Optimisation of undergraduate horticulture course design at Charles Sturt University (Australia): a structure for the future

Australian agricultural and horticultural industries are facing a major shortage of graduates at a time when enrolments in these courses at most Universities are in decline. This paper reports on the optimisation of the horticultural curriculum at Charles Sturt University, Australia to adapt to this changing environment and to ensure good graduate outcomes. Two main strategies were adopted: (1) A strategic vision which combined two horticultural courses into a single degree with specialisations ('Production Horticulture' and 'Environmental and Amenity Horticulture') with consequent rationalisation of subjects, and (2) The adoption of a flexible web-based learning environment, CSU Interact, to facilitate cross campus subject delivery, improve efficiencies and enhance student learning. Academic staff from the Bachelor of Horticulture degree have developed new skills to optimise the delivery of fully electronic teaching material to on-campus and distance education students to complement the traditional face to face classes and practical sessions.