Horticulture

Programme Short Name:	BAgrSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Load (FT vs PT):	Full Time
Levels (UG, G, etc):	Undergraduate studies
Course Information:	CAO Code: DN272 CAO Points Range 2015: 410 - 510 Length of Course: 4 Years DN272 Places: 20 Leaving Certificate: Passes in six subjects including English, Irish, Mathematics, one laboratory science subject & two other recognised subjects. Two of the six subjects must be minimum HC3. Click below for equivalent entry requirements information for: A-Level applicants FETAC applicants IT applicants All other EU applicants Non-EU applicants
Why is this course for me?	Horticulture is the art, science, technology and business of plant cultivation for human use. If you like biology or other science subjects, or you’re interested in business studies, home economics or languages, then this course may be for you. It will give you an appreciation of the importance of plants for human life and well-being. The course covers the sciences, environmental studies, business, management and communications, as well as growing food and non-food plants. Landscape & Sportsturf Management focuses on the science behind developing and maintaining Ireland’s designed landscapes, golf courses, tennis courts and sport pitches. The objectives of this degree are to give you: Knowledge of the growth, development and protection of plants, and use of plants for food, leisure, sports, social and environmental benefits An understanding of horticultural plant production systems and how their components are integrated and managed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner The skills to become a competent, competitive and confident leader who will excel in the national or global horticulture community as a professional horticulturist or horticultural scientist
What will I study?	You’ll study core science subjects in first year, and then develop your horticulture knowledge with specialist modules. First Year Plants and People Agricultural Economics & Business Biology Chemistry Mathematics Second Year Business Management Soil Science Basics Plant Ecology Plant Biology Fundamentals of Horticulture Health, Welfare and Safety in Agriculture Third Year Plant Protection - Pests Elements of Landscape Design Soil Science Applications Plant Diseases: Biology and Control Landscape, Trees and Shrubs Professional Work Experience Fourth Year Food Production: Mushrooms, Fruits, Vegetables etc & PostHarvest Physiology Enterprise Development and Strategy Research project Nursery Production and Management Professional Communications Students spend an average of 40 hours a week attending lectures, tutorials and laboratory practicals and participating in industry site visits and field and greenhouse workshops, and undertake independent study and research. Assessment includes continuous assessment (e.g. class tests, essays) and end-of-semester written examinations. In your final year, assessments are largely based on the project reports. For detailed information on subject content click here.
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities	This degree maintains strong links with the horticulture industry. Career opportunities include management, technical advisory, consultation, research, quality assurance and sales or marketing positions, working for companies or within your own business. Opportunities also exist in state, semi-state, EU and international organisations. Your transferable skills will make you highly employable in other industries. Master’s and PhD degrees are also available.
Professional Work Experience & International Study Opportunities	All or part of your five-month PWE in third year can be taken abroad, with possibilities including South America, New Zealand, Australia, USA, Britain and Europe. Studying abroad for one semester is also a popular option for many students.
Graduate Profile	“Ever wondered why we prune an apple tree, or why trees gain glorious colours in the autumn? Then this programme can provide the answers. The small size of the horticulture class allows you to develop friendships and connections with your peers and lecturers, benefiting both your academic studies and social relations, which contribute to an overall enjoyable university experience. Undoubtedly the most enjoyable and beneficial aspect of the programme was professional work experience. I gained invaluable experience and contacts in the course of my work experience. It provides a valuable insight into the professional working environment and an opportunity to discover where your true passion for horticulture lies.” Sarah Noonan, Graduate
Related Programs:	Agri-Environmental Sciences Agricultural Science Forestry
Pathway
Contact Information:	UCD Agriculture & Food Science Programme Office Agriculture & Food Science Centre Belfield, Dublin 4 Tel: +353 1 716 7194 Email: agandfoodprogrammes@ucd.ie