Bachelor of Applied Science - Agribusiness
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Agribusiness at Olds...
Diploma in Horticulture Technologist
Olds, Alberta
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Diploma in Horticulture Technologist at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alberta, is an innovative and hands-on program designed to prepare students for successful careers in the diverse field of horticulture. This program emphasizes plant science, sustainable production, landscape management, and the use of advanced technologies in horticultural practices. Students gain expertise in growing, maintaining, and managing plants for food, ornamental, and environmental purposes. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the program combines classroom theory with extensive practical experience in greenhouses, gardens, and research plots. Olds College’s commitment to applied learning ensures graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the rapidly evolving horticulture industry.
Curriculum: The Diploma in Horticulture Technologist offers a comprehensive blend of theoretical and practical learning. The curriculum covers essential subjects such as botany, soil science, pest management, greenhouse crop production, landscape design, and turf management. Students also learn about irrigation systems, plant propagation, and controlled environment agriculture. A major highlight of the program is its experiential learning component, which allows students to work on real-world horticultural projects within the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, including its production greenhouses and botanic gardens. Additionally, the program encourages students to engage in internships and industry projects that help them develop leadership, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial skills required in professional horticulture roles.
Research Focus: Research at Olds College in the field of horticulture is centered around sustainability, innovation, and technology integration. The Horticulture Technologist program promotes applied research in areas such as precision horticulture, greenhouse automation, water and nutrient management, and plant health diagnostics. Students and faculty collaborate with industry partners on projects that explore the use of smart agriculture tools, biocontrol methods, and eco-friendly growing systems. The college’s advanced horticultural research facilities serve as living laboratories, providing opportunities for students to gain practical experience while contributing to advancements in sustainable plant production and environmental stewardship.
Industry Engagement: Industry collaboration is a key element of the Diploma in Horticulture Technologist program. Olds College partners with nurseries, landscape companies, municipal organizations, and research institutions to ensure that the curriculum aligns with current industry demands. Students benefit from guest lectures, field trips, and networking events with horticultural professionals. Through co-op placements and industry-driven projects, learners gain valuable practical experience and build professional connections that often lead to employment opportunities. These partnerships ensure that graduates are not only job-ready but also equipped to drive innovation within the horticulture industry.
Global Perspective: The Diploma in Horticulture Technologist at Olds College equips students with a global understanding of horticultural practices, sustainability standards, and the importance of green innovation worldwide. The program addresses emerging global issues such as food security, climate change, and sustainable urban development through horticultural solutions. Students are exposed to international trends in horticulture, including organic production, vertical farming, and urban greening initiatives. This global outlook, combined with applied learning, prepares graduates to work in diverse horticultural sectors both within Canada and internationally. By integrating technology, sustainability, and global best practices, Olds College ensures its graduates are ready to make meaningful contributions to the future of horticulture worldwide.
Location
Olds, Alberta
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
CAD 16500
Undergraduate Diploma Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate diploma programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 53% or above in their Grade 12 from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is dedicated to recognizing and rewarding the hard work, academic excellence, and community involvement of its international students. To make education more accessible and to encourage global talent, the college offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards designed to support international learners financially throughout their studies.
Olds College International Student Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to newly admitted international students who have demonstrated strong academic performance prior to joining Olds College. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic transcripts, leadership experience, and extracurricular achievements. The award not only helps reduce tuition costs but also motivates students to continue striving for excellence throughout their studies.
Continuing International Student Scholarship: For students who have successfully completed at least one semester at Olds College, the Continuing International Student Scholarship recognizes consistent academic achievement and active participation in campus life. This award encourages students to maintain high academic standards and remain engaged with the college community.
Financial Need Bursaries: To assist international students facing financial challenges, Olds College provides need-based bursaries that help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Applicants are required to provide a short personal statement outlining their financial situation, academic goals, and how the bursary will support their success. These bursaries ensure that financial hardship does not limit access to quality education.
Graduates of the Diploma in Horticulture Technologist program at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alberta, are equipped with the technical skills, scientific knowledge, and practical experience required to excel in a wide range of horticultural careers. This program prepares students to work in greenhouse management, landscaping, urban horticulture, and plant production industries.
Greenhouse or Nursery Manager: Oversee greenhouse operations, manage plant production, supervise staff, and ensure optimal growing conditions for ornamental, vegetable, or fruit crops using sustainable and efficient methods.
Landscape Designer or Technician: Design, plan, and implement aesthetically pleasing and sustainable outdoor environments for residential, commercial, and public spaces while incorporating plant science and ecological principles.
Horticultural Consultant: Advise clients, municipalities, and agricultural businesses on plant selection, soil management, pest control, and innovative growing techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Urban Horticulturist: Work with city planners and environmental organizations to develop and maintain green spaces, urban gardens, and rooftop farms that improve air quality and community well-being.
Greenhouse Production Specialist: Specialize in the cultivation of flowers, vegetables, or ornamental plants in controlled environments, utilizing precision agriculture tools and climate control technologies.
Turfgrass and Grounds Manager: Maintain sports fields, golf courses, and recreational grounds by managing turf health, irrigation systems, pest control, and soil fertility to ensure optimal conditions.
Plant Propagation Technician: Focus on the propagation of plants through seed, cuttings, or tissue culture techniques for nurseries, research institutions, or commercial growing operations.
Irrigation and Environmental Control Specialist: Design, install, and maintain irrigation and climate control systems for greenhouses, landscapes, and farms, optimizing resource use and improving plant growth efficiency.
Horticultural Sales and Marketing Representative: Work with seed, fertilizer, and equipment companies to market horticultural products and provide technical support to clients in the agricultural and landscaping industries.
Research and Development Technician: Collaborate with universities, research centers, or private companies on studies related to plant breeding, pest management, or sustainable horticultural technologies.
