Agriculture - Horticulture and Landscape Management
Program Overview
The Horticulture and Landscape Management major at Illinois State University provides a comprehensive education in plant science, landscape design, and business operations. Through hands-on experiences and industry-relevant coursework, students develop the skills and knowledge necessary for diverse careers in the horticulture and landscape industry. The program's access to the 10-acre Horticulture Center offers unique opportunities for practical learning and research. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in landscape design, nursery management, turfgrass management, and other horticulture-related fields.
Program Outline
Agriculture - Horticulture and Landscape Management Major at Illinois State University
Degree Overview:
The Horticulture and Landscape Management major at Illinois State University is a multifaceted program offering a solid foundation in various areas within the horticulture and landscape management industry. It encompasses the following:
Objectives:
- Equip students with expertise in horticultural management and business operations.
- Prepare graduates for diverse career paths within the landscape design/build/maintenance, turfgrass, greenhouse, and nursery industries.
- Cultivate students' understanding of the scientific principles underpinning horticulture and landscape management.
- Foster the development of practical skills through hands-on experiences in the 10-acre Horticulture Center.
Program Description:
This major offers a diverse range of courses encompassing numerous aspects of horticulture and landscape management. This includes:
- Horticultural Management: Delving into the principles and practices of growing and managing plants, including plant propagation, pest and disease control, and plant nutrition.
- Landscape Design and Construction: Equipping students with the skills to design and construct landscape features, including hardscaping, water features, and planting plans.
- Business Operations: Providing students with the essential knowledge of business management, marketing, and financial management applicable to the horticulture and landscape industry.
- Sustainable Practices: Emphasizing environmentally responsible practices in horticulture and landscape management, including water conservation, integrated pest management, and organic gardening. This program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing graduates for success in the horticulture and landscape industry.
Outline:
- Horticulture Core Courses: These courses cover the fundamental principles of plant biology, plant propagation, and plant care. Examples include Introduction to Horticulture, Plant Propagation, and Plant Pathology.
- Landscape Design and Construction Courses: These courses provide students with the knowledge and skills to design and construct landscapes. Examples include Landscape Design, Landscape Construction, and Planting Design.
- Business Operations Courses: These courses equip students with the essential business skills needed to manage a horticulture or landscape business. Examples include Introduction to Business Management, Marketing for Horticulture Businesses, and Financial Management for Horticulture Businesses.
- Electives: Students can choose electives to tailor their program to their specific interests and career goals. Examples include Turfgrass Management, Greenhouse Management, and Arboriculture.
Program Structure:
The program typically consists of around 120 credit hours, distributed among core courses, electives, and general education requirements. Students generally complete the program within four years.
Assessment:
Assessment methods in this program can include:
- Exams: Tests and quizzes to evaluate students' understanding of key concepts and principles.
- Assignments: Individual and group projects to apply learned knowledge to real-world scenarios.
- Presentations: Opportunities for students to showcase their research and findings.
- Portfolios: Compilations of students' work throughout the program, demonstrating their skills and development.
Teaching:
The program is taught by a dedicated faculty with expertise in various areas of horticulture and landscape management. Many faculty members are active researchers, bringing valuable real-world experience into the classroom. The program also utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Providing students with fundamental knowledge and theoretical frameworks.
- Laboratory work: Hands-on exercises to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.
- Field trips: Site visits to various horticulture and landscape businesses and organizations.
- Guest speakers: Industry professionals sharing their expertise and insights with students. This combination of passionate faculty and diverse teaching methods creates a stimulating and engaging learning environment for students.
Careers:
Graduates of the Horticulture and Landscape Management program are well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths in the following areas:
- Landscape Design and Construction
- Nursery and Greenhouse Management
- Turfgrass Management
- Arboriculture
- Horticulture Therapy
- Research and Education This program opens doors to various career opportunities in the horticulture and landscape industry, with graduates finding employment in:
- Landscape design and construction firms
- Nurseries and greenhouses
- Golf courses and sports facilities
- Parks and recreation departments
- Horticulture research institutions
- Educational institutions With their solid foundation in horticulture and landscape management, graduates are also well-positioned for graduate studies or further specialization in specific areas within the industry.
Other:
Horticulture Center:
The program has access to the 10-acre Horticulture Center, providing students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities. This facility includes greenhouses, gardens, and field plots, allowing students to gain practical experience in plant propagation, planting design, and landscape construction.
Point of Pride:
The access to the Horticulture Center is a significant point of pride for the program, offering students a unique opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.
Conclusion:
The Horticulture and Landscape Management major at Illinois State University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of horticulture and landscape management. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, industry-relevant skills, and career preparation, making it a valuable option for individuals passionate about the horticulture and landscape industry.
