Trades Foundation Certificate - Horticulture at TRU - Thompson Rivers University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

The Trades Foundation Certificate - Horticulture program at Thompson Rivers University is designed for individuals interested in the cultivation of various plants, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, and ornamental plants. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of horticulture, preparing them for a variety of roles in the industry. Graduates will gain hands-on experience and develop essential skills needed for employment in diverse settings, from backyard gardens to large commercial operations such as greenhouses and nurseries. The program emphasizes practical learning, ensuring that students are well-equipped to thrive in the horticulture field.

Program structure

The Trades Foundation Certificate - Horticulture program spans a duration of 35 weeks, providing students with a robust foundation in horticultural practices. The program is structured as follows:

Fall Semester: Introduction to basic horticulture, greenhouse production, soil science, and pest management.
Winter Semester: Focus on advanced topics such as landscaping, turfgrass management, and practical horticulture applications.

Additionally, an integral part of the program is a three-week practicum at the end of the studies. This practicum allows students to gain valuable work experience in an industry position, enhancing their employability and practical skills. The program is designed to cater to both full-time and part-time students, ensuring flexibility in learning.

Featured Experiences

Practicum: A three-week hands-on experience in a real-world horticulture setting.
Hands-on Learning: Emphasis on practical skills through various horticulture techniques.
Industry Exposure: Opportunities to work in diverse environments such as greenhouses, nurseries, and landscaping firms.
Field Trips: Engaging field trips to enhance learning and provide real-world insights.

Career Options

Landscape Technician: Responsible for maintaining and designing outdoor spaces, ensuring aesthetic appeal and plant health.
Greenhouse Manager: Oversees operations in a greenhouse, managing plant production and staff.
Horticultural Therapist: Uses gardening and plant care to improve the well-being of individuals in therapeutic settings.
Nursery Manager: Manages the production and sale of plants in a nursery, focusing on customer service and plant care.
Landscape Designer: Creates plans for outdoor spaces, incorporating plants and structures to meet client needs.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit TRU - Thompson Rivers University official website

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Trades Foundation Certificate in Horticulture at Thompson Rivers University has specific academic requirements for prospective students. To be eligible for this program, students must meet the following criteria:

High School Graduation: Students must have completed high school or possess equivalent qualifications, or they may apply as mature students.
English Requirement: A minimum grade of C in English 11 (or equivalent) is required.
Math Requirement: A minimum grade of C in Math 10 (any Math 10 or equivalent) is necessary.

For international students, it is essential to note that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. This evaluation helps ensure that the academic credentials are recognized and meet the program's standards.

Additionally, the program has specific prerequisite courses that students must complete:

Fall Semester Required Courses:
- Horticulture Communications English 1
- Basic Horticulture
- Greenhouse Production
- Diseases and Insect Pests
- Soil Science
- Horticulture Practical 1
Winter Semester Required Courses:
- Horticulture Communications English 2
- Weeds
- Nursery Production and Retailing
- Fruit and Vegetable Production
- Landscaping
- Turfgrass Management
- Horticulture Practical 2
- Horticulture Practicum

For any clarification or support regarding the application process or requirements, students are encouraged to contact LOA Portal's advisors who are ready to assist.

Language Requirements

For the Trades Foundation Certificate - Horticulture program, the following English language proficiency tests are accepted:

TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Home Edition:
- Direct entry: 88+ with no section below 20
- EAP Level 5: 80+
- EAP Level 4: 71+
- EAP Level 3: 61+
IELTS:
- Direct entry: 6.5+ with no bands below 6.0
- EAP Level 5: 6.0+ with no bands below 5.5
- EAP Level 4: 5.5+ with no bands below 5.0
- EAP Level 3: 5.0+
Duolingo:
- Direct entry: 125+ with no sub-score less than 115
- EAP Level 5: 115+ with no sub-score less than 100
- EAP Level 4: 100+ with no sub-score less than 90
- EAP Level 3: 90+
MET:
- Direct entry: 62
- EAP Level 5: 58
- EAP Level 4: 54
- EAP Level 3: 50
CAEL:
- Direct entry: Overall 70+ with no subtest below 60
- EAP Level 5: Overall 60+ with no subtest below 50
- EAP Level 4: Overall 50+ with no subtest below 40
- EAP Level 3: Overall 40+
PTE:
- Direct entry: 58+ with no band below 55

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!