Agriculture plays a crucial role in the economy of West Bengal, and the demand for advanced education in this field is ever-growing. The Master of Science (MSC) in Agriculture is a postgraduate program that delves deep into agricultural science, technology, and management.

Top 20 MSC Agriculture Colleges in West Bengal

This article aims to guide aspiring students by providing a comprehensive list of the top 20 MSC Agriculture colleges in West Bengal, highlighting their programs, facilities, admission criteria, and other essential details.

Also Read: Top 20 MSC Agriculture Colleges in Telangana

1. Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur

Established in 1974, BCKV is one of the premier agricultural universities in India, dedicated to the development and dissemination of MSC Agriculture knowledge.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy, Plant Pathology, Agricultural Entomology, and more.
• Facilities: Well-equipped laboratories, extensive research fields, a modern library, and student hostels.
• Admission Criteria: Based on entrance exams conducted by the university and academic performance in the bachelor’s degree.

2. University of Calcutta, Kolkata

One of the oldest universities in India, the University of Calcutta offers a robust MSC Agriculture program.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with various specializations including Horticulture, Soil Science, and Agricultural Biotechnology.
• Facilities: State-of-the-art laboratories, research centres, and collaborations with leading agricultural research institutes.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance exam followed by an interview process.

3. Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan

Founded by Rabindranath Tagore, Visva-Bharati University emphasizes holistic education, including agricultural sciences.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture focusing on sustainable farming practices and agricultural innovation.
• Facilities: Research farms, botanical gardens, and advanced research laboratories.
• Admission Criteria: Merit-based selection and entrance test scores.

4. Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya (UBKV), Cooch Behar

UBKV, established in 2001, is dedicated to MSC Agriculture education and research in the northern region of West Bengal.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations like Agronomy, Plant Protection, and Soil Science.
• Facilities: Modern research laboratories, experimental farms, and a well-stocked library.
• Admission Criteria: University entrance test and academic performance.

5. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur

Renowned for its engineering programs, IIT Kharagpur also excels in agricultural research and education through its Agricultural and Food Engineering Department.

• Programs: MSC in Agricultural Engineering and other advanced agricultural studies.
• Facilities: Cutting-edge research facilities, extensive field research areas, and collaborations with international institutions.
• Admission Criteria: GATE/NET scores followed by an interview.

6. Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata

IISER Kolkata focuses on research and innovation in science, including agricultural sciences.

• Programs: Integrated MSC-PhD in Agricultural Sciences.
• Facilities: High-end research laboratories, interdisciplinary research centres, and a strong emphasis on scientific research.
• Admission Criteria: National entrance tests like JEST, JAM, and performance in bachelor’s degree.

7. Kalyani University, Kalyani

Kalyani University offers a range of postgraduate programs including MSC Agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Pathology.
• Facilities: Advanced research labs, greenhouses, and extensive agricultural fields for practical training.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance exam conducted by the university and previous academic records.

8. Jadavpur University, Kolkata

Known for its engineering and science programs, Jadavpur University also provides quality education in agricultural sciences.

• Programs: MSC in Agricultural Engineering and related fields.
• Facilities: Modern laboratories, research centres, and collaboration with agricultural institutes.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test scores and academic performance.

9. Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute (RKMVERI), Belur

A deemed university focusing on holistic education and research, RKMVERI offers specialized courses in agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agricultural Biotechnology and Rural Development.
• Facilities: Research farms, biotechnology labs, and extensive library resources.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and interview.

10. Aliah University, Kolkata

Aliah University offers a variety of programs in science and technology, including agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy and Horticulture.
• Facilities: Advanced research facilities, experimental farms, and a well-equipped library.
• Admission Criteria: University entrance test and merit-based selection.

11. West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata

Focused on animal and fishery sciences, this university also offers advanced agricultural programs.

• Programs: MSC in Agricultural Biotechnology and Agronomy.
• Facilities: Research farms, modern laboratories, and comprehensive library resources.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance exam and academic performance.

12. Institute of Agricultural Science, University of Calcutta, Kolkata

A dedicated institute within the University of Calcutta, focusing on agricultural education and research.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with various specializations.
• Facilities: State-of-the-art laboratories, research fields, and extensive library facilities.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and academic merit.

13. Raiganj University, Raiganj

Raiganj University offers a range of postgraduate MSC Agriculture programs, including agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy, Horticulture, and Soil Science.
• Facilities: Research labs, experimental farms, and modern classrooms.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and merit-based selection.

14. Sister Nivedita University, Kolkata

A relatively new institution, Sister Nivedita University offers innovative MSC Agriculture programs.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy and Plant Pathology.
• Facilities: Modern research labs, extensive agricultural fields, and a well-stocked library.
• Admission Criteria: University entrance test and academic performance.

15. Amity University, Kolkata

Part of the Amity Education Group, this university provides a comprehensive MSC Agriculture program.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy and Horticulture.
• Facilities: Cutting-edge laboratories, research centres, and modern classrooms.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and interview process.

16. Techno India University, Kolkata

Known for its technical and scientific programs, Techno India University offers quality education in agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agricultural Biotechnology and Agronomy.
• Facilities: Advanced research labs, experimental farms, and extensive library resources.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and academic merit.

17. Netaji Subhas Open University (NSOU), Kolkata

NSOU offers distance education programs in various fields, including MSC Agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture through distance learning.
• Facilities: Online resources, study materials, and periodic contact programs.
• Admission Criteria: Merit-based selection and performance in the qualifying exam.

18. Brainware University, Kolkata

Brainware University offers a range of programs in science and technology, including agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy and Plant Pathology.
• Facilities: Modern research facilities, experimental farms, and comprehensive library resources.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and merit-based selection.

19. MAKAUT, Kolkata (Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology)

Formerly known as WBUT, MAKAUT offers various technical and scientific programs, including agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agricultural Biotechnology and Agronomy.
• Facilities: State-of-the-art laboratories, research centres, and modern classrooms.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and academic performance.

20. Bengal Institute of Technology and Management (BITM), Santiniketan

BITM offers a range of technical and management programs, including agriculture.

• Programs: MSC in Agriculture with specializations in Agronomy and Horticulture.
• Facilities: Modern laboratories, research fields, and a comprehensive library.
• Admission Criteria: Entrance test and interview.

Conclusion

West Bengal is home to a diverse range of institutions offering advanced education in agriculture. From traditional universities to modern research institutes, these colleges provide comprehensive programs that equip students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in the agricultural sector. Whether you are interested in agronomy, biotechnology, horticulture, or agricultural engineering, the top 20 MSC Agriculture colleges in West Bengal offer a variety of specializations and state-of-the-art facilities to support your academic and research pursuits. Choose the institution that best aligns with your career goals and embark on a rewarding journey in the field of agriculture.

This article serves as a guide for students seeking advanced education in agriculture in West Bengal. Each institution listed has been selected based on its academic excellence, research facilities, and overall contribution to the field of agricultural sciences. Make an informed decision and take the next step towards a successful career in agriculture.

Vani Jha

(Full bio)