PhD in Agronomy Admission 2026-27 - Top University in Ranchi, Jharkhand

The PhD in Agronomy program aims to provide advanced knowledge and research skills in agricultural sciences. It focuses on developing innovative solutions to enhance crop production, soil health, pest management, and sustainable farming practices. The program encourages original research to address challenges such as food security, environmental sustainability, and rural development. Students are equipped to contribute significantly to academic research, agribusiness, government policy, and sustainable agriculture practices.​

• Candidates must hold a master’s degree from a recognized university or institution.
• A minimum of 55% marks in the master’s degree is required.
• Relaxation in minimum marks is applicable for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/differently-abled and other reserved categories, as per UGC and Government of India regulations.
• Candidates who have cleared UGC (JRF) Examinations, NET, SET, SLET, or who hold an M.Phil degree are exempted from the entrance exam and can directly appear for the interview.

The PhD in Agronomy at Usha Martin University has a minimum duration of 3 years, structured semester-wise. The program offers flexibility to pursue it either

• Full-time or
• Part-time

• Agronomist – Specializes in crop production, soil management, and sustainable farming techniques.
• Research Scientist – Conducts advanced research in crop biotechnology, soil science, and plant breeding.
• Agricultural Officer – Implements agricultural policies and extension services in government organizations.
• Subject Matter Specialist – Provides expert advice on crop management and agricultural inputs at Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
• Rice Breeder/Plant Breeder—Develops improved crop varieties with higher yield and resistance.
• Soil Scientist – Studies soil properties for better crop productivity and environmental conservation.
• Agricultural Consultant – Offers advisory services to farmers, agribusinesses, and government bodies.
• Food Processing and Fertilizer Industry Specialist—Works in R&D and quality control.
• Academic Roles—University professor or lecturer guiding future agricultural scientists.
• Policy Maker and Development Specialist—Shapes agricultural policies and rural development programs.

The PhD Agronomy Usha Martin University coursework is structured to build research competence and expertise in agricultural sciences, aligned with UGC guidelines.

• Research Methodology – Covers fundamental research concepts, quantitative and qualitative methods, experimental design, data analysis, and academic writing to develop effective research skills.
• Specialized Core Paper – A subject-specific paper based on the candidate’s research focus in areas such as crop production, soil science, plant breeding, or agricultural biotechnology, finalized with supervisor approval.
• Research and Publication Ethics—Emphasizes ethical research practices, plagiarism prevention, intellectual property rights, and maintaining publication integrity.
• Research Training (Review Paper) – Enhances proficiency in conducting literature reviews, critical analysis, and synthesizing scientific research relevant to the scholar’s research topic.

Admission for the Doctoral programme in Agronomy is based on the university’s entrance exam followed by an interview.

• The entrance exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), with 50 questions on research methodology and general aptitude and 50 questions on subject-specific knowledge relevant to the program.
• The minimum qualifying marks are 50 percent for the general category and 45 percent for reserved categories.
• Final selection depends on the combined performance in the entrance exam and interview.

Full-time scholars typically conduct research on campus, while part-time PhD candidates must be employed in academic or research institutions and available for meetings as required.

Applicants can apply for Ph.D Agronomy admission at Usha Martin University by following these steps –

• Obtain the PhD application form from the university’s official website or directly from the campus.
• Fill in the required details accurately in the application form.
• Submit the completed form either online through the university portal or offline at the university campus.
• Upload or attach all necessary supporting documents with the form.
• Pay the application fee. Pay online for the online application or through DD for the offline application.

No. Candidates who have qualified for UGC JRF, NET, SET, SLET or hold an M.Phil degree are exempted from the entrance exam and can directly appear for the interview.

The entrance exam has 100 MCQs, with 50 questions from research methodology and general aptitude and 50 from subject-specific topics such as Agronomy.

Yes. Full-time scholars conduct research on campus, and part-time scholars are usually working professionals from academic or research institutions.

The application form is available online on the university’s official website and at the campus. Candidates must fill out the form, upload/attach documents, and pay the application fee to complete the submission.

The program prepares scholars to contribute to innovative farming practices, improved crop yield, soil health, and food security. It opens strong career opportunities in academics, research, agribusiness, biotechnology, and policy development.