BSc (Hons) Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology)

Embark on a green journey of discovery with our sector-leading degree in Horticulture. With two distinct specialisms to choose from, this degree delves into the intricate world of plant life, cultivation, and sustainable practices guided by our expert horticulturalists and academics.

Location: Edinburgh
Study mode: Part Time (8 years), Full Time - International Applicants (4 years), Full Time (4 years)
Subject area: Horticulture
Start date: September 2026
Agency code: DHPS

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Course overview

Whether you dream of pioneering horticultural innovations, curating a botanical garden, or conducting groundbreaking research, our comprehensive curriculum prepares you for success in diverse fields of horticulture. With hands-on experiences, state-of-the-art facilities, and a focus on sustainability, this programme cultivates not only plants but also future leaders in the horticulture sector.

Throughout this programme, you will engage in hands-on learning experiences and field trips, as well as practical projects to reinforce theoretical learning. Championing competency-based learning, the curriculum is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and professional behaviours required for a successful career in this thriving sector. Join us in nurturing the growth of a greener, more sustainable world with our BSc (Hons) in Horticulture degree.

Virtual Experience

Take a look around the SRUC Virtual Experience for lots of great student videos and examples of what it’s like to study our courses, along with campus and facility tours.

SRUC holds open days regularly. Visit our listings page for details of our up-coming events.

Entry requirements

Four Highers (BBCC) to include a science subject.

National 5 (A-C) or equivalent pass in English and Maths.

Comparable Qualifications:

3 A-Levels BCC, including a science subject, with GCSE passes in Maths and English.

JCPA plus 4 Irish Leaving Certificate subjects at Higher Level at H3, H3, H3, H3, including a science subject.

Course guide

Are you interested in global sustainability?

Do you wish to contribute to the advancement of sustainable and efficient horticultural practices?

Are you a critical thinker with a passion for plants and science?

Maybe you are keen to develop your knowledge on genetics, breeding and micropropagation?

You see a career in scientific research or a botanic nursery is in your future?

Then Horticulture with a Plant Science and Technology specialism is the programme for you!

Click here to read the full Horticulture (Plant science and technology) course guide.

What you'll learn

Plant Science and Technology: Welcome to the forefront of horticultural innovation with our BSc (Hons) Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology) degree. Dive into a dynamic blend of plant science, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable horticultural practices. Our comprehensive curriculum, guided by expert horticulturalists and academics, equips you with hands-on experiences in state-of-the-art laboratories, glasshouses, and vertical farm. From plant breeding to urban food security, our programme offers diverse pathways for your career in horticulture. Join us in cultivating the future of sustainable horticulture and become a leader in this thriving sector. Explore endless possibilities with our BSc (Hons) Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology) degree.

Core modules

: This module aims to provide you with a holistic understanding of horticultural production technologies. You will examine a range of inputs used in the horticulture industry to improve crop yield and quality; preparing you to contribute to the advancement of sustainable and efficient horticultural practices.
: The aim of this module is to provide the opportunity to apply your knowledge of integrated crop management (ICM) in horticulture in relation to national and global sustainability goals (e.g., UN SDG’s) and consider how these link to the practical decisions made by growers.
: The aim of this module is to equip you with the competencies required to contribute positively to the development of resilient, inclusive and environmentally conscious urban food systems, for the betterment of urban environments and the broader global food system.
: The aim of this module is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of genetics, breeding and micropropagation and its applications for crop enhancement and improved productivity.
: The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge of environmental horticulture by analysing plant-based solutions that are crucial for addressing today’s environmental issues. Using critical thinking, you will consider the impact various plant-based technologies have on society, the environment, and the economy to ultimately encourage environmental responsibility and awareness.
: This module aims to empower you to become an agent of change within your subject’s sector. You will gain
knowledge of current legislation that is appropriate to your sector and be able to make recommendations for new policies, programmes and initiatives to bring about positive change in local and/or global contexts.

Study Horticulture at SRUC

Find out more about our Horticulture degree courses

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Student experience

Donald Ferguson has always been interested in landscapes and green spaces. Having completed his HNC in Landscape Management, he decided to progress to year two of the Horticulture BSc.

"My time at SRUC shaped me academically and gave me the skills I need to succeed in my career," he said. "I really felt supported throughout my degree. The lecturers were always available for advice, and criticism was always constructive and aimed at furthering our development.”

Donald found a job that matches his degree, and is now Services Manager for the Greenbelt Group Ltd.

My time at SRUC shaped me academically and gave me the skills I need to succeed in my career. I really felt supported throughout my degree.

Donald Ferguson

Meet the lecturer

Ruth Vichos

I am a lecturer in horticulture with a passion for crop production and food security. My main focus is always on creating a solid foundation of education. Empowering people with knowledge and skills gives them the opportunity to better their own lives. This is true for teaching at SRUC and overseas projects I'm involved in.

For 5 years, I have worked for a charity in Tanzania on a variety of projects; from school vegetable gardens to integrated farming systems. The greatest highlight so far has been to see HIV+ widows earning their first income since their husbands died, from a sunflower oil project I started.

Get in touch

Rumana Kapadia

Teaching associate

I am a lecturer on the Horticulture team and a year tutor for HNC students. My passions are in research and discovery in sustainable horticulture and agricultural practices, and sharing this with the wider community. During my Masters and PhD my research focused on plant-microbe interactions for improved crop health and food safety. I built microbial based alternatives to chemical fertiliser and pesticide using genetic, molecular microbiology and statistical analysis approaches. I also have a passion for public engagement and knowledge exchange, using an art and visual thinking approach to communicate scientific concepts and make them accessible to the general public. I was awarded a 'Science for All' award for my efforts at the Dundee Botanic Gardens.

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Jonathan Starkey

Teaching associate

I am the Teaching Associate at SRUC Edinburgh. Primarily based in the Teaching Glasshouse and Gardens, I aim to make these areas as welcoming for students as possible both during their lectures and in their down time. With a view to further developing the garden, I'm keen for the students to improve and add to the features as part of their learning outcomes, giving the students a further sense of ownership. Incorporating industry standard tools and equipment for student use in the gardens and glasshouse, the aim is to maintain the area to a high standard for all to enjoy. Leading in the amenity topics, I have been involved in the Horticulture industry for more than 20 years, and am keen to pass on my experience and knowledge in a relaxed, friendly, pleasant environment.

Get in touch

Fees and funding

Eligible full-time students studying BSc (Hons) Horticulture should apply to SAAS for fees and funding. A student loan is also available to help students with living costs.

If you do not apply, you will have to pay your fees yourself and if you have studied at HNC/D/degree level before SAAS may not pay your fees.

More information about funding your course

Find out more about your payment options for this course in our fees and funding section

Fees & funding

Other possible routes to funding

Care experienced bursary: There are a number of bursaries available to care-experienced students studying full time. Find out more from our student funding teams at: registryfunding@SRUC.ac.uk
Discretionary fund
- SAAS student bursary
- Care Experienced Accommodation Grant
- Childcare
- Going further bursary
- RUK bursary (for students from outside Scotland)
- The Gregor Thomas Royan Lamb Bursary for Future Farmers
- Centenary bursary
- Change your path bursary

BSc (Hons) Horticulture (Plant Science and Technology)

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