Arboriculture

Two years full-time or three years part-time.

The course includes the study of tree biology and ecology, pests and diseases and tree management. In addition, emphasis is placed upon legislation relating to trees in urban and rural settings and on tree surveying and inspection techniques.

Students will study a core of plant science, as well as specialist modules in dendrology, arboricultural practice and tree survey. Industrial placements form a key part of this course and students will be required to secure relevant employment in the arboricultural sector to complete the course successfully.

Stage one

Students develop knowledge of aspects of plant and soil science and the application of this to tree growth and establishment. They also study dendrology, taxonomy, machinery management and develop relevant practical skills.

Stage two

Students consider aspects of business management, relevant to small businesses and the principles of contract management. The place of trees in the design of landscapes is considered and a training in research methods is provided. Students complete an individual project on a topic relevant to arboriculture.

• This course has been developed following consultation with local and national representatives from industry
• High quality facilities, including practical arboricultural equipment, high tech surveying equipment and resources
• Industrial placement forms a key part of this course

• Arboricultural practices
• Arboriculture and landscape design
• Business and contract management
• Dendrology and taxonomy
• Machinery management
• Plant and soil science
• Tree surveys and inspections

This course includes a wide variety of assessment methods including written work, presentations, practical project work and time constrained assessment. The assessment is continuous throughout the course.

A variety of career options are open to students completing this course. These include employment with local authorities as tree inspectors, arboriculture contractors, town planners and tree consultants. Students may wish to progress onto degree level study or the Royal Forestry Society Professional Diploma in Arboriculture depending on experience and previous education.