FdSc Sustainable Horticulture Management
Foundation Degree
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
Why choose us?
- 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.
- Evaluate sustainable practices.
Course details
| Dates & Location | September 2024/25 |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full Time: 2 years, 2 days a week Part Time: 4 years, 1 day a week |
| UCAS Details | UCAS code: P800 |
Entry Requirements
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.
Facilities
Student Support
The College’s Inclusive Learning and Development Department offers dedicated support for HE students, this can take the form of one-to-one support, exam access arrangements. Students who have a learning disability are able to access support with making an application to the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) from the College’s Inclusive Learning and Development Department.
The Library boasts a collection of over 8,000 books, covering a range of key subject areas within land-based curriculum. The Library also provides students with access to a variety of magazines, periodicals and academic journals through online databases.
Learning technology is central to the learning experience of students at Plumpton College and therefore is supported by dedicated staff within the College Teaching and Learning Team. The responsibilities of this team are to help support students with learning technology to enhance the overall learning experience.
Teaching
Learning takes place through a combination of timetabled learning and independent study. Seminars enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups. You will also be able to meet your personal tutor.
Class sizes
Class sizes vary by module and all students will have opportunities for 1-to-1 time with their tutors.
Assessments
Assessment methods are largely based on case studies and analysis of real-life situations, reports of workplace practices and presentations of evaluations of sustainable strategies.
Future Opportunities
Upon graduation students can progress into sought after positions within the green skills sector or top-up their degree with an additional year of study to earn a full bachelor degree in horticulture management at various institutions.
Employers such as the Royal Horticultural Society and the National Trust are looking for graduates in horticulture, forestry and arboriculture, garden design, viticulture and greenkeeping with the capacity and motivation to more in-depth knowledge and interest in new innovations which are both technological and sustainable.
Modules
Year 1 - Level 4 Modules
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 - Level 5 Modules
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)
