Study horticulture abroad

Horticulture is a diverse and dynamic subject that covers the commercial production of fruit, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. As a horticulture student, you can also study the design and maintenance of parks and gardens, open spaces and other managed landscapes.

The subject has close links to other disciplines including agriculture and plant science, and you will usually cover elements of these when studying horticulture. If you are someone with a keen interest in growing and cultivating plants and want to work with nature then a degree in horticulture could be the ideal program for you.

Horticulture is not widely offered by universities and colleges, so choosing to study abroad could be the best way to find the right program for you. You’ll also get to experience how a different country approaches commercial plant production, while improving your language skills and living in a new environment.

It is possible to study horticulture as a bachelor’s degree over three or four years, but it is commonly offered as a foundation level program or as a certificate. Some universities also offer a top-up course that can convert a foundation degree into a BSc.

There are a few master’s programs available, but many postgraduate programs are in related subject areas like plant science.

When studying horticulture you can expect to get your hands dirty, and you’ll be taught through a mixture of lectures, field trips, laboratory work and group tutorials. You’ll be assessed via written coursework and essays, exams, and practical assessments.

Exactly what is covered in the program content and curriculum will vary based on the location and university you’re studying at, but here are some of the main topics you can expect to cover:

• Agronomy
• Plant production
• Soil science
• Botany
• Classifications and taxonomies
• Plant ecology
• Plant pathology
• Garden management
• Landscape horticulture

As a horticulture graduate you will be well placed to work in plant production, and there are a wide range of careers you can pursue, including:

• Plant pathologist
• Landscape gardener/designer
• Horticultural technician
• Plant producer
• Head gardener
• Plant breeder
• Plant geneticist

Many universities will be able to support your career aspirations and connect you with placement opportunities and industry contacts. Another way to improve your career prospects is to broaden your skills at university by joining clubs and societies.