Do you have a green thumb or would you like to have one? A certificate program in horticulture will help you learn the fundamentals needed to acquire an entry-level position in the field. In addition, if you just want to see if horticulture is your cup of tea, an online certificate program is ideal.
As you learn how to properly care for all types of Mother Nature’s creations, you will be able to apply your knowledge in garden design, plant conservation, and landscape restoration to many applications, both residentially and commercially. Typically, one can find jobs in garden centers, city parks, or golf courses, in addition to many other employment opportunities.
What’s trending in 2021? Gardening is not just for the older generation. Studies show that hobby gardeners are now ranging from between the ages of 18 and 34 years old. Now, more than ever, people are interested in growing their own food; therefore, knowing how it’s grown and what pesticides, if any, are being used is important. In addition, gardening is fun.
It’s an excellent learning experience and an opportunity for the whole family to connect and enjoy the outdoors. Furthermore, if you desire, you can make a career out of your passion for gardening with an online certificate program in Horticulture.
You can also expect to see an uptick in eco-friendly and pollinator plants. Many who are concerned about our environment are interested in native plants that attract and sustain the butterfly population and gardening that can be done without the use of chemicals. People also seem to be interested in gardens that take less water or an irrigation system.
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Design-wise, quiet and shady garden nooks became very popular in 2020 and expect to continue into 2021. Everyone likes to enjoy the fruits of their labor, and you can by adding comfortable seating, wind-chimes, and a relaxing water feature. At night, accent lighting is beautiful. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of getting a degree online in the field of Horticulture!
Table of contents:
- FAQs
- Best Online Trade Schools for Horticulture Programs
- Are you interested in some FREE options to get you started?
- Organizations to Join
- Notable Horticulturists
Recommended Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a career in Horticulture entail?
A horticulturist’s focus relies on their knowledge of plants, flowers, fruits, and vegetables. They study the growth process, soil conservation, plant propagation, and much more.
What kind of career and salary can I expect with a certificate diploma in Horticulture?
With a certificate in Horticulture, you can expect to obtain an entry-level job, with pay ranging from $11-$24 per hour, depending on your experience. The average annual salary is $69,074. Furthermore, if you decide to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you could earn upwards of $130,969 annually in this field with management experience, according to CareerExplorer.com. Also, in this field, salaries are based on the geographical region you are working in.
Are there certifications in Horticulture that I should earn?
Earning your certificate diploma in Horticulture is just the beginning. To stay up-to-date on the latest findings and techniques in the field, you will most certainly need to continue your education. Certification from the American Society for Horticultural Science is one to consider!
Can I earn a career certificate in Horticulture?
Yes, certificate programs are a good start if you want a career in Horticulture. For the hobby gardener or the professional, they provide a plethora of valuable information. Although fully online programs are few and far between, they do exist; however, most have an on-campus requirement. Occasionally, you will find nurseries in your area that will allow you to complete your lab work with them.
What types of Horticulture can I pursue?
The field of horticulture includes a wide array of specializations. You can easily choose a concentration that interests you the most, such as plants and flowers, landscaping, medicinal plants, trees, or fruits and veggies. Other fields include arboriculture, turf management, plant propagation, spices and plantation crops, to name a few!
Best Online Trade Schools for Horticulture Programs
METHODOLOGY: The below-referenced schools are all exceptional schools, therefore, Online Schools Center.com has chosen to rank these educators in random order based on the following:
- Provides online or hybrid program availability specific to the field of Horticulture,
- Offers ease of use through flexibility and convenience,
- Ensures a wide variety of concentrations relevant in horticulture,
- Allows for financial aid or convenient payment plan options,
- Taught by qualified instructors who are experts in Horticulture,
- Sharpens skills for entry-level positions in Horticulture, Nurseries, or Landscaping companies,
- Presents opportunities to learn industry trends, as well as the most innovative practices used today in Horticulture.
Our hope is that the following school suggestions will assist you in pursuing an online educational program in Horticulture that fits your needs. To learn more, see our Methodology page.
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY
Online General Horticulture Program
PROGRAM STANDOUTS: At North Carolina State University, if you can think it, you can do it! As their motto is an encouragement to all, NC State was established in March of 1887. Their online distance learning programs are taught by experienced, award-winning faculty and at an affordable price. NC State is dedicated to providing quality education with the most up-to-date innovative technology available in your field. If you are interested in pursuing an entry-level career in horticulture or wish to enhance your previous knowledge, NC State offers each student an opportunity to earn a certificate in General Horticulture.
NCSU’s program is designed to provide you with the foundational principles of horticulture, as well as, current technologies and environmentally safe practices that are currently available to the hobby gardener or professional. Classwork will include courses such as Home Plant Propagation, Home Landscape Maintenance, Vegetable Production, in addition to, Plant Pathology and Soil Science, among many others.
CAMPUS LOCATION: Raleigh, NC
ACCREDITATION: North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
TYPES OF AID: Tuition and fees are charged based on your chosen program and are billed at the standard graduate online and distance education rate. Please contact the school for specifics.
ACCEPTANCE RATE: 51.4%
GRADUATION RATE: 75.1%
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: To enter a certificate program, you must have graduated from high school with at least a 3.0 GPA and provide transcripts or evidence of graduation. The application fee is $25.00.
PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: North Carolina State University’s certificate program in General Horticulture is offered through an online format to provide convenience and flexibility for the adult learner. Your online courses will include lecture videos and other activities accessible through NC State’s WolfWare website. You can easily interact with classmates and instructors, submit your assignments, and complete tests online or through a proctored site that is convenient for you.
DEGREE OUTCOMES: As someone with a green thumb, you will appreciate the additional knowledge and skills that this online horticulture coursework will provide. Follow your passion and enroll today!
LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE GENERAL HORTICULTURE PROGRAM
TRITON COLLEGE
Online Horticulture/Grounds Maintenance Certificate Program
PROGRAM STANDOUTS: Triton College is a two-year higher education learning facility that sits on a beautiful 110-acre campus in Illinois. Can’t attend in person? No worries… Triton College offers online distance learning opportunities, as well. Through their state-of-the-art technology and flexible scheduling options, you are certain to find a degree or certificate program that suits your needs. Founded in 1964, their exceptional faculty has perfected the academic learning experience by providing each student with the personal attention they deserve.
If you are interested in plants and landscaping, perhaps you would like to earn a Horticulture/Grounds Maintenance Certificate. Triton’s online program in this field is designed to instruct the learner in grounds maintenance, such as in sports and commercial turf. You will also learn about entomology, plant pathology, soils, and fertilizers, as well as, plant propagation and greenhouse operations, among many other topics. In addition, Triton College also offers a certificate program in Landscape Design. Whether you are starting a new career or honing your existing skills, Triton College will help you succeed.
CAMPUS LOCATION: River Grove, IL
ACCREDITATION: Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, 230 South LaSalle St., Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604-1441, www.hlcommission.org Ph: (800)621-7440
TYPES OF AID: At Triton College, programs are affordable and financial assistance and scholarships are available. Please contact Triton’s Veterans Resource Center for information concerning military benefits. They also accept grants, offer work-study programs, as well as, loan options.
ACCEPTANCE RATE: 100%
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: Apply today to begin your online Horticulture program. Start by completing an online application. There is no application fee. You will need to submit your transcripts and other requested documents. Once received, you can expect an acceptance packet in the mail within 7-10 days. You will be required to complete a new student orientation either online or on campus.
PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: Online classes offer each student the opportunity to learn in a convenient and flexible environment. The Blackboard Learning System enables students the ability to access course materials and assignments at any time. You can also participate in online discussions, have access to your grades, and submit your assignments electronically. Triton’s Library offers many online support services.
DEGREE OUTCOMES: Completion of a career certificate program can jumpstart your career in horticulture. You will learn the skills needed to make you competitive in today’s job market, achieve your own goals, and gain success, both personally and professionally.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TRITON COLLEGE’S ONLINE HORTICULTURE/GROUNDS MAINTENANCE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
STRATFORD CAREER INSTITUTE
Online Gardening & Landscaping Program
PROGRAM STANDOUTS: The Stratford Career Institute offers at-home vocational training through online programs that are convenient for everyone. Established in 1991, they’ve earned an exceptional reputation for providing flexible coursework to students at an affordable price. Whether you are considering a career in horticulture or just the novice gardener, SCI’s online program in Gardening and Landscaping is for you!
You will learn the fundamentals of gardening, as well as, today’s techniques in professional landscaping. Coursework will also include Understanding and Identifying Plants, Mistakes Made by Gardeners and Landscapers, Growing Vegetables, Herbs, and Fruits, as well as, Creating Water Gardens and Flower Gardens, among many others.
CAMPUS LOCATION: Stratford’s corporate office is located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada with a mailing address in St. Albans, VT.
ACCREDITATION: SCI’s programs are designed for personal development only; therefore, they currently do not hold accreditation. However, SCI is a proud member of the United States Distance Learning Association, the Canadian Network for Innovation in Education, as well as, the International Council for Open and Distance Education.
TYPES OF AID: Stratford does not participate in government-sponsored aid, however, they do offer monthly payment plans with 0% interest.
ACCEPTANCE RATE: 100%, Open Entrance Policy
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: You will need to have at least 8 years of formal schooling to enroll in SCI’s online programs. In addition, if you are under the age of 18, you will need a parent or guardian’s signature to enroll. You can complete an application online, by phone or by mail. With a down payment of $20 or less, you can get started today.
PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: SCI will provide you with the educational materials you need to get started. Through their online student center, called eService, you can complete your assignments and your exams at your convenience. You will have up to two years to complete your coursework. If you have a question, instructors are available by phone or through e-mail.
DEGREE OUTCOMES: Marketable skills in today’s workforce is imperative. Through Stratford Career Institute’s online Gardening and Landscaping program, you will earn a foundational education to help you in your future endeavors in the field of horticulture or in your own backyard. Although graduation from this program will not fulfill college degree requirements, it will provide the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the field of gardening. If you would like to start your own landscaping business, this is the program for you!
LEARN MORE ABOUT STRATFORD CAREER INSTITUTE’S ONLINE GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING PROGRAM
ASHWORTH COLLEGE
Online Landscape Design Program
PROGRAM STANDOUTS: Originally, Ashworth began specifically offering real estate appraisal classes in 1987. As time progressed, so did Ashworth. Today, Ashworth College has over 300,000 graduates and just celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2017. Ashworth’s online diploma programs are designed to provide flexibility and convenience to all who seek a new career or improve existing skills. Each program will help you fulfill your potential and at a price, you can afford and appreciate.
Ashworth’s online Landscape Design training program will focus on the many aspects of landscaping. You can complete your course in as little as four months. As landscaping is more than mowing a yard, your coursework will include instruction in plant morphology, hardscape construction, and master plan drawing, as well as, the professional techniques used in landscaping today.
Business courses are also included so you may open your own landscape design business if desired. Other coursework focuses on Research, Preparation and Design Elements, Vertical Landscaping, Tools of Landscape Design, Turfgrass and Plant Management and Landscaping Business Management, among many others. Your online program will include comprehensive study guides, illustrated landscape design textbooks, and your own drawing tool starter set. Ashworth College also offers a Floral Design Program.
CAMPUS LOCATION: Norcross, GA
ACCREDITATION: Ashworth College is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
TYPES OF AID: Ashworth College’s admission advisors are happy to present you with payment plan options that will fit your budget and with 0% interest.
ACCEPTANCE RATE: 100%
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: To qualify for an online career diploma or certificate program from Ashworth, you must be at least 16 years old or have an enrollment form signed by a parent or legal guardian. These types of classes generally do not have prerequisites, unless specified. You may enroll at any time and begin your classes on the same day. You will need to complete an enrollment application and set up a tuition payment plan with an admissions advisor. At the end of your admission process, you will have access to a live online orientation session, study hall, and student services.
PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY: Career diploma courses are designed to be completed in four months, however, you will have up to a year to complete your program. As a self-paced study, Ashworth makes it easy to achieve your goals in the field of landscape design. You can access your coursework at any time of the day or night. You will have no scheduled classes, group projects, or due dates as you work at your own pace. Your study guides are designed to help you explore key concepts in textbooks, e-books, or other learning materials, as well as, gain understanding through review and practice questions. As you conclude each subject, you will then take an online exam.
DEGREE OUTCOMES: Through Ashworth’s online Landscape Design program, you will learn the fundamentals required to create new gardens or spruce up existing landscaping. You will be ready to go to work as you apply your skills and knowledge in the development of personal design elements, how to apply mathematical solutions to your designs, as well as, visualizing and designing outdoor spaces for your customers, both residential and commercial clients. You’ll know how to identify plants, flowers, and the essential business practices needed to operate your own landscaping business.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ASHWORTH COLLEGE’S ONLINE LANDSCAPE DESIGN PROGRAM
Are you interested in some FREE options to get you started?
Oregon State University: Here you will find free access to their Oregon Master Gardener Program. Just sign up and you can access your course instruction for up to one year from signing date. It provides 4-6 hours of valuable knowledge and is accessible anytime that is convenient for you. It will teach you the fundamentals of gardening, such as Basic Botany, Entomology, Soil and Compost, and Vegetable Gardening, in addition to Landscape Design and Maintenance, plus much more.
Epicgardening.com: For a wide variety of useful information, check out this website. You will find many “Inspiring & Free Gardening Documentaries” to watch, as well as a website chock-full of information about all types of gardening including Hydroponics, Aquaponics, and Houseplants. There’s even a section on the best products to use!
Goodgardeningvideos.org: For numerous (over 1000) how-to videos, check out GoodGardeningVideos.org. And… they cover every topic imaginable. No excuses for not becoming an exceptional gardener now… because these videos take a scientifically designed approach to gardening whether you are interested in landscapes, houseplants, trees, or holiday decorations – and everything in between! Their mission is “To inspire more people to garden and help them succeed as gardeners.” Check them out today!
Organizations to Join
American Horticultural Therapy Association: As all gardeners know, working in the dirt, planting a seed, and watching it become a beautiful flower is pure joy, as well as therapeutic. Through the AHTA organization, you can become a member to help express the benefits of gardening. The healing elements of nature are used in many healthcare and rehabilitation capacities. Check out their membership page to see the benefits of joining, along with the membership requirements.
American Society for Horticultural Science: As one of the most respected organizations in the world, the ASHS is dedicated to all areas of research and education relevant to the field of horticulture. Their organization is comprised of horticulture professionals from all walks of life, including scientists, landscapers, students of horticulture, teachers, and beyond. The ASHS also focuses on all types of issues and practices related to the horticulture industry. Check out their membership page!
Notable Horticulturists
Spencer Beach: A New York native born in 1860, Spencer Beach graduated from Iowa State College and remained there to study fruit culture. He then returned to New York to become a horticulturist. His contributions include numerous studies in fruits, along with beginning a breeding program working with apples. Beach died in 1922 as one of the leading horticulturists of his generation.
Luther Burbank: Born in Massachusetts in 1849, Burbank is one of the most renowned horticulturists of all time. Throughout his 55 year career, Burbank was dedicated to the practice of cross-breeding while developing over 800 new varieties of plant life. Burbank was a true pioneer in the field of agricultural science.
Frederick Law Omlsted: Mr. Omlsted was born in 1822. He wore several hats; however, one of his most notable titles included that of “the Father of American Landscape Architecture.” Perhaps, one of his most crowning achievements is the casual and elegant gardens of the Biltmore Estate located in Asheville, NC. Today, you can still go to visit the Biltmore Gardens and see his truly remarkable vision and passion for plant life and design.