What is the Master of Horticulture qualification?
The Master of Horticulture (MHort) qualification is designed for those who wish to grow their career in a flexible way.
A degree-level award studied over three to five years, the MHort provides an affordable and high-quality learning experience, which links candidates to a range of professional networks and provides improved managerial skills.
The MHort is recognised by the Education Reform Act 1988, it is a degree level equivalent, and holders of the award may use the designation MHort (RHS) after their name.
This award will appeal to those who are motivated to self-study within a structured learning and assessment environment. Interaction for the award is mainly through the RHS MHort Virtual Learning Environment allowing candidates to work within their own time constraints to meet the deadlines required by a varied assessment programme.
What will I learn?
By the end of the award, successful candidates have an overview of the horticultural industry within a global context. Alongside this, they develop improved research, analytical, communication and decision-making skills that will provide a better understanding of horticultural challenges and appropriate management strategies.
In the first year, candidates broaden their understanding of the horticultural environment and develop appropriate skills to underpin their future study. In subsequent years candidates have the opportunity to select scenarios within the assessment to deepen their knowledge in areas that are of interest to them and are relevant to their careers.The final year provides the opportunity to demonstrate how they would apply their knowledge in a practical setting, and for candidates to carry out research on a topic of their choice, producing an in-depth academic work.
Programme information
We have revised our content, see our Master of Horticulture fact sheet to find out more about the programme.
How will I learn?
Delivery takes place through the RHS MHort Virtual Learning Environment, allowing you to study at a time and place to suit you.
Additionally, at the start of each year, there is a physical two-day workshop at an RHS venue in the UK, at which you are able to find out more about the units coming up, be guided in academic, communication and assessment skills, and gain face-to-face guidance from the MHort team.
From 2019 there will be an annual MHort conference allowing candidates to share their research, as well as to hear from and meet with others in the industry.
Am I qualified?
For entry into the MHort programme, you must hold the following:
- At least four years of full-time work experience in horticulture, at least one of which should be in a supervisory role or a position of relevant responsibility
- A full Level 3 qualification in horticulture, such as the RHS Level 3 Diploma or a National Diploma
The above allows you to get the most out of the programme by drawing on your own experience and knowledge.
If you are unsure if you meet the entry requirements, please email the MHort team and we will be happy to discuss your individual situation with you.
What are the time requirements?
Study is usually completed over three years, the modular structure allows completion over up to five years depending on personal circumstances. Dates for all submissions are issued in advance.
The amount of time you need to spend studying will depend on your own experience. You should expect to spend time on assessments most weeks and to plan time carefully.
How will I be assessed?
Most assessment is carried out on the Virtual Learning Environment where work is submitted to Unit Assessors and feedback is provided. Most assessments are approximately six weeks in duration allowing you to fit your study around your life and work.
The only time you are required to attend in person is in year three for Unit 7, for the Applied Knowledge Assessment, which will be held at one of our RHS Gardens in the UK. As mentioned above, there are also optional two-day workshops which take place at the start of each year.
Do I get any benefits?
MHort candidates have access to all four RHS libraries in the UK, in addition to a bespoke selection of e-books and online academic journals to assist with the study. An online subscription to Horticulture Week magazine is also available.
RHS Student membership is provided for all MHort candidates, giving free access to all RHS Gardens, a subscription to The Garden magazine, discounted rates on RHS Show tickets and access to RHS advisory teams among many other benefits.
Fellow MHort candidates will add to your professional network across the globe. MHort alumni often cite this as one of the most significant benefits of the programme.
Applications for 2019 now open
To apply, please complete the application form and send your form and your supporting documents to mhort@rhs.org.uk
Key documents
Fee structure
Group Key Dates
Fact Sheet
Ask us a question
If you have any queries regarding your eligibility for the course, or if you’d like further information, please contact the MHort team.
