Course summary
This HND in Horticulture has been designed by subject specialists and has a unique focus on the science of production horticulture. By studying this course, you can expect to be immersed in SRUC’s state-of-the-art vertical farm, laboratories and glasshouses; which all add immeasurable value to the student experience by providing hands-on learning throughout the student journey. Throughout the course, you will develop the skills, knowledge, professional behaviours and values that are required to enter the horticulture sector or progress to further academic study. This course is delivered by skilled horticulturalists and plant scientists to enhance the learning experience. The course structure is centred around authenticity, allowing you to gain real-world experiences that enhance your learner journey. In the first year, you will study a broad range of specialisms to give you a better understanding of the horticulture sector. In the second year, you will begin to focus more closely on the science and technologies used in production horticulture for the betterment of society, the environment and the economy, and begin to develop higher levels of inquiry skills by carrying out research into a preferred area of study. The units that you will study are project-based and aim to develop your planning, initiative and practical skill. The course integrates self-management, social intelligence and innovation meta skills at its core which complement the vocational and technical elements of the course, developing your personal skills which you can employ and adapt in future for further study or in your career. This HND is the equivalent first two years of the BSc (Hons) in Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology), but can equally be studied as a stand alone qualification.
Modules
This HND in Horticulture has 6 mandatory units in the first year or study and 6 mandatory units in the second year of study. By studying this HND in Horticulture (Production Science), you can expect to study the following modules as part of the course: Advanced production horticulture - this unit provides you with advanced knowledge of production horticulture with an emphasises on the application of practical skills and crop maintenance techniques. It champions authentic skills for industry, and will build your knowledge and understanding of crop production, crop maintenance and pest control in relation to environmental responsibility, informed by UK law and standards for water, land, the natural environment and society. Specialist plant production – this unit focusses closely on specialist and niche crops that have an important global context. It will provide you with the skills to carry out advanced propagation techniques such as micropropagation, and hone in on propagule care and maintenance. Applied horticultural research – this unit provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and apply research techniques in the context of horticultural research and plant trials. You can pursue your own interests to develop specialist knowledge. Horticulture: Professional practice - This unit provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to enter the horticulture industry at an appropriate level. You will gain authentic, practical and professional skills, in collaboration with industry partners. You will carry out and reflect on two meaningful simulated and/or work-based learning placements throughout the year in areas of industry that are of interest to you. Advanced plant biology - This unit develops your knowledge of plant biodiversity in the context of evolution and adaptation, contextualises mechanisms of plant physiology, advances your knowledge of plant breeding principles, and allows you to apply a range of practical laboratory techniques relevant to the topics discussed.
Assessment method
This HND in Horticulture (Production Science) is assessed primarily through portfolio and project-based assessments. All assessments within the course are designed to be authentic; incorporating realistic objectives that are reflective of industry activities. The authenticity of the assessments will foster innovation and creativity skills. Personalised learner journeys are championed by providing opportunities for students to select from a range of topics for an assessment, or by providing different methods of completing assessments such as by incorporating different media types into a portfolio of evidence.
How to apply
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
Please select a course option – you will then see the application code you need to use to apply for the course.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
- Year 2
Entry requirements for advanced entry (i.e. into Year 2 and beyond)
Applications will be considered for Year 2 entry from applicants with a relevant HNC (with 15 credits) qualification. Please contact the Admissions Team to discuss further.
International applicants
Unfortunately, this course is unable to consider international applicants due to UKVI restrictions. Depending on qualifications undertaken, applications may be considered from international applicants for the the BSc (Hons) Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology)/BSc (Hons) Horticulture (Plantsmanship) courses. Please contact the Admissions Team ([email protected]) to discuss your qualifications).
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
A level - DE
Scottish Higher - CC
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017) - H4, H4
GCSE/National 4/National 5
English language requirements
Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not been educated previously in the English language must provide evidence of their English language ability to ensure they can cope with the demands of a course taught and assessed in English. Further information about the English Language tests that we currently accept as proof of English Language ability can be viewed on our website. English language tests should be no more than two years old on the start date of your chosen course.
Guidance on English Language requirements
Student Outcomes
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £7000 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £7000 | Year 1 |
Wales | £7000 | Year 1 |
Channel Islands | £7000 | Year 1 |
Republic of Ireland | £7000 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £1285 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
SRUC Scotland's Rural College
SRUC Edinburgh
West Mains Road
Edinburgh
EH9 3JG