Code
SE52L
Location
Waterford
Campus
Cork Road
- Level Level 9
- Duration 12 weeks
- Credits 10
- Delivery Part-time
- Applications Closing 30 Aug 2024
- Fees View details
- Application Status Open
- Next Intake September 2024
The module content will review crop production techniques that maintain and enhance soil organic matter and lead to carbon sequestration including green manures and rotations. Conversion to organic horticulture crop production will be described and discussed. Plant nutrition requirements will be studied including the role of macronutrients and micronutrients to improve plant health and resilience to different diseases and pests. IPM strategies to enhance sustainable crop production and profitability will be presented and evaluated. The role of new and emerging gene editing technologies will be reviewed and their relevance to organic and biological horticulture appraised. The overarching objective of this course is for graduates to understand the inter-relationship between achieving balanced plant development nutrition for climate resilient and profitable crop production.
Unique Features
The case studies and surveys undertaken as part of continuous assessment will be beneficial to the student in the completion of a Farm Conversion Plan and/or application for ACRES. They can also be used in applying for Global Gap Certification eg: Integrated Farm Assurance Smart Principles for Fruit and Vegetables – Site Management – Biodiversity and Habitats.
Delivery
Online weekly lectures delivered in the evenings. Fieldwork will teach learners various methods, techniques, and skills crucial for the appraisal, assessment, and monitoring of natural resources, plant productivity and pest and disease pressure.
Access to the SETU Waterford laboratories will allow microscope work, and soil analysis as well as exposure to the active research activities in the field of horticulture ongoing in SETU. Additionally, field trips to organic farms across Ireland will offer first-hand learning experiences about the opportunities and challenges in organic and biological production systems
Discounted / Part-Funded Places Through NOTS:
Eligible participants in Ireland can avail of a 40% cost reduction on course fees through our MSc course partners National Organic Training Skillnet. Contact NOTS by calling 071 9640688 or email [email protected] for more information on eligibility for these reduced fees.
Applicants for the Certificate in Crop Management in Organic and Biological Horticulture should hold a National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 8 honors degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Forestry, Environmental, or other Science-related discipline. Where the demand exceeds the places available, offers will be made in rank order based on applicants’ Grade Point Average (GPA).
Applicants who do not hold a degree in the cognate areas specified but who have relevant industry or practical experience in agricultural and biological systems or equivalent, in conjunction with a Level 8 degree in a non-cognate area, may be considered for entry under SETU’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) mechanism.
The module offers a pathway for graduates interested in further academic progression to MSc/PG in Organic and Biological Horticulture.
This certificate will develop skilled professionals who will contribute to the sustainable evolution of organic and biological horticulture in the agri-food sector in Ireland and abroad.
The module offers a pathway for graduates interested in further academic progression to MSc/PG in Organic and Biological Horticulture, enabling them to explore more in-depth research, development, and innovation within the field. This option provides a route for those inclined towards a continued academic journey or a career in research.
The certificate equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to further their career whether in the practical aspects of horticulture, policy development, research, or further education.
