Land-Based Short Courses

Whether you want to build professional skills or try something new, we offer a range of short courses at Houghall College to suit your goals.

Our courses include industry-focused training that helps you stay up to date with essential knowledge and qualifications, including chainsaw maintenance and safe pesticide used, as practical, hobby-based options such as gardening and horticulture.

Short courses run throughout the year with various start dates and times, including evenings and weekends, giving you flexibility around your work and personal commitments.

Houghall College

Based on the outskirts of Durham City, Houghall College is a specialist provider of land-based, environmental and sustainability education.

Houghall has been delivering land-based education for over 80 years and has seen millions of pounds in investments into facilities, learning spaces and equipment. Most recently our new state-of-the-art teaching block, scheduled for completion in April 2027, will help to transform our Houghall College into a modern, sustainable learning environment that reflects the needs of today's industry and tomorrow's workforce.

To see our full list of courses, visit our course finder.

Contact us

To find out more about our short courses, contact our Short Courses Team on 0191 518 8291 or email shortcourses@eastdurham.ac.uk

Agriculture

If you're interested in working with crops, livestock or agricultural machinery, build the practical skills you need for a career in modern farming at our Houghall, Durham City Campus – the region’s largest specialist land-based college.

Female student smiling at camera whilst petting goat

Animal Care, Science & Management

If you want to work with pets, wildlife, livestock or in a scientific setting, gain the hands-on experience employers are looking for at Houghall College.

Dog Grooming

Dog Grooming is a highly popular career choice. With dog ownership always on the rise and growing opportunities in this sector, training as a dog groomer with a dog grooming course at East Durham College can help you start your own business or work as a professional dog groomer in a grooming parlour.

Floristry & Floral Design

If you’re good with your hands and love bringing floral ideas to life, turn your creativity into a career with a Floristry course at Houghall College, Durham City.

Gardener smiling to camera kneeling by bed of plants

Horticulture & Gardening

Whether you’re new to gardening or already work in horticulture, expand your skills or gain recognised qualifications with our part-time and short courses at Houghall College, Durham City.

Student standing in tall grass looking at paper

Land & Wildlife Management

If you’re passionate about wildlife, conservation and the natural environment, help shape the future of our countryside by studying Land & Wildlife Management at Houghall College, Durham City.