Course summary

The Horticulture industry contributes over £9 billion to the UK economy each year and employs over 300,000 people. Although many people associate Horticulture solely with food crops it is also an important tool for mitigating the effects of climate change via plant breeding, producing appropriate ornamental plants for urban greening and improving biodiversity. A general shortage of skilled people in industry ensures the job opportunities for graduates are both numerous and diverse. At SRUC we firmly believe that as well as having an in-depth and thorough knowledge of the horticulture industry; graduates must also be equipped with the practical skills necessary for continued successful employability. These skills are enhanced via work experience placements, practical classes, a variety of industry visits, guest speakers and benefits from studying in an institute renowned for its research and consultancy to industry.Throughout the course you will develop an understanding of how to integrate the management of plant collections with knowledge of plant distribution, classification, diversity, structure, identification and cultivation. You will develop the skills required to study advanced aspects in botany and a good appreciation of botanical issues that are relevant to horticulture today. You will gain experience of techniques appropriate to the restoration of historic gardens at a high level. The course is delivered in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) with classes and practical work based at both RBGE and SRUC’s Edinburgh campus.