Master of Horticultural Science

About this Course

This course delivers cutting edge theoretical and practical knowledge for production, postharvest and supply chain of horticultural produce.

It also focuses on the management, supply chain and sustainability issues surrounding the way horticultural produce is gathered, stored, and utilised. Students will be instilled with principles of advanced production technologies, practices, and technology to address key national and global issues in the horticultural industry. Students will undertake a semester-long work placement or project with industry, academics, or external research partners.

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level

This course has been accredited by ECU as an AQF Level 9 Masters Degree (Coursework) Award.

Course Entry

Admission requirements you'll need to meet for this course.

• Academic Admission requirements (Band 6)

  The following course-specific admission requirements are mandatory and must be satisfied by all applicants. These requirements are in addition to or supersede the minimum requirements outlined within the Academic admission requirements band section below.

  Special entry may be considered for students with a cognate first degree (or with appropriate experience) who can apply for a reduced course duration:

  1.5 years full time (3 years part time) - 180 credit points

  Admission is based on:

  Bachelor degree in a related discipline*, or

  Bachelor degree in any discipline, plus five years relevant work experience^, or

  Graduate Certificate in a related discipline*, or

  Evidence of academic capability judged to be equivalent.

  *Related discipline refers to any horticulture/agriculture/biology related discipline

  ^Relevant work experience constitutes Senior/Managerial positions to be approved by the Course Coordinator.

  Academic admission requirements (Band 6) may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

  • Bachelor degree; or
  • Equivalent prior learning including at least five years relevant professional experience.

Career Opportunities

MSc Horticulture graduates are employed across several organisations and industries including the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Universities, Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Agrochemical companies, Elders Agribusiness in Australia, Nurseries, Parks and Gardens, Packhouses, Wholesalers, Retailers and Exporters, Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service, Biosecurity - Department of Agriculture. Horticulture Innovation Australia, AUSVEG, VegetablesWA.

Possible future job titles

Horticulturalist, Horticultural Project Officer, Horticulture Research Officer, Horticulture Development Officer, Agricultural and Horticultural Plant Operator, Administration Officer, Waterways Plant Operator, Orchard manger, Vegetable farm manger, Bush Regenerator