Bachelor of Horticultural and Plant Systems – BHort&PlantSys
Growing & Vines
A course by
Massey University
Discover the power of plants – shaping sustainable food systems, healthy environments, and the industries of tomorrow. This degree equips students with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in horticulture, plant biology, and sustainable land use, preparing graduates for diverse roles across plant-based industries.
NZ$34,220
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 7 Certification (360 Credits)
Advanced
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
NZ$34,220
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 7 Certification (360 Credits)
Advanced
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Core skills this course teaches
Apply plant science and horticultural principles
Demonstrate knowledge of plant biology, growth, and development, and apply these principles to horticultural and agricultural systems.
Manage and innovate in plant-based industries
Develop practical skills in managing, growing, and innovating within various crop production systems, including orchards, open-fields, and controlled environments.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Horticultural and Plant Systems (BHort&PlantSys) explores how plants function as complex, dynamic systems and their role in food production, ecosystems, and society. The programme covers horticultural production and integrative plant biology, with opportunities to specialise in topics from plant breeding to environmental biology. Students gain real-world experience in the laboratory, field, and through 26 weeks of practical work in the industry. The course addresses global challenges such as food security, biodiversity, and climate change by promoting sustainable horticulture, responsible resource management, and resilient ecosystems. Graduates are prepared for jobs in horticulture, plant science, research, environmental consulting, and allied sectors.
Course Content
- Plant biology: anatomy, morphology, and systematics
- Horticultural production systems: theory and hands-on practice
- Soil science and nutrient cycling
- Sustainable land use and resource management
- Plant growth and development in response to environment
- Plant diversity and Māori plant use
- Statistics in agricultural and horticultural contexts
- Principles of horticultural crop development and yield
- Plants as sources of food, medicine, fibres, and dyes
- Practical experience: 26 weeks of industry practicum
- Environmental sustainability challenges utilising science and Te Ao Māori perspectives
- Integration of plant biology, genetics, ecology (for Integrative Plant Biology major)
- Crop management for fruit, vegetables, and ornamental plants (for Horticultural Production major)
What you need to know first
Find these employment opportunities
Plant breederHorticulturalistHorticulture science consultantOrchard and greenhouse production managerCrop disease and pest control agentField biologistBotanistLab technicianForestry scientistEcological consultantHorticulture technology and innovation specialist
