New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (General) (Level 3)

Program Overview

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This horticulture program equips individuals with the skills and knowledge to manage soil, identify and control pests and diseases, cultivate plants, and maintain plant health. Through hands-on learning and field trips, students gain a comprehensive understanding of horticulture, preparing them for careers in nursery production, orchard management, and other industry sectors. The program also offers a part-time option and assists with work placement to enhance practical experience.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

Dig deep and grow your skills in horticulture.

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Objectives:

• Equip learners with the skills and knowledge to improve soil management, identify and manage pests and diseases, train and prune fruit trees, maintain plant health, manage water and irrigation, and cultivate their own plants.
• Provide hands-on learning experiences through regular field trips to local growers.
• Soils: Understanding soil properties, management practices, and methods for improvement.
• Plant Health: Identifying and managing pests and diseases, including integrated pest management strategies.
• Propagation and Cultivation: Techniques for propagating plants from seeds and cuttings, as well as cultivation methods for various horticultural crops.
• Growing Environments: The science behind different growing environments, including greenhouses, hydroponics, and controlled environments.
• Growing Systems: Exploring various growing systems used in horticulture, such as container gardening, raised beds, and traditional in-ground cultivation.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• The program consists of five modules: Plant Health, Plant Science, Growing Environment (Soils), Propagation and Cultivation, and Growing Systems.
• All modules are delivered online with practical components for students to complete at home.
• Each module is delivered in a 6-week block format with weekly Zoom tutorials and interactive online content.

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Structure and Timetable:

• Full-time: Study for six months, with classes held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:15 am to 2:45 pm.
• Part-time: Study for one year, with one day of study and one day of work placement per week.

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Modules:

• Plant Science: Explores the fundamental principles of plant biology, physiology, and growth.
• Growing Environment (Soils): Focuses on soil properties, management practices, and improving soil health.
• Plant Health: Identifies and manages pests and diseases, emphasizing integrated pest management strategies.
• Propagation and Cultivation: Covers techniques for propagating plants from seeds and cuttings and cultivates various horticultural crops.
• Growing Systems: Examines different growing systems used in horticulture, including container gardening, raised beds, and traditional in-ground cultivation.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A combination of assignments, practical assessments, and online quizzes is used to assess student learning in each module.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessments are graded based on predefined criteria that evaluate students' knowledge, understanding, and application of horticulture principles and practices.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining online lectures and interactive content with hands-on practical sessions and field trips.
• Students receive individual support from qualified horticulture tutors through weekly Zoom tutorials and additional communication channels.

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Faculty:

• Experienced and knowledgeable horticulture tutors with strong industry connections deliver the program.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates can pursue careers in various areas of the horticulture industry, including:
• Nursery production
• Orchard management
• Vegetable and flower production
• Landscape design and maintenance
• Horticultural consultancy
• Crop management
• Cool store management
• Science technician positions
• This program also prepares learners for self-employment opportunities in horticulture-related businesses.

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Career Pathways:

• Graduates can further their studies by pursuing Level 4 qualifications in horticulture.

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Other:

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Physical Requirements:

• Horticulture work demands a degree of physical strength and fitness, especially during the initial stages.
Some jobs, like nursery work, are less physically demanding but still require a certain level of physical ability.
• Workplace Requirements: Students must complete 145 hours of work placement at a horticulture-related organization.
NMIT assists with placement, but students are responsible for setting up and completing the hours. Pre-employment and random drug testing might be implemented by employers.
• Additional Recommendations: Students are encouraged to have a current driver's license and a computer device to access course materials and complete online work.
Fees listed are for each year of the program and may vary depending on course selection.