Horticultural Science Bachelor of Science Degree

Program Overview

The Horticultural Science degree program prepares students for diverse careers in landscape plant production and plant utilization in constructed and natural environments. The curriculum combines fundamental science with applied horticulture courses in landscape and edible crops. Students can select a science or business focus, depending on their career aspirations. This program additionally offers a fully online certificate in Horticulture.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Horticultural Science bachelor of science degree is designed to provide students with a science-based education that can be applied in a wide variety of careers in landscape plant production and the use of plant materials in constructed and natural landscapes. The curriculum provides fundamental knowledge in plant biology, soil and nutrient management, and the life of potential insect pests and plant diseases harmful to plants as well as beneficial organisms which help support plants. The basic science courses are complemented by a number of applied horticulture courses in both landscape and edible crops to build a valuable skill set for future careers in sustainable horticulture. Students will also learn the principles of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the important quality-of-life enhancements provided by landscape plants. Two focus areas, science or business, are available to students based on their future career plans. The science focus prepares students for graduate school or technical careers in the horticultural industries. The business focus is for students who plan on owning a business or who will work for a plant production facility, a landscape operation, or in horticultural product sales. Either focus will be useful to students planning careers in education, outreach, or recreation.

Careers:

The program prepares students for a variety of careers in the horticultural industry, including:

• Landscape plant production
• Landscape design and installation
• Plant breeding and genetics
• Horticultural research
• Extension and education
• Sales and marketing of horticultural products

Other:

The program also offers a fully online 15-credit Certificate in Horticulture.