New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (General) (Level 3)
Growing & Vines
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
This free-of-charge, fully supported online qualification teaches the fundamentals of horticulture, covering plant and soil science, plant identification, plant health, and sustainable growing practices.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online
It will take a total of 17 weeks
This course requires 20 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Understand Plant and Soil Science
Describe plant and soil structures and processes and apply this knowledge to the growing of plants in horticulture.
Identify and Select Plants
Identify, describe, and name plants, and select suitable plants for specific horticultural contexts.
Manage Plant Health
Identify and control common horticultural pests, diseases, disorders, and weeds, and apply solutions to plant health problems.
What You're Signing Up For
Learn the core principles of horticulture in this 17-week full-time (or 34-week part-time) online programme, offered free for domestic students. The qualification provides comprehensive education in growing plants—including plant and soil science, plant identification and selection, plant health, and sustainable growing. It is designed for those passionate about gardening, wanting to grow food, or entering the horticulture industry. Graduates will be qualified for work or further study in orchards, vineyards, nurseries, or garden centres.
Course Content
- Plant and Soil Science: Structure and processes of plants and soils, applying science to horticultural growing.
- Plant Identification and Selection: Recognising, describing, naming, and selecting plants for horticultural use.
- Plant Health: Identifying and controlling pests, diseases, disorders, and weeds; plant health problem solving.
- Sustainable Growing: Principles and practices for sustainable growing systems; applying sustainable techniques.
What you need to know first
Open entry (no academic prerequisites).
Not available to international students.
If English is not the first language: New Zealand University Entrance or IELTS 5.0 (no band lower than 5.0), or equivalent.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Horticulture
Agriculture
Orchards
Vineyards
Nurseries
Garden centres
Future employment opportunities might be
Entry-level roles in horticulture including orchards, vineyards, nurseries, and garden centres.
Support roles in crop production or plant care.
Further progression in the horticulture industry.
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.