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Yozgat Bozok University Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Horticulture (YOBU Horticulture) was established in 2006 and stands as one of the founding departments of the Faculty of Agriculture. The department initiated its undergraduate and graduate programs in the 2013/2014 academic year and expanded to include doctoral studies in the 2021/2022 academic year. It comprises four main disciplines: Fruit Cultivation and Breeding, Vegetable Cultivation and Breeding, Vineyard Cultivation and Breeding, and Ornamental Plant Cultivation and Breeding. The primary mission of the department is to educate professionals and conduct research in the scientific cultivation of vegetables, fruits, vines, and ornamental plants, focusing on the development of new varieties, postharvest preservation, and market preparation.
In the Fruit Cultivation and Breeding discipline, the department employs 1 professor, 5 associate professors, and 1 lecturer. The Vineyard Cultivation and Breeding discipline has 1 professor and 1 research assistant with a doctoral degree, while the Vegetable Cultivation and Breeding discipline is staffed by 1 associate professor and 1 assistant professor. The Ornamental Plant Cultivation and Breeding discipline is led by 1 associate professor.
The department is equipped with a general research laboratory and several specialized facilities. The tissue culture laboratory conducts research on in vitro propagation, genetic resource conservation, secondary metabolite production, and the cultivation of challenging species. Additional resources include a mushroom production facility, a vase life room for postharvest physiology studies of ornamental plants, a greenhouse for rooting studies of fruit seedlings, and specialized facilities for grafted vine seedling production. The department also benefits from a 114-decare research and application field.
With its strong academic team and advanced infrastructure, the Department of Horticulture provides students with hands-on education while also responding to information and consultancy requests from stakeholder organizations. Graduates of the four-year undergraduate program earn the title of "Agricultural Engineer." They are qualified to work in various fields, including government agencies such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, private agricultural firms, seed production and marketing companies, greenhouses producing fruits, vegetables, vines, and ornamental plants, nurseries, agricultural consultancy firms, and import-export companies. Graduates may also become licensed pesticide dealers upon passing the Agricultural Pesticide Dealer Examination conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
The Department of Horticulture is dedicated to training Agricultural Engineers who are capable of addressing contemporary challenges, providing innovative solutions, engaging in scientific activities, and contributing to societal and economic development. The department aims to cultivate individuals who consider national priorities, environmental sustainability, and ethics while participating in interdisciplinary projects and leveraging cutting-edge technological advancements. These graduates are expected to think analytically, act ethically, and contribute meaningfully to both science and society.
