in India. In general, agricultural courses in India last for three to four years for undergraduate degree courses:

BTech in Agricultural Science

B.Tech in Agricultural Engineering is a 4-year undergraduate program that focuses on the application of engineering principles to agriculture. This course blends traditional agricultural knowledge with modern engineering techniques to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Key Areas of Study:

• Farm Machinery: Design, operation, and maintenance of agricultural machinery.
• Soil and Water Conservation: Techniques to protect soil and water resources.
• Irrigation and Drainage: Design and management of irrigation and drainage systems.
• Agricultural Structures: Design and construction of farm structures like barns and silos.
• Food Processing Technology: Processing of agricultural products into value-added food items.
• Renewable Energy: Harnessing renewable energy sources for agricultural applications.

Also Read: Top 12 BSc/MSc Scholarships in India 

BTech in Horticultural Science

B.Tech in Horticultural Science is a 4-year undergraduate program that focuses on the scientific and technological aspects of cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It combines traditional horticultural practices with modern engineering techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Key Areas of Study: Plant Propagation, Plant Physiology, Plant Pathology: Identifying and controlling plant diseases, Horticultural Entomology: Managing insect pests that affect crops, Post-Harvest Technology: Processing, packaging, and storage of horticultural products, Landscape Architecture: Designing and creating outdoor spaces, Horticultural Engineering: Applying engineering principles to horticultural practices

BSc Agriculture

is a 4-year undergraduate degree program that provides a comprehensive understanding of agricultural principles, practices, and technologies. It equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the challenges and opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Key Areas of Study:

• Agronomy: The science of crop production, including soil fertility, crop rotation, and weed management.
• Horticulture: The cultivation of fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
• Soil Science: The study of soil properties, formation, and management.
• Plant Pathology: The diagnosis and control of plant diseases.
• Entomology: The study of insects, particularly those that affect crops.
• Agricultural Economics: The application of economic principles to agriculture.
• Agricultural Engineering: The design and operation of agricultural machinery and systems.
• Animal Husbandry: The breeding, feeding, and management of livestock.

Also Read: BSc Agriculture – Scope and Career Opportunities 

BSc Forestry

BSc Forestry is a 4-year undergraduate program that focuses on the scientific management and conservation of forests. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to protect and sustainably manage forest ecosystems.

Key Areas of Study:

• Silviculture: The practice of growing and tending forests.
• Forest Management: The planning, organization, and control of forest resources.
• Forest Ecology: The study of the relationships between organisms and their environment in forests.
• Forest Mensuration: The measurement of forests and their products.
• Forest Protection: The prevention and control of forest fires, insect pests, and diseases.

BSc Animal Husbandry

BSc Animal Husbandry is a 4-year undergraduate degree program that focuses on the scientific management and breeding of livestock. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to improve animal health, productivity, and welfare.

Key Areas of Study:

• Animal Nutrition: The study of animal nutrient requirements and feed formulation.
• Animal Breeding: The science of improving livestock through selective breeding.
• Animal Genetics: The study of animal heredity and genetic variation.
• Animal Physiology: The study of animal body functions.
• Animal Reproduction: The study of animal reproductive processes.

BSc Food Science

BSc Food Science is a 3-year undergraduate program that delves into the scientific principles and technological processes involved in food production, processing, preservation, and consumption. It provides a comprehensive understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, and engineering.

Key Areas of Study:

• Food Chemistry: The study of the chemical composition of food and the chemical changes that occur during processing.
• Food Microbiology: The study of microorganisms that can affect food safety and quality.
• Food Engineering: The application of engineering principles to food processing and packaging.
• Food Processing: The techniques used to preserve, process, and package food products.
• Food Nutrition: The study of the nutritional value of food and its impact on human health.
• Food Quality Control: The implementation of quality control measures to ensure food safety and quality.

Also Read: All about ICAR: Entrance Exam, Courses & List of Colleges 

BSc Horticulture

BSc Horticulture is a 3-year undergraduate degree program that focuses on the science and art of cultivating plants, particularly those grown for food, ornamental, or medicinal purposes. It provides a comprehensive understanding of plant biology, cultivation techniques, and post-harvest management.

Key Areas of Study:

• Plant Physiology: The study of plant growth, development, and metabolism.
• Plant Pathology: The study of plant diseases and their control.
• Plant Breeding: The science of improving plant varieties through selective breeding.
• Horticultural Practices: The techniques involved in cultivating fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants.
• Soil Science: The study of soil properties and their impact on plant growth.
• Post-Harvest Technology: The handling, processing, and storage of horticultural crops.

BSc Agricultural Biotechnology

BSc Agricultural Biotechnology is a 3-year undergraduate degree program that combines the principles of agriculture and biotechnology. This interdisciplinary field focuses on applying biotechnology techniques to improve agricultural practices and develop innovative solutions for challenges in food production and environmental sustainability.

Key Areas of Study:

• Molecular Biology: The study of biological molecules, including DNA, RNA, and proteins.
• Genetic Engineering: The manipulation of genetic material to introduce desirable traits into plants and animals.
• Microbial Biotechnology: The use of microorganisms to produce valuable products, such as enzymes, antibiotics, and biofuels.
• Plant Biotechnology: The application of biotechnology to improve plant growth, yield, and resistance to pests and diseases.
• Animal Biotechnology: The application of biotechnology to improve animal health, productivity, and quality.

Also Read: Top BSc/MSc Entrance Exams in India 2024

BSc in Fisheries Science

BSc in Fisheries Science is a 4-year undergraduate program that delves into the study of fish, aquatic ecosystems, and fisheries management. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to understand and manage aquatic resources sustainably.

Key Areas of Study:

• Fish Biology and Physiology: The study of fish anatomy, physiology, and behaviour.
• Fish Genetics and Breeding: The application of genetic principles to improve fish stocks.
• Fish Nutrition and Feed Technology: The development of nutritious diets for fish.
• Aquaculture: The cultivation of aquatic organisms, including fish, shrimp, and shellfish.

Top Agriculture Courses, Duration and Eligibility Criteria

Candidates who want to take admissions in the agriculture courses offered by institutes in India can check out the eligibility criteria and course duration from here:

Course Name	Duration	Eligibility Criteria
B.Tech in Agricultural Engineering	4 Year	Minimum Qualification: Most institutions require candidates to have passed their 12th standard (Class 12) examination from a recognized board. Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are typically mandatory subjects. Some universities may also accept Biology or Computer Science as an alternative to one of these core subjects. Minimum Marks: The minimum aggregate score required can range from 45% to 60%, with some universities offering relaxation for reserved category candidates.
B.Tech in Horticultural Science	4 Year
BSc Animal Husbandry	3 Year	Complete 10+2: You must have passed your 12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Science Stream: Your 12th standard subjects should include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Minimum Percentage: The minimum percentage required can vary from university to university, but it's usually around 50%. Some universities may have lower cut-offs for reserved categories.
BSc Agriculture	4 Year	Complete 10+2: You must have passed your 12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Science Stream: Your 12th standard subjects should include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Minimum Percentage: The minimum percentage required can vary from university to university, but it's usually around 50%. Some universities may have lower cut-offs for reserved categories.
BSc Forestry	3 Year	Complete 10+2: You must have passed your 12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Science Stream: Your 12th standard subjects should include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Minimum Percentage: The minimum percentage required can vary from university to university, but it's usually around 50%. Some universities may have lower cut-offs for reserved categories.
BSc Fisheries Science	3 Year	Complete 10+2: You must have passed your 12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Science Stream: Your 12th standard subjects should include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Minimum Percentage: The minimum percentage required can vary from university to university, but it's usually around 50%. Some universities may have lower cut-offs for reserved categories.
BSc Horticulture	3 Year	Complete 10+2: You must have passed your 12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Science Stream: Your 12th standard subjects should include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Minimum Percentage: The minimum percentage required can vary from university to university, but it's usually around 50%. Some universities may have lower cut-offs for reserved categories.
BSc Agricultural Biotechnology	3 Year	Complete 10+2: You must have passed your 12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Science Stream: Your 12th standard subjects should include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB). Minimum Percentage: The minimum percentage required can vary from university to university, but it's usually around 50%. Some universities may have lower cut-offs for reserved categories.
BSc Food Science	3 Year
BSc Dairy Science	3 Year
BSc Plant Science	3 Year
BSc Plant Pathology	3 Year
BE or BTech in Agriculture and Dairy Technology	4 Year	Minimum Qualification: Most institutions require candidates to have passed their 12th standard (Class 12) examination from a recognized board. Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are typically mandatory subjects. Some universities may also accept Biology or Computer Science as an alternative to one of these core subjects. Minimum Marks: The minimum aggregate score required can range from 45% to 60%, with some universities offering relaxation for reserved category candidates.

Also Read: BSc Horticulture: Scope, Career Options and Employment Areas 

Top Agriculture Exams After Class 12

Candidates who wish to be admitted to the courses offered in the agricultural sector can check the list of entrance exams that they need to appear in at UG level from here:

ICAR UG/ CUET UG

CUET (ICAR-UG) is being conducted for admission to Bachelor Degree programs in Agriculture and Allied Sciences (other than Veterinary Sciences), at Agricultural Universities on 20% of the University seats [100% seats in RLBCAU, Jhansi; Dr. RPCAU Pusa, Bihar; ICAR-NDRI, Karnal; ICAR-IARI, New Delhi and its Hubs.

Rajasthan JET Exam

Rajasthan Joint Entrance Test (JET) is a state-level entrance exam conducted by Agriculture University, Jodhpur. It offers admission to various undergraduate programs in Agriculture and Allied Sciences at several Rajasthan Agricultural Universities, including SKRAU, Bikaner, MPUAT, Udaipur, SKNAU, Jobner AU, Jodhpur, AU, Kota, and RAJUVAS, Bikaner.

UPCATET Entrance Exam

The Uttar Pradesh Combined Agriculture and Technology Entrance Test (UPCATET) is a state-level entrance exam held annually to select candidates for undergraduate and postgraduate agriculture programs. Conducted offline (pen-paper-based) over a three-hour duration, UPCATET is open to Uttar Pradesh domicile holders.

SHIATS Entrance Exam

Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences (SHIATS) determines admissions to its diverse range of programs through the SHIATS Entrance Exam. This entrance exam, along with direct interviews, evaluates candidates' suitability for the various faculties and schools within SHUATS.

Agriculture Courses: Career Scope & Opportunities

BSc Agriculture graduates have ample job opportunities in the government as well as private sector. They can be hired as Agriculture Development Officers (ADO) and Block Development Officers (BDO). Employment opportunities are available as:

Course	Jobs	Salary Offered (in INR LPA)
BSc (Agriculture)	Private jobs
	Assistant Manager-Tea Plantation	3.5 to 4
	Assistant Manager-Rubber Plantation	3.5 to 4
	Teak Plantation Manager	4 to 5
	Assistant Manager-Coffee Plantation	3.5 to 5
	Manager-Jute plantation	3 to 4
	Social Forestry Officer	5 to 6
	Plant Breeder/Grafting Expert	3 to 4.5
	Budding/Tissue Culture Expert	3 to 4
	Seed/Nursery Manager	3.5 to 5
	Agriculture Research Scientist	6 to 7
	Officer in Quality Assurance in Related Fields	5 to 6
	Agri-Preneurship	4 to 5
	Farm Manager	5 to 6
	Seed Technology Firm	5 to 6
	Agriculture Loan Officer in Banks	5 to 6
	Operations Manager in Fertilizer Units	5 to 6
	Extension Officer	5 to 6
	Government jobs
	Agriculture Specialist Officer(SO) (IBPS SO exam)	6.5 to 7.5
	Agriculture Officer (SSC, NABARD exam)	5 to 6.6
	Food Safety Officer (FSSAI, FCI, State food safety officer exams)	6 to 7
	Forest Officer (UPSC IFS)	8 to 9.5

Pursuing agriculture courses after completing your 12th grade can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of our society, providing essential food, fiber, and fuel. With technological advancements and sustainable practices, agriculture continues to evolve, offering exciting opportunities for skilled professionals. By choosing an agriculture course, you can contribute to global food security, environmental sustainability, and rural development. Whether you're passionate about plant science, animal husbandry, agricultural engineering, or agribusiness management, there's a diverse range of courses to explore

Read More:

• Job Opportunities & Salary Offered After Completing BSc Degree 
• List of ICARs in India- Courses, Admission Process 
• Best ICAR-approved Agriculture Colleges in India with Annual Fee