Horticulture (Plantsmanship)

The BSc (Hons) in Horticulture (Plantsmanship) has been designed specifically to deliver skilled horticultural practitioners who understand the interdisciplinary nature of the sector and their position within it. The programme is unique in that it is the only undergraduate horticulture degree programme to be offered in Scotland.

SRUC’s unique partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) enhances course delivery of the ‘plantsmanship’ stream by being a high-profile advocate for plant biodiversity and conservation research and outreach work. This partnership adds immense value to the stream due to their respected presence and the immersive learning experience it provides.

The programme takes a blended learning approach, using a variety of learning and teaching activities both on campus and via our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), Moodle, as appropriate to the subject and level of study. In years one and two, the focus is on developing underpinning academic skills, practical confidence and peer learning communities. The programme is therefore primarily campus-based theory and practical activities, supported by online live classes and independent studies within the VLE. Classroom learning will support active learning and encourage collaboration. The third and fourth years of the programme focus more on independent learning, allowing for personalised foci on areas that are of interest. A higher proportion of theoretical learning will take place either live online or within the VLE and supported by practical and interactive activities on campus. Classroom activities will include simulation-based and inquiry-based learning, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.

On successful completion of this programme students will be able to:
- Advance equality of opportunity and value diversity of ideas, cultures and approaches in horticulture

- Design and implement horticultural research whilst selecting appropriate frameworks, and collect, analyse and present data to make inference from the study

- Value the interrelationships between society and plant biodiversity in cultivated and natural landscapes using an interdisciplinary approach

- Practice ethical professionalism and autonomy in a variety of professional settings, reflecting on own personal and professional development, and adapting practice as appropriate

- Formulate solutions to sector challenges by adopting an enterprising mindset

- Advocate for plant and allied biodiversity and its application in horticulture in the face of environmental change

At the end of each academic year, students will be invited to attend and participate in the ‘Plant and Soil Sciences Student Conference’. This provides an opportunity for students in years two, three and four of their studies to showcase the range and breadth of research that has been carried out. The academic staff will decide on the keynote speaker, and this will be someone who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to their studies.