About
Horticulture is the study of the biology, improvement, production and utilization of fruits, vegetables, flowers, medicinals, ornamental crops, trees, shrubs and turf grass grown under field and greenhouse conditions. It is the most diverse of agricultural industries, involving both art and science with career opportunities from greenhouse and golf course management, food production and landscaping to research and education and beyond.
- 4 year degree
- Full or part-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
Production and utilization of horticultural crops and ornamental plants represent an opportunity for expansion and diversification of Canada's agriculture sector.
You will learn how to:
- design and maintain an urban forest, a community garden or a new golf course
- manage a greenhouse
- beautify the environment – both indoors and out – while also working to reduce energy use and pollution and help to grow food crops sustainably
- develop and demonstrate new energy efficient and ecologically sound means of growing greenhouse crops through a cold prairie winter
- introduce new high-value crops which can be processed to add further value and help developing countries
A first-year schedule sample
Although there is a great deal of overlap between first year courses for most AgBio programs, it is important to consult the Course and Program Catalogue and contact an academic advisor for information about course selection prior to registration. Here's an example of what a first year in the degree program might look like:
| Course | Description |
|---|---|
Fall Term |
|
| AGRC 110 | Scientific Literacy and Communication for the Agricultural Sciences |
| AGRC 111 | Discovery in Plant and Soil Sciences |
| AREC 220 | History of Indigenous Agriculture in Canada |
| BIOL 120 | The Nature of Life |
| INTS 102* | Studying in Science Essential Skills and Strategies |
Winter Term |
|
| AGRC 112 | Animal Agriculture and Food Science |
| AGRC 113 | Agri Food Issues and Institutions |
| BIOL 121 | The Diversity of Life |
| CHEM 112 | General Chemistry I Structure Bonding and Properties of Materials |
| GEOG 130* | Environment Health and Planning |
* These are elective courses. You'll have a large number of courses to choose between.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Here are just a few of the classes you might take while you complete this degree:
PLSC 433: Greenhouse Crop Production
Students will learn the principles and concepts of greenhouse crop production through both lecture and hands-on labs. The production of vegetable, floriculture, medicinal, bedding and container crops are discussed. Greenhouse structures are also reviewed.
PLSC 435: Fruit Science
Fundamentals of commercial fruit production including environmental adaptation, breeding, site development, marketing, cultural management, tree fruits, small fruits, tropical fruits, harvesting, diseases and pests.
PLSC 461: Post Harvest Management of Horticultural Crops
This course evaluates the principles of post-harvest storage, cooling, transportation, modified and controlled atmospheres, and handling of horticultural crops. Post-harvest biology and technology to maximize quality and shelf life are studied at an applied level. Physiological processes and underlying management practices are examined in depth and with illustrations from contemporary research literature.
Career skills
You will graduate with excellent industry-endorsed scientific training and a foundation of marketable career skills. Our strong ties with industry and our reputation for producing well-rounded, quality graduates means that many businesses look here first when hiring employees.
Small class sizes
AgBio offers a setting that combines the advantages of a full-scale university with the benefits of a small, specialized program. The small class sizes in third and fourth year and supportive atmosphere allows you to get to know your instructors and fellow students, and to build a network of personal and business contacts.
Research
We are committed to finding solutions to sustainably feed a hungry and growing world. Our five departments provide a foundation for our broad array of research activities, both basic and applied. We have over a century of innovative products and practices that have transformed the world.
Opportunities to get involved
AgBio has one of the campus’s most active and spirited student bodies. There are several student clubs in the college to join to enhance your university experience.
Collaborative environment
Our faculty and researchers actively collaborate across the university, as well as nationally and internationally. We have created strong, productive partnerships with numerous governments, private enterprises, producer groups, research centres, and industry associations to develop a sophisticated network for applied science, business and policy development. Outreach, technology transfer and information sharing is an important part our research.
Graduates of degree programs in the College of AgBio are eligible for Professional Agrologist (P.Ag.) membership in the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists, allowing them to engage in the practise of Agrology.
Careers
A growing demand for scientists and professionals equipped to deal with agricultural and environmental issues means a wide variety of career choices for graduates specializing in horticulture science. The career opportunities in horticulture are as diverse as the industry.
- greenhouse and crop production
- industry work government agencies
- landscape construction and management
- marketing and sales
- private and public research
- design and maintenance of private and public plant collections and botanical gardens
- crop and food inspection
- plant breeding industries
- tree nurseries
Nutraceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and the supply and maintenance of horticulture crops are growth areas with excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Graduates of our programs will not only leave with excellent industry-endorsed scientific training, but also with a foundation of marketable career skills.
As well, the College's strong ties with industry and reputation for producing well-rounded, quality graduates means that many businesses turn here first when recruiting employees.
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $8,113 | $39,267 |
| Student fees | $1,121 | $1,121 |
| Books | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Total | $10,734 | $41,888 |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay in your first year if you enroll in a full course load, the maximum number of courses allowed (2024-2025 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 per year.
Program option
The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (B.S.A) Horticulture Science degree is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Agriculture and Bioresources:
Admission requirements and deadlines
Deadlines
Ready to apply?
Create an admissions account and start your application today. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $120 CAD.
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