Bachelor of Horticultural Science

The last intake of students for this degree occurred in 2009. No new students will be permitted to commence this degree.

(Part-time study, during the daytime only, may be available in certain circumstances)

Assumed knowledge: Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology.
The course has a strong scientific base. The focus of the degree is on the development of analytical, quantitative, computing and communication skills. Highly regarded skills are gained in the fourth year through the completion of a research thesis.

Production horticulture deals with the application of scientific and economic principles to all phases of the production, post-harvest care and marketing of fruit, vegetables, cut flowers and nursery stock. Urban/amenity horticulture deals with the horticultural and ecological aspects of the management of parks, sports fields and golf courses, as well as plantings for streets, etc. Environmental impact deals with habitat preservation and ex-situ conservation of rare and endangered species including their marketing; strategies for integrated management for control of pests, diseases and weeds; and environmental legislation and testing.

Major studies: Fruit, vegetable and ornamental production, post-harvest biology and technology, urban horticulture and horticultural specialisations within areas of agribusiness, biometry, biotechnology, chemistry, economics, entomology, genetics and plant breeding, plant pathology, resource economics and soil science.

Professional experience: For students enrolling since 2008, this professional experience requirement is credited to the AFNR4001 unit of study. Overseas experience is encouraged.

Professional recognition: Admission for professional membership by the Australian Society of Horticultural Science and the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science.

Career opportunities: Examples include employment in horticultural research, horticultural consultancy, management of horticultural enterprises and as horticultural advisers with private, state and local government bodies. Opportunities exist in production horticulture, post-harvest technology, urban/amenity horticulture, sustainable horticulture, horticultural biotechnology, precision horticulture, viticulture, environmental impact analysis, endangered species conservation, habitat preservation, ornamental plant breeding for the world market, crop protection, plant ecology and irrigation science.