Curriculum Overview
The curriculum for the B.Tech in Agriculture at G L A University Mathura is meticulously structured to provide students with a strong foundation in scientific principles while offering exposure to contemporary issues and innovations in agriculture. The program spans eight semesters, with each semester designed to progressively build upon the previous one.
| SEMESTER | COURSE CODE | COURSE TITLE | L-T-P-C | PRE-REQUISITES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | AG101 | Introduction to Agriculture | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| Semester 1 | AG102 | Plant Physiology | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| Semester 1 | AG103 | Chemistry for Agriculture | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| Semester 1 | AG104 | Basic Biology | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| Semester 1 | AG105 | Environmental Studies | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| Semester 1 | AG106 | Computer Applications in Agriculture | 2-0-2-3 | - |
| Semester 2 | AG201 | Soil Science | 3-1-0-4 | AG103, AG104 |
| Semester 2 | AG202 | Agronomy | 3-1-0-4 | AG102, AG201 |
| Semester 2 | AG203 | Plant Pathology | 3-1-0-4 | AG102, AG104 |
| Semester 2 | AG204 | Entomology | 3-1-0-4 | AG102, AG104 |
| Semester 2 | AG205 | Agricultural Economics | 3-1-0-4 | AG103, AG105 |
| Semester 2 | AG206 | Statistics in Agriculture | 2-0-2-3 | AG103 |
| Semester 3 | AG301 | Plant Breeding and Genetics | 3-1-0-4 | AG202, AG203 |
| Semester 3 | AG302 | Crop Protection | 3-1-0-4 | AG203, AG204 |
| Semester 3 | AG303 | Agricultural Extension | 3-1-0-4 | AG205 |
| Semester 3 | AG304 | Rural Sociology | 3-1-0-4 | AG205 |
| Semester 3 | AG305 | Soil Microbiology | 3-1-0-4 | AG201, AG104 |
| Semester 3 | AG306 | Agricultural Policy | 3-1-0-4 | AG205 |
| Semester 4 | AG401 | Livestock Science | 3-1-0-4 | AG102, AG202 |
| Semester 4 | AG402 | Agricultural Engineering | 3-1-0-4 | AG201, AG202 |
| Semester 4 | AG403 | Water Resources Management | 3-1-0-4 | AG201 |
| Semester 4 | AG404 | Agri-Business Management | 3-1-0-4 | AG205, AG401 |
| Semester 4 | AG405 | Climate Change and Agriculture | 3-1-0-4 | AG201, AG205 |
| Semester 4 | AG406 | Field Research Methodology | 2-0-2-3 | AG206 |
| Semester 5 | AG501 | Precision Agriculture | 3-1-0-4 | AG402, AG403 |
| Semester 5 | AG502 | Digital Farming Tools | 3-1-0-4 | AG402 |
| Semester 5 | AG503 | Biotechnology in Agriculture | 3-1-0-4 | AG301, AG303 |
| Semester 5 | AG504 | Food Processing Technology | 3-1-0-4 | AG202 |
| Semester 5 | AG505 | Agri-Entrepreneurship | 3-1-0-4 | AG404, AG205 |
| Semester 5 | AG506 | Environmental Impact Assessment | 3-1-0-4 | AG201, AG205 |
| Semester 6 | AG601 | Agricultural Marketing | 3-1-0-4 | AG205, AG404 |
| Semester 6 | AG602 | Advanced Crop Management | 3-1-0-4 | AG301, AG302 |
| Semester 6 | AG603 | Post-Harvest Handling | 3-1-0-4 | AG504 |
| Semester 6 | AG604 | Research Project | 2-0-4-4 | AG406 |
| Semester 6 | AG605 | Internship | 0-0-8-8 | AG301, AG402 |
| Semester 7 | AG701 | Advanced Biotechnology Applications | 3-1-0-4 | AG503 |
| Semester 7 | AG702 | Agri-Data Analytics | 3-1-0-4 | AG206 |
| Semester 7 | AG703 | Crop Improvement Techniques | 3-1-0-4 | AG502 |
| Semester 7 | AG704 | Research Proposal Writing | 2-0-2-3 | - |
| Semester 8 | AG801 | Final Year Thesis/Capstone Project | 2-0-8-8 | AG704, AG604 |
| Semester 8 | AG802 | Presentation Skills for Scientists | 2-0-2-3 | - |
| Semester 8 | AG803 | Professional Ethics in Agriculture | 2-0-2-3 | - |
Detailed Course Descriptions
Among the departmental electives, several stand out for their relevance and impact:
- Biotechnology in Agriculture: This course explores the application of biotechnology tools such as genetic engineering, molecular markers, and bioinformatics in crop improvement and pest management. Students learn how to apply these techniques to develop high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties.
- Digital Farming Tools: Focused on integrating technology into farming practices, this course covers drones, sensors, GPS mapping, and AI-based analytics used for precision agriculture.
- Agri-Entrepreneurship: Designed to inspire innovation, this elective introduces students to business planning, venture creation, and market analysis specific to the agricultural sector.
- Agricultural Marketing: This course delves into pricing strategies, supply chain management, and consumer behavior in agricultural markets, preparing students for roles in agri-business.
- Post-Harvest Handling: Students gain insights into storage techniques, packaging methods, food safety standards, and value-added processing technologies that preserve crop quality.
- Environmental Impact Assessment: This subject teaches students to evaluate the environmental consequences of agricultural practices and propose mitigation strategies.
- Agricultural Economics and Policy: Covers economic principles applied to agriculture, including cost-benefit analysis, subsidies, trade policies, and rural development initiatives.
- Advanced Crop Management: Focuses on optimizing crop production through scientific methods, including irrigation scheduling, fertilization, and integrated pest management.
- Crop Improvement Techniques: Explores modern techniques for developing superior crop varieties using conventional breeding and biotechnology approaches.
- Agri-Data Analytics: Emphasizes data collection, statistical analysis, and visualization tools used in agricultural decision-making processes.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department strongly advocates for project-based learning as a means to enhance student engagement and skill development. Mini-projects are introduced from the third semester onwards, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. These projects often involve collaboration with local farmers or NGOs, ensuring relevance and impact.
Students select their project topics in consultation with faculty mentors based on personal interests, research opportunities, and current industry needs. The selection process involves proposal submission, mentor matching, and timeline planning. Projects are evaluated using rubrics that assess both technical proficiency and communication skills.
The final-year capstone project is a significant component of the program, requiring students to conduct independent research or develop an innovative solution to a pressing agricultural challenge. This culminates in a written thesis and oral presentation before a panel of experts.