Why Study Horticultural Production at Massey?

• Learn how plants are grown commercially and sustainably
• Strong focus on real-world horticulture systems in New Zealand
• Combine plant science + agribusiness + environmental management
• Industry-linked learning with farms, orchards, and research centres
• Gain practical experience through work placements (26 weeks industry training)
• High global demand for horticulture professionals (food security & exports)
• Access to advanced plant science laboratories and field facilities

Ideal for students interested in:

• Fruit & vegetable production
• Sustainable agriculture
• Plant science and crop system

Programme Structure

Year 1 – Foundations

• Plant biology fundamentals
• Introduction to horticulture systems
• Agribusiness basics
• Environmental science 

Year 2 – Core Horticulture Systems

• Agricultural & horticultural systems
• Plant physiology
• Crop production principles
• Plant protection (pests, diseases, weeds)
• Food value chains & agribusiness

Example core topics:

• Plant growth & environment
• Crop development systems
• Plant improvement techniques
• Entomology & pest control

Year 3 – Advanced Horticultural Production

• Crop yield optimisation
• Commercial horticultural systems
• Sustainable production practices
• Agribusiness decision-making
• Industry project / research work

Industry Training (VERY IMPORTANT)

Students complete:

• 26 weeks full-time industry work experience
• Two practicum reports
• Real horticulture business exposure 

Subjects / Topics Covered

Core Plant Science

• Plant biology
• Plant growth & physiology
• Plant diversity and evolution

Horticultural Production

• Fruit & vegetable production
• Crop development systems
• Greenhouse horticulture

Plant Protection

• Pests, diseases, weeds
• Integrated pest management
• Biosecurity systems

Agribusiness Integration

• Food supply chains
• Value chain management
• Agricultural economics 

Disciplines / Specialisations

Within the degree, students can focus on:

• Horticultural crop production
• Fruit & vegetable systems
• Sustainable plant systems
• Plant improvement & breeding
• Plant protection & biosecurity
• Food production systems

Highlights of the Programme

• Strong focus on real horticultural production systems
• Includes 26-week industry placement (very practical)
• Study in NZ – global leader in horticulture exports
• Hands-on learning in labs, farms, and orchards
• Strong employability in food and plant industries
• Combines science, environment, and production systems

Career Outcomes

Graduates can work as:

Horticulture Industry

• Horticultural Production Manager
• Orchard Manager
• Greenhouse Manager

Plant Science Roles

• Crop Technician
• Plant Breeding Assistant
• Research Technician

Agriculture & Food Systems

• Biosecurity Officer
• Supply Chain Coordinator
• Quality Control Specialist

Research & Development

• Agricultural Research Assistant
• Plant science technician

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Strong focus on sustainable horticulture & climate-resilient production
• Industry placement is mandatory (26 weeks total)
• Increasing use of technology in horticulture (automation, data systems)
• Flexible major system (can switch between plant biology & production early on)
• Some courses require lab + field participation

Visa Requirements (International Students)

To study in NZ, students need:

• Valid New Zealand Student Visa
• Offer of Place from Massey University
• Proof of tuition payment
• Evidence of living funds
• Medical + travel insurance
• English proficiency proof

Students can work:

• 20 hours/week during study
• Full-time during breaks