The first year of the course is taken with other science courses. You will study biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, introduction to horticulture, and biodiversity. These subjects are studied mainly at DCU with frequent periods in the National Botanic Gardens for relevant parts of the syllabus. In Year Two an understanding of a range of subjects relating specifically to horticultural theory and practice will be provided. This will include subjects such as professional horticulture and plant husbandry, plant materials, soil science and plant nutrition, plant protection, plant physiology, meteorology, biomolecules and metabolism. These subjects will be delivered mainly at the National Botanic Gardens with periods spent at DCU for the relevant subjects. In Year Three further studies will be taken in horticultural theory and practice to broaden the range of horticultural expertise. You will study subjects such as landscape construction, landscape design and management. Professional horticulture and plant husbandry will be delivered at the National Botanic Gardens, while at DCU the subjects of scientific literature and new enterprise development project will be taught. With the knowledge gained in first and second year, you will be well prepared to participate in a period of work experience placement (INTRA), which forms an essential component of Year Three. In the final year emphasis will be placed on subject areas relating to ecology and environmental management and legislation together with further studies in landscape construction, design and management. Studies such as literature review and presentation, experimental design and analysis will also form a part of the fourth year and a significant research project must be completed during this year. You will attend both DCU and the National Botanic Gardens during the final year.

Career opportunities exist both in the public and private sectors in the following areas: Crop production - fruit, vegetables, nursery stock Landscape design Landscape construction and management Parks management Sports turf construction and management including football pitches, bowling greens, racecourses, golf courses Horticultural research Horticultural education and training Retails sales outlets - garden centres, florists, horticultural materials suppliers Horticultural therapy Horticultural consultancy