Graduate Diploma in Business Administration - Green Business Management and Sustainability
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) offers a specialized Graduate Diploma in Business...
Diploma in Horticulture Technology - Sustainable Production
Langley
INTAKE: Jan, May & Sept
Program Overview
The Diploma in Horticulture Technology - Sustainable Production program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University offers students a comprehensive education in sustainable horticulture practices, preparing them for careers in the rapidly evolving field of sustainable agriculture and plant production. The Diploma in Horticulture Technology - Sustainable Production program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to succeed in sustainable agriculture and horticulture careers. Graduates emerge ready to contribute to the development of sustainable food systems, environmental conservation efforts, and community resilience through their work in sustainable horticulture production, organic farming, greenhouse management, agribusiness entrepreneurship, and sustainable landscape design. With their understanding of sustainable agriculture principles and hands-on experience in horticulture production techniques, graduates play a vital role in shaping the future of agriculture towards sustainability.
Curriculum:
1. Sustainable Agriculture Fundamentals: The program covers the principles and practices of sustainable agriculture, focusing on environmentally friendly methods of crop production, soil management, pest control, and resource conservation. Students learn about organic farming, permaculture, agroecology, and other sustainable agriculture concepts.
2. Crop Production Techniques: Students gain practical skills in crop production techniques, including greenhouse production, field crop cultivation, hydroponics, and vertical farming. They learn about crop selection, planting, propagation, irrigation, fertilization, and harvesting methods used in sustainable horticulture systems.
3. Soil Health and Management: The program emphasizes the importance of soil health and management in sustainable agriculture. Students study soil science principles, soil fertility management, soil conservation practices, composting techniques, and soil amendment strategies to improve soil health and productivity sustainably.
4. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Students learn about integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to control pests, diseases, and weeds in horticultural crops while minimizing environmental impact. They study biological control methods, cultural practices, crop rotation, and pest monitoring techniques as alternatives to chemical pesticides.
5. Organic Farming Practices: The program covers organic farming principles and practices, including organic certification standards, soil organic matter management, organic fertilization, weed management, and organic pest control strategies. Students learn about the benefits of organic agriculture for soil health, biodiversity, and human health.
6. Greenhouse Management and Technology: Students gain hands-on experience in greenhouse management and technology, including greenhouse design, environmental control systems, heating and cooling systems, irrigation systems, and greenhouse crop production techniques. They learn how to optimize growing conditions and maximize crop yields in controlled environments.
7. Sustainable Landscape Design: The program includes courses on sustainable landscape design principles, water-efficient landscaping, native plant selection, rainwater harvesting, and green infrastructure. Students learn how to design and manage landscapes that conserve water, support biodiversity, and promote environmental sustainability.
8. Agribusiness Management: Students acquire business management skills relevant to sustainable horticulture enterprises, including financial management, marketing, market analysis, business planning, and entrepreneurship. They learn how to develop and manage sustainable horticulture businesses, including farms, nurseries, and value-added agribusinesses.
9. Experiential Learning and Fieldwork: The program includes experiential learning opportunities, practicum placements, and fieldwork experiences that allow students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. They have the opportunity to work on organic farms, sustainable horticulture operations, community gardens, and research projects.
10. Career Preparation and Networking: The program provides career preparation resources, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities to help students transition into sustainable horticulture careers. They have access to industry events, guest lectures, workshops, and alumni networks that facilitate connections with potential employers and industry professionals.
Location
Langley
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 23415
Entry requirements for Undergraduate Diploma Programs:
Application Fees : CAD$ 120
- Minimum Percentage Requirement: Indian students applying for undergraduate diploma programs at KPU are required to have a minimum of 75%-85% overall in their previous academic qualifications, such as the Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC) or equivalent. This percentage requirement ensures that students have a strong academic foundation to succeed in their chosen program.
- English Language Proficiency: IELTS score of overall 6.5 bands with no band less than 6 is required. TOEFL iBT overall score of 88 with no band less than 20 is required. PTE overall score of 61 and DET score of 110 is required.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, support student success, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.
Entrance Scholarships: KPU offers entrance scholarships to incoming international students based on their academic achievements. These scholarships are awarded automatically to eligible students upon admission. The value of the scholarships varies, and they are renewable for subsequent years of study, provided students maintain a specified GPA.
KPU International Student Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is designed to recognize and support outstanding international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement. The scholarship amount is substantial and helps cover tuition fees.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Some programs at KPU have their own dedicated scholarships for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, field of study, or specific criteria set by donors or sponsors. Students are encouraged to inquire about program-specific scholarships when applying to their desired programs at KPU.
External Scholarships: KPU provides resources and information about external scholarship opportunities available to international students. These scholarships are offered by external organizations, foundations, and governments. KPU's International Students Office assists students in finding and applying for external scholarships.
Financial Aid and Work-Study Opportunities: KPU also offers financial aid options, including student loans, grants, and work-study programs, to help international students manage their educational expenses. These programs provide financial support based on individual financial need and offer opportunities for part-time work on campus.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may vary each year.
When applying for scholarships, international students are advised to pay attention to deadlines, submit all required documents, and provide strong supporting materials, such as academic transcripts, reference letters, and personal statements. It's also recommended to explore additional scholarship opportunities through government agencies, private organizations, and home country institutions to supplement the financial support available at KPU.
Graduates of the Diploma in Horticulture Technology - Sustainable Production program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University are well-prepared to pursue a variety of rewarding careers in the sustainable agriculture and horticulture industry. The Diploma in Horticulture Technology - Sustainable Production program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University opens doors to diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the sustainable agriculture and horticulture industry. Graduates emerge ready to make meaningful contributions to the development of sustainable food systems, environmental conservation efforts, and community resilience through their work in organic farming, greenhouse production, landscape design, agribusiness entrepreneurship, research, education, and advocacy. With their knowledge of sustainable agriculture principles and hands-on experience in horticulture production techniques, graduates play a vital role in shaping the future of agriculture towards sustainability.
1. Sustainable Farm Manager: Graduates can work as sustainable farm managers, overseeing organic or sustainable farming operations. They are responsible for crop planning, soil management, pest control, irrigation, harvesting, and marketing of produce. They implement sustainable farming practices and ensure compliance with organic certification standards.
2. Organic Crop Production Specialist: Graduates can specialize in organic crop production, working on organic farms, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, or urban farms. They grow a variety of organic crops using sustainable farming techniques, including crop rotation, cover cropping, composting, and biological pest control. They may focus on specialty crops such as herbs, vegetables, or fruits.
3. Greenhouse Production Manager: Graduates can pursue careers as greenhouse production managers, overseeing the cultivation of greenhouse crops in controlled environments. They manage greenhouse operations, including crop scheduling, climate control, irrigation management, pest management, and quality assurance. They may produce greenhouse vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants, or cut flowers for local or export markets.
4. Horticulture Technician/Technologist: Graduates can work as horticulture technicians or technologists, supporting horticulture research, extension, or production programs. They assist with plant propagation, greenhouse management, field trials, crop monitoring, data collection, and research projects. They may work for government agencies, research institutions, nurseries, or agricultural consulting firms.
5. Sustainable Landscape Designer/Consultant: Graduates with knowledge of sustainable landscape design principles can work as landscape designers or consultants, specializing in sustainable landscaping projects. They design environmentally friendly landscapes, incorporating native plants, water-efficient irrigation systems, rain gardens, and green infrastructure. They may work for landscape design firms, municipalities, or environmental consulting companies.
6. Agribusiness Entrepreneur: Graduates interested in agribusiness and entrepreneurship can start their own sustainable agriculture or horticulture businesses. They may establish organic farms, specialty crop production operations, agroecological enterprises, or value-added food processing businesses. They develop business plans, secure financing, and market their products to consumers or wholesale buyers.
7. Organic Certification Inspector: Graduates with expertise in organic farming practices can work as organic certification inspectors, ensuring compliance with organic certification standards and regulations. They conduct on-site inspections, review farm records, and verify adherence to organic production practices. They may work for organic certification bodies, government agencies, or private inspection firms.
8. Agricultural Educator/Extension Agent: Graduates can pursue careers as agricultural educators or extension agents, providing outreach and education on sustainable agriculture practices to farmers, gardeners, and community groups. They develop educational materials, deliver workshops, organize field days, and provide technical assistance on topics such as organic farming, soil health, and crop management.
9. Sustainable Food System Coordinator: Graduates can work as sustainable food system coordinators, promoting local food systems, community gardens, farmers' markets, and farm-to-table initiatives. They collaborate with community organizations, government agencies, and food retailers to support sustainable food production, distribution, and consumption. They may advocate for food policy changes and food justice initiatives.
10. Research and Development Specialist: Graduates can pursue research and development careers in sustainable agriculture, working on innovative projects to improve crop productivity, environmental sustainability, and food security. They conduct research on topics such as agroecology, soil health, crop breeding, sustainable pest management, and climate change adaptation. They may work for universities, research institutes, or agricultural biotechnology companies.
