Bachelor of Horticulture Science, Major in Plant Health

The Plant Health Major is an interdisciplinary program that combines plant pathology, entomology, and horticultural practices as part of a holistic approach to plant health protection. The program emphasizes sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) practices including cultural control, biological control, and surveys/scouting, as tools supporting overall management of pests such as insects, weeds and organisms that cause plant disease.

Students address the impacts of plant health issues on the local, regional, and international practice of horticulture. The recognition of plant health, the diagnosis of poor plant performance, and the analysis of plant health programs form the core educational goals. Students explore the impacts of weeds, pests, and diseases as well as the implementation of pest management tactics on the environment. A key feature of the program is the recognition of horticulture as part of international trade and the impact of moving plants, plant products and their pests or diseases globally.

The Bachelor of Horticulture Science program has the following strengths:

• Customized education through the selection of electives that support learner educational goals
• Emphasis on the economic, environmental, and social components of sustainability
• Strong connections with horticulture industry and community groups
• Development of essential skills such as teamwork, creative thinking, problem solving, and communication
• Capstone research courses which include the application of new skills to a community based issue
• Required work experience

Students may have the opportunity to engage in international studies.

Who Studies Plant Health?

Students interested in the impacts of plant health, its management, and the influence of plant protection regulations on the horticulture industry or our broader community, are encouraged to apply. The program will appeal to students who want to enroll in an applied science degree, where they can both analyze problems and implement solutions that enhance and protect our food, amenity, and recreational needs. Students interested in the effects of varied societal perspectives on public policy and the implementation of sustainable practices to food and crop production will find this program of value.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates develop skill necessary for employment in the following area:

• Technical positions in the Environmental Sector
• Urban Horticulturists
• Growers in Production Horticulture Operations
• Importers and exporters of plants or plant-based commodities
• Plant Protection Inspectors
• Pest Management Specialists or Managers in public or private organizations
• Crop Consultants
• Technical Representatives for Horticulture or Agriculture Supply Companies
• Parks Managers
• Graduate studies in Horticulture or related fields (subject to specific graduate school admission requirements)

High School: A graduate of a BC secondary school or an equivalent school system. (Note: Proof of June graduation must be received in order to be eligible for Fall admission. High school students graduating in August are eligible for Spring admission. High school students graduating in January are eligible for Summer admission.)