The MSc in Organic and Biological Horticulture is a two year part time taught postgraduate programme that were developed to address specific practical and scientific skills gaps within the horticulture and land science sectors. The programme is aimed at those already working in primary production or within these sectors and wish to upskill in the developing areas of organic and biological systems and their application in horticulture. The MSc programme will be delivered using a blended learning approach. Theoretical aspects and core principles of various modules will be taught through online lectures, designed to be interactive and conducive to discussion
Unique Features
International and national guest speakers, including researchers, practitioners, and experienced horticulture producers, and ecologists will contribute to these sessions where relevant, providing insights into the thematic areas under study. To complement the theory, practical case studies such as natural resource audits and surveys will be conducted, some of which can be undertaken on the student's own or employer's farm, or workplace, enhancing their understanding and application of module concepts.
Practical learning is a key focus, especially during dedicated course days held each semester. Laboratory classes in relevant modules, such as those involving soil health, plant nutrition, and pest and disease identification, will allow learners to develop specific technical assessment skills through physical evaluations.
Access to the fully-equipped SETU Waterford laboratories will allow microscope work, and soil analysis as well as exposure to the active research activities in the field of horticulture ongoing in SETU. Additionally, field trips to organic farms across Ireland will offer first-hand learning experiences about the opportunities and challenges in organic and biological production systems. Once registered, students will be invited to attend an online library introduction session which will outline access routes to the various online databases SETU subscribes to. Students will also be taught about the inter-library loan scheme that can be used in the event a publication is not available locally.
Delivery
The programme is delivered through a blend of lectures, tutorials, laboratory assessments and field based practical. Each module will include farm or industry sector visits. Some material is delivered in an e-learning capacity to facilitate distance learning. Course projects will be based on the participant's home farm or enterprise or a selected business convenient to their region. Students will be required to attend SETU Waterford for no more than 3 days per module, amounting to a maximum of 12 days per academic year.
Discounted / Part-Funded Places Through NOTS:
Eligible participants in Ireland can avail of a 40% cost reduction on course fees through our MSc course partners National Organic Training Skillnet. Contact NOTS by calling 071 9640688 or email [email protected] for more information on eligibility for these reduced fees.
To achieve the Postgraduate Diploma award students must accumulate 60 credits by completing six 10-credit modules.
To achieve the MSc award students must additionally complete a 30-credit research dissertation, which can be carried out in the field.
Students can apply for an exit award of an individual Level 9 Certificate for each module they successfully complete.
Successful completion of one or more stand-alone Certificate programmes can also be used as credit towards the MSc/PG Diploma award
Applicants for the MSc in Organic and Biological Horticulture should hold a National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 8 honours degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Forestry, Environmental, or other Science-related discipline. Where the demand exceeds the places available, offers will be made in rank order based on applicants’ Grade Point Average (GPA).
Applicants who do not hold a degree in the cognate areas specified but who have relevant industry or practical experience in agricultural and biological systems or equivalent, in conjunction with a Level 8 degree in a non-cognate area, may be considered for entry under SETU’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) mechanism.
Applicants should have a minimum of two years relevant experience in agriculture, horticulture or forestry.
The programme offers a pathway for graduates interested in further academic progression to Level 10, enabling them to explore more in-depth research, development, and innovation within the field.
Graduates from the MSc programme will be well-prepared to either engage directly in primary commercial production or offer vital support and advice to organic farmers and growers. Graduates may also consider roles in national or international public services, where they can participate in the development of agricultural and horticultural policies, particularly those focusing on sustainable natural resource management
