If you are passionate about the environment, sustainable practices, or an avid home gardener who is interested in plants, this course is for you. Launch your horticulture career, and brush up on your skills by completing this entry-level qualification to unearth your inner green thumb.
Horticulture is one of the fastest growing industries in Australia with the sector playing an important role in delivering economic, social and environmental value.
- plant identification and care
- improving soil conditions
- operating machinery and equipment
- propagating
- pruning and fertilising
- maintaining gardens and nurseries, and
- workplace safety and health
- treat plant pests, diseases and disorders
- assist with soil or growing media sampling and testing
- apply chemicals under supervision
- assist with low volume irrigation operations
- undertake propagation activities
- care for nursery plants
- support turf establishment
In order to make an informed choice about the suitability of this course, you must take into account the essential skills and knowledge required to undertake this study.
- enjoyment of practical/manual work and working in varied weather conditions outdoors
- an eye for detail and good hand-eye coordination
- high stamina and fitness levels
- ability to accurately follow plans, instructions and work to deadlines
- enjoyment of nature and the outdoors
This qualification is directly aligned with priority industry areas where the jobs are today, and into the future. As part of the state government Lower fees, local skills initiative, from 1 January 2020 through to 31 December 2025 you'll only pay half the course fees, capped for each year at $1,200; or $400 (plus resource fee) if you're aged 15—24 or eligible for a concession. Find out more
| School Leaver | Non-School Leaver | AQF |
|---|---|---|
| OLNA or NAPLAN 9 Band 8 | C Grades in Year 10 English and Maths or equivalent | Certificate I or Certificate II |
Attendance in class
This course is equivalent to 3 days per week when studied full time across one semester.
At-home study
As well as the in-class component, you will need to complete approximately 2-5 hours of additional study each week outside of class hours, including private study, assignment preparation, and research.
You will need to have the basic technical requirements for at-home study. If you don’t have access to a computer and WiFi at home, we recommend using our library computers during library hours.
Work placement
Not a requirement of this course.
What you need for your first day of class
On your first day you should bring your SM TAFE confirmation enrolment receipt, your student ID, stationery (pen, pencil, exercise book, eraser, ruler, calculator, highlighter, 2 ring binder/lever-arch file and a clipboard for field work).
Uniform requirements
- steel-capped safety boots (mandatory within all classrooms)
- collared long-sleeve shirt and work trousers
- sun hat
- Australian standard eye protection
- Australian standard hearing protection
- sunblock
- gardening gloves
Detailed specifics will be advised by your course lecturer at orientation.
Please note this list should be used as a guide only as job titles and qualification requirements may vary between organisations.
To access free career planning and job search assistance, visit the Jobs and Skills Centres page.
Select your preferred campus and apply
Click on your preferred campus and study mode below to get started with your application.
Semester 1, 2023
Murdoch - Full time - On Campus
| Duration | 1 Semester |
| When | Semester 1, 2023 |
| Where | Murdoch |
| How | On Campus |
Semester 2, 2022
Murdoch - Full time - On Campus
| Duration | 1 Semester |
| When | Semester 2, 2022 |
| Where | Murdoch |
| How | On Campus |