Bachelor of Horticulture Science in Urban Ecosystems
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Program description
Bachelor of Horticulture Science in Urban Ecosystems
The Bachelor of Horticulture Science Urban Ecosystems Major is the only undergraduate degree in North America dedicated to the study of urban ecosystems. At KPU, the Urban Ecosystems Major is an interdisciplinary program that combines horticulture, ecology, design, biology, chemistry, mathematics, business, and student-selected electives from the breadth of courses offered throughout KPU. Students synthesize the science and practice of horticulture to resolve community, industry, and research-related problems in urban environments. Innovation and creative critical thinking are important essential skills that students gain through applied research projects.
The Urban Ecosystems program puts theory into practice through student-led projects. We are testing and adapting ideas about urban ecosystems in real time, on the KPU Langley Campus through protection, design, and management of a living landscape. We have a 550 m2 dedicated Roof Ecosystem Research Lab where we test plants, grow food, and manage a permanent grassland habitat. On the ground, we have a 65-metre rain garden and a vertical living wall rain garden. We are actively repairing, re-indigenizing and managing 1.5 hectares of floodplain habitat alongside Logan Creek, which flows through the campus.
Admission requirements
Students pursuing a Major in Urban Ecosystems must be admitted to the Faculty of Science & Horticulture.
For more information, please visit the university website.
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Learn moreProgram content
Year 1
- Introduction to University Writing
- Botany for Horticulture
- Soils and Growing Media
- Introduction To Sustainable Horticulture
- Introduction To Plant Materials
- Foundations of Plant Health
- Computer Business Applications or Business Problem Solving with Spreadsheets
Year 2
- Introductory Biology I
- Environmental Chemistry I
- Horticulture Work Experience
- Work Experience Report
Select one of the following:
- Supervisory Skills
- Organizational Behaviour
- Human Resources Management I
Select one of the following:
- Introductory Financial Accounting I
- Business Management in Horticulture
- Essentials of Management
Select one of the following:
- Landscape Pest Management
- Turfgrass Pest Management
- Production Horticulture Pests
Year 3
- Applied Urban Ecosystems
- Urban Watershed Planning
- Monitoring, Inventory, and Assessment of Plant Communities
- Landscape and Environment 1
- Urban Agriculture
Year 4
- Riparian Management
- Landscape and the Environment: Applications
- Urban Ecology
- Vegetation Management
- Society and Horticulture
- Applied Research Project 1 Horticulture
- Applied Research Project 2
Scholarships & funding
Kwantlen Polytechnic University offers scholarship opportunities to new students, in amounts up to $20,000 CAD. For details and application requirements, please contact the university.
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About this institute

Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is Canada’s leading polytechnic university. KPU’s five campuses are all located in Metro Vancouver, a modern and multicultural region that has incredible natural beauty, the most temperate weather in Canada, and many career opportunities. With guaranteed...
Why study at Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Canada ranked #1 study abroad country
Canada has been ranked the #1 study abroad country in the world for 2020! Known for its untouched natural beauty, friendly and welcoming locals, and a culture of tolerance and diversity, Canada is a clear choice for students looking to study abroad.
With 5 campuses, 140 programs, and 20,000 full time students each year, Kwantlen Polytechnic University is one of the largest and most exciting universities in the Metro Vancouver region of Canada. It’s why thousands of international students from around 70 countries choose to study at KPU each year.
As an international student at KPU, your education will be relevant and thought-provoking. Your instructors will care deeply about your learning, and our programs will offer you the opportunity to get real, hands-on experience to prepare you for your dream career—whether in Canada, or beyond. And at every step in your journey, our welcoming international student services will be there to support you and celebrate your success. Plus? Metro Vancouver is one of the most beautiful and livable places in the entire world.
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Kwantlen Polytechnic University
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