30Nov
UndergraduateCourse summary
This BSc (Hons) in Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology) has been designed specifically to deliver skilled horticultural practitioners who understand the interdisciplinary nature of the sector and their position within it. The programme is unique in that it is the only undergraduate horticulture degree programme to be offered in Scotland. Having an acute focus on research and development, the ‘plant science and technology’ stream has been designed to solve real-world problems facing the horticulture sector today, and in the future. Students 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. The programme takes a blended learning approach, using a variety of learning and teaching activities both on campus and via our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), Moodle, as appropriate to the subject and level of study. In years one and two, the focus is on developing underpinning academic skills, practical confidence and peer learning communities. The programme is therefore primarily campus-based theory and practical activities, supported by online live classes and independent studies within the VLE. Classroom learning will support active learning and encourage collaboration. The third and fourth years of the programme focus more on independent learning, allowing for personalised foci on areas that are of interest. A higher proportion of theoretical learning will take place either live online or within the VLE and supported by practical and interactive activities on campus. Classroom activities will include simulation-based and inquiry-based learning, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. On successful completion of this programme, you will be able to:
- Advance equality of opportunity and value diversity of ideas, cultures and approaches in horticulture
- Design and implement horticultural research whilst selecting appropriate frameworks, and collect, analyse and present data to make inference from the study
- Value the interrelationships between society and plant biodiversity in cultivated and natural landscapes using an interdisciplinary approach
- Practice ethical professionalism and autonomy in a variety of professional settings, reflecting on own personal and professional development, and adapting
- Formulate solutions to sector challenges by adopting an enterprising mindset
- Instruct others on a range of laboratory protocols and horticultural techniques
Modules
By studying this BSc (Hons) in Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology), you can expect to study the following modules as part of the course: Horticultural production technologies - This module aims to provide you with a holistic understanding of horticultural production technologies. You will examine a range of inputs used in the horticulture industry to improve crop yield and quality; preparing you to contribute to the advancement of sustainable and efficient horticultural practices. Innovations in horticultural science - The aim of this module is to provide the opportunity to apply your knowledge of integrated crop management (ICM) in horticulture in relation to national and global sustainability goals (e.g., UN SDG’s) and consider how these link to the practical decisions made by growers. Urban agriculture - The aim of this module is to equip you with the competencies required to contribute positively to the development of resilient, inclusive and environmentally conscious urban food systems, for the betterment of urban environments and the broader global food system. Horticultural biotechnologies - The aim of this module is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of genetics, breeding and micropropagation and its applications for crop enhancement and improved productivity. Environmental horticulture - The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge of environmental horticulture by analysing plant-based solutions that are crucial for addressing today’s environmental issues. Using critical thinking, you will consider the impact various plant-based technologies have on society, the environment, and the economy to ultimately encourage environmental responsibility and awareness Agents for change - This module aims to empower you to become an agent of change within your subject’s sector. You will gain knowledge of current legislation that is appropriate to your sector and be able to make recommendations for new policies, programmes and initiatives to bring about positive change in local and/or global contexts.
Assessment method
The assessment approach for the BSc (Hons) in Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology) has been designed to provide opportunities to develop the competencies required to become skilled horticultural practitioners. It uses a variety of assessment approaches to develop a range of skills, knowledge and professional behaviours and to ensure the inclusivity of different learning approaches. All assessments within the programme 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 that are necessary to grow and modernise the horticulture sector upon graduation. Students will develop scientific writing skills by completing assessments that include scientific literature, research activities, case studies, and projects. To complement this, effective communication skills will be developed through group projects, presentations, and multimedia content creation. Students will also develop research and statistical analyses skills using real-life data sets from projects that are embedded into the programme. 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. For example, by creating an instructional video of a laboratory skill or by writing a standard operating procedure. Typically, students will be encouraged to select the option that will challenge them the most, rather than defaulting to what seems simplest. Reflective practice is at the forefront of the programme’s ethos and will be fostered through the use of portfolios, reflection tasks based on personal objectives, or by reflecting on the feedback that has been received by the assessor. We believe that this assessment approach will fulfil the programme learning outcomes and our programme promise: “to provide an immersive learning experience to get you ready today, for the sector tomorrow”.
How to apply
You can no longer submit a new application for courses starting in 2024.
If you already have a 2024 application and are in Clearing, you can add this course as a Clearing choice – contact the university or college first to check they have places.
31Jan
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
- Course code:
- DHPS
- Institution code:
- S01
- Campus name:
- Edinburgh
- Campus code:
- Z
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
International applicants
SRUC has a long tradition of welcoming students from outside the UK to study with us, and we find they greatly enhance the learning experience of other students and their unique viewpoint and carried life experiences. International student rules and regulations are set by national governments. For the most up to date guidance, please visit our website – www.sruc.ac.uk
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
A level - BCC
Scottish Higher - BBCC
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017) - H3, H3, 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
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Channel Islands | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £9250 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £1820 | Year 1 |
| EU | £16000 | Year 1 |
| International | £16000 | 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
Scottish students can apply to the Students Award Agency for Scotland (SAAS) to have tuition fees paid by the Scottish government. Students from the rest of the UK can apply for financial assistance, including a loan to cover the full cost of the tuition fees, from the Student Loan Company.
Provider information
SRUC Scotland's Rural College
SRUC Edinburgh
West Mains Road
Edinburgh
EH9 3JG