Program Overview

The Horticulture Certificate is designed for individuals seeking employment or self-employment in the horticulture industry, as well as those aiming to enhance their existing knowledge for career advancement.  This program prepares students for a wide range of opportunities in horticulture, including landscape design and maintenance, landscaping, nursery and garden center operations, turf management, and urban tree care. The program provides career exploration opportunities through directed professional portfolio development and internship opportunities.

Program Highlights

  • Utilize and integrate knowledge of plant science to both managed and naturally occurring horticultural systems.
  • Demonstrate interdisciplinary knowledge and competency in managing plant systems.
  • Use insight and creativity to evaluate, design and improve managed and naturally occurring plant systems.
  • Demonstrate both proficiency and professionalism in skills that relate to working in environmental horticulture.

Program Details

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View and print the required courses for the Horticulture Certificate program.

Guided Pathway >

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

Courses typically cover turf management principles and practices, recognizing and maintaining plant species, designing, installing, and maintaining landscape features, plant biology and soil properties, and preserving trees in urban environments. Courses include:

  • Turfgrass Management
  • Plants for the New England Landscape
  • Landscape Installation and Maintenance
  • Plant and Soil Science
  • Fundamentals of Plant Health
  • Urban Tree Care
  • Landscape Design

For a full list of courses visit our Academic Catalog.

Graduates of the Horticulture Certificate program are prepared for various positions within the green industry, such as:​

  • Landscape Designer/Manager
  • Fine Gardener and Estate Manager
  • Nursery or Garden Center Operator
  • Turf Manager
  • Urban Tree Care Specialist
  • Horticultural Landscape Specialist and Technician

Credits earned in the Horticulture Certificate program may be applied toward NSCC's Associate in Applied Science degree in Horticulture, providing a pathway for further education and specialization in the field.

Additionally, graduates interested in further education may explore transfer opportunities to institutions offering advanced degrees in horticulture or related disciplines. Students are encouraged to consult with academic advisors to discuss potential pathways and articulation agreements.

Explore Transfer Options >

Essex North Shore – Agricultural & Technical School

Northeast Nursery

New Entry Sustainable Food Project

The Food Project

Velvet Green Organic Lawn Care

Szczechowicz Landscape Services

Please note the data above reflects a degree in the listed program

Program Questions

horticulture@northshore.edu
978-762-4048

General Assistance

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Accreditation

North Shore Community College is an accredited public institute of higher education where all are welcome and each is challenged. NSCC is accredited by NECHE, the New England Commission of Higher Education.

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