COURSE CURRICULUM

South East Technological University Waterford’s BSc in Horticulture is designed to develop both professional horticultural expertise and strong business skills, recognising that many graduates become managers or self-employed. In Year 1, students are introduced to the broad and diverse field of horticulture, focusing on core practical skills and the scientific principles that underpin plant production. They learn plant biology, soil science, plant protection, and growing media, alongside hands-on training in germination, propagation, pruning, planting, and machinery operation. Students also study horticultural mechanisation and safety, chemical regulations, and environmental protection practices to ensure responsible and sustainable work. Modules across the first year include Communication Skills and Computer Applications, Horticulture Skills, Plant Knowledge, Plant Propagation, Chemistry for Land Scientists, and Horticulture Building Construction.In Year 2, students deepen their knowledge while completing a semester-long industry placement. They study Biodiversity and Horticulture, Business Management, and Garden Management and Plant Selection. A key feature of this year is the choice of one major elective stream, such as Sustainable Food Production, Landscape Design, Nursery Stock Production, Sportsturf Science, or Lab Skills for Plant Micro-Propagation (Waterford only). This allows students to specialise while developing the ability to select appropriate plants for specific environments and enhance biodiversity in horticultural settings.Year 3 combines advanced business, research, and specialist learning. Students undertake modules in Sales and Marketing, Financial Analysis, Law, Taxation, People Management, and Scientific Writing. They complete an independent Horticulture Project and Seminar and study Arboriculture to develop expertise in tree care. Students also choose a second major elective different from Year 2 and select minor electives such as Greenkeeping, Garden Centre Operations, Beekeeping, Computer Aided Design, Protected Crop Production, or Social and Therapeutic Horticulture, broadening their career opportunities.