Plant breeding in studies of horticultural sciences in universities in Germany

Abstract

In Germany horticultural sciences are taught in nine universities; seven of them are universities for applied sciences and two of basic sciences. Within agricultural sciences the universities at Bonn and Hohenheim offer modules in plant breeding and vegetable and fruit production, as well. Thus these two university sites are included in the reported analysis.
The offer of plant breeding in the said universities can be recorded as number of achievable credit points (ECTS) when selecting appropriate modules and the theme of the B.Sc. or M.Sc. thesis from plant breeding, as well. This value can be put in relation to the total number of credit points necessary to enter the final B.Sc. or M.Sc. exam. The obtained quotation gives information on the degree of possible specialization in plant breeding within the corresponding university.
Within the B.Sc. courses modules with Plant Breeding are offered in all universities mentioned, except in one. The amount of modules corresponds with all other subjects and does not allow a specialization in plant breeding. This is in accordance with the aim of the B.Sc. education.
Within the M.Sc. course fundamental knowledge in Plant Breeding can only be obtained in the four universities for basic sciences at Hanover, Munich, Bonn and Hohenheim. Crucial is the presence of a chair for plant breeding, which exists in the Horticultural Faculties only at Hannover. Within the three other universities Plant Breeding is imported from the Agricultural Faculties.
Traditionally plant breeders get further specialization preparing a PhD thesis. Until the universities for applied sciences receive promotions right and adequate equipment the “old” universities are still in charge to offer this qualification.
A very precarious situation has been already occurred in training the next generation of high school teachers. For now it is nearly impossible to find suitable candidates to represent the subject Plant Breeding, even for the remaining very rare positions.
Political parties, federal German countries, universities, scientific societies, and professional groups make great efforts to interrupt the ongoing reduction of education and research in horticulture in general and especially in horticultural Plant Breeding; although this subject is universally accepted to have a crucial position at the beginning of the value chain.