FdSc Sustainable Horticulture Management

Technology is progressing rapidly and will change the skills needed by the workforce across the horticulture and agricultural sector over the next decade.

Adapting to climate change, improving biodiversity and resource use will require new approaches and strategies for management of horticultural sites.

Horticulture is a vast and diverse sector which covers such areas as production horticulture, fruit and vegetable- both protected and outdoors, ornamental and amenity flower and plant production, grass maintenance for amenity, sports and golf courses, landscaping and garden maintenance, public, historic and botanical gardens and garden retail.

This two-year full time (4 year part time) foundation degree will enable you to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of the theoretical aspects of the subject areas as well as the current and future proofed skills needed to progress to a career in the diverse horticulture industry.

The course highlights include:

• Study the foundations of plant health and development
• Learn how to grow plants in a sustainable way
• Learn how to manage a thriving business
• Analyse technological innovations and evaluate sustainable practices

Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory modules.

• Introduction to Business Management (15 credits)
• Understanding Soils and Plants for Effective Management (30 credits)
• Data Driven Decision Making (15 credits)
• Industry Investigation (15 credits)
• Management of Practical Horticultural Operations (30 credits)
• Study and Research Skills (15 credits)

Year 2

Students are required to study the following compulsory modules.

• Growing Systems (15 credits)
• Natural Resource Management (15 credits)
• Technological Integration in Horticulture (15 credits)
• Horticultural Site Management (15 credits)
• Work Placement (30 credits)
• Applied Business and Marketing (15 credits)
• Independent Enquiry (15 credits)

We consider a wide range of Level 3 qualifications with UCAS Tariff points, specifically:

• A Level: two subjects (CD) and must include one in a STEM-related subject.
• BTEC National: Extended Diploma (MPP)
• International Baccalaureate: 24 Points overall.
• Access to HE: 56 Points

We also consider applicants with relevant industrial experience if over 21 years of age.

We expect a minimum of five GCSEs, including Mathematics and English Language at grade 4 or above (grade C or above under the A*-G system).

Students with English as a second language will be required to have gained IELTS at 6.5 overall with 6.0 in Writing.