Course summary

The 21st century has seen human urban populations exceed those of rural populations for the first time in history. This trend has driven a rapid expansion of cities, often with severe environmental consequences for the populations within them. Horticulture is already an integral part of people’s lives and urban planning initiatives. This course equips the student with the knowledge to work effectively in urban settings by approaching the problems of the restitution of green infrastructure through restorative environmental and ecological design and practice. Students develop skills and knowledge through a combination of theoretical and practically based learning strategies, including visits and case studies drawing on the experience of industry professionals. Whilst primarily concerned with aspects of green infrastructure and environmental restoration, the students are also introduced to aspects of food security and production in urban areas, meaning the certificate offers an ideal springboard into further degree level studies to students with a wide range of horticultural interests. Our programme covers modules in landscape principles, sustainable development, biological processes, urban environments and ecology, plant propagation, ecological design and restorative urban planting. https://writtle.ac.uk/Certificate-of-Higher-Education-in-Urban-Horticulture