Horticulture

Horticulture is the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants — a specialised, high-value branch of crop production that also includes landscaping and gardening. Here is what the course involves, where it can take you, and how to get in.

Course at a glance

Degree awardedB.Agric / B.Sc
Duration5 years (4 at some universities), then NYSC
Faculty / collegeFaculty of Agriculture
Career field / bodyHorticulture, agribusiness and landscaping
UTME subjectsUse of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics
CompetitivenessLess competitive

What Horticulture is about

Horticulture is the cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants — a specialised, high-value branch of crop production that also includes landscaping and gardening.

A brief history of the discipline

As demand grew for fresh produce, flowers and green spaces, horticulture developed into a distinct, commercially valuable field with strong entrepreneurship potential.

What you will study

You study fruit and vegetable production, floriculture and landscaping, nursery management and plant propagation, post-harvest handling and greenhouse technology, with practicals — and a project.

Why study Horticulture & who it suits

This course suits students interested in food, farming, science and the environment, who enjoy both fieldwork and applied science. An interest in growing fruits, vegetables and ornamental plants is ideal.

Careers & where graduates work

Graduates work in commercial horticulture and agribusiness, landscaping and garden design, nursery and greenhouse enterprises, research and extension, and horticultural entrepreneurship.

Licensing, professional bodies & further study

B.Agric / B.Sc Horticulture (about 5 years) → NYSC → roles in horticulture, agribusiness, landscaping and research, or your own horticultural business.

How to get in: Horticulture UTME requirements

The JAMB UTME combination for Horticulture is Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language and Mathematics. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.

Full admission details: see the complete Horticulture subject combination, cut-off & O’Level guide, or confirm any course with our subject combination checker.

Practise the UTME subjects free

Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:

Ready to practise? Take a free mock exam or focused CBT practice with worked explanations.

Related guides

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Frequently asked questions

How long is Horticulture in Nigeria?

It typically takes 5 years (4 at some universities), followed by the one-year NYSC.

What are the JAMB subjects for Horticulture?

Use of English, Chemistry, Biology or Agricultural Science, and Physics or Mathematics

What is Horticulture?

The cultivation of fruits, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants, including landscaping — a high-value, entrepreneurial branch of crop production.

Where do graduates work?

In commercial horticulture and agribusiness, landscaping and garden design, nursery and greenhouse enterprises, research, or their own business.

Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties and the relevant professional/registration bodies; admission requirements from the official JAMB UTME brochure. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB, the NUC or any professional body. Programme structure, duration and requirements vary by university — always confirm details with your chosen institution and the official JAMB brochure.