Program Overview

Program Overview

The Vertical Farming course is designed for professionals and students interested in the cutting-edge technology of vertical farming. Led by the world's leading academics in the field, this mixed classroom course brings together business, academia, and students to explore the opportunities and challenges of vertical farming.

Program Details

• Organised by: Wageningen Academy & Horticulture and Product Physiology
• Date: Monday, 5 January 2026, until Friday, 30 January 2026
• Duration: 60 hours in 4 weeks (3 weeks interactive online + 2 days in person)
• Number of students: 100 - 150
• Venue: Online and Wageningen Campus
• Price: EUR 1,900.00 (including tuition, the conference, and 1 year access to the online course content)
• Price description: A view-only option (no interaction, no access to the conference) is available for €950.

Target Audience

The course is designed for professional growers, tech developers, or breeders associated with the vertical farming industry. Participants will collaborate with university students to research the central challenges of vertical farming and gain scientific insights into applied problems. A BSc level of experience or study is recommended to get the most out of this course.

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this program, participants will be able to:

• Analyse the sustainability and profitability of vertical farms
• Understand the role and key principles of plant physiology in vertical farming
• Learn about new opportunities in vertical farming through the latest academic insights
• Solve specific hurdles and practical challenges faced by the VF industry
• Infer the relevance and advances of technology in vertical farming

Program Structure

The 4-week program offers 60 hours of dedicated study time, including four modules and fixed interaction moments. Professionals will follow the first 3 weeks online, with 6-10 online live sessions each week, including lectures, workshops, discussions, and student presentations. The program concludes with an in-person VF mini-conference in Wageningen.

Certification

A certificate will be issued based on attendance.

Coordination

The program is coordinated by:

• ir. MGC (Monique) Tulp-Jansen, Programme manager
• prof.dr.ir. LFM (Leo) Marcelis, Professor/Chairholder Horticulture and Product Physiology Group

Related Courses

• Online Course Greenhouse Horticulture
• Summer School Greenhouse Horticulture
• Masterclass Soilless Culture

Continuing Education at WUR

The program is part of Wageningen University & Research's continuing education offerings, which aim to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to stay relevant in a dynamic labour market.