RHS Level 3 Certificate Courses

Part 1: The RHS Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth, Health and Applied Propagation
The RHS Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth, Health and Applied Propagation builds on the current RHS Level 2 certificate and delivers a broad-based understanding of horticultural techniques and plant biology. If you are based in Scotland, it is equivalent to something between a higher and an advanced higher or to an English A-Level.

Part 2: The RHS Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Garden Planning, Construction and Planting
The course delivers a broad-based understanding of garden design, construction and planting is the second of two theory certificates that go together with a practical certificate to make the RHS Level 3 Diploma in the Principles and Practices of Horticulture. .

Please note we are unlikely to run the RHS practical courses, if your ultimate aim is a Diploma.

What does the course cover?

RHS Level 3 consists of 2 parts:

The RHS Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Plant Growth, Health and Applied Propagation which is made up of four units:

• Plant taxonomy, structure and function
• The root environment, plant nutrition and growing systems
• The management of plant health
• Understanding applied plant propagation

The RHS Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Garden Planning, Construction and Planting which is made up of four units:

• Understanding garden survey techniques and design principles
• Understanding the selection and use of landscaping elements in the garden
• Understanding the setting out and construction of landscaping elements in the garden
• Understanding a range of specialist elements in the establishment of garden and urban plantings 

What is the format of the course?
RHS Level 3 is available as a Distance course. It is available as a full course (both certificates with 24 months access to course materials) or individual certificates (with 18 months access to course materials).

Do I need any prior knowledge?
Although the RHS Level 3 Certificates do not require any prior qualifications the RHS Level 2 Certificate is a valuable starting point. Fundamentally, however, all you need is an interest in the subject and a willingness to set aside time for home study. We are looking for keen, enthusiastic ‘plants people’ of all ages, who would value the opportunity to develop their knowledge in a structured and supported learning environment and will contribute to the programme.

What support will I get with online learning?
We encourage everyone to make the most of the forums on the course. These provide a way for students to talk to one another and to ask questions to fellow students and tutors. There is also an email option so you can contact tutors directly. Our PropaGate Learning team are always available so if you ever feel you are stuck with technical problem, they can be contacted via the forums or by email.

What do I need to study online?
You should be competent computer user with a basic understanding of standard computer applications such as using an internet browser, email and word processing. Experience of participating in online forums would also be a benefit, but not essential. Our ‘Digital Skills Check’ to help you to identify any areas of IT you may need to brush up on.

How much does the course cost?
£700 for full course, includes 24 months access to our online learning materials, PropaGate Learning and tutor support; or £400 per Certificate, includes 18 months on PropaGate Learning and tutor support.

When can I start?
Applications are currently closed for the 2019/20 academic year. Applications for the new academic year will open later in the summer, to be added to the waiting list to receive notification when they reopen please email: rhslevel3@rbge.org.uk  

How do I apply?
Applications for this course will reopen later in the summer.

Sitting the RHS Exams as an External Candidate
The RHS announced on 24th March 2020 that the exams scheduled for June 2020 have been pushed back to September 2020 due to the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) situation. As a result we are reviewing our processes and deadlines for exam registration and will not be accepting applications at present. Registration forms will be made available once these details are confirmed.