Rationale
Horticulture is a fast-growing and major subsector of the agricultural industry in Kenya. Its contribution towards both small-scale and large-scale farm incomes, employment, foreign exchange earnings and food production security cannot be overemphasized. However, the full potential of horticulture in is yet to be realized, hence the need for a highly qualified workforce to drive the industry. The major goal of the Bachelor of Science in horticulture is to prepare the graduates to meet challenges faced by the horticultural industry in realizing its full potential.

Programme Objectives
The broad objective is to train advanced level personnel with practical and theoretical skills in general horticulture, who through research, extension, marketing and entrepreneurship, will be able to increase production and use of horticultural and other crops. On completing the programme, graduates will be able to do the following:

1. Perceive and appreciate the importance of horticulture in the national economy with particular reference to the roles played by vegetable and fruit crops as well as ornamental plants in meeting the family needs;
2. Contribute to improving production of horticultural crops, enhancing marketing of horticultural crop produce and public awareness of aesthetic value of ornamental plants;
3. Contribute in the setting up and running of private horticultural enterprises;
4. Relate and integrate production of horticultural crops with other farm enterprises;
5. Carry out scientific research on various facets of horticultural and other crops;
6. Promote domestic, urban and institutional landscapes through design, development and maintenance;
7. Promote environmental conservation by encouraging and effecting agricultural practices that minimize soil erosion and pollution.

Admission Requirements
Candidates applying for the Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture must satisfy the minimum University entrance requirements in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. In addition, they must have studied and passed the following subjects with minimum grades as shown below:

1. in Biology or B in Biological Sciences
2. in Chemistry or B in Physical Sciences
3. in Mathematics

Candidates who have studied and passed agriculture will have an added advantage. However, these requirements may change from time to time. Alternatively, admission may be granted to candidates with at least a CREDIT, or its equivalent, in Diploma in horticulture or agriculture from a recognized University or College. Diploma holders may qualify for credit transfer from their diploma programmes.

Course Structure and Duration
The Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture shall normally take a full time student four academic years each with two semesters.

The courses are coded as follows:

1. The abbreviation HORT refers to Horticulture,
2. The first digit (i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4) represents the year of study. The second digit (i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7) refers to the subject discipline/matter defined as follows:

0 = Introductory Courses
1 = General and Principle Courses
2 = Basic Horticultural Courses
3 = Vegetable Crops
4 = Fruit Crops
5 = Post-harvest Management
6 = Ornamental Horticulture
7 = Experimentation and Research Projects.
iii) The third digit shows a series of courses in a particular field.

Examination Regulations
All examinations for this programme will be conducted in accordance with the examination regulations as stipulated in the Egerton University Statute XXVIII.

Grading System
The grading of examinations for this programme shall be conducted in accordance with Egerton University Statute XXVIII.

Graduation Requirements
To graduate with the Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture, a student shall be required to take and pass all courses scheduled, including the University common core courses approved by the Senate.

Degree Classification
Degree classification shall be in accordance with Egerton University Statute XXVIII.