Horticulture and Agriculture

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There are many levels of study available depending on whether you're just starting out or are currently working in an horticulture or agriculture setting and want to increase your skillset

So you're interested in a career in the land-based industries? Great choice! Did you know...

  • The land-based sector is diverse, employing around 121,000 people in Scotland across 17 different industries such as Agriculture, Horticulture, and Forestry – all cornerstones of the Argyll landscapes
  • 21,000 people are currently employed as gardeners and landscapers in Scotland
  • 8% of Scotland’s workforce is employed in land-based industries
  • Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing sector dominates the Argyll economy, accounting for a staggering 20% of the region’s businesses
Horticulture NC content Woman doing gardening

Horticulture NC

This highly practical NC course will give you a broad introduction to the study of horticulture and will equip you with the essential skills required for a career in horticulture and landscaping.

The course has two pathways and you can choose to study either Landscaping or Plant-Based horticulture.  You will be asked to select one of these during your interview.

If you enjoy being creative, getting outdoors, and working in a team, then this could be an ideal course for you.

  • Where? Helensburgh, Oban, Rothesay
  • Full-time or Part-time? Both available
  • Want to find out more? Visit the course page
Horticulture HNC content Three students in the greenhouse

Horticulture HNC

The HNC Horticulture is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of horticulture and landscape and develop – at a practical level – an understanding of plants' characteristics, growth, and use.

The course will be delivered by very experienced horticulture lecturers and an award-winning garden designer.

  • Where? The theory part of the course is available in all centres. The practical part of the course is available in Helensburgh, Oban and Rothesay. 
  • Full-time or Part-time? Both available
  • Want to find out more? Visit the course page
Horticulture HND content Student and tutor looking at flowers

Horticulture HND

The HND Horticulture will develop your skills in plant and crop physiology and breeding, planting design, soil management and landscape surveying, as well as experience in the care, maintenance and management of plants. You will also have the opportunity to gain experience in ecology and plant habitat conservation.

  • Where? The theory part of the course is available in all centres. The practical part of the course is available in Helensburgh, Oban and Rothesay. 
  • Full-time or Part-time? Both available
  • Want to find out more? Visit the course page
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Agriculture NC content Two students on the farm erecting fencing

Agriculture NC

Get an introduction to a range of areas important in the industry, including: livestock husbandry, health and welfare, tractor operations, farm maintenances, soils and fertility, gassland production, dairy production, calf rearing systems, crop production, and agricultural environmental awareness.

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To make sure our students gain the practical experience they need, our agriculture students benefit from hands-on work experience at Rhoin Farm, Campbeltown and horticulture students work with a range of community gardens throughout Argyll.