Did you know that plants have the potential to solve a variety of major world problems? They can be used to reduce global warming, to purify polluted soil and air, and to overcome food shortages. This course is ideal for anyone working with plants, from botanists, horticulturists, agriculturists and farmers to landscapers, nursery workers and even those in the ecotourism industry.
The Certificate of Botany is an online professional development program that explores the basics of plant science, including plant physiology, morphology and anatomy.
In this online botany course, you will study the taxonomic classification of plants, the specific vegetative parts of a plant, photosynthesis, respiration and the phytochrome and photoperiodism systems.
You will also learn about growth regulators, the effects of plant associations and growth manipulation, and how to harvest, store, transport and improve the shelf life of edible plants.
On completion of this course, you will better understand how plants grow and flower, how to grow and maintain them, and how your knowledge can be used to solve some of the issues of our rapidly changing world.
Course Structure
Botany I
Unit 1 – Taxonomic Classification of Plants
- Plant taxonomy
- Botanical/horticultural nomenclature
- The binomial system
- Botanical classification
- Plant families and species
- Hybrids, varieties and cultivars
- Botanical keys
- Key to plant groups
- Key to plant phyla
- Key to lamiaceae
- Plant taxonomy
- Genre meanings
- Species and variety names and meanings
Unit 2 – Cells and Tissues
- Plant cells
- Cell components
- Plant growth
- Types of plant cells
- Plant tissues – primary and secondary
Unit 3 – Specific Vegetative Parts of a Plant
- Stems
- Leaf structure and arrangement
- Root structure (tap root, adventitious roots)
- Root modifications
- Buds
- Morphological changes due to maturation
- Common botanical terms
Unit 4 – Flowers and Fruit
- Flower structure – inflorescence
- Fruits – simple, aggregate, multiple
- Pollination and fertilisation
- Fruit
- Overcoming incompatibility
- Terminology
Unit 5 – Seed and the Developing Embryo
- Seed structure
- Seed germination
- Germination requirements
- Stimulation
- Inhibition
- Propagation of Plants
Unit 6 – Photosynthesis and Growing Plants
- Photosynthesis
- Chloroplasts in photosynthesis
- Photosynthesis in controlled growing conditions
- Artificial light
- Photosynthetic apparatus
- Light transformation into energy
- The photosynthetic process,
- Gas exchange with the atmosphere
Unit 7 – Respiration
- Stages of respiration
- Rate of respiration
- Mitochondria
- Glycolysis
- Citric acid cycle (krebs cycle)
- Electron transport chain
- Oxidative phosphorylation
Unit 8 – The Role of Water
- Water and plant growth
- Osmosis
- Water movement from soil to root
- Root pressure
- The transpiration stream
- Transpiration and environmental conditions
Unit 9 – Movement of Water and Assimilates through a Plant
- Mechanisms of nutrient uptake
- Absorption and transport of mineral nutrients
- Translocation of photosynthetic products
- Translocation of sugars
- Adaptations for water storage
- Food and water storage organs
Unit 10 – The Effects of Tropisms and Other Growth Movements
- Plant hormones
- Growth regulators
- Auxins
- Cytokinins
- Giberellins
- Ethylene
- Tropisms
- Growth movements
- Chemical growth modifications
- Hormone products
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Testimonials
A fantastic way to upskill while on maternity leave
C. Robertson, Lesmurdie, WA | Certificate of Botany
I have had a great experience. I have been able to find time to do the assignments and course work around my job – I signed up for the “taxonomy” section and was very interested in the rest as well. I have loved the flexible timing and course access – and I am grateful for the tutor support – knowing its there in case we need it. Very reasonably priced as well – so thank you to the team.
S. Stockwell, Derby, WA | Certificate of Botany
Assignment requirements were clear and easy to follow. Information sheets summarised the issues clearly and concisely.
Learning topics were relevant and gave me a good understanding on the basics of botany.
R. Laurent, Roseville, NSW | Certificate of Botany
It was a fantastic experience; it kept me on the level for a full year, and the modules were very focused and informative.
Lisa | St Albans, VIC | Certificate of Botany
About Us
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Enrol Now
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
- Horticulturalists
- Agriculturists
- Environmental managers
- Plan scientists
- Individuals who work with plants