Qualification -DIPLOMA IN HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE VHT027

Does horticultural science appeal to you? How do you become a horticultural scientist?

Horticultural technicians and scientists need to have a strong foundation in both horticulture and science. They need to know how to identify lots of different plants, and the botany and chemistry that underpins an understanding of how to grow those plants.

This is a foundation course (first step) toward a career in horticultural science (e.g. technician, laboratory worker, technical advisor, consultant, research assistant, teacher, etc.).

Student Comment: "I have found the course to be interesting and challenging, with great learning materials that really make you research the industry and get involved. It has been a great way to study because it has allowed me to work in the industry and study at the same time. I have found the online resources to be fantastic, the tutors feedback constructive and the fact that assignments can be submitted online makes the process so easy." Tom Wood, Australia - Diploma in Horticultural Science course.

This course gives opportunities to the students looking 'outside of the square' and expand their careers in horticulture. Opportunities exist in management, teaching, research etc. Very appealing to those that have already worked in the field for many years and are looking for a new challenge. Also as relevant to those interested in horticulture but wanting to broaden their options.

“This fantastic course is for the serious horticulturist with a bent for science. However it also covers the more practical components of horticulture giving you an all round qualification. Opportunities abound for those completing this course – you can work in research, teach, or apply your skills to any industry sector.” - Adriana Fraser Cert.Hort., Cert.Child Care, Adv.Cert.App.Mgt., Cert IV Assessment and Training, Adv.Dip.Hort, ACS Tutor.

Develop a strong foundation in both horticulture and science - how to identify a wide range of plant species, plus the botany and chemistry that underpin the knowledge required to grow those plants.

Graduates may find employment as:

  • A consultant
  • A technician
  • A teacher
  • A research assistant.

This course is internationally accredited through I.A.R.C

 

Gardening Diploma

Become a Professional Horticulturist

Student Comment: "I have found the course to be interesting and challenging, with great learning materials that really make you research the industry and get involved. It has been a great way to study because it has allowed me to work in the industry and study at the same time. I have found the online resources to be fantastic, the tutors feedback constructive and the fact that assignments can be submitted online makes the process so easy." Tom Wood, Australia - Diploma in Horticultural Science course.

Prerequisites:  Either Year 12 (passed), an acceptable certificate (eg. Completed apprenticeship) or over 21 yrs of age.

 

 

Stage 1 Core Studies

The following six modules are undertaken first as a foundation for further studies:

  • Horticulture I
  • Horticulture II
  • Horticulture III
  • Plant Selection & Establishment
  • Botany I
  • Biochemistry I

 

Note: Modules from either stages II & III may be undertaken after stage I is complete.

 

Stage II Electives

Ten modules chosen from the following:

 

  • Botany II
  • Plant Ecology
  • Soil Science
  • Organic Plant Culture
  • Permaculture Systems
  • Engineering Applications
  • Plant Protection
  • Amenity Horticulture I
  • Amenity Horticulture II
  • Outdoor Plant Production
  • Garden Maintenance
  • Turf Care
  • Sports Turf Management
  • Turf Repair and Renovation
  • Arboriculture I
  • Arboriculture II
  • Trees for Rehabilitation
  • Landscaping I, II, III
  • Planning Layout & Construction of Ornamental Gardens
  • Restoring Established Ornamental Gardens
  • Propagation I
  • Cutting Propagation
  • Tissue Culture
  • Wholesale Nursery Management
  • Garden Centre Management
  • Cut Flower Production
  • Cut Flower Bulbs
  • Cut Flower Orchids
  • Greenhouse Cut Flowers
  • Hydroponics I
  • Hydroponic Management
  • Commercial Vegetable Production
  • Protected Plant Production
  • Fruit Production
  • Viticulture
  • Berry Production
  • Herb Culture
  • Biochemistry III
  • Statistics

 

 

Other options may be considered, though the above are generally considered the better options for this particular course.

 

 

Stage III Compulsory Modules

The following should all be completed

  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry II
  • Horticultural Research I
  • Horticultural Research II
  • Industry Meetings or Workshop I (Note: This can be completed without difficulty anywhere in the world).