Program Overview

---

Introduction to the Horticulture Co-op Program

The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Horticulture (HORT) major prepares students to address contemporary challenges in the horticultural industry using the latest advancements in biological sciences. This program focuses on the management of commercial greenhouses, horticultural production, breeding improved plant varieties, in vitro plant propagation, or enhancing urban environments with turfgrass and other plant species.

Program Overview

Through a combination of field trips, experiential learning, and independent study, students gain practical and theoretical knowledge. The HORT Co-op program enhances career readiness by integrating academic learning with professional experience, equipping graduates to lead in horticultural innovations and advancements.

University of Guelph Advantage

• Academic Excellence: Our students benefit from learning under professors with world-renowned reputations and extensive histories in agricultural science. The University of Guelph's Ontario Agricultural College boasts a 150-year legacy of developing leaders in agriculture and food.
• Strong Preparation: Students embark on their first co-op work term after their second academic year, ensuring they are well-prepared to apply their knowledge and skills in practical settings.
• Flexible and Employer-Friendly Hiring: Our co-op process responds to your needs. Employers can post, interview, and hire throughout the semester, and our students are available for 4- or 8-month work terms.

Student Strengths

Knowledge

Strong background in the biological sciences as they apply to the horticulture industry.

Application

Advanced understanding of horticulture production systems obtained through hands-on experience through the University of Guelph's expansive and unique facilities.

Communication

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Horticulture Co-op Work Term Schedule

YEAR	FALL	WINTER	SUMMER
ONE	Academic	Academic	Off
TWO	Academic	Academic	Work
THREE	Work	Academic	Off
FOUR	Academic	Work	Work
FIVE	Academic	Academic

Horticulture Course Sequencing

Year One

Fall

• Introduction to the Agri-Food Systems
• Biology of Plants & Animals in Managed Ecosystems
• General Chemistry I
• Elements of Calculus I

Winter

• Animal Production Systems and Industry: Dairy, Poultry and Egg
• Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
• General Chemistry II
• Economics of the Agri-Food System

Year Two

Fall

• Soils in Agroecosystems
• Introduction to Plant Agriculture
• Life Strategies of Plants
• Introduction to Co-operative Education
• Survey of Natural Resource Economics
• Fundamentals of Plant and Animal Genetics

Winter

• Agroecology
• Introduction to Biochemistry
• Plant Health and the Environment
• Statistics I
• 1 elective or restricted elective

Summer

Work Term One

Year Three

Fall

Work Term Two

Winter

• Integrated Management of Invasive Insect Pests
• Plant Physiology
• 3 electives or restricted electives

Summer

Off

Year Four

Fall

• Plant Pathology
• Principles and Applications of Plant Propagation
• Vegetable Production or Fruit Crops
• 2 electives or restricted electives

Winter

Work Term Three

Summer

Work Term Four

Year Five

Fall

• Food Science and Human Nutrition
• 4 electives or restricted electives

Winter

• Agriculture and Food Issues Problem Solving
• 3 electives or restricted electives

Sequence B - Research

Year Three

Fall

Work Term Two

Winter

• Integrated Management of Invasive Insect Pests
• Plant Physiology
• 3 electives or restricted electives

Summer

Off

Year Four

Fall

• Research Methods in Agricultural Science
• Plant Pathology
• Principles and Applications of Plant Propagation
• Vegetable Production or Fruit Crops
• 1 elective or restricted elective

Winter

Work Term Three

Summer

Work Term Four

Year Five

Fall

• Research Project I
• Food Science and Human Nutrition
• 3 electives or restricted electives

Winter

• Research Project II
• 3 electives or restricted electives

See Undergraduate Calendar for list of Restricted Electives.