PhD Botany: Course Fees, Admission 2025, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Feb 18, 2025 12:15 IST

PhD Botany is a research-based doctoral degree program where students study the principles of ecology, plant life and related disciplines. The duration is 3-6 years.

The eligibility is to have a PG degree in a relevant discipline. PhD Botany admission is majorly based on the entrance exam procedure. Some popular entrances are UGC NET, GATE, CSIR NET, and SET.

There are numerous PhD Botany colleges in India. Among them, Lovely Professional University, Ravenshaw University, Shoolini University, Fergusson College, SHUATS and Rabindranath Tagore University are some of the top options.

PhD Botany scholars can seek jobs in fields of Educational Institutions, Medical Labs, Food Companies, Biotechnology, Healthcare, Agriculture, etc. The average PhD in Botany salary in India is INR 1.5 - 6 LPA.

PhD Botany Course Details

Refer to the table for more details

Parameters

Course Details

PhD Botany Full Form

Doctorate of Philosophy in Botany

PhD Botany Course Level

Doctorate

PhD Botany Course Duration

3 – 6 Years

PhD Botany Admission Criteria

Entrance exam-based

  UGC NET, GATE, CSIR NET, and SET.

PhD Botany Colleges in India

Lovely Professional University, Ravenshaw University, Shoolini University, and Rabindranath Tagore University.

PhD Botany Course Fee

INR 21,000 to INR 5.58 Lakh

PhD Botany Jobs

Taxonomist, Agronomist, Ecologist, Research Associate, Mycologist, Plant Breeder, etc.

PhD in Botany Salary in India

INR 1.5 - 6 LPA

PhD Botany Top Recruiters

Sun Pharma, Cipla, Dabur, Hindustan Unilever, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Fortis Healthcare, Apollo etc.

Source- Multiple external/official sites

Q:   What is Ph.D in Botany course all about?
A:

PhD in Botany is a 3 to 6 years doctoral degree programme in which you'll do an in-depth study and research around plants, including their structure, growth, reproduction, physiology, ecology, evolution, and interactions with the environment. Under this program, along with classroom study, students get to write thesis, do field work, internships, attend seminars, and more.

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Q:   What are the benefits of pursuing Ph.D in Botany?
A:

The Ph.D. in Botany prepares students for research, teaching, and publication in their field. In addition, it helps them develop critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as promotes professional ethics.
A Ph.D. in Botany can lead to a career in agriculture, food production, government agencies, and more. Those with a Ph.D. in botany are often hired in universities as professors to teach students the scientific aspects of their chosen field. There are many universities and colleges around the world that offer the program, and some of these offer online classes, allowing working professionals to complete the degree on their own.

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Q:   What is the scope of Botany in India and abroad?
A:

The study of Botany offers a wide scope of future to its students in India as well as abroad.

Upon completion of the course, an individual may opt to go for higher studies or research field, or seeks a job at the subject
related opportunities. Many individuals, after pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Botany, can study MSc in Botany or MSc in Environmental Management for further studies.

One can study abroad as well for further studies due to bigger opportunities and many prestigious Institutions offering the
course study. A Botanist can also work as a field scientist or scientific assistant in both the public and private sectors. However, many environmental management-based companies are keener in recruiting students with this course degree.

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Table of content
  • PhD Botany Eligibility Criteria
  • PhD Botany Entrance Exams: Schedule 2025
  • PhD Botany Syllabus 2025
  • Best PhD Botany Colleges in India
  • Popular Private PhD Botany Colleges in India
  • PhD Botany Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • PhD Botany FAQs
  • Course Cutoffs
View More

PhD Botany Eligibility Criteria

Some of the general criteria you must fulfil are mentioned below-

PG in MSc Botany or any relevant area, and a UG such as BSc Botany.

A minimum 50% aggregate score

There is a 5% relaxation for reserved classes such as SC/ST/OBC (may vary).

No age limit prescribed as such.

Source- Multiple external/ official sites on web, info may vary

Read more

Everything about Ph.D. Admission 2025

PhD Botany Admission

  1. Conduct personal-level research and know the eligibility for the courses in your chosen college.
  2. Look out for whether the admission requires appearing in any entrance; if yes, then choose the exam accordingly.
  3. Register, prepare, and appear for the exams accepted/ conducted by the colleges and wait for the results.
  4. Apply to the universities/ colleges by filling out the application/ registration form.
  5. Check out the official websites for your score.
  6. Attend counselling sessions if shortlisted.
  7. Pay the fees and get your documents verified before you start with your classes.

Read more-

What's Next? Courses After 12th PCMB in India

High-Paying Careers After 12th Science

Q:   Which skills are required to pursue a Ph.D in Botany?
A:

If you're planning to pursue PhD in Botany, here are some skillset you need to possess, that'll help you not only throughout the program, but for career prospects as well.

  • Data-handling skills such as recording, collating, and analyzing data using appropriate techniques and equipment.
  • Written and communication skills.
  • Presentation and oral communication skills such as presenting research findings and make presentations in a clear, succinct way.
  • Project management skills, such as organizing and undertaking research projects, experiments, etc. (including budgeting, contingency planning, and time management).
  • Good understanding of information technology.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
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Q:   My current age is 24. Can I enrol into a PhD Botany course?
A:

Yes, there is no particular age criteria specified as such for you to enrol into a PhD Botany program. The basic requirements are to have a master's degree in botany from a recognised university. It is never too late to opt for a PhD program. If you have the desire to learn and grow in this field, you can surely opt for a PhD programme and make a fruitful career.

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PhD Botany Entrance Exams: Schedule 2025

Admission to PhD Botany program is majorly based on entrance exams in India. Colleges conduct both university and national-level entrance tests for course admissions. Here are some popular PhD in Botany Entrance Exams that candidates can prepare for.

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

UGC NET 2025

2nd Week of June ’25

UGC NET Exam Date 2025

GATE 2025

1,2,15 & 16 Feb ‘25

GATE Exam Date 2025

CSIR NET 2025

28 Feb - 2 March ’25

CSIR NET Exam Date 2025

SET 2025

5 May ’25 (Test 01)

11 May ‘25 (Test 02)

SET Exam Date 2025

Note: The information is sourced from the official body and may vary.

PhD Botany-related topics you may find useful:

How to prepare for top MSc entrance exams?

GATE 2025 Exam Pattern (OUT): Check Subject-wise Paper Pattern, Paper-wise Marking Scheme

NEST 2025 Registration to Begin This Month: Important Dates and Details

 

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
10 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 4: Seat Allotment & Document Upload

12 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 4: Document Verification

12 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 4: re-submission of documents

12 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 4: Document Verification by the Universities

12 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 4: Seat Acceptance Fee deposition

14 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Mop-Up: Registration, Counselling Fee & Choice filling

16 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Mop-Up: Seat Allotment & Document Upload

DatesPast Exam Dates
07 Nov ' 25

ICAR JRF SRF 2025 Counselling Round 3: Seat Acceptance Fee deposition

26 Oct ' 25

TIFR GS 2026 Application deadline for completing REGISTRATION

19 Oct ' 25

TIFR GS 2026 Application deadline for choice of test center

Q:   What is GATE 2026 Exam structure?
A:

GATE papers have three major sections; General Aptitude, Engineering Mathematics & Specific Subject. There are 65 questions asked for 100 marks in GATE exam.  

General aptitude questions are asked for 15 marks, Engineering mathematics in some paper codes, 13 marks and the rest 72 marks from the chosen subject.  

In some paper codes engineering mathematics will be excluded only 15 marks general aptitude questions and rest 85 marks will be of chosen subject. 

Q:   Has the GATE 2026 exam pattern changed from previous years?
A:

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering has come a long way since its inception. The entrance test was first introduced in 1983 and was conducted offline (in pen and paper format) only for engineering and science streams. However, over the years, the pattern of the GATE examination has changed in several factors, such as the following -

  • Giving more emphasis on numerical ability and reasoning questions.

  • More case-based questions are included to understand the candidate’s ability and approach towards practical knowledge.

  • Changing the exam mode from offline to a computer-based test for faster evaluation, improved accuracy, and a more secure examination process.

  • Introducing more elaborated syllabi and disciplines to align with the industry demands and technological advancements. 

Overall, the GATE has grown beyond being a gateway for postgraduate studies. It is now a recognised criterion for recruitment in over 50 PSUs, such as ONGC, IOCL, and NTPC. Candidate can check GATE exam pattern here: GATE 2025 Exam Pattern

PhD Botany Syllabus 2025

PhD Botany syllabus is generally divided into 6 semesters following the 3-year curriculum. However, students can take up to 6 years to complete the syllabus, as it involves extensive research, practicals, fieldwork, etc. Here is a general idea of PhD in Botany subjects for interested candidates.

PhD in Botany Subjects

Research Methodology

Plant Physiology

Taxonomy, Biodiversity & Conservation

Cell Biology and Plant Biochemistry

Research Proposal

Applied Botany

Recent Advances in Ecology

Biotechnology and Human Welfare

Recent advances in Plant Physiology

Analytical Techniques and Computer Applications

Trends in Biotechnology

Plant Disease Management

Recent advances in Mycology and Plant Pathology

Mushroom Cultivation

Note: The information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

PhD Botany topics students are interested in:

All about Botany Subjects

Popular Specializations

Q:   What are the various types of Ph.D in Botany available in India?
A:

PhD in Botany course is available in 3 types:

  • Full-Time PhD in Botany: PhD in Botany is a 3 to 6 years doctorate degree program. In the full-time learning mode, students have to attend regular classroom-based learning. They also need to submit all the assignments and projects and they need to appear for their exams on their institute campus. 
    Students can learn from their peers and also can solve issues with the faculty members which is the best thing in this mode of learning.
  • Part-Time PhD in Botany: A part-time course is designed for professionals who do not have the time to dedicate to a full-time course. Since it is a practical course, there is no Part-time option available.
  • Distance PhD in Botany: A distance learning course is designed for students who do not have the time and proper financial background to pursue a full-time course. Since it is a practical course, there is no distance learning option available.
Q:   Which books are recommended for Ph.D Botany?
A:

Here are some books related to PhD Botany you should read:

BooksAuthors
Plants PhysiologyEduardo Zeiger and Lincoln Taiz
Introductory Plant Biology Stern
Introduction to Plant Physiology Hopkins W.G and Huner P.A
Molecular Biology of the CellBruce Alberts
Concepts of Genetics Klug W.S., Cummings M.R., Spencer C.A

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

Q:   Is it tough to pursue a PhD in Botany?
A:

You need to have a strong base in biology and chemistry along with knowledge in plant ecosystem for pursuing a PhD in Botany course. Candidates who have a passion to study the core concepts of the plant biology in depth will easily be able to crack the fundamentals and score well in the subjects.

Q:   Is there any change in the GATE 2025 syllabus?
A:

The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering GATE 2025 notification has been released. No change in GATE 2025 syllabus has been announced by the IIT Roorkee. The GATE exam 2025 will be conducted in February 1, 2, 15 and 16, 2025 for 30 papers. The GATE application form 2025 has been released at the GOAPS portal on August 28, 2024. The last date to submit the application form with regular fees was October 3, 2024 and October 11, 2024 (with extended fees). Candidates can apply online to appear in GATE 2025 exam. 

Best PhD Botany Colleges in India

There are approximately 111 PhD in Botany colleges in India, of which around 26 are private entities and 32 are government colleges. These colleges, along with good learning and research options, offer placement opportunities to PhD holders. Candidates can find the college details in the tables below:

Best Government Colleges for PhD Botany

Ravenshaw University, Vardhman Mahaveer Open University, SVU University, etc., are some of the best government colleges in India offering PhD in Botany degree program. Candidates can find some more similar options in the table below:

Best Government Colleges

Tuition Fee

Ravenshaw University

INR 35,000

Guru Nanak Dev University

INR 1.15 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

Best Private Colleges for PhD Botany

Lovely Professional University, Shoolini University, Rabindranath Tagore University, etc., are some of the best private colleges in India offering PhD in Botany degree program. Candidates can find some more similar options in the table below:

Best Private Colleges

Tuition Fee

Apex University

INR 3 Lakh

Jai Hind College Mumbai

INR 1.03 Lakh

Lovely Professional University

INR 3 Lakh

Rabindranath Tagore University

INR 3.15 Lakh

Royal Global University

INR 3.25 Lakh

SAGE University Bhopal

INR 3 Lakh

SHUATS

INR 4.20 Lakh

Shoolini University

INR 5.58 Lakh

Vivekananda Global University

INR 4.5 Lakh

Centurion University of Technology and Management

INR 4 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

PhD Botany topics you may find useful:

Best Botany colleges in India

UGC Issued List of 21 Fake Universities in 2025

3 L

Botany Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
1.03 L
Q:   Which university is best for Ph.D in Botany in India?
A:

More than 100 colleges in India offer PhD in Botany and its related disciplines. Among them, some top rated universities include Lovely Professional University and Shoolini University. The average course fee of these colleges ranges between INR 3 - 6 Lakh. 

Q:   What are the various colleges that offer Ph.D Botany with an affordable fee structure?
A:

Yes, here are some college options for PhD Botany under INR 1 Lacs fee, you can consider:

PhD Botany CollegesCourse Fee
Ravenshaw UniversityINR 35,000
NIMS Institute of Medical and Allied SciencesINR 90,000
IFTM UniversityINR 21,000

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

Q:   How many PhD in Botany colleges are there in India?
A:

There are more than 100 colleges in India which are widely known for their PhD in Botany programs. Out of these, approximately 32 colleges are government bodies and 26 are private institutions. These colleges have the top faculty members from all over the country who offer correct guidance and mentorship to the candidates and help them kickstart their careers.

Q:   Are there any colleges offering online Botany courses?
A:

A very few colleges offer Online Botany courses such as KSOU Mysore and Andhra University Online. Their course fee ranges around INR 50,000 - 60,000. Interested students can click here to find some top Botany Online Courses & Certifications. 

Popular Private PhD Botany Colleges in India

1 Course
5.58 L
4.0
3 L

Botany Applications open. Apply Now

3 L

Botany Applications open. Apply Now

PhD Botany Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

PhD Botany Scholars can foresee their career future in numerous industries such as Agriculture, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, Medicine, Clinical Research, Food Processing, and more. They can go for both government and private job sectors. Candidates can take a look at some popular job profiles and PhD in Botany salary details from the table below:

Job Profiles

Job Description

Average Salary

Lab Technician

As the name suggests, their job is to work in the laboratories and perform scientific experiments for research purposes.

INR 6.5 - 8.3 LPA

Agronomist

They advise farmers on how to improve crop yields and manage their land.

INR 5.2 LPA

Environmental Scientist

They study the relationship between organisms and their environment, and their role in society.

INR 3.3 LPA

Research Associate

They analyze data, conduct research, write reports, provide technical support, and more.

INR 4.7 LPA

Mycologist

They study the properties of fungi such as yeast and mould.

INR 11.9 LPA

Plant Breeder

They research and improve plant characteristics to meet market demands and consumer needs.

INR 5 LPA

Note: The salary information is sourced from Ambitionbox.com.

PhD Botany topics you may find helpful:

Career Guidance for Botanists

Scope of Horticulture in India

PhD Botany Top Recruiters

Countless companies from numerous industries hire PhD Botany scholars for multiple job roles. Here are some examples of top recruiters for PhD Botany Scholars.

PhD Botany Top Recruiters

Swami Vivekanand Subharti University

Max Healthcare

Fortis Healthcare

Nagarjuna Agri Tech Ltd.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Ajanta Soya Ltd.

Cipla Ltd.

Nestle India Ltd.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd.

Britannia Industries Ltd.

Note: The information is sourced from external sources and may vary.

PhD Botany topics students find interesting:

Botany Career Scope

Q:   What is the average salary of Ph.D in Botany scholar in India?
A:

It is difficult to decide an average PhD in Botany salary as PhD Botany Scholars opt for a variety of career paths and every job profile attracts different salary package based on the employer, geographical location of the company, relevant experience and skillset of the candidate, and more. However, an average salary of a Botanist is INR 5.7 LPA in India.

Q:   Which are the top job profiles for Botany students?
A:

Botany students can opt for roles such as Research Scientists, Plant Biotechnologists, or Environmental Consultants. They may also work in the Agriculture sector as Crop Scientists or Plant Breeders, in Conservation as Wildlife Biologists, or in Academia as Lecturers. Other options include working with botanical gardens, in pharmaceuticals for drug development, or in environmental NGOs focusing on sustainability. Opportunities in government agencies for forest management or natural resource management are also popular.

 

PhD Botany FAQs

Candidates can refer to this section for PhD Botany FAQs.

Q:   How do I prepare for Ph.D in Botany?
A:

There are many tips that students must note when deciding to pursue a Diploma in Mechatronics degree. Some important preparation tips are listed below to ensure that the students crack the course and pass the exams without any hurdles. 

  • Improve Vocabulary: Students need to communicate efficiently such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing which will help them to prosper in every work they do. Steady progress will help them reach their desired goals in their career.
  • Read and Practice More: Students should do more research work to indulge in this course more deeply and they should try different experiments in botanical science.
  • Have Intrinsic Knowledge and Interest in Subjects: Having intrinsic knowledge about the subject and having the same interest will keep the student motivated to learn more than what's in the syllabus.
Q:   Which is better- Zoology or Botany?
A:

 Zoology is the scientific study of animals, covering a wide range of species from microscopic organisms to complex vertebrates. It encompasses areas like animal behaviour, physiology, anatomy, genetics, evolution, and ecology.

Botany is the scientific study of plants, including algae, fungi, mosses, ferns, gymnosperms, and flowering plants. It covers plant Anatomy,  Physiology, Taxonomy, Ecology,  Genetics, and evolution.

Candidates can check the table below to see the comparison between the two courses.

Parameters

Botany

Zoology

Course Level

UG, PG, PhD, Diploma

UG, PG, PhD

Course Duration

2-3 years

2-3 years

Course Fee

INR 1,500 - INR 5.3 Lakh

INR 2,000 - INR 3 Lakh

Entrance Exams

CUET, CPGET, CUET PG, etc.

CUET, CPGET, CUET PG, URAT PG, etc.

Popular Colleges

Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, Calcutta University, Aligarh Muslim University, etc.

Banaras Hindu University, Delhi University, Calcutta University, Aligarh Muslim University, etc.

Job Profiles

Ecologist, Plant Breeder, Horticulturist, Plant Physiologist, etc.

Zoologist, conservationist, wildlife biologist, wildlife educator, etc.

Average Salary

INR 1.4 LPA - INR 8.2 LPA

INR 4 LPA - INR 5 LPA

Top Recruiters

Department of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Agency, Forest Service, Nature Conservancy, Seed Company, Horticulture Companies, etc.

Indian Forest Service (IFS), Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB), etc.

Q:   Are there any latest trends in Botany field?
A:

With every discovery through research by experts in Botany science, paves a way to new learning subjects or topics in the course of Botany. Every year new plant species are discovered, and the coming years the discovery Subject is included in the course. In short, this course covers the latest update topics and trends over the years as per the changes and discoveries made.

Botany Science will be interlinked to environmental management in the coming years for better understanding and knowledge, since the subjects are interrelated, both focusing on living organisms and their environmental impacts.

With in-depth knowledge in Botany, one can serve to be an environmentalist, catering to plants and their needs to control climate change and risk management of environmental conditions. Research is being conducted on a variety of topics in Botany courses for the discovery of more plant species and how we can save our environmental problems with the help of generating more plants for our future generations.

Q:   Are Botany and Agriculture courses same?
A:

In botany, you can choose to explore different species of plants from fungi, algae, pteridophytes, etc.. You can explore its diversity and learn about its pros and cons. But in Agriculture,  you can explore the crops and their variety and discover new species which can be helpful to farmers and the crop can survive in different conditions or tough conditions like heatwaves, drought and so on. You learn about soil and its type and you can help farmers in Agriculture centres to show them, how much fertile their soil is, etc. 

Q:   What are the factors deciding the GATE 2025 cutoff?
A:

The factors that influenced GATE 2025 cutoff are:

  • Number of Applicants: higher number of students applying for a specific branch leads to a more competitive environment.
  • GATE Exam Difficulty: If the exam is considered tougher, the cutoff might be lower to account for the challenges faced by students.
  • Total Available Seats: Fewer seats translate to a stricter cutoff.
  • Category of Applicant: Reservation policies are considered when setting cutoffs. There might be separate cutoffs for different categories.
  • Previous Year's Cutoff Trends: Admission authorities often consider the previous year's cutoffs as a reference point, with adjustments based on the factors mentioned above.

Course Cutoffs

The cutoffs of popular PhD Botany colleges is given below:
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Student Forum

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Write here...

Answered 4 weeks ago

Msc subjects after BSc Botany with high demand include Biotechnology, Microbiology, Environmental Science and Genetics. These fields offer great research, industry and govt. job opportunities.

R

Rakshit Prabhakar

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 4 weeks ago

The best MSc courses after BSc Botany include MSc in Botany, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Bioinformatics, and Food Technology.

R

Rakshit Prabhakar

Contributor-Level 8