Horticultural Technician Foundation

The curriculum used in this program meets the provincial standards set for all one-year horticulture foundation programs.

Approximately 50% of the program will be spent in actual “hands-on” training on- and off-campus. This includes three months working in the industry.

The program is taught at the G.R. Paine Horticulture Centre, on a 5-acre site near the Nanaimo campus. The site contains a “Harnoise Nordique” style greenhouse, a headerhouse, a classroom and lab facility, as well as a containerized nursery. Students also practice their skills at the Milner Gardens and Woodland, in Qualicum, a garden estate environment where they participate in the day-to-day, season-to-season operational activities.

Admission Requirements

• General Trades admission requirements apply.
• English 12 with minimum “C” grade, or equivalent, or successful completion of English assessment test.
• Minimum “C” grade in one of Principles of Mathematics 11, Applications of Mathematics 11, Foundations of Mathematics 11, Apprenticeship and Workplace Mathematics 11, or successful completion of assessment test.
• Letter, at time of application, indicating reasons for applying to the program and outlining any previous horticultural experience, as well as future career goals.
• Interview.
• Fitness required to participate in physical aspects of the program and industry.

For more information see: Horticultural Technician Foundation