Introduction
A Master of Science (MSc) in Botany is a graduate degree program that focuses on plant science, including taxonomy, structure, functions, evolution, and ecology. Plant physiology, genetics and genomics, plant development, plant-microbe interactions, ecology, evolution, taxonomy, and systematics are typical topics covered in the program.
Objective
- To provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles and concepts related to plants and their biology.
- To develop students' skills in conducting independent research, analyzing and interpreting data, and communicating research findings.
- To prepare students for careers in academia, research, conservation, agriculture, forestry, or horticulture.
- To foster students' curiosity and appreciation for the diversity and complexity of the plant kingdom.
Syllabus
Semester I (Credit hrs.17)
The courses include:
- Diversity and Evolution of microbes and Fungi,
- Non-vascular Plants (Algae and Bryophytes),
- Vascular Plants I (Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms); and
- Vascular Plants II (Angiosperms).
In addition, a fieldwork and Seminar course is offered to each student to learn specimen collection, preservation, and curation techniques.
Semester II (Credit hrs 19)
The courses include:
- Ecology,
- Cytology and Genetics,
- Plant Physiology,
- Plant Systematics
Semester III (Credit hrs 18)
- Ecology (functional plant ecology, and landscape and global change ecology);
- Plant Systematics (applied systematics, biodiversity and biogeography);
- Plant Biotechnology and genetic engineering (plant biotechnology, genetic engineering); and
- Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology (applied mycology and advanced plant pathology).
Semester IV (Credit hrs 8)
The courses include case study/seminar and dissertation work.
Scope
An MSc in Botany program covers a wide range of topics relevant to plant science and biology. Students in the program will learn about the scientific principles and concepts underlying plant structure, function, evolution, and ecology. They will also be able to get specific expertise in fields such as plant physiology, genetics, development, plant-microbe interactions, ecology, evolution, taxonomy, and systematics.