Horticulture, Bachelor of Science

Bachelor Horticulture (B.Sc.): Requirements, Target Group, and Access

The Bachelor's degree program in Horticulture via distance learning is aimed at those interested in sustainable plant production, innovative technologies, and the business management of horticultural enterprises. It particularly targets professionals from the green industry, career changers, and individuals enthusiastic about the effects of climate change and the application of digital solutions in horticulture. The program is ideal for you if you want to develop practical knowledge of crop production, plant use, and new technologies, regardless of whether you have prior experience in horticulture or are seeking a non-specialist entry.

Admission Requirements

• With (Specialised) High School Diploma:
  • General university entrance qualification (Abitur), subject-specific university entrance qualification, or university of applied sciences entrance qualification (Fachabitur with both a theoretical and practical component) directly qualify you for the Bachelor's program.
  • Graduates of specific educational pathways (e.g. Waldorf school, vocational college BW) may require confirmation from the relevant authority, especially when transferring to a different federal state from Thuringia.
  • Applicants with international school certificates need to undergo an equivalency assessment according to IU guidelines (e.g. ANABIN evaluation).
• Without Abitur/Fachabitur:
  • You can also study without a high school diploma if you have a master craftsman's certificate or a recognised advanced training qualification (e.g. IHK specialist).
  • Alternatively, a minimum of two years of approved vocational training plus at least three years of relevant work experience (full-time) is sufficient.
  • Educational and professional experiences from EU countries are individually assessed for equivalency (based on the DQR level 4).
• Language Requirements for International Applicants:
  • For the German-language study program, a German certificate at least at level B2 is required.
  • Valid proofs include TestDaF (minimum 3 points in each section), DSH1, Telc Deutsch B2, ÖSD B2.
  • Usually, the certificate should not be older than five years.

There is no numerus clausus (NC) - all those with the required qualification can apply. The study programme can start at any time without a fixed application deadline.

Personal Requirements

• Interest in plants, sustainability, and modern agriculture.
• Willingness to engage with scientific and business management issues.
• Solid self-organization for flexible distance learning - especially in the part-time variant.
• Enjoyment of interdisciplinary work, such as the interaction of technology, ecology, and management.
• Curiosity about digital developments like drones, AI, and automation.
• For international applicants: Sufficient German language skills to understand the course content.

What do you learn in the distance learning course in Horticulture?

In the Bachelor's distance learning course in Horticulture, you will build a broad and practical knowledge. The focus is on sustainable and modern production of horticultural products - from food to ornamental plants and forestry.

• Foundations: You will be taught scientific and business knowledge. This includes crop production, agroecology, soil science, plant nutrition, and business mathematics.
• Practical experience: In numerous practical projects, you will learn how to create herbariums, develop cultivation plans, and practically implement production processes in horticulture.
• Technological Innovation: You will extensively deal with digital technologies, such as digitization, drones, robotics, and the applications of Artificial Intelligence in the industry.
• Business Management: Modules like business administration, accounting, marketing, and supply chain management will strengthen your economic understanding.
• Sustainability & Trends: Topics such as ecological production and adaptation to current market trends are central. You will also deal with the marketing of plant products and future-oriented resource management.
• Specializations: In elective modules, you can set individual focal points: For example, in artificial intelligence, social media marketing, biodiversity, or sustainability.

How is the distance learning course in Horticulture structured?

The study programme is flexible, modular, and 100% online-based. It allows you to individually design your learning workload.

• Duration and Time Model: You can choose between full-time (36 months) and two part-time variants (48 or 72 months) while studying alongside work. A switch between the models is possible at any time during the course.
• Start of Studies: Entry is possible at any time. There are no fixed application deadlines.
• Learning Methods: All lectures, as well as self-study and examination phases, take place online. You have access to a modern digital campus - including AI learning assistance, interactive tools, and an online library.
• Examinations: Examinations are either taken flexibly online or at examination centres.
• Practical Relevance: Practical projects and application examples are an integral part of the curriculum. This way, you directly transfer newly learned knowledge into realistic work contexts.
• Graduation: Upon successful completion of all modules and the bachelor's thesis, you will receive the internationally recognised degree Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) with 180 ECTS credits.

What career opportunities does the distance learning course in Horticulture offer?

A degree in distance learning Horticulture qualifies you for a versatile range of careers in the green sector - both in business and in public service and research.

• Operations Managers: You take on responsibilities in horticultural companies, control production processes, and check the quality of the products.
• Administrative or Management positions: Your skills in management and sustainability prepare you for leadership roles as well as positions in authorities or associations.
• Technical Consultancy and Industry: With expertise in technology, economics, and innovations, you advise companies in sectors such as the chemical or processing industry on horticulture and related areas.
• Scientific Collaboration: Research institutions offer you tasks related to test facilities, new techniques, and optimization of cultivation methods.

Further career fields include the development of sustainable production systems, marketing and distribution of horticultural products, or the digitisation of work processes in the green sector.

Where does the study take place?

The distance learning course in Horticulture is completely location-independent. You study time- and place-independently on the digital campus of the university. Interactive online lectures, your own AI learning assistant, and online examination options offer maximum flexibility.

• Examinations: Online or at examination centres nationwide
• Practical Projects: Can be realised independent of location

What are the costs and what financing options are available?

The monthly tuition fees depend on the chosen time model. Price examples:

• Full-time (36 months): from 399 GBP per month
• Part-time I (48 months): from 344 GBP per month
• Part-time II (72 months): from 259 GBP per month
• In addition, there is a one-time graduation fee of 699 GBP at the end of the study.

The fees include digital learning materials, online library, individual study coaching, optional semesters abroad, as well as other service and consulting offers. There are also regular discount promotions (e.g. with discounts on tuition fees or a free iPad).

• Non-binding Trial Month: You only pay from the second month onwards if you continue your studies.
• Financing Options: BAföG, study loans, and scholarships can be used.
• Recognition of Previous Achievements: For recognised previous achievements, you will be reimbursed 30 GBP per ECTS credit. This way, you can reduce the total costs and the required study time.