How to become a horticultural manager
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a graduate training scheme
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:
- horticulture and management
- commercial horticulture
- horticulture and plant science
Courses that include the opportunity to gain practical work experience through placements, internships or a year in industry may give you an advantage.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
College
You could work towards this role by doing a college course in a relevant subject like:
- Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture
- Level 3 Certificate in Practical Horticulture
- T Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production
- Level 4 Diploma in Horticultural Practice
You can also complete Royal Horticultural Society qualifications.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
- 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course
More Information
Apprenticeship
You can work towards a management job by starting on a horticulture supervisor advanced apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
Work
You could work your way into this job by starting as a horticultural worker and applying for promotion when you have more experience and qualifications.
Other Routes
Some larger companies have graduate management trainee schemes for the fresh food, produce and arable industries. You'll usually need a degree to apply.
More Information
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a horticultural manager from The Royal Horticultural Society and Grow Careers.