Certificate III in Nursery Operations (CRICOS course code 117238F) is a Certificate III delivered by Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (VET code AHC31124) falls under the field of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies, specialising in Horticulture and Viticulture. Based in Adelaide, South Australia, the course is offered at the Rundle Mall Adelaide campus. Designed for international students seeking practical skills in nursery production, plant propagation, and plant care, this program provides a pathway to employment in the horticulture industry. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03039E), Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd ensures compliance with Australian quality standards and ESOS Act protections. The indicative tuition fee is A$14,250, with additional non-tuition fees of A$750, totalling approximately A$15,000. English language requirements range from IELTS 5.0 to 5.5 overall. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is your free resource for comparing CRICOS-registered courses and planning your study journey in Australia, with over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses listed.
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This course is part of the Horticulture and Viticulture field (050300), focusing on nursery operations. Students learn plant biology, soil management, pest control, irrigation, and workplace safety. Practical skills include propagating plants, maintaining nursery stock, operating nursery equipment, and implementing sustainability practices. Graduates are prepared for roles such as nursery hand, garden centre assistant, or horticultural worker. The Certificate III level (AQF Level 3) involves applied knowledge and skills for skilled work. While specific units are set by the provider, typical topics cover plant nutrition, weed management, and customer service. This foundational qualification can lead to further study at Certificate IV or Diploma levels.
The Certificate III in Nursery Operations is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not part of a dual award or foundation studies program. Study mode is typically full-time on-campus at the Rundle Mall Adelaide location. International students should be prepared for a structured timetable including lectures, practical sessions, and self-study. The course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may choose to work part-time during their studies under student visa conditions (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). For detailed study mode and delivery methods, contact Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd directly.
Tuition fees for the Certificate III in Nursery Operations are indicative at A$14,250, with non-tuition fees of A$750, giving an estimated total of A$15,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd. They are subject to change, so always confirm current fees on the provider's website (www.ironwood.edu.au) before applying. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For international students in Adelaide, indicative living costs are approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. The Australian Government requires evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy provides fee information for planning purposes only.
English language proficiency is a key entry requirement. For this course, an IELTS score of 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent) is generally expected. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. No prior qualification in horticulture is required, but a general interest in the field is beneficial. Some providers may assess applicants on a case-by-case basis. Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd may have specific academic prerequisites, so check directly. If your English level is below the requirement, consider pathway programs or English language courses. Foundation studies are not part of this course but may be available as separate options. Always refer to the provider for the most accurate and up-to-date entry requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake industry placement or work experience as part of their study. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work part-time: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions. While not compulsory, gaining casual work in horticulture or related fields can enhance practical skills. Note that work experience is different from work-integrated learning; this course has no structured work component. For questions about work opportunities, contact the provider.
The Certificate III in Nursery Operations is delivered at Rundle Mall Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia. Adelaide is a vibrant city with a growing horticulture sector, home to numerous botanical gardens and nurseries. The campus is located in the central business district, accessible by public transport including buses, trains, and trams. Adelaide has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, making it an attractive study destination. There are over 50 CRICOS-registered providers in Adelaide offering a wide range of courses. The city has a student population of around 50,000 international students, providing a multicultural environment. When choosing this location, consider your lifestyle preferences, climate, and proximity to industry opportunities.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd, evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, English language proficiency (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Nursery Operations at Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies), and location (Adelaide). Compare Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd with other providers offering similar courses. Always verify CRICOS registration at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications) and application deadlines. Prepare your documents (passport, academic transcripts, English test results, CV) and submit your application through Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd's admissions portal. Pay the application fee if required.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare for the GTE statement, arrange OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
For personalised assistance, contact Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd directly. HeadStart Academy does not process applications.
Ready to begin your nursery operations career? Contact Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd for application details or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
Certificate III in Nursery Operations is a CRICOS-registered programme at Imperial Education Group Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.