Diploma in Horticulture Technology, Landscape Horticulture Systems Specialization
Description
The Landscape Horticulture Systems program provides students an understanding of the landscape as an integrated network of various living and non-living systems including soil, plants, insects, fungi and the humans and animals that inhabit these landscapes.
The Landscape Horticulture Systems specialization provides students opportunities to learn basic horticulture science and develop valuable applied skills through hands on learning in the Kwantlen Polytechnic University Langley campus and local landscapes. With the knowledge gained by studying basic botany, plant identification, and soil science and plant heath, students learn how different elements and inputs interact and impact the function and sustainability of the landscape. Students learn to resolve and reduce the consequences of local landscape garden problems by applying their knowledge of landscape applications, pest management, and landscape construction, design and maintenance, including arboriculture and cost-estimating.
Graduates of the Landscape Horticulture Systems diploma program are highly valuable employees and managers in public parks and gardens, resorts, golf courses, and private landscape maintenance, design and construction companies.
Progression to a Degree Program
KPU Bachelor of Horticulture Science
Graduates of a KPU Horticulture Technology Diploma, with or without specialization, can pursue one of KPU's Bachelor of Horticulture Science degree programs, with a choice between the Major in Urban Ecosystems or the Major in Plant Health major. (Please refer to the Plant Health or Urban Ecosystems section of the Calendar for details.) Students can combine their diploma education with the enhanced horticulture science knowledge at the degree level and earn two credentials (Diploma and Degree). Those who wish to pursue this option should meet with the Faculty of Science and Horticulture Degree Advisor to discuss applying credit to one of these unique School of Horticulture degree programs.
KPU Bachelor of Business Administration
A successful career progression in horticulture often leads to a management role. The Horticulture Technology diploma programs include a foundation in business skills and graduates may be eligible to apply many program credits towards KPU's Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurial Leadership. Students can combine diploma-level education with enhanced business skills and earn two credentials (Diploma and Degree). Students who wish to pursue this option should meet with the Faculty of Science and Horticulture Degree Advisor to discuss course planning that would facilitate application to the School of Business degree program.
Who Studies Landscape Horticulture Systems?
Students who wish to contribute to environmental and community well-being, engage in creative activities, own and operate their own business, or engage in hands-on work will enjoy horticulture.
Many students enter the Horticulture Technology Diploma to upgrade their skills or facilitate a career change. Faculty and staff are supportive and sensitive to the issues faced by students who embark on a post-secondary program after a significant period away from formal education.
Individuals with allergies to dust, pollen or plant products, or specific chemicals should be aware of the potential impact of practicing horticulture on their health. Moderate physical fitness and a healthy back are generally required for a successful career in horticulture.
Note: In addition to the Faculty Admission Requirements, students will be required to have completed a minimum of Mathematics 11 Foundations (with a minimum grade of C) or equivalent in order to complete the program without undertaking preparatory courses. Students are encouraged to speak with an Academic Advisor to plan course selection accordingly.
Faculty's website: kpu.ca/science
Department's website: kpu.ca/hort
Admission Requirements
Students pursuing a Diploma in Horticulture Technology must be admitted to the Faculty of Science & Horticulture.
Declaration Requirements
Students intending to graduate with Horticulture Technology diploma must declare the credential. At the time of declaration, the student must satisfy all of the following requirements:
- In good academic standing with the University.
- Completion of a minimum of 15 credits of undergraduate coursework.
Curricular Requirements
Students pursuing a Horticulture Technology Diploma with a Landscape Horticulture Systems specialization must complete at least 63 credits. Students should be familiar with the basic computer applications of word processing and spreadsheets. If students require upgrading, they should take CBSY 1105.
| Year 1 | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| HORT 1102 | Botany for Horticulture | 3 |
| HORT 1104 | Soils and Growing Media | 3 |
| HORT 1105 | BC Pesticide Applicator Certification | 1 |
| HORT 1110 | Introduction To Sustainable Horticulture | 3 |
| HORT 1118 | Basic Machinery Operation and Maintenance | 3 |
| HORT 1124 | Landscape Gardening Methods | 3 |
| HORT 1155 | Introduction To Plant Materials | 3 |
| HORT 1217 | Foundations of Plant Health | 3 |
| HORT 1240 | Arboriculture I | 3 |
| HORT 1230 or HORT 1261 |
Sustainable Turf Management or Plant Propagation |
3 |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Professional Communication | ||
| Introduction to University Writing 1 | ||
| Credits | 31 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| HORT 2302 | Horticulture Work Experience | 1 |
| HORT 2306 | Work Experience Report | 1 |
| HORT 2327 | Sustainable Landscape Design I | 3 |
| HORT 2355 | Plant Materials II | 3 |
| HORT 2412 | Landscape Estimating and Contract Administration | 3 |
| HORT 2426 | Landscape Construction | 3 |
| HORT 2308 | Landscape Pest Management | 3 |
| HORT 2334 | Irrigation, Drainage and Lighting | 3 |
| Select two of the following: | 6 | |
| Sustainable Landscape Design II | ||
| Arboriculture II | ||
| Organic Crop Production | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Supervisory Skills | ||
| Organizational Behaviour 2 | ||
| Human Resources Management I | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Introductory Financial Accounting I 2 | ||
| Business Management in Horticulture | ||
| Essentials of Management | ||
| Credits | 32 | |
| Total Credits | 63 | |
- 1
Applicable to the Bachelor of Horticulture Science, Major in Plant Health or Major in Urban Ecosystems, and the Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurial Leadership.
- 2
Applicable to the the Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurial Leadership.
Credential Awarded
Upon successful completion of this program, students are eligible to receive a Diploma in Horticulture Technology Landscape Horticulture Systems Specialization.
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