South East Technological University, in partnership with Teagasc Kildalton College, has launched a new four-year Level 8 honours degree in horticulture.
The programme now available through the CAO for the first time combines hands-on training with science, business and environmental studies, covering areas such as plant biology, biodiversity and landscape design.
Students will also complete a 15-week industry placement.
The course comes as Ireland’s horticulture sector continues to grow, creating strong demand for skilled graduates across areas like landscaping, food production, research and education.
SETU says the degree builds on its long-standing horticulture programmes and offers clear progression routes for students with existing qualifications.
Cara Daly, Programme Director for the Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Horticulture at SETU, said:
“People are often surprised by the sheer diversity of careers available to horticulture graduates. Horticulture combines science, business, sustainability, creativity, and practical skills in a way that opens many different pathways for students. Graduates may go on to work in landscaping, food production, plant propagation, biodiversity management, sports turf, or public gardens, while many also establish their own successful businesses. In many cases, horticulture graduates can take smaller farms or growing enterprises and develop sustainable and profitable businesses from them. We welcome both school leavers and mature students onto the programme each year, and that mix of experience and backgrounds creates a really supportive learning environment.”
