
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A fully online, free-of-charge Level 3 certificate providing fundamental knowledge in horticulture, including plant and soil science, plant identification and selection, plant health, and sustainable growing. Ideal for beginners or those seeking to work in the horticulture industry.
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing

Free study? Yep, it’s possible. Find out if you qualify.
NZQA Level 3 Certification (60 Credits)
Entry

Describe plant structure and processes and apply these to growing plants; describe soil properties and processes and apply these to the growing of plants.

This Level 3 programme is designed for those passionate about gardening, wanting to grow food, or already working in horticulture and seeking foundational scientific knowledge in plant production. The qualification covers key topics in plant and soil science, plant identification and naming, plant health and pest control, and sustainable growing practices. Fully online and free to domestic learners, it provides a strong pathway into Level 4 study and employment in areas such as orchards, vineyards, plant nurseries, and garden centres. Not available for international students.
Entry Requirements
Open entry



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.

Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A fully online, free-of-charge Level 3 certificate providing fundamental knowledge in horticulture, including plant and soil science, plant identification and selection, plant health, and sustainable growing. Ideal for beginners or those seeking to work in the horticulture industry.
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing

Free study? Yep, it’s possible. Find out if you qualify.
NZQA Level 3 Certification (60 Credits)
Entry

Describe plant structure and processes and apply these to growing plants; describe soil properties and processes and apply these to the growing of plants.

This Level 3 programme is designed for those passionate about gardening, wanting to grow food, or already working in horticulture and seeking foundational scientific knowledge in plant production. The qualification covers key topics in plant and soil science, plant identification and naming, plant health and pest control, and sustainable growing practices. Fully online and free to domestic learners, it provides a strong pathway into Level 4 study and employment in areas such as orchards, vineyards, plant nurseries, and garden centres. Not available for international students.
Entry Requirements
Open entry



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.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online
It will take a total of 17 weeks
This course requires 20 hours per week
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing

Free study? Yep, it’s possible. Find out if you qualify.
NZQA Level 3 Certification (60 Credits)
Entry
Identify and describe plants and their characteristics and uses; identify and apply plant naming conventions; select plants for specific horticulture contexts.

Identify and describe a range of common horticultural pests, diseases, disorders, and weeds, and apply effective solutions to plant health problems.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online
It will take a total of 17 weeks
This course requires 20 hours per week
Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing

Free study? Yep, it’s possible. Find out if you qualify.
NZQA Level 3 Certification (60 Credits)
Entry
Identify and describe plants and their characteristics and uses; identify and apply plant naming conventions; select plants for specific horticulture contexts.

Identify and describe a range of common horticultural pests, diseases, disorders, and weeds, and apply effective solutions to plant health problems.