MSc Horticulture

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: For admission to postgraduate programs at UCD, the general entry requirement is a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in the student's previous academic qualifications, such as a bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual band lower than 6.0.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no section below Listening 19, Speaking 19, Writing 21, and Reading 19.
• PTE: Overall score of 63 with a minimum of 59 in each section.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120 with a minimum of 110.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

UCD offers various scholarships and financial aid options specifically designed to support international students pursuing their education at the university. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and alleviate the financial burden for deserving students. 

UCD Global Excellence Graduate Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students applying for eligible full-time master's programs. It covers a percentage of the tuition fees for the duration of the program.

UCD Global Undergraduate Scholarship: Intended for non-EU students, this scholarship is based on academic performance and offers financial assistance towards tuition fees for the duration of undergraduate studies.

Regional Graduate Scholarships: UCD provides scholarships targeted at students from specific regions or countries, encouraging diversity and supporting talented individuals from those areas.

UCD Ad Astra Academic Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to outstanding students with exceptional academic achievements and offers financial support along with enrichment opportunities.

Sports Scholarships: For students who excel in sports, UCD offers scholarships to support their academic pursuits while actively participating in sports at a competitive level.

UCD Research Scholarships: These scholarships are available to support international students pursuing research-based postgraduate programs, providing funding and opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research initiatives.

Government and External Scholarships: UCD collaborates with various governments, organizations, and foundations worldwide to offer additional scholarship opportunities for international students based on specific criteria and partnerships.

A Master of Science (MSc) in Horticulture from University College Dublin (UCD) offers graduates a diverse range of career opportunities within the field of horticulture.

1. Horticultural Manager: Graduates can pursue roles as horticultural managers, overseeing the day-to-day operations of nurseries, gardens, or commercial horticultural enterprises. They manage resources, cultivation practices, and staff to ensure efficient plant production.

2. Crop Production Specialist: Focusing on crop production, graduates can work in various sectors such as fruit, vegetable, or ornamental crop production. They manage cultivation, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting, aiming for optimal crop yields.

3. Research Scientist: Graduates interested in research can work as scientists in laboratories or research institutions. They engage in studying plant genetics, breeding, biotechnology, and sustainable cultivation practices to enhance crop quality and yield.

4. Crop Protection Advisor: Specialists in crop protection advise on pest and disease management strategies. They work with farmers, offering guidance on integrated pest management, disease prevention, and pesticide application techniques.

5. Sustainable Agriculture Consultant: Graduates can work as consultants, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices in agriculture. They advise on organic production, conservation methods, and sustainable horticultural techniques.

6. Educator/Trainer: Graduates with an inclination towards education can become instructors or trainers in horticultural colleges, extension services, or agricultural education programs, imparting knowledge and skills to future horticulturists.

7. Greenhouse Manager: Opportunities exist in managing greenhouse facilities, focusing on controlled environment agriculture, plant propagation, and specialty crop cultivation under controlled conditions.

8. Landscaping Specialist: Graduates can work in landscape design firms or as self-employed professionals, designing and implementing landscaping projects for residential, commercial, or public spaces.

9. PhD Studies: Pursuing further academic research or doctoral studies in horticulture, plant sciences, or related fields is another option for those interested in advanced research and academia.