Horticulture Course Guide

 It covers a wide range of specialisms including plant science, landscape design, sustainable food production, environmental management, and commercial horticulture. UK universities and colleges offer a range of horticultural courses, from foundation degrees to full BSc and BSc (Hons) programs, with practical and scientific approaches integrated throughout.

Entry Requirements

Horticulture degrees are generally accessible to a wider range of students compared to more competitive science disciplines like Veterinary Medicine. Entry requirements vary by institution and course level.

Typical A-Level Requirements

• Between CCC and ABB at A-Level, depending on the university and course

• Biology is often preferred or required

• Other useful subjects: Geography, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Design & Technology, or Business Studies

Alternative Qualifications

• BTECs in Agriculture, Horticulture, or Environmental Studies

• T Levels (Land, Environment, and Agriculture pathway)

• Access to HE Diplomas in Science or Land-Based Studies

• Scottish Highers, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent international qualifications

Relevant Experience
While not always mandatory, work experience or volunteering in gardens, farms, nurseries, landscaping, or environmental projects will strengthen your application and provide valuable insight into the field.

Course Structure

Horticultural degrees in the UK typically span three years full-time (four years with an optional placement year). Foundation degrees and HNDs last two years and can often be ‘topped up’ to a full honours degree. Key areas of study include:

• Plant and soil science

• Crop production and protection

• Environmental sustainability

• Landscape and garden design

• Agribusiness and supply chain

• Controlled environments and green technologies

• Climate change and food security

• Research and experimental design

• Commercial horticulture and technology

Courses tend to be offered by institutions with strong agricultural and land-based faculties such as University of Reading, Writtle University College, Harper Adams University, Royal Agricultural University, Nottingham Trent University, and SRUC (Scotland’s Rural College). Some are affiliated with or run in partnership with the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society).

Career Options After Graduation

A degree in horticulture opens doors to a variety of green, scientific, and commercial careers including:

• Horticultural consultant or agronomist

• Commercial grower (fruit, veg, ornamentals)

• Landscape manager or garden designer

• Research scientist (plant breeding, pest control, etc.)

• Urban greening and ecological restoration specialist

• Horticultural therapist

• Plant health inspector

• Nursery or greenhouse manager

• Environmental officer or land manager

• Agricultural technologist or input advisor

• Botanical garden curator or conservationist

• Entrepreneur in sustainable farming or plant-based products

Further study options include MScs in Crop Science, Plant Biotechnology, Environmental Management, or Landscape Architecture.

Studying Horticulture Abroad

USA

In the US, Horticulture is offered as a four-year undergraduate degree (BS or BSc in Horticulture, Plant Sciences, or Agronomy) at land-grant universities and agricultural colleges. Common concentrations include landscape horticulture, greenhouse management, viticulture, turfgrass science, and sustainable agriculture. Entry requires a US high school diploma or equivalent with SAT/ACT scores. Many programs include co-op work experience or internships. Graduate degrees (MS or PhD) are available for those pursuing research or academic careers.

Canada

Canadian universities offer BSc and Diploma programs in Horticulture and related areas such as Plant Science or Agricultural Sciences. Institutions like the University of Guelph and Dalhousie University are known for strong agricultural faculties. Programs include classroom learning, lab work, and hands-on training in field stations or greenhouses. Admission typically requires completion of Canadian secondary education or international equivalents with emphasis on science and maths.

European Union

In the EU, horticultural studies may be offered under the broader umbrella of Agricultural Sciences or Environmental Science. Countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Hungary offer English-taught programs in Horticulture or Plant Science at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Entry requirements and fees vary by country. Many universities integrate sustainability, food systems, and international development into their horticultural curriculum.

Australia

Australian universities and TAFEs offer a mix of academic and vocational horticulture programs. Degree-level programs (BSc in Horticulture or Agricultural Science) are typically three years and may include majors in crop science, viticulture, or landscape design. Entry requires completion of Year 12 or equivalent, with subjects like biology and chemistry. Practical components are highly emphasised.

New Zealand

New Zealand offers both vocational and university-level horticulture education. Lincoln University is a major provider of horticultural science degrees. Programs focus on production systems, agribusiness, biosecurity, and sustainability. Entry requires NCEA or international equivalent with science subjects. Diplomas and short courses are also available through polytechnics and technical institutes.

Comparative Summary

Conclusion

Horticulture is a broad and dynamic field with critical relevance to global sustainability, food security, and green innovation. Studying in the UK provides a balanced mix of scientific knowledge and hands-on experience, with strong pathways into diverse green careers. Internationally, students will find equally robust programs in countries with major agricultural economies and research capacity. Whether pursuing horticulture for scientific inquiry, environmental stewardship, or entrepreneurial innovation, it offers a future-focused career with global relevance.