A university college in Essex has launched the country’s first ever three-year floristry degree, as it aims to help students set themselves apart in the competitive industry.
The BA (Hons) professional floristry and floral design three year course has been launched by Writtle University College, with the aim of equipping students aiming for a career in the industry with the necessary skills.
But alongside the professional and artistic skills, the course will also give students tutoring in leadership and business to help open up further career opportunities after graduation such as opening their own florists, art and design, postharvest research and teaching.
Julia Ryde, course manager who is also a UK national floristry judge and fellow of the Institute of Professional Florists, said: “Today the floral industry is a multi-billion pound industry that is fascinating yet extremely challenging.
“Florists need to be multi-faceted in order to cope with the demands faced on a daily basis but there are now more opportunities than ever before.
“Writtle University College is well-respected in the industry with more than 25 years of delivering floristry courses at a range of levels.
“The next step for us – in the light of being awarded University College status – was to deliver a course that responds to the diversity and demands within the industry.”
Students on the course will be able to exhibit their work at the university as well as national shows to gain industry experience.
The course, which has been launched in September, is accredited by the nationally recognised Institute of Professional Florists.
A spokeswoman from the college added: “The result is a degree that reflects and responds to the varied and demanding industry, offering creative, design-led careers in the commercial world of retail, self-employment or the management of teams creating designs for private clients, hotels, weddings and events.
“There is also the opportunity to excel in postharvest research, logistics, wholesaling, and product development, plus teaching, training, demonstrating and further study at masters level.”
To find out more visit the website here.
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