Horticulture (Garden & Landscape Design) (Level 6 only)

Based at Cornwall’s Eden Project, the BSc (Hons) Horticulture Garden & Landscape Design has been specifically developed to provide industry competent horticulturalists, who have significant design capabilities and a detailed understanding of horticulture science. On this unique programme you will develop skills valuable to numerous sectors of the horticultural industry both in the UK and abroad.

Eden’s diverse and specialist plant collections, nurseries and growing facilities, dedicated laboratory and design studio, coupled with Duchy College’s nationally renowned micro propagation research facility, provide a world class study platform.

A diverse team of subject specialists supports you in your studies. This includes plant pathologists, botanists, ecologists, garden designers, artists, landscape architects and horticulturalists, many of whom partner private practice with their teaching commitments.

Students under the tutelage of members of the current teaching team have won numerous awards including Sliver-Gilt and Gold at RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival (2024), as well as delivering a show Garden at the Cornwall Garden Society Spring Flower show.

You will also embrace sustainable business practice and develop skills in planting design and design communication, using both traditional and digital media (no prior experience required).

In the core garden and landscape design modules, innovative and imaginative design practice is encouraged from day one. Through real or ‘live’ projects you will learn how to create stimulating and thought-provoking spaces in a variety of locations – from private gardens to public landscapes. Clients who students have worked with recently include Penrice House, Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, The Eden Project, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, the National Trust as well as live Domestic projects across Cornwall.

Located at Cornwall’s Eden Project, the University Centre Eden offers a suite of higher education qualifications across a variety of land based sectors to include: Horticulture, Plant Science, Soil Science, Ecology and Garden and Landscape Design. Taught by expert trainers and awarded by the University of Plymouth creates a unique opportunity for those wishing to make the world a better place. Still undecided? Why not enjoy a taste of the University Centre by enrolling on one of our short courses or find out more at our next open day.

Course Modules

Indicative Module Year 3:
• Honours Project
• The Contemporary Horticultural Environment
• Sustainable Horticultural Enterprises
• Advanced Plant Use & Implementation
• Professional Landscape & Garden Design Practice

Assessment Methods

Assessment methods are designed to reflect professional garden and  landscape practice and to assess both academic understanding and applied vocational competence.

1. Written examinations and in‑class tests

Time‑constrained assessments used to evaluate underpinning knowledge, technical understanding, legislation, terminology, materials, construction principles, planting theory, sustainability, and professional practice.

2. Written assignments

Structured academic submissions assessing critical thinking, theoretical understanding, application of landscape principles, research skills, and written communication appropriate to Level 4–6 study.

3. Technical and design reports

Professionally structured reports presenting site analysis, design rationale, technical resolution, construction methodology, specification, or evaluation of landscape projects or case studies.

4. Research report

Independent or guided research projects assessing enquiry skills, literature review, analysis, synthesis of evidence, and professional reflection. Includes primary site research or industry‑focused investigation.

5. Design project submissions

Integrated design work including concept proposals, masterplans, detailed drawings, sections, materials palettes, planting plans, annotated visuals, and supporting written justification.

6. Portfolio of work

A curated collection of developmental and resolved outputs (drawings, sketches, CAD, hand graphics, visualisations, specifications, photographs, and reflective commentary) evidencing learning across a module or level.

7. Oral assessment and presentations

Formal or informal presentations of design proposals, research findings, or technical solutions, assessing professional communication, subject knowledge, visual explanation, and ability to respond to questions.

8. Reflective account / learning log

Critical reflection on learning experience, project development, professional skills, feedback response, and personal development, supporting autonomous and lifelong learning.

9. Digital skills assessment

Assessment of competence in relevant digital tools such as CAD, SketchUp, Photoshop, rendering software, or digital portfolio production where appropriate to module aims.

10. Work‑based or placement assessment (where applicable)

Assessment of learning achieved through employment or placement activity, incorporating employer feedback, professional practice evidence, and reflective evaluation.