New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (General) (Level 3)
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A fully supported, online NZQA Level 3 certificate providing foundational education in horticulture, with a focus on plant science, plant selection, plant health, and sustainable growing. Zero fees for domestic students.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online, Online
It will take a total of 17 weeks
This course requires 20 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Understand and apply knowledge of plant and soil science
Describe plant structure and processes and apply these to growing plants; describe soil properties and their role in plant growth.
Identify and select plants for horticultural use
Identify, describe, and select plants for various horticultural contexts; understand and use plant naming conventions.
Identify and address plant health issues
What You're Signing Up For
This free-of-charge, fully supported online qualification provides a comprehensive education on the fundamentals of growing plants. Covering plant and soil science, plant identification and selection, plant health, and sustainable growing, it's suitable for gardening enthusiasts, those wanting to grow food for family, and professionals in the horticulture industry. The qualification creates a clear pathway to further study or careers in areas such as orchards, vineyards, plant nurseries, and garden centres.
Course Content
- Plant and Soil Science: Plant structure and processes, soil properties and their application to growing plants.
- Plant Identification and Selection: Plant characteristics and uses, plant naming conventions, plant selection for horticultural contexts.
- Plant Health: Identification and control of common pests, diseases, disorders, and weeds; solutions to plant health problems.
- Sustainable Growing: Principles and practices of sustainable growing systems, features of natural systems, sustainable plant growing techniques.
What you need to know first
Open entry for domestic students.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Horticulture
Agriculture
Future employment opportunities might be
Entry-level roles in orchards, vineyards, plant nurseries, and garden centres
Horticultural assistant or technician
Community or home garden development
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.