Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University
- Release Date : November 21, 2024
- Last updated : December 14, 2024
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur
Introduction
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU), located in Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar, India, is one of the premier agricultural universities in the country. Established in 1970, it was initially known as the Rajendra Agricultural University and was later elevated to a central university in 2016. The university is named after Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, and is dedicated to fostering education, research, and development in the field of agriculture and allied sciences.
RPCAU aims to meet the growing challenges of agricultural development, improve agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices. The university has a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and extension services to cater to the agricultural needs of the region and the country.
Admission
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in various disciplines related to agriculture, horticulture, veterinary sciences, and allied fields. The university conducts an entrance exam for admissions to various courses.
Undergraduate Admissions:
- Admission Process: Admissions to undergraduate programs are typically based on the performance in the entrance examination conducted by the university. The exam assesses the candidates on subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and general knowledge.
- Eligibility: Candidates must have completed their higher secondary education (12th grade) with subjects like physics, chemistry, and biology or agriculture. The minimum eligibility for most undergraduate courses is typically 50% in the 12th grade, with some relaxation for reserved categories.
Postgraduate Admissions:
- Admission Process: Admission to the postgraduate programs is usually through an entrance exam followed by counseling. The entrance exam evaluates candidates based on their academic knowledge in relevant fields such as agriculture, agricultural engineering, and veterinary sciences.
- Eligibility: A relevant bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as B.Sc. Agriculture or B.Tech. Agriculture Engineering, is required. The minimum required percentage varies, but typically it is around 55% for general category students.
Ph.D. Admissions:
- Admission Process: Ph.D. admissions are based on an entrance test followed by an interview. Candidates who have qualified for NET (National Eligibility Test) or other recognized research fellowship exams may be exempt from the entrance exam.
- Eligibility: Applicants must have a master’s degree in the relevant field with a minimum of 55% marks.
Application Process:
- Candidates can apply online through the university’s official website by filling out the application form and submitting necessary documents such as educational certificates, identity proof, and photographs. They also need to pay the application fee and appear for the entrance exam as required.
Courses Offered
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses in agriculture and related fields. Some of the major courses include:
Undergraduate Programs:
- B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture: A four-year program focusing on the fundamentals of agricultural sciences, plant breeding, crop production, soil science, agronomy, and agricultural economics.
- B.V.Sc. & AH (Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry): A five-year program that trains students in veterinary science, animal health, and livestock management.
- B.Tech. (Agricultural Engineering): A four-year course focusing on agricultural machinery, irrigation systems, and agricultural infrastructure.
- B.Sc. Horticulture: A program designed to develop expertise in the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and other horticultural crops.
Postgraduate Programs:
- M.Sc. Agriculture (Various Specializations): Includes specializations such as Agronomy, Soil Science, Horticulture, Plant Breeding, and Agricultural Economics.
- M.Sc. Horticulture: A specialized program in the science of fruit, vegetable, and ornamental plant production.
- M.Tech. Agricultural Engineering: A program focusing on agricultural machinery, post-harvest technology, and irrigation systems.
- MBA (Agriculture Business Management): A program focusing on the business and management aspects of agriculture, including marketing, economics, and rural development.
- M.V.Sc. (Veterinary Science): A program that provides advanced knowledge in veterinary care, animal health, and disease management.
Doctoral Programs :
- Ph.D. programs are offered in various agricultural disciplines such as Agronomy, Plant Breeding, Soil Science, Veterinary Science, Agricultural Economics, and more. These programs focus on in-depth research in specific areas of agricultural science.
Diploma and Certificate Programs:
- The university also offers diploma and certificate courses related to agriculture, agricultural engineering, veterinary sciences, and farm management to enhance skills in these areas.
3. Fees
The fee structure at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University varies depending on the course and category of the student. Here is an approximate range for the fees:
Undergraduate Programs :
- B.Sc. Agriculture, B.V.Sc. & AH, B.Tech. Agriculture Engineering, B.Sc. Horticulture: The fees for undergraduate programs range between INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per year, depending on the program and the student’s category (General, SC/ST, OBC).
- Other Costs: Additional costs include exam fees, hostel fees (if applicable), library fees, and other administrative charges.
Postgraduate Programs :
- M.Sc., M.Tech., MBA: The fees for postgraduate programs range between INR 30,000 to INR 80,000 per year, depending on the program and category of the student.
- Additional Charges: Additional fees may include lab fees, hostel accommodation, and other miscellaneous costs.
Ph.D. Programs(Ph.D):
- The fees for Ph.D. programs generally range between INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per year, depending on the specialization and research area.
Additional Costs:
- Students may incur additional costs for fieldwork, study tours, seminars, workshops, and practicals.
Placements
Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University has a dedicated placement cell that works towards providing career opportunities and guidance to students. The university has strong connections with agricultural industries, research institutions, government agencies, and NGOs, which help in placing students in relevant sectors.
- Internships and Research Opportunities:
- The university promotes internships and research opportunities with government organizations, agricultural research institutes, corporate farms, and NGOs. These internships provide students with hands-on experience and exposure to the real-world agricultural sector.
- Job Placements:
- Graduates from RPCAU often find employment in government departments, agricultural research organizations, farming enterprises, agribusiness companies, NGOs, and international organizations. The placement cell coordinates recruitment drives, industry visits, and career counseling sessions to facilitate job placements.
- Students can also pursue careers in agriculture-related fields such as farm management, agricultural consultancy, and rural development.
- Top Employers:
- Graduates are typically placed in reputed organizations such as ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), government departments, multinational agricultural corporations, and rural development agencies.
- Salary Packages:
- The average starting salary for graduates is in the range of INR 3 LPA to INR 6 LPA, depending on the course and the employer. Postgraduates in fields like agricultural engineering and business management may receive higher packages, ranging from INR 6 LPA to INR 10 LPA.
- Some students may also choose to start their own enterprises or work in the agribusiness sector.
- Entrepreneurship Opportunities:
- RPCAU encourages entrepreneurial initiatives in agriculture, providing support for students interested in starting their own ventures in farming, agribusiness, and agricultural technology.
For detailed information on specific courses, admission criteria, and other queries, download the brochure.
