RBGE offers a unique opportunity to study 'Plantsmanship' at Higher National Diploma (HND) and Batchelor of Science (BSc Hons) levels.

The course is taught in conjunction with the Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) and awarded by The University of Glasgow.

About the Course

'Plantsmanship' is an expertise in plant diversity and cultivation, but on our courses you will also gain a good understanding of other aspects of horticulture and applied plant science. This is achieved by integrating the practical experience of plant cultivation and management with advanced knowledge of plant distribution, classification, diversity, structure and identification. The course enables students to gain in-depth knowledge of a wide range of ornamental plants from around the world and makes full use of our superb botanical collections.

This HND/BSc is perfect for those wishing to develop a career in any area of horticulture that requires a good knowledge of plants. This would include botanic and private gardens, nurseries, retail outlets and garden design. As part of the course 1st year students are are issued with their own plot to cultivate and practice their horticultural skills.

Although it is possible to study to a similar level at other gardens, RBGE is the only botanic garden in the UK at which you can gain an internationally recognised higher education qualification.

Aim of the Course

The HND/BSc aims to "educate students in the specialism of Plantsmanship, within a botanic garden environment, and to raise the overall standard and status of Plantsmanship within the horticultural industry".

Course Outline

The overall HND/BSc programme is four years long, but students can enter the programme at the start of Years 1, 2 and 3.

Exit Qualification:

Year 1 - Higher National Certificate (HNC)*
Year 2 - Higher National Diploma (HND)
Year 3 – BSc
Year 4 - BSc (Hons)
*Applications are NOT accepted for the HNC, but a HNC may be awarded if a student leaves the programme at the end of year one with all modules completed.

How to Apply

Applications for full-time study on the HND and BSc must be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

If you have an enquiry regarding admission to the HND/BSc, in the first instance please contact the Education Office at SRUC, as they look after the admissions and applications process.
SRUC Student Recruitment
Tel: 0800 269 453
Email: recruitment@sruc.ac.uk