Applied aeroponic systems

Key information

Start date:
08 June 2026
Attendance dates:
1 day - 08 June 2026
Venue:
Stag Hill campus, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7XH

Morning in the classroom and afternoon in the glasshouse/polytunnel (22A&B VSM01)

Overview

Modern agriculture requires smarter, cleaner, and more productive growing methods. As pressures on water, land, and sustainability increases, innovative systems are required to complement existing field cultivation approaches. Aeroponics provides a powerful solution, enabling high-yield, high-quality crop production with reduced water use, lower disease risk, and enhanced environmental efficiency.

This immersive full-day CPD course moves beyond theory and into hands-on application.

Participants will explore the core scientific principles that underpin aeroponic systems, including root-zone misting dynamics, nutrient delivery optimisation, environmental control, and integrated system design. Drawing on research and practical insight from the experts at the University of Surrey, the course connects cutting-edge research with real-world application.

Following a structured theoretical foundation, participants will apply their knowledge through guided system exploration and live demonstration at the University of Surrey’s state-of-the-art growing facilities. This ensures learning is not only understood but experienced.

This intermediate-level course covers:

  • Identification and operation of key aeroponic system components
  • Nutrient management, EC and pH control
  • Environmental monitoring and system optimisation
  • Practical demonstration of system setup, function, and management.

Designed for learners from diverse backgrounds including students, technicians, educators, and industry professionals this course delivers both technical knowledge and practical exposure.

By the end of the day, participants will not only understand how aeroponic systems operate, but will also gain the confidence to discuss, support, and potentially implement aeroponic technologies within educational, research, or commercial settings.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this intermediate full-day CPD course, participants will be able to:

  • Explain the scientific principles underpinning aeroponic cultivation
  • Identify and operate key aeroponic system components
  • Understand principles of nutrient management, EC, and pH control, and environmental monitoring to support system optimisation
  • Engage with a working aeroponic system through guided practical activity
  • Evaluate opportunities and practical considerations for implementation.

Course content

Topics to be covered include: 

  • Food system challenges that necessitate innovative approaches
  • Introduction to aeroponics cultivation
  • Understanding plant needs
  • Design and components of an aeroponic system setup
  • Environmental control in indoor growing environments
  • Sensor uses and monitoring (temperature, humidity, light, EC and pH)
  • Plant care and maintenance requirements 
  • Troubleshooting common problems.

Practical activities:

  • Guided system tour and demonstrations
  • Hands-on assembly of a small aeroponic unit.

Learning and teaching methods

The course follows a classroom format of various lectures for each topic to introduce key concepts of aeroponics and practices, followed by half day practical and training sessions at University of Surrey’s state-of-the-art Glasshouse and Polytunnel.

Format: 

  • Classroom lectures and discussion
  • Practical demonstrations and hands-on activities in glasshouse and polytunnel.

Course leaders

Zoe M Harris profile image

Professor Zoe Harris

Director of the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, Co-Director of the Institute for Sustainability

Dr Pranav Sahu

Research Fellow

Alan Foy

Course leader

Entry requirements

No prior background in crop cultivation is required, just an interest and motivation to learn.

Part of the course will involve practical activities in a glasshouse/polytunnel. Participants will need to dress appropriately. Further instructions will be sent ahead of the course.

We are an accessible campus and champion inclusivity, and are able to accommodate diverse participants on this course. If you have a physical, or learning difference which may need accommodations, please do get in touch to discuss.

Fees and funding

Price per person:

£149

What these fees include

Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

How to apply

For those taking this as a standalone module, applications are taken through our online store. It is advised that you book no later than one month before the course start date.

Payment can be accepted by credit card or debit card. Payments will be accepted subject to availability. Please note that we do not charge VAT as we are an educational establishment.

If you have any problems with booking or payments then please contact ifs@surrey.ac.uk.

Apply now

Terms and conditions

When you accept an offer of a place at the University of Surrey, you are agreeing to comply with our policies and regulations and our terms and conditions. You are also confirming you have read and understood the University's prospective student privacy notice.

Further details of our terms and conditions will follow.

Disclaimer

This online prospectus has been prepared and published in advance of the commencement of the course. The University of Surrey has used its reasonable efforts to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content or additional costs) may occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us. Read the full disclaimer.

Course location and contact details

Campus location

Stag Hill

This course is based at Stag Hill campus. Stag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught. 

Additional information

This course will be based in Thomas Telford Building.

Address

University of Surrey
Guildford
Surrey GU2 7XH