Career guide

Horticulturist

Realistic

Grows and manages plants professionally - nurseries, crops, landscapes, parks. Combines plant science with hands-on growing and management.

School subjects

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is generally accepted; Life Sciences and Agricultural Sciences help.

How you qualify

A National Diploma or BSc / BAgric in Horticulture (NQF 6-7), or a learnership through AgriSETA at NQF 3-5 for practical growing roles. Entry requirements differ by institution - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Universities of Technology, agricultural colleges and universities; AgriSETA-accredited providers

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

Book a Career Pathfinder assessment

A qualified career counsellor works through your child's personality, interests, strengths and subjects, and writes them a report on what fits.

← All career guides