A Ph.D. in Horticulture is an advanced academic degree that focuses on the science and art of cultivating plants, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants, as well as landscaping and turf management. This doctoral program typically involves advanced coursework, independent research, and the completion of a dissertation.
With a Ph.D. in Horticulture, you can pursue a career as a university professor conducting research and teaching undergraduate and graduate courses. Extension specialists work with agricultural communities to disseminate research findings and provide education and outreach on horticultural practices, pest management, and sustainable agriculture.
With a Ph.D. in Horticulture, you can work in government agencies or non-profit organizations, analyzing and developing policies related to agriculture, environmental conservation, and food security. You may choose to start your own business, such as a nursery, landscaping company, agricultural consultancy, or biotechnology firm focused on horticultural innovations.
Ph.D Horticulture Highlights
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Course |
Ph.D Horticulture |
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Level |
PhD |
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Duration |
3 years |
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Examination Type |
Semester System |
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Eligibility |
MSc with minimum 55% aggregate marks and 1-year experience |
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Admission Process |
Entrance Exam, Personal Interview & Merit |
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Average Starting Salary |
INR 3 to 8 lacs per annum |
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Top Recruiting Companies |
Agriculture, Forestry, Environmental assessment, Land use Mining, Oil & gas industries, Research for government or educational institutions, and many more. |
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Job Role |
Crop Consultant, Wetland Specialist, County Conservationist, Crop Production Specialist, Watershed Technician, Hydrologist with Board of Health, Environmental Technician, State Soil And Water Quality Specialist, Soil Conservationist, Country Agricultural Soil Scientist, Research Technician, Conservation Planner, District Marketing Manager, Research Scientist, among others. |
Eligibility Criteria for Ph.D Horticulture
1. Candidates who want to take admission in Ph.D. must have a post-graduate degree in Animal Physiology and its relevant discipline.
2. Candidates had at least 55% marks from a recognized university.
3. Candidates must have passed the national-level entrance examination or university-level entrance examination.
4. National level entrance exams like UGC NET / UGC CSIR NET / GATE / SLET or University entrance exams consist of written tests and personal interviews.
Admission Process
1. Colleges publish notice of admission on their website from June when most Indian universities would have finished degree exams.
2. Candidate to apply for each college, as each college considers each mark as the cut-off mark.
3. Some private colleges and deemed universities perform their counselling process by conducting their university-level entrance exams.
4. Some colleges require a minimum of 50% aggregate in the qualifying examination.
5. Candidates who qualify for the test are called for an interview before the final seat allotment.
6. Admissions for the dairy technology doctorate courses are done through entrance exams like CSIR-UGC NET, UGC NET, GATE, etc.
Career after Ph.D Horticulture
Ph.D. horticulturists have a wide range of career options available to them, from research and academia to industry and government. Many choose to work in research institutions or universities, where they can conduct groundbreaking studies on plant genetics, crop production, and sustainability. Others may find employment in government agencies, such as the USDA or EPA, where they can help shape agricultural policies and regulations.
The job opportunities for a Ph.D are varied. In many areas, you can work as a research scientist or a manager, managing livestock, research animals, and even wildlife species. You can also collaborate with other graduate programs at UBC, as well as with government agencies such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Dairy Farmers of Canada. Many Ph.D. graduates pursue careers as professors or researchers in academic institutions.
For those interested in a more hands-on approach, careers in landscaping, urban planning, and arboriculture are also possible with a Ph.D. in horticulture. Whether designing a sustainable garden or managing a botanical garden, the possibilities are endless for those with advanced knowledge in plant science.
Skills and Qualifications for Success in Ph.D Horticulture
While a Ph.D. in horticulture is a significant achievement, success in this field also requires a unique set of skills and qualifications. Strong analytical and research skills are essential for conducting experiments and analyzing data, while excellent communication skills are needed to convey research findings to a wider audience.
In addition, horticulturists must have a deep understanding of plant biology, soil science, and environmental sustainability to succeed in this field. Creativity, innovation, and a passion for conservation are also vital traits for those looking to make a difference in the world of horticulture.
Ph.D. in horticulture opens up a world of possibilities for those looking to pursue a rewarding and challenging career in plant science. Whether working in research, academia, or industry, horticulturists have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the environment and society as a whole. With the right skills, qualifications, and passion for plants, a successful career in horticulture is within reach for those willing to cultivate their potential.
