BSc (Hons) Horticultural Science and Management (Top up) On Line

About the course

The course is delivered at University Centre Myerscough and awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. The course is designed for students who wish to develop their knowledge of the exciting scientific and technical developments currently taking shape within the global horticultural industry. A focus on enterprise and research encourages independent learning, allowing the investigation of novel approaches to plant cultivation, which have potential to allow plant production to be achieved more sustainably or the use of green infrastructure to improve the urban environment.

An integral and exciting part of this course is the opportunity for students to conduct their own piece of original research in an area of horticulture that interests them. This not only allows a real area of expertise to be developed but gives Myerscough students further recognition as they progress to employment.

Applicants wishing to top-up from a Foundation Degree or HND into the final year of the BSc (Honours) course will need to demonstrate skills in research methods and plant science at Level 5 to enable them to progress onto the programme. Those applicants whose previous programme of study has not covered research skills at the appropriate level will be asked to complete a bridging module, Research Methods. Those applicants whose previous programme of study has not covered a plant science module at the appropriate level will be asked to complete a plant science bridging module, Environmental Plant Physiology. These bridging modules may be taken on-line during the summer prior to entry onto the course.

Year 1
Year 2

Year 1

Applied Plant Science and Biotechnology

The study of plants is an increasingly technical field and advances in biotechnology are providing important tools for those involved in plant related industries. This module will review recent advances in plant breeding, including plant tissue culture and molecular techniques, and allow you to consider their application within your specialist field of study.

Horticultural Enterprise Management

You will be asked to identify horticultural business opportunities, develop a business plan for a horticultural enterprise which may include production systems, logistics, stock control or the management of visitor attractions/facilities. You will include associated technologies to explain how your business plans fit into a business operation.

Year 2

Greenspace Professional Practice

It is very important for professionals to have an appreciation of ethical and sustainable business operation concepts and be able to apply them. In this module students will build upon the principals of strategic planning and corporate social responsibilities to address business auditing tasks, such as re-branding and re-modelling, incorporating company policies; planning; project management; communication and negotiation with clients. They will also critically analyse a range of contemporary issues within horticulture and associated green industries.

Research Project (Double module)

This double module will provide an opportunity to carry out a piece of independent research into a topic that interests you. You will start by clearly defining a problem to be solved, and then design and undertake an original investigation, developing your skills in project management. The reporting of the study will develop your skills in critical analysis and in communicating in a coherent and critical style.

Urban Forest and Greenspace Management

The trees and greenspaces in our towns and cities that make up our urban forests play a big role in enhancing the lives of those who live or visit them. This module will consider the development of our current urban greenspace and consider ways that they can be further developed to increase the benefits supplied to future generations. The involvement of all stakeholders in greenspace will be considered from the role of central and local government in strategic planning, to the importance of community involvement and the role of private and voluntary sectors in partnership working.

Entry requirements & additional information

Entry requirements

Foundation Degree or HND in a related subject or 2 years (one at Level 4 and the other at Level 5) of Honours Degree work in a related discipline achieved at 'pass' standard or above. Applicants with alternative equivalent qualifications will also be considered positively. Applicants must also produce evidence of successfully completing a research based module at level 5.

Applicants for whom English is a second language must be able to demonstrate proof of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at level 6.0 (with no component score lower than 5.5) or equivalent.

All offers may be subject to successful interview

Learning and assessment

Learning Environment:

Learning activities on the course are diverse, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical sessions and workshops.

Students are expected to undertake extensive independent study and research to support lectures, seminars and assessments. Group work and group presentations form an important part of the course. Students will have access to specialist IT hardware and software, an on-line learning environment and reference facility.

Assessment:

This course is designed to ensure a wide variety of assessment types are undertaken, many of which directly reflect industry-related documentation and practices. These assessment methods will include technical reports, portfolios, exams, individual presentations, laboratory/practical reports, research posters and extended project work.

Additional Information:

Many modules will include guest speakers of standing within the industry. Off-site day visits to facilities such as research centres, scientific laboratories, trade fairs and horticultural enterprises.

What work experience can I get?

There is no formal industry placement on this course but there may be opportunities at the end of the course, for students to undertake work experience or internships with employers throughout the UK and overseas.

Progression

On successful completion of the course, students may apply for further postgraduate studies such as MSc or PhD.

Careers

The course equips graduates for careers in scientific research, self-employment, parks management, education, commercial growing and retail horticulture. Professionalism, independent thinking and innovation are emphasised throughout the course to prepare students for the demands of these positions.

Professional accreditations

Representatives of the local industry have been actively involved in a technical advisory capacity. The College works with The Institute of Horticulture (IOH), Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), British Pot Plant and Ornamental Association (BPOA) and Agriculture and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB).

Special requirements

Extra Costs:

Additional costs for opportunities and items that are optional for the course include:

· Camera - £100