Horticulture (with Foundation Year)

Study Horticulture and explore today’s global challenges in climate, health, food and urban futures.

It's possible to combine part-time and foundation options. Contact us to discuss what you can do, or choose a combination of options when you apply online.

Passionate about plants, the environment, or sustainable food production? Our course combines plant science, practical skills and commercial insight to prepare you for a dynamic, future-facing career. You'll explore the full scope of horticulture, from crop production to green space management, while developing critical thinking, sustainability awareness and problem-solving abilities. Supported by industry links, placements and research opportunities, you'll graduate ready to drive innovation across diverse horticultural sectors.

Why ARU?

• Immerse yourself in real-world learning on our 150-hectare campus with extensive plant collections. labs and research glasshouses

• Benefit from our outstanding reputation for excellence in horticultural education and industry relevance

• Explore cutting-edge research in vertical, hydroponic and advanced growing systems shaping the future of food and plant production

• Develop professional networks through our extensive industry connections encompassing parks, gardens and horticultural businesses

• Graduate with in-demand green skills, critical thinking and commercial awareness for top careers in horticulture and beyond

Year 1:
Academic and Personal Management Skills (20 credits)
Biological Concepts (Introduction to Laboratory Skills) (20 credits)
Maths for IT and Science (15 credits)
Chemistry for Life Sciences (15 credits)
Independent (Themed) Project (20 credits)
Applied Industry Techniques (30 credits)

Year 2:
Ecosystems and Sustainable Development (30 credits)
Environmental Horticulture (30 credits)
Plant Propagation and Growth Innovations (30 credits)
Biological Processes (15 credits)
Bio-Innovations for Land Use (15 credits)
Into ARU

Year 3:
Environmental Management (15 credits)
Ruskin Module (15 credits)
Plant Physiology (15 credits)
Managing Urban Tree Resources (15 credits)
Research Methods (15 credits)
Plants in Built Environments (15 credits)
Political and Economic Contexts (15 credits)
Fresh Produce Production (15 credits)

Year 4:
Natural Resource Management (15 credits)
International Trade and Markets (15 credits)
Crop Management and Technologies (15 credits)
Community Horticulture (15 credits)
Managing Urban Blue Green Infrastructure (15 credits)
Global Production Trends and Transformations (15 credits)
Dissertation (30 credits)

Students are assessed in a number of ways including case study projects, laboratory reports, essays and technical reports, examinations – both multiple choice and essay questions, presentations – both individually and in small groups, practical assessments, debates, seminars, and a dissertation.