Postgraduate specialist training course in Plant Genetics and Plant Breeding

Last modified: 30. April 2025

The aim of the Plant Genetics and Plant Breeding postgraduate course is to train specialists capable of addressing research challenges in plant genetics and breeding, solving methodological and management problems in seed production, and performing theoretical and practical tasks as researchers in genetic and biotechnological institutes. Further, to produce breeding materials using both traditional and molecular genetic and biotechnological techniques. The program includes training in modern phenotyping and genotyping methods, economic analysis in plant breeding, and relevant legal aspects.

Progamme description (website of  institute)

Qualification of the Degree

Level of degree: Postgraduate
Degree awarded: Plant Genetics and Plant Breeding Engineer
Length of program: 2 semesters
Study mode: full-time training (EN) or correspondence training (HU)
Funding options: Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship or self-financed
Program Leader: Dr. Anikó Veres, Associate Professor (Szent István Campus)
Training Sites: Gödöllő
Language of Instruction: Hungarian and English

Tuition fee (English programme): 2300 EUR/semester

Entry Requirements: Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in one of the following:

• Agricultural Sciences: Forestry Engineer, Food Engineer, Horticultural Engineer, Environmental Agricultural Engineer, Conservation Engineer, Wildlife Engineer, Livestock Engineer, Agricultural Engineer, Crop Production Engineer, Economic and Rural Development Agricultural Engineer, Agricultural Engineer in Computer and Management Sciences, Ornamental Horticultural Engineer
• Technical Fields: Bioengineering, Environmental Engineering, Biotechnologist

The following bachelor's degree courses may also be taken into account after completion of specific credit requirements: Biology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Livestock Engineering

Skills and Professional Competencies Acquired on Completeion of the Program

Graduates will be able to:

• Conduct research in the field of plant genetics and plant breeding
• Solve theoretical and practical problems in genetics and biotechnology
• By understanding the theoretical and practical aspects of plant breeding, graduates will be able to produce breeding materials and to develop the biological basis for seed production
• Disseminate knowledge of plant genetics and plant breeding and to engage in educational activities
• Perform tasks related to variety certification and protection
• Apply testing methods acquired during the training
• Identify plant breeding challenges and use appropriate problem-solving methods
• Understand and assess environmental impacts on plant breeding, and thus make well-informed decisions
• Communicate effectively, thus enabling them to express and defend their professional opinions in debates

Requirements for Pre-Degree Certificate (Absolutorium)

• Completion of all compulsory subjects and fullfilling the number of credits for the preparation of the thesis, for a total of 60 credits

Final Examination

Eligibility:

• Obtained pre-degree certificate (absolutorium)
• Submitted thesis approved by reviewers
• No outstanding obligations to the university

Components of the Final Exam:

• Thesis defense
• Comprehensive complex exam

Final Exam Topics

Topics are defined annually by the program leader in collaboration with participating institutes. The topics of the final exam may vary from year to year.

Evaluation of Final Exam and Qualification of Degree from 2020/21 academic year

Based on the university's academic regulations: chapter 4.3.16 Final exam and chapter 4.3.17. Degree certificate.

Model curriculum of the program (PDF)