For domestic students, start your study journey here.
National code: AHC30722 | CRICOS Code: 114620B
Certificate III in Horticulture
OverviewAbout this course
The Certificate III in Horticulture at TAFE NSW will equip you with the practical skills and knowledge you need to take care of your own plants. You'll also learn how to maintain a variety of different gardens, landscapes and nurseries.
In this Certificate III course, you will develop a broad range of horticultural skills and build your expertise. Learn how to safely use garden chemicals and gain the confidence to grow plants, improve soils, and manage pests and weeds. Get an overview of industry work health and safety (WHS) practices.
Learn to create and nurture different types of green environments that are both beautiful and functional. As a TAFE NSW student, you will learn in a state-of-the-art horticulture training centre with access to industry-standard machinery, tools and materials.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learn new skills
Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to: 
- Propagate and grow your own plants
- Maintain gardens and landscapes
- Safely use garden chemicals keeping environmental and sustainability guidelines in mind
- Plan and implement programs for pest and disease control, plant nutrition and soil improvement
- Apply specialist amenity pruning techniques
- Recognise common and exotic plant species
Gain practical experience
Build your experience and get practical skills in: 
- Planting and pruning trees, shrubs and other plants
- Understanding soil characteristics and soil improvement methods
- Operating basic garden machinery and equipment
- Safely using chemicals to control pests and weeds
- Maintaining and operating irrigation systems
- Identifying and controlling weeds, pests and diseases
Develop your professional confidence
Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:
- A keen interest in plants, the natural environment and science
- A willingness to work hard
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Feel strongly about working outdoors
Career pathways
This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:
- Gardener
- Horticulturist
- Landscape Gardener
- Nursery Worker
SuitabilityInternational entry requirements
At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.
Academic Requirements:
- Year 10 or equivalent
English Language Requirements:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent
TAFE NSW makes every effort to ensure your Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs are met. The level of support you require may be assessed via a review of your LLN skills with written tasks and a one-on-one interview. If you need to strengthen your LLN skills, an individual training plan will be created with you.
To be prepared for this course, it is recommended that you have:
- An interest in the horticulture industry
- A basic level of physical fitness
- Good communication skills
- The ability to work independently as well as in a team
- Intermediate computer skills
If you need help preparing for study, contact us about your options.
Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations
As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ryde | Feb, Jul | $13,240 AUD |
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ryde | Feb, Jul | $14,500 AUD |
Additional costs
Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.
Structure and unitsWhat you will study
At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.
To achieve this qualification, competency must be demonstrated in: 17 units of competency: 11 core units plus 6 elective units. Elective units must ensure the integrity of the qualification’s Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) alignment and contribute to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome. The electives are to be chosen as follows: 3 units must be from the electives listed below the remaining 3 units must be selected from electives listed below, or any currently endorsed Training Package or accredited course.
Core units are the required units that you must complete.
Transport and store chemicalsAHCCHM304
Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds and diseasesAHCCHM307
Operate pressurised irrigation systemsAHCIRG346
Operate machinery and equipmentAHCMOM304
Identify and select plantsAHCPCM308
Perform specialist amenity pruningAHCPGD309
Control weedsAHCPMG301
Control plant pests, diseases and disordersAHCPMG302
Implement soil improvements for garden and turf areasAHCSOL304
Contribute to workplace health and safety processesAHCWHS302
PathwaysContinue your studies
At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:
Vocational study pathway
Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW degree pathway
From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways
TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
Other university pathways
You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.
Keep learning with TAFE NSW
Build your expertise with a TAFE NSW Horticulture study pathway:
ServicesCampus facilities and support services
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.
We offer a range of support services including: 
- TAFE NSW Disability Support Service 
- TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support  
- TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service  
- Smarthinking – online access to a tutor 
- LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
We're here to help
If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.
Contact TAFE NSW International