General Horticulture

Courses

AMENITY HORTICULTURE I BHT324

Study horticultural management in amenity horticulture

  • Add to your horticultural knowledge
  • Enhance your skills as a horticultural manager of parks and gardens
This is an advanced course for horticultural managers, with prior training and/or experience, who are seeking to further develop their skills in horticultural management. The course investigates the nature and scope of Amenity Horticulture with respect to providing, establishing and managing amenity horticulture sites.
 
 

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AMENITY HORTICULTURE II BHT325

Learn about social and economic management in amenity horticulture

This course can be taken after Amenity Horticulture I, or as a stand alone course for those with some experience in the industry. 

 

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ARBORICULTURE I BHT106

Learn skills to help you towards becoming an arborist

An ideal course for people wishing to gain a foundation knowledge of tree care and maintenance.
 
If you work on properties where tree care is needed such as public gardens or grounds management, public parks or related areas, then this course may be of great value. It is also suitable for people wishing to add tree pruning and care to existing skills such as in landscape gardening or garden maintenance.
 

This course develops your skills and understanding in diagnosis and treatment of tree disorders, whether pests, diseases, nutritional or water problems, or something else. You learn about the standard tree surgery practices, to prune and train both young and established trees, and safety measures to follow.

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ARBORICULTURE II BHT208

How do I learn more about trees and their care?

For those:
 
  • Working in arboriculture
  • Working in forestry
  • Working in national parks
  • Working in garden
  • Working as a landscaper
 
This is a great course for anyone with a little knowledge of horticulture; who needs to deepen their understanding of tree care. It develops your ability to manage trees beyond Arboriculture I, in order to minimize potential long term tree problems. Learn about better tree selection, strengthening and improving health of existing trees, and techniques used to better remove trees and stumps that must be removed

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ASSOCIATE DIPLOMA IN PARKS MANAGEMENT

TRAIN IN PARKS MANAGEMENT - LEARN FROM SPECIALIST HORTICULTURALISTS

  • Study parks management to work as a parks supervisor, sports ground curator, golf course superintendent or public open space administrator or manager.
  • An extensive course comprising 15 modules, with Core Modules covering amenity horticulture, turf care, project and operational business management and much more.
  • Elective Modules give you the choice to focus your qualification on areas of particular interest to you.
  • Gain the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the management of parks and amenities.
  • Start at any time and study when and where you want to.
  • Learn with the support and guidance of our expert horticulturalists.
 

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CUTTING PROPAGATION BHT211

Learn cutting propagation

Develop your ability to propagate a wide variety of different plants by cuttings. This is a particularly valued skill in today's nursery industry, and while no course alone is going to make you into an exceptional propagator, this training provides a necessary foundation needed to build these skills.

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DECIDUOUS TREES BHT244

 STUDY DECIDUOUS TREES 

  • Learn about the major deciduous tree groups
  • Become an expert on deciduous trees
  • Save time and money by home study
  • Extend your knowledge and confidence
  • Save money by making the right choices - choose plants that are right
  • Course suitable for horticulturists and those wanting to create more energy efficient homes with deciduous trees

Not only are deciduous trees beautiful, but they play an important role in providing summer shade and winter sun.

Deciduous Trees are widely planted in both hemispheres. They are very important for both amenity horticulture and forestry. This course is a great foundation study for new or experienced horticulturists, landscapers, arborists, nursery workers, gardeners, parks managers; or anyone else concerned with the selection, propagation, care, maintenance or harvesting of deciduous trees.

There is such a range of uses for these beautiful additions to a garden, and this detailed course provides specialist knowledge. The course will provide specialised information on these trees; which arms you with a great resource, either for your own garden, or others’ gardens.

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GARDEN CENTRE MANAGEMENT BHT213

Manage a Successful Garden Centre

Designed in conjunction with the state garden department manager of a major retail chain store; this course has been very successful in training both staff and managers of retail nurseries and garden centres across Australia and beyond. It was thoroughly updated recently by horticultural professionals in both Australia and the U.K. to be relevant to countries around the world.

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GARDEN MAINTENANCE VHT100

Want to set up a garden maintenance business?

Working in garden maintenance but want to add to your knowledge?

Your boss has asked you to do a course?

This course covers all the aspects required to set you on the right track in your garden maintenance business.

Proper garden maintenance costs both time and money. Fortunately, there are shortcuts to help you create a good-looking garden for yourself or your clients - without spending a huge amount of time or money.

Over ten lessons, you learn how to effectively maintain a garden while reducing the amount of time, labour and costs involved.

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HORTICULTURAL MARKETING BHT304

Improve sales in your horticultural business

Expand your opportunities in the horticulture sector.
 
In any business, including horticulture, success depends upon good marketing of your product. This subject covers the theoretical and practical importance of marketing in the horticultural industry at a highly professional level, including topics such as advertising, promotions, signs, customer relations, pricing strategy, labeling, transport, product presentation, and more.
 

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HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH I BHT118

Study Horticultural Research

Aimed at:
  • Horticultural scientists
  • Landscape Architects
  • Horticultural Business Managers
  • Horticultural Business Development Managers
 
 Develop the skills and knowledge needed to plan, conduct and report on research in social, technological and environmental issues that impact on Horticulture today and which are needed for strategic business planning.

 

  • This course has been developed by professionals in both Australia and the UK, with the aim of being relevant throughout the world.
  • This is a module in the Royal Horticultural Society’s Master of Horticulture; but is also available for study by itself.

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HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH II BHT241

Learn more about undertaking research in the horticulture sector

This course follows on from Horticultural Research I, but can be taken as a stand alone course if you have some experience in the area.

Excellent for people working in horticulture and looking to take the next step.

 

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HORTICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT BHT203

A course for the professional horticulturist - expand your skills in the management of resources in your industry or work

 
The horticultural manager, of gardens, crops, nurseries or any other horticultural enterprise will benefit from this course.
 
Covers planning for efficient and economical management in horticulture: including such things as work procedures and programming, budgeting and staff supervision. This course is relevant to all areas of horticulture including nurseries, parks, private gardens, market gardening and fruit production.
 
 
 
 
 

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HORTICULTURAL THERAPY BHT341

Study Horticultural Therapy

Do you have a passion for helping others? Interested in Horticulture?

Horticultural therapy is a powerful way for working therapeutically with people.

An exciting, emerging industry - step outside of the norm, follow your passions, and develop an interesting and highly rewarding career - become a Horticultural Therapist.

Horticultural therapy (also known as‘social and therapeutic horticulture’) uses the activities associated with horticulture such as gardening, plant propagation, plant care, visits to natural environments and gardens and parks etc. in personal development; to engender a feeling of well-being, improve physical health and encourage social interaction.

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HORTICULTURE I BHT101

Get a start in Horticulture!

The ideal course for the beginner, this is a basic, yet thoroughly practical course which gives you a sound broad technical grounding in horticultural principles and practices. A section of each lesson involves plant identification.

 

YOU WILL LEARN:

  • To identify, propagate and care for 80 different types of plants.
  • The systematic way plants are classified.
  • Structure and parts of a flower.
  • To identify different leaf shapes.
  • Different ways to control weeds.
  • Simple soil tests.
  • Making propagating and potting mixes.
  • Identifying pest and disease problems.
  • How and why to prune different plants.
  • Drawing a simple garden sketch plan.
  • To plant or repair a lawn; and lots more.

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HORTICULTURE II BHT102

PLANT IDENTIFICATION - More than anything else, a key to getting a job in many sectors of the horticulture industry!

You can't sell the right plant to the right customer without this knowledge.
You can't design an efficient and healthy garden without this knowledge.
You can't work in a professional capacity in public parks and gardens without this knowledge. 
Many courses are lacking in plant knowledge - even students with university degrees do this course to expand what they have learnt and especially to fill in the missing gaps.
 
 

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HORTICULTURE III (PLANT HEALTH) BHT104

Learn how to identify and treat plant health problems

Gardeners who can identify and control pests and diseases are always in demand. However it is not just gardeners that benefit from this valuable knowledge  - nursery staff, garden designers, grounds staff, park rangers, arborists, and council contractors all need to attain this knowledge to do their jobs effectively: gardeners can find solutions; nursery staff can advise their customers; garden designers can choose resistant species; ground staff can identify problems; and contractors can choose the right control methods!
This course develops a firm understanding of plant health, the systematic identification of health problems in plants, and the techniques for control of those problems.

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INDOOR PLANTS SHORT COURSE SGH14

Growing and Maintaining Healthy Indoor Plants

  • Explore different indoor plants
  • How can they survive in different environment
  • What purpose served by indoor plants ( emotional. aesthetic, architectural etc)

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IRRIGATION - GARDENS BHT210

Know how to design and operate irrigation systems for gardens, both public and private

 
Irrigation design is an important adjunct to garden maintenance, park maintenance or ornamental horticultural enterprises.

Water is essential to healthy plant growth. It is often the major limitation to a plant's productivity. Irrigation may enable plants or turf to be grown in a dry climate where it would not otherwise be possible. It may also supplement the existing rainfall and improve growth rates by extending the growth period of the plant. It may ensure that there is adequate moisture during critical periods when a plant is growing most rapidly. Irrigation at appropriate times may also improve the quality of turf or the general health of garden plants. The value of irrigation can vary greatly from year to year depending on the distribution of rainfall during the growth season.

A ten lesson course that covers the design, installation, maintenance, operation and evaluation of simple irrigation systems; this course is similar to BHT304 and BAG213, but focuses on irrigation for parks, home gardens, and other ornamental horticulture areas.

 

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IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT BHT305

A Course to Develop Existing Irrigation Knowledge

This course is suited to those with some existing knowledge of irrigation who may be working in a large nursery, crop production, turf management, gardens or pasture management.
 
It develops skills to manage the design and operation of large scale irrigation systems as well as those in home gardens.

 

The following topic areas are covered:

  • Ways to optimise water efficiency
  • Scheduling irrigation for nurseries, gardens, turf and horticultural crops.
  • Drainage system design
  • Operating irrigation controllers
  • Managing system maintenance
  • Managing fertigation
  • Evaluating irrigation designs
  • Design of different systems

This course builds on skills achieved in Irrigation (BHT210, BHT304 or BAG213) modules to develop the student's skills to manage the design and operation of large scale irrigation systems for horticultural applications.

 

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MANAGING NOTABLE GARDENS AND LANDSCAPES

Learn how to manage grand gardens, estates and parks!

Expand your skills to manage designed landscapes and gardens. This is a great professional development course for parks managers, landscapers, superintendents and curators.

A designed landscape can be described as parks, gardens or grounds that are pre-conceived, designed and constructed for artistic effect. Parklands, woodlands, water and notable formal and informal gardens are included. Some may have significant wildlife, archaeological and scientific interest; they are also often the grounds in which buildings of historical significance are situated.


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NATURE PARK MANAGEMENT I BEN120

How do you get a career working in national parks or nature parks?

This is a growing area with many opportunities and in order to work in this field you need to develop an understanding of the natural environment and basic ecological principles, and learn a variety of skills ranging from basic gardening and nature park design, to erosion control, weed control and tree surgery.  This course offers you those skills and knowledge. 
 
A nature park is any area that aims to preserve a natural environment or natural plant or animal life. It includes the following:
  • gazetted wilderness areas such as a national park
  • wildlife reserves
  • forest reserves
  • zoos and wildlife parks
  • botanical reserves
  • council parks
  • recreation reserves

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NATURE PARK MANAGEMENT II BEN204

Are you working in national parks or would you like to improve your knowledge in this area?

 
This course is a natural progression from Nature Park Management I, but can be taken in its own right. It concentrates more on plants and using them to create natural, balanced ecosystems. This is a very important aspect in the management of national parks and nature reserves - the ecosystems in these areas are fragile and need to be managed by people with the right approach and knowledge for effective management without causing damage to flora or fauna. 
 
In this course you will also learn to create nature trails, build rockeries and pathways, construct ponds and watercourses, design picnic grounds and animal enclosures, market a nature park, and lots more.

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NURSERY GROWERS COURSE VHT101

Want to work in a nursery?

Nursery work - a starter's guide: This introductory course shows the beginner how to get started in the nursery business. You learn how to propagate plants, decide what to propagate, how to start a small inexpensive operation, and to go about selling what you grow. Part of every lesson is devoted to the important area of building up your knowledge of plants. Through six lessons you will learn how many established nurseries have started out slowly as a small part time operation, and how you can follow the same path. (If you intend studying propagation and wholesale nursery management, do not do this course!).
 

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NURSERY HANDS COURSE VHT102

Learn to be a Plant Nursery Assistant

Study and learn plant nursery skills

This is a course designed in collaboration with nursery hands at the Greening Australia Hamel Nursery, south of Perth. It teaches the skills for day to day work in a production nursery. There are eleven lessons involving: The Nursery Industry - operational flow charts, nursery standards, plant variety rights, transport regulations; plant identification, nursery structures, buildings, heating and cooling systems; potting mixes, seed propagation, cutting propagation, other propagation techniques, plant nutrition, pest and disease control, other nursery tasks and marketing and sales

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NURSERY SALES ASSISTANT VHT103

Learn nursery sales skills

Learn about plant identification, plant care and how to really sell plants to customers!

BECOME THE NURSERY GURU!

 

This wide-ranging course will teach you all the sales secrets you need to know, plus give you the knowledge to advise customers on plants.

This course was developed in response to a request from a retail nurseryman who was finding it difficult to find staff with appropriate skills. As he put it, job applicants were either over qualified or lacked the basic skills needed: to be able to identify plants, advise customers on their use and to understand some basic sales techniques and procedures.

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OPERATIONAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT I BHT326

Study Economics, Planning and Marketing of operations in horticulture at management level

Learn how to effectively manage a horticultural business.  Your ability to manage a business can make a huge difference to your success in horticulture. In this course, you will learn the business side of horticulture, including how to plan and implement effective strategies for the management of a horticultural business and/or service.
 

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OPERATIONAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT II BHT327

Learn how to manage the operations of a horticultural enterprise, from employee interviews and staffing through to financial management

In this course, you'll learn about aspects of law affecting horticulture, how to manage staff, basic legal practices. You'll also complete a problem-based learning project on financial management, followed by a case study — both designed to help you put theory into practice.

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ORGANIC PLANT CULTURE BHT302

Do you want to work as an expert in organics?

Do you have a passion for organic growing and want to find ways to improve your lifestyle?

Do you want to use safe methods of plant production?
This course is a great starting point for the professional in this field or for the organic gardening enthusiast.
 
 

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PLANT BREEDING BHT236

Become a Plant Breeder

  • Add to your horticultural skills
  • Learn the science behind plant breeding
  • Breed new plant varieties

 

Plant breeding is a bigger industry than most people realize. In some places, earnings from plant breeding rights can equal or exceed earnings from actually producing plants. Today's nurseryman needs to understand plant breeding and selection; and to this end, this course is a very valuable and unique course for anyone working in the modern industry.

 

"I am very pleased and impressed with the way that ACS recently handled my submission. This included acknowledgement of receipt of my answers, finding a specialist to answer a specific subject enquiry, and a tutor to mark the work in the temporary absence of Katie.

All three were both professional and helpful, contributing to my enjoyment and acquisition of interesting, useful knowledge from the Plant Breeding course".

(Malcolm Quigley, U.K.)

 

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PLANT PATHOLOGY BHT206

Are you a professional horticulturist that needs to expand your knowledge in plant pests and diseases, other plant problems and their management?

 
For those that:
  • Work in crop production
  • Work in plant production nurseries
  • Work in parks management
  • Work in grounds management
 
This course is designed for the professional horticulturist - the knowledge gained from this course will extend your abilities to beat the bugs!
The professional horticulturist needs to not only be able to treat disease and other plant problems but to prevent them in the first place where possible.

This course is your first step towards that goal. It develops your understanding of all types of plant diseases (fungal, viral, bacterial, non-infectious); their life cycles, and ways they can be controlled both with and without chemicals.

(This course complements Horticulture III. For the best understanding of plant health, do both of these courses)

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PLANT PROTECTION BHT207

Extend your knowledge and increase your job prospects in pest and disease control

A detailed plant protection course for horticulturists, technicians and also for enthusiastic gardeners.

Understanding the life cycles of insects and weeds and learning how to identify them is important in the protect of plants from disease and insect and the spread of weed species.

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PLANT TAXONOMY BHT344

Learn about Plant Taxonomy

Learn how to systematically describe, name, classify and identify plants.

This comprehensive 100-hour course provides a solid foundation in plant taxonomy.

Learn how to:

  • Name and classify plants
  • Describe plant parts
  • Identify plants
  • Record and analyse plant descriptions
  • Utilise taxonomic techniques
  • Recognise important plant families

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PLANT TAXONOMY SHORT COURSE SGH9

Taxonomic classification of plants

Learn to :

  • Identify
  • Classify
  • Describe
  • Name plants

Without knowledge of plant taxonomy, you risk misidentifying plants. This short course will teach you how to methodically identify a plant's distinguishing traits and the scientific classification through systematic observation and assessment.

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PRACTICAL HORTICULTURE 2 BHT323

Learn the practical side of horticulture at management level

 
Take the next step in your career: develop practical skills in the management of a variety of horticultural situations required of the horticultural manager or the management of your own business that you would normally learn working under the supervision of a horticultural expert. A step on from Practical Horticulture 1 but a course that can be taken in its own right by those with fundamental horticultural knowledge.
This course will help you to stay ahead of the competition and fulfill your managerial or business aspirations.
 
Following is an excerpt from lesson 1:

Work planning and project management is an important aspect of the type of work that would be generally carried out by the professional horticulturist. It may be in diverse areas within the horticulture industry i.e. a planting program, plant sales program, landscape project, re-vegetation project, sports or turf management, irrigation and drainage systems implementation, production planning (crops and nursery), conservation of natural resource areas, conserve a heritage area and so on. Project management may be under the broad direction of superiors in certain situations however self directed application of knowledge that has substantial depth is expected at this level.

Some supervision is required for this course by an independent horticultural expert such as your work manager or other expert. The course contains all the tips to develop excellent practical skills in the management of a variety of horticultural situations. It covers subject areas such as: horticultural calculations, propagation management, hard and soft landscape management, planning - identifying needs for management of horticultural sites, identifying plant tissue and much more.

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PRACTICAL HORTICULTURE I BHT238

Study practical horticulture skills - more practical, a bit less theory

Those those that:
  • Work in horticulture
  • Want to work in horticulture
  • Want practical skills in horticulture
How do you learn the practical side of horticulture by online education?
This course is the ANSWER! It really does work, where you can make full use of interactive learning tasks and high-quality plant photographs. This course has been written to satisfy the curriculum developed by the Royal Horticultural Society in the UK (Advanced Certificate and Diploma level)

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PROFICIENCY AWARD IN HORTICULTURE BHT007

A great informative and comprehensive course for those needing a qualification

Have the experience and skills - but need a qualification? This course offers you the opportunity to gain a qualification without having to spend years studying. 

Qualifications are usually required these days, irrelevant of how much industry experience you may have. Those without at least a basic qualification are usually overlooked for promotion or even from gaining new employment opportunities.

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PROPAGATION I - BHT108

Learn to Propagate Plants

  • Learn cuttings seed, division, grafting and other techniques
  • For all types of plants
  • Learn proper use of potting media, bottom heat, misting, rooting hormones and more

 

For people who work or want to work in the nursery industry, but also of value to anyone with a broad interest in propagating plants.
A very practical course - you actually propagate plants; investigate nurseries and propagation resources; and make real or virtual visits to propagation facilities. Through these visits you develop an awareness of workplaces and practical applications of the subject.
 

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PROTECTED PLANT PRODUCTION BHT223

Know about greenhouses

Learn how to manage a greenhouse

Learn to grow crops and nursery stock plants in a greenhouse, shade house or other protected situation.

This course not only provides a credit in ACS qualifications, accredited through IARC; but it also prepares you to sit for RHS modules and acquire credits in the RHS advanced certificate or diploma.

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Qualification - ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN APPLIED MANAGEMENT (ARBORICULTURE) VBS001

Climb to the top of the ladder!

Arboriculture career specialisation opportunity

Specialise in arboriculture and at the same time learn how to manage the business side of arboriculture operations.

This 900 hour course for managers and supervisors of workers in arboriculture will help you realise your career goals in this exciting and challenging industry.

There are 7 modules plus a 200 hr workplace project in this course.  The 4 'core units' are common to all streams of this Advanced Certificate and cover office practices, business operations, management and marketing - all the skills needed by managers and supervisors; the three 'specialist units' of study relate to the selection, culture, maintenance, care and repair of  trees with a further emphasis on other plants. A well-rounded course.

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

 

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Qualification - ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN APPLIED MANAGEMENT (HORTICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY) C12CN001

What are the best qualifications for work in hydroponics?

This hydroponics certificate qualification provides sound knowledge of horticultural principles in the culture, use and management of plants - in various production situations at supervisory and management level, or as a business operator/owner.

It provides an understanding of modern technology and its application to growing plants, with emphasis on hydroponic production. Skills obtained throughout the course will enable you to set up your own business and feel confident consulting on the use of Hydroponics.

This course is designed to train people for supervisory or managerial positions in a "specific" industry sector.

The Advanced Certificate in Applied Management involves the following areas of work:

*CORE STUDIES - 4 units of compulsory subjects for all students. This involves at least 400 hours.

*ELECTIVE STUDIES - stream units for the development of knowledge in a chosen specialisation or industry sector. This involves at least 300 hours of study.

*PROJECT - a "management in the workplace project" of 200 hours involving approved work experience in a small business.The project specifically aims to provide the student with the opportunity to apply and integrate skills and knowledge developed through various areas of formal study.

This particular course specialises in horticultural technology (hydroponics) management and supervision it concentrates on the horticulturally valuable crops, such as cut flowers and vegetables, on plant breeding; and on broad management and business skills needed to make a success of horticultural technology business.

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Qualification - ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN APPLIED MANAGEMENT (RETAIL NURSERY) VBS001

What do you need to be a nursery manager?

The course trains managers or supervisors rather than general nursery workers.  

Advance your opportunities in the retail nursery management sector

A 900 hour course that develops both skills required to manage a retail business, and knowledge in identification, care and handling of plants and other products sold through retail nurseries. There are 7 units plus a 200 hr workplace project in this course. These are the 4 core units common to all streams of this Advanced Certificate ( plus three specialist units of study relating to the management and operation of a retail nursery.

 

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


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Qualification - ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN APPLIED MANAGEMENT (WHOLESALE NURSERY) VBS001

How do I advance my career in the wholesale nursery trade?

Nursery owners look for experienced workers that are also highly  trained and have qualifications to back up their experience - when they look for staff to run their businesses.
 
For people who work, or hope to work, as a supervisor, manager or owner operator of a wholesale or production nursery; a qualification such as this combines management training with horticulture training, to give you the best possible chance at progressing in the wholesale industry.
 
This is a 900 hour covering both management and horticultural studies relating to running a wholesale nursery.
There are 7 units plus a workplace project in this course. These include the 4 core units common to all streams of the Advanced Certificate (C12CN001), and three specialist units of study relating to the operation and management of wholesale nurseries.
 
This course is internationally accredited through I.A.R.C.


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Qualification - ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN HORTICULTURE - NURSERY (VHT009)

Train as a professional nurseryman and be at the head of your profession

This course trains you for professional work in nurseries at a technician or management level in positions such as: nursery managers, technical representatives or consultants. Coupled with experience you can also move on to teaching, course development and writing.

 

  • Accredited by IARC
  • Articulates into higher qualifications with our UK college or affiliate (Warnborough College)

  • Making this an extremely comprehensive learning experience!

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Qualification - ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN HORTICULTURE - ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE (VHT009)

Work as a professional horticulturist in ornamental horticulture at management level

Examples of jobs in the  management area are: garden centre manager, garden consultant, manager of grounds and grounds staff, or in technical research, teaching or writing - in fact any professional level of ornamental horticulture.
 
This course provides professional training for people to work in the management, care and development of gardens, parks, or other areas of amenity horticulture (e.g. Tree management, Turf management, interior plantscaping).

It is an extremely comprehensive course that is  is designed to assist the graduate to gain employment in any area of ornamental horticulture.

 

This course provides training for people to work in the care and development of gardens, parks, or other areas of amenity horticulture (e.g. tree management, turf management, interior plant scaping), at a technician or management level, in positions such as: managers, technical officers, or consultants.

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Qualification - ADVANCED DIPLOMA IN HORTICULTURE - PARKS & RECREATION (VHT009)

BECOME A PARK RANGER  OR WORK AS A PROFESSIONAL IN THIS FIELD

Would you like to care and manage parks, natural parks, holiday and recreation resort facilities? Then this is the course to do!


This comprehensive course provides training for people to work in the management and development of recreation and park facilities It is relevant to all types of situations including municipal parks, national parks, tourist parks, commercial landscapes, resorts and more.

 

This course was conceived and developed by a team headed by John Mason, Fellow Parks and Leisure Australia, and former Parks Director/Superintendent in three different municipal councils.

 

Other Options: Design a Diploma consisting of a different combination of modules, tailored to your needs. We can offer this service to suit your requirements.

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

This is a substantial and unique course, requiring a 5 year part-time or 2 to 3 year full-time commitment.


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Qualification - Associate Diploma in Horticulture VHT005

This is a comprehensive foundation for a professional career in horticulture

Prerequisites:  Anyone enrolling in this diploma is assumed to have first completed the ACS Certificate in Horticulture.

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Qualification - ASSOCIATE DIPLOMA IN HORTICULTURE VHT008

I want a qualification in horticulture but don't want to specialise at this stage

 
This course provides a broad based foundation to allow you to adapt to and work in different sectors of the industry, as a technician, business owner, consultant, etc. This broadens your work opportunities in horticulture.

 

Expand you career opportunities with generalist horticultural training

Horticultural staff need to have a strong foundation in both science and plants. They need to know:

  • What affects plant growth (soils, nutrition, water, temperature, pests etc.)
  • Cultural Techniques (propagation, pruning, planting, shelter, etc.)
  • Plant Knowledge (plant family characteristics, classification system, etc.)

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


 

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Qualification - ASSOCIATE DIPLOMA IN TURF VHT011

How do I become a Turf Manager, Curator or Superintendent?

This course provides a very sound foundation for a career in the turf industry; Graduates may find employment in such positions as a superintendent, greens manager, sales or marketing representative, technician  etc. 

Learn the science, management and horticulture that underpins modern turf management for a better job in such positions as a superintendent, curator, greens manager, sales or marketing representative, turf/horticulture technician etc.

This is a premium course; more comprehensive than other diplomas, with more extensive support from an international team of highly qualified horticulture professionals.

 

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Qualification - CERTIFICATE IN ARBORICULTURE VHT090

What do you need to work as an arborist or in arboriculture?

To work in the challenging and stimulating arboriculture industry you need fundamental knowledge and understanding of trees, their amenity value and their indisputable value to the environment. Such knowledge includes the maintenance and management of trees: tree assessment for health, monetary or environmental value, fundamentals of planting, transplanting, pruning, site planning, identification and treatment of pests diseases, nutritional and other disorders, tree surgery, after-care and advice and tree removal.
 
This certificate focuses on the culture and care of trees, providing a sound foundation for any working or hoping to work with tree establishment or maintenance. Unlike many other courses in arboriculture, this course also provides a broad foundation across all aspects of horticulture.

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Qualification - CERTIFICATE IN HORTICULTURE (GROUNDS MANAGEMENT) VHT002

How to become a qualified gardener - groundsman!

Ideal course for those interested in:

  • Work in public parks
  • Work in public parks with turf facilities
  • Work in private garden
  • Work in  estate gardens
This 700 hour course that provides initial training for gardeners, groundsmen and others involved in the care and maintenance of parks, private and public gardens and turf facilities. This course is similar to other VHT002 horticulture certificates in its introductory (core) units, but devotes 50% of the course to topics specifically related to grounds maintenance. Accredited through International Accreditation & Recognition Council'.
 

If you are looking for a 'real' Certificate in Horticulture that will give you more than the basics (so often the extent of most courses on offer now), then this course is for you. Employers want graduates with a sound grounding in horticulture - this course offers that in the core units, and specialises in grounds management in the stream units. 

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Qualification - CERTIFICATE IN HORTICULTURE (ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE) VHT002

What is ornamental horticulture?

 

Broadly speaking it is the cultivation and arrangement of  plants for their aesthetic value within a garden or park. In the horticulture industry this also includes producing plants for this purpose. If you work in ornamental horticulture you could be working in parks, gardens or a production nursery.

I want a broad horticultural qualification - what course can I do? This 700 hour course provides initial training for anyone working, or intending to work in ornamental horticulture - it covers a broad range of subject matter so that you can extend your career into one or move to a different industry sector if an opportunity arises.People with broad knowledge and skills are much sought after.
 
This course is similar to other VHT002 horticulture certificates in its introductory (core) units, but devotes 50% of the course to topics specifically related to ornamental horticulture. The course is designed to teach the basics of how to identify, grow, and maintain ornamental plants and gardens in any climate. Emphasis is placed on the plant varieties which are most horticultural value. Topics covered include garden maintenance, turf care, arboriculture, landscaping, and nursery work.

Broad knowledge of the fundamentals of horticulture are key to employment and advancement in horticulture - irrelevant of the industry sector. This course sets itself apart from others on offer. It is comprehensive, provides students with a challenge and builds the knowledge required for success in this field. Employers are looking for this in graduates - and are so disappointed by the poor output of many horticulture graduates. Undertake this course to place yourself ahead of the field!

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Qualification - CERTIFICATE IN HORTICULTURE (PLANT PROTECTION) VHT002

Want to specialise in plant pests and diseases and learn how to manage them?

 
Plant protection is about using a variety of methods to protect plants from diseases and pests and keep them healthy. Choosing the right methods available and using those that have a low environmental impact wherever possible is part of that process.
 
You can use this knowledge to work in nurseries, for local government, in gardens in fact anywhere that needs plant protection methods.
 
This 600-hour certificate provides training in the identification and management area of plant protection. This course is similar to other VHT002 horticulture certificates in its introductory (core) units, but devotes 50% of the course to topics specifically related to plant protection.  Accredited through International Accreditation & Recognition Council
 

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Qualification - CERTIFICATE IN HORTICULTURE (VHT002)

What do you need to start out in horticulture?

 
What qualifications do you need to be a Gardener?
What qualifications do you need to work in a nursery?
What do you need to learn to be a Horticulturist?

 

If you want a career in horticulture, this is one of the best starting points. The core units of this course will give you the skills and knowledge to start out in any field of horticulture. This Certificate was developed with a great deal of industry input and continues to be revised  to ensure international relevance. The Certificate in Horticulture teaches you all the basics and more, it gives a very sound grounding for those already in the industry, those looking to enter the industry or for those with qualifications but with gaps in their learning. Be prepared to learn a lot!

 

Graduates from this 700 hour certificate have a history of outstanding career success. The course provides a very strong foundation in general horticulture (350 hours) as well as specialised training in a chosen area such as propagation, landscaping or organics. Whilst other certificates have degraded over the years and have less emphasis (particularly on science and plant knowledge), this has remained at a similar standard to training of the 1970's and 80's, but with up to date content.

Use the link below ('read more') to view more comprehensive details on this course.

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Qualification - FOUNDATION CERTIFICATE II IN HORTICULTURE VHT003

How do I learn the science behind horticulture yet also gain practical knowledge and skills?

This is a leading "entry level" qualification to prepare you for a career as a gardener; or for further studies as a horticultural manager, technician or scientist.
 
Students use this prestigious qualification to step up the horticultural ladder. An extremely informative course in horticultural practice and principles, underpinned by sound scientific knowledge; all qualities sought by employers - worldwide. 
 
 Student Comment:

"I have found the course material to be comprehensive and informative and have learnt a lot and really enjoyed my year of study. The office staff at ACS have always been helpful and efficient and quick to respond to requests or queries. My tutor, Adriana, was encouraging and supportive, as well as being really thorough in the way she marked my assignments. I had not studied for 20 years before I started my RHS Certificate 2 in Horticulture and the feedback and reassurance I received from my tutor made all the difference." Katherine Parry, Australia - RHS Certificate II in Horticulture course (now referred to as Foundation Certificate in Horticulture).

The course is designed to lay a foundation for a long-term career in horticulture by developing the ability to identify a large range of plants, knowledge of essential horticultural principles and practices and practical skills in plant propagation, growth and care.

  

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Qualification -CERTIFICATE IN HORTICULTURE (NATURE PARK MANAGEMENT) VHT002

Work in National Parks, Zoos, Wildlife Parks, Reserves or other types of Nature Parks

 

DO YOU WANT TO WORK WITH ANIMALS AND NATURE?

 

Want to discover what you need to work in nature parks? Then this course is for you! 

This 600 - 700 hour certificate course has been specifically designed for people working or wishing to work in nature parks and reserves, national parks, forests and reserves, in managerial or technical positions. Learn about natural environments, and the management of zoos, wildlife parks, nature reserves. Develop an understanding of the natural environment and basic ecological principles, and learn a variety of skills ranging from basic gardening and nature park design to management. Six modules must be completed including Nature Park Management I and II. 

 

Accredited through International Accreditation & Recognition Council.


 

 

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Qualification -CERTIFICATE IN HORTICULTURE (PROPAGATION) VHT002

How do I become a professional propagator?

What skills do I need to work in a propagation nursery?

Skilled and knowledgeable propagators are, and will most likely, always be in high demand.

A 600 hour course designed principally for plant propagators. This course is similar to other VHT002 horticulture certificates in its introductory (core) units, but devotes 50% of the course to topics specifically related to plant propagation, dealing with hundreds of different types of plants, and methods used to propagate them.

 

Accredited through the International Accreditation & Recognition Council.

Use the link below ('read more') to view more comprehensive details on this course.

 

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Qualification -CERTIFICATE IN HORTICULTURE (TURF) VHT002

What do I need to work in the turf industry?
 A 700 hour course designed principally for turf workers at golf courses, bowling greens, sports fields, or councils.

This is equivalent to doing a Trade Certificate and places an emphasis on the cultural practices of caring for grounds, golf courses and turfed areas.

The core units of this course are similar to the other VHT002 course but with emphasis on turf care and management in the stream units.

Use the link below ('read more') to view more comprehensive details on this course.


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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

 

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Qualification -DIPLOMA IN HORTICULTURE (by examination) Ht0EX

Horticulture: years of experience but no qualification?
 
How do I get a qualification by using my many years of experience in horticulture?
This Diploma is based on overseas systems. It has graduates in leading positions in the horticulture industry.
A program designed to provide formal recognition to non-qualified horticulturists with significant industry experience and expertise, without having to undertake lengthy studies in areas where they already have a high level of ability. The program leads to the award of a horticulture diploma recognising knowledge and ability in management, plant knowledge and technical skills.

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SALES SKILLS FOR GARDEN CENTRE STAFF SHORT COURSE SGB7

Enhance your skills of becoming better sales staff in garden centres.

A good sales person will:

  • Assist customers through their process of discovery of the product
  • Enhance a product's chance to sell itself
  • Offer attractive, functional or useful products that are placed in eye-catching positions
  • Know how to advise the customers to ensure they are buying the right product

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SEED PROPAGATION BHT237

Study Seed Propagation Techniques to enhance your skills and develop your career. 
 
Seed propagation can be inexpensive and with many (not all) types of plants, it is the most cost effective way of propagating large quantities quickly. Some plants though germinate easily, and others don't. For some species seed and seedlings must be handled in a very particular way to ensure not only germination, but also survival of the seedling. This is a course provides valued industry skills for people working with:
  • Production nurseries
  • Seed companies
  • Re-vegetation projects
  • Plant breeding

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SOIL MANAGEMENT - HORTICULTURE BHT105

Understand Soil and its Physical and Chemical Properties.

  • Know how to apply soil management techniques.
  • Learn how to build healthy soil and enhance soil life.

The course is specifically designed for ornamental gardens, landscaping, container growing, and turf situations.

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SPORTS TURF MANAGEMENT BHT202

Learn to Become a Greenkeeper

Sports turf is different to other types of turf in various ways but in particular because sports turf may suffer more wear and tear than ornamental lawns.  An ornamental lawn may be walked over very little, and when it is walked upon the effect of foot traffic is generally mild.

Discover how to care for different types of sports grasses

Through studying this course you will learn a range of techniques for managing sports turf grasses on different types of sportsgrounds. Learn about how different surfaces are prepared for play, how to fertilise, water and cultivate sports surfaces. See what equipment is needed and how it is used. Find out how to choose appropriate grasses for sportsgrounds and ways to maintain them and limit sports related damage. Devise a maintenance program for a sports facility.
 
 
 

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TISSUE CULTURE BHT306

Learn tissue culture techniques
 
Tissue culture involves growing plants from very small sections (sometimes microscopic) in a laboratory. It is a propagation method which is being increasingly used. Tissue culture is not appropriate for many plants, but for others such as orchids, some indoor plants and in particular, many new plant varieties, it is a very popular propagation method.

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TREES FOR REHABILITATION BHT205

Study environmental rehabilitation using trees
 
Kick start or advance your career in environmental rehabilitation.

This course covers the fundamentals you require to advance or start your career in this field.

The significance of caring for the environment has been receiving more and more attention in recent times as we come to understand the importance of limited resources and the effects of human activities on the environment. The desertification, erosion and general degradation of once fertile lands is prompting us to investigate why and how these processes have occurred. It has also lead to research into how we can reverse and stop further damage to our environment.

Natural forests are amongst the most stable and productive ecosystems. We need to plant and conserve forests for their conservation value, to help maintain healthy air, soil and water and for their potential to provide food, forage, fuel, timber and even medicines.

This course is designed for people working or wanting to work with environmental rehabilitation and contaminated sites recovery. It develops an understanding of environmental systems and the rehabilitation of degraded landscapes. You will learn about seed collection, storage and germination, propagation, plant selection, establishment techniques, and controlling pest and disease after planting.

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TURF CARE BHT104

How do you grow beautiful lawns?
A comprehensive introduction to the identification, selection, culture and management of turf for commercial, recreational or home use. Taking approximately 100 hours to complete it is suitable as a basic course for people working with turf, such as on a golf course or bowling green, or for keen amateurs who wish to make the most of their home lawns. This is a good starting point for anyone working or seeking work in jobs such as:
  • Gardener
  • Greenkeeper
  • Turf Manager

With further studies you may build on the foundation this course provides and move toward careers such as sports ground curator, golf course superintendent or parks director.

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TURF REPAIR AND RENOVATION BHT303

Add Turf Repair to Your Green Keeping Skills

Turf grasses grow in a slightly different environment to other plants. They grow closely together so must compete with one another for water and nutrients, they are frequently mowed, and they are often walked upon by people and animals as well as compacted under machinery. As such, turf repair and restoration requires a different skill set and knowledge base to other plant maintenance. 

Expand your gardening business into lawn and turf repair and renovation

Study this course and create your own speciality field with the repair and renovation of turf. Many sporting fields are maintained by private contractors and you can be one that develops a program to maintain the condition of the fields to optimum performance. This course develops your ability to diagnose and treat problems in turf.
 
 

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WEED CONTROL BHT209

Learn 
  • Weed identification
  • Weed control
  • Weed management 
Weed control is an important part of the horticulturists daily routine - irrelevant of which sector you are working in ie. greenhouse growing, open field growing, pot culture, or gardens you will need to be able to identify weeds and chose an appropriate control technique.

In horticultural practice, if weeds are to be controlled, it is critical that they are accurately identified when young. However, weeds are notorious for their diversity and resilience. These two characteristics have made weeds attractive as garden plants in countries to which they are not native.

Young weeds are far easier to control than older and more established weeds. There are many different ways of controlling weed growth, and the effectiveness of each technique is related to the varieties of weeds being controlled. Some chemicals, for instance will effectively kill certain weeds when they are in the early stages of growth, but will not control other types of weeds. You may need to be able to distinguish between types of weeds to determine whether the chemical will or will not work.

Over eight lessons you learn about both chemical and non-chemical control methods (mulching, burning, mowing), the use of spray equipment and safety procedures which should be followed.

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WHOLESALE NURSERY MANAGEMENT BHT212

  • Start your own production nursery!
  • Start small, grow in your own good time
  • Buy an established nursery for a quick start

Whatever way you enter the Production Nursery Industry, it's important to do it with an understanding and awareness of how to succeed. Managing a production nursery involves more than just propagating and potting up plants. Even the small nursery must be able to not only producer plants, but do it at a pre determined cost, then sustain those plants before and during marketing.. The nursery industry currently has a real need for people with skills and knowledge in managing production plant nurseries! This course provides a solid grounding for developing those skills.

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