Horticulture is one of the branches of agriculture focusing on growing and nurturing trees and plants. It covers a wide range of crops, both perennial and annual plants, decorative plants, and vegetables and fruits.
Students with a horticulture degree have various job opportunities and career paths. They can pursue a corporate role in the field by enrolling in short-term online horticulture courses.
Different types of courses are available today and opting for any of these courses will help to build a career in this field. Students interested in becoming horticulturists can opt for a horticulture course and build a successful career in the field.
Today, we will be focussing the best horticulture schools online and other relevant information.
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What Is An Online Horticulture Course?
Online horticulture focuses on the cultivation and management of domestic plants and gardens and covers a wide range of topics, including biology and botany. These courses are ideal for students curious to know about plant life.
A horticulture course has specific areas of interest to choose from such as garden design, lawn care, landscaping, floral arrangements, and more. These courses focus on both practical skills and scientific theory, allowing students to tailor their studies to their preferences.
The benefits of enrolling in an online horticulture course are many. It helps students acquire new skills and learn about various plant care techniques. These courses also sharpen their problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
Students interested in taking up a horticultural course should look for the best horticulture schools online. They should contact the chosen institution for detailed information on costs and financial aid options.
Horticulture courses open doors to a variety of career opportunities. It’s a great course for those passionate about plants. Students explore job roles such as florist, landscaper, gardener, lawn care technician, greenhouse worker, arborist, or groundskeeper after completing the course. They can study further to become a plant biologist or botanist. The horticulture world offers numerous possibilities for those who nurture their passion for plants.
What To Expect From An Online Horticulture Program?
Students joining an online horticulture program should look for a course that meets their expectations and aligns with their goals. Horticulture enthusiasts appreciate nature and enjoy outdoor activities.
Most online horticulture degrees consist of around 120 credits, requiring four years of study time. For part-time students, they can extend their studies, taking up to six years to graduate. For those interested in accelerating their education, they can choose programs that take up only 3 years to complete.
These online programs include a variety of coursework, including specialized skills in niche areas and general core requirements. The choice of concentrations varies by program, but common options include:
- Horticultural Business Management
- Floriculture
- Horticultural Science
- Horticultural Food Crops
Many horticulture programs require students to join an internship during their third year of study for hands-on experience. This helps them build and expand their professional network before graduation.
An online bachelor’s in horticulture program offers a complete education in the field, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. It’s a path for those passionate about nature and plants.
Admission Requirements For Online Horticulture Degree
The admission requirements for applying for an online horticulture program are:
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Application
The admission process starts with filling up an application form and paying a processing fee. The application form will consist of the applicant’s full name, date of birth, mailing address, and citizenship status.
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Test Scores
Some institutions require applicants to submit scores from a college entrance exam, such as the SAT or ACT.
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Letters of Recommendation
Many online horticulture programs request letters of recommendation. These letters offer insights into your weaknesses, strengths, and overall preparedness for higher education. These letters should come from individuals who know you well, such as teachers, managers, or supervisors.
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Essays
Applicants are also required to provide an essay, explaining their interest in the field, career goals, and the reason for selecting that school. A unique essay helps students stand out from other applicants.
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Official Transcripts
Students need to submit official transcripts from their previous educational institutions. These transcripts serve multiple purposes and allow admissions counselors to verify their GPAs. For transfer students, transcripts help determine which college-level classes can be credited toward their horticulture program.
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The admission requirements for an online horticulture program vary from school to school. Students should review the requirements of the programs they are interested in and ensure they meet the necessary criteria before application.
Best Horticulture Schools Online
These are the best horticulture schools online:
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North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University (NC State) was founded in 1887 and offers accessible education to everyone. They offer a General Horticulture program, where students learn from experienced faculty members. The course offerings are diverse and include topics like Home Landscape Maintenance, Home Plant Propagation, Vegetable Production, Soil Science, and Plant Pathology.
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Triton College
Triton College was established in 1964 and offers online distance learning to students worldwide. They offer a Horticulture/Grounds Maintenance Certificate program that covers grounds maintenance, including commercial and sports turf care. It also includes entomology, soils, plant pathology, plant propagation, fertilizers, and greenhouse operations.
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Stratford Career Institute
Stratford Career Institute (SCI) was founded in 1991 and holds a great reputation for offering affordable online training programs. SCI’s Online Gardening & Landscaping Program caters to both novice and aspiring horticulture professionals. This program covers the fundamentals of gardening and modern landscaping techniques.
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Ashworth College
Ashworth College was founded in 1987, and is committed to providing affordable and flexible programs. Students interested in Landscape Design can opt for the four-month course and learn about landscaping. This program covers various aspects of landscaping, including plant morphology, master plan drawing, and hardscape construction.
Final Words
An online horticulture course offers a great chance for students passionate about nature and plants. These courses provide flexibility and the convenience of learning from home. It helps students learn about plant cultivation, soil science, landscaping, and sustainable horticultural practices. These courses are the best option for students aspiring to become horticulture professional or a gardening enthusiast.