Program Overview
The Horticulture Associate of Applied Science degree is tailored for individuals aspiring to enter or advance in the 'green' industry. The program offers comprehensive, science-based education, building a strong foundation in horticulture, combined with hands-on, practical courses, to give students work-ready, employable skills. The curriculum is designed for students, offering comprehensive training in knowledge that can be applied across various careers. Comprehensive training in multiple aspects of horticulture prepares students for diverse roles in general horticulture, estate and fine gardening maintenance, landscape design, greenhouse production and nursery operations, turf management, and tree care.
The program prepares students to advance their careers. Students develop quantitative and scientific reasoning skills to assess horticultural issues, critical thinking to examine biotic and abiotic factors, and communication skills to convey evaluations and recommendations.
Program Highlights
- Service Learning projects: prepare students for employment opportunities in landscaping, nursery and garden center operations, botanical gardens, turf and golf course management, and tree care.
- Hands-on experience: hands-on lab courses for practical experience through courses like Plants for the New England Landscape, Landscape Design, Landscape Installation, and Maintenance.
- Industry Certifications: provides foundational knowledge to prepare students for industry licensing examinations, including the Massachusetts Arborist Certification.
- Sustainable Stewardship: incorporates environmental stewardship principles, highlighted in courses such as Exploring the Landscape of Sustainability, Introduction to Sustainable Living, and Environmental Policy.
Program Details
Expand AllCollapse AllView and print the required courses for the Horticulture degree program.
Recommended Open Electives: ACC110, BUS100, BUS120, ENT100, MGT 102, MKT101, SPE102.
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
Courses typically cover recognizing and maintaining diverse plant species, principles of designing functional landscapes, turf management, soil properties and their impact on plant growth, and plant pests and diseases. Courses include:
- Plant and Soil Science
- Fundamentals of Plant Health
- Turfgrass Management
- Landscape Design
- Landscape Installation and Maintenance
- Plants for the New England Landscape
- Urban Tree Care
- Greenhouse Crop Production
- Organic and Sustainable Food Production
For a full list of courses visit our Academic Catalog.
Graduates of the Horticulture program are prepared for various positions within the green industry, such as:
- Fine Gardener and Estate Manager
- Landscape Designer/Manager
- Nursery or Garden Center Operator
- Horticultural Landscape Specialist and Technician
- Turf and Golf Course Manager
- Arborist/Tree Care Specialist
While the Horticulture degree is primarily designed for immediate employment, 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.
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
Contact Admissions
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.