New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Nursery Production) (Level 3) - work based
If you’re already employed in the nursery production industry, this programme is for you. Enjoy a 50/50 mix of theory and practical learning and study online while using your workplace as a setting in which to practise your developing skills.
Domestic
About the programme
Further develop the fundamental skills and knowledge required of horticulturists in the nursery sector while you work.
A 50/50 mix of theoretical and practical studies, this programme is for domestic students only and you must be working within the nursery industry to undertake it.
It provides the perfect opportunity for you to upskill via online learning whilst using your workplace as a setting to practice your developing skills.
This programme is studied part-time for 20 weeks over two to three years.
Graduates will gain the New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture (Level 3) (Nursery Production).
What You Study
Courses
This programme is based in your workplace with regular visits from your programme facilitator. You will also have the opportunity to attend some block courses at the Central Campus. You will build your experience and knowledge of the techniques required to propagate and grow commercial nursery crops, as well as identifying, naming and selecting plants for a range of sites. The courses in this programme include:
- Communication (10 credits)
- Nursery Plant Care (15 credits)
- Plant Identification and Selection (15 credits)
- Propagation (20 credits)
- Plant Science (15 credits)
Further study options
Advance your knowledge with our online New Zealand Certificate in Horticulture Production (Level 4) (Fruit Production).
Workload
Your workload
You should expect to spend a minimum of 10 hours a week on this programme.
Entry
Entry requirements
- Open entry.
English Language requirements
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- New Zealand University Entrance OR
- Overall IELTS 5.5 (academic, no band score lower than 5.0) achieved in one test completed in the last two years, OR
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for internationally recognised proficiency tests and proficiency outcomes for international students).
If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.
Please note: This programme is not available to international students.
Fees
Domestic fees
Tuition fees
The tuition fees shown above are approximate only. There may be a slight fee increase per year once Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) rules and guidelines are applied.
Student Services Fee
For most students, your tuition fee shown above includes a Student Services Fee – also known as the Student Levy. This compulsory fee covers your access to the student services we offer. This cost is tailored depending on how you're studying.
Studylink
Domestic full-time students can apply for a student loan through Studylink.
Some support may be available for domestic part-time students if this programme offers a part-time study option.
Apply at the same time as you apply for your course (you can withdraw your application anytime).
Fees Free
The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study or training will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free policy will replace it, starting from 1 January 2025.
If you are a first-time tertiary learner in 2025, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study or training. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for your entitlement through IRD from 2026 onwards.
For more information about the transition from first-year Fees Free or the final-year Fees Free policy, visit FeesFree.govt.nz.
Application
A change for 2023 enrolments
When you apply to study with Otago Polytechnic in 2023, you will be enrolled with Te Pūkenga, the new national network of vocational and applied education in Aotearoa New Zealand. You will learn in the same way, in the same place, and with the same people, and you will graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification.
