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?
Start any time between 2nd September 2019 and 31^st May 2020.

How do I apply?
You can apply online now, please read the applicants' handbook carefully before submitting your application. 

Sitting the RHS Exams as an External Candidate

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is an approved examination centre for RHS written exams. Registrations for February 2020 are now open.  

Please download the exam registration form, complete it and return it along with payment to:

Education Administrator (RHS Exams)
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh,
20a Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR

Please play close attention to the RBGE registration deadline, this will be different from dates published by the RHS and other centres. Forms received after the deadline will be subject to late fees.

Administration Fees

RBGE charges an administration fee of £25 for the first exam registered and £5 for each additional exam. These fees are per registration form.

Examination Fees

These are available to download from the RHS website on the appropriate course pages, together with examination dates and registration deadlines. Applications received after the deadline date will incur late registration fees.

All examinations are held at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20a Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR. You will be sent a confirmation letter with full details of where to come and what to bring on receipt of your registration.