Landscape and Horticulture Professional - Certificate Program
Are you drawn to a profession that allows you to bask in the beauty of nature, soak up the warm sunshine, and provides ample opportunities for personal and professional growth? Look no further than EFSC's Landscape and Horticulture Professional Certificate! This comprehensive program lays a strong foundation for a rewarding career in the thriving green industry.
In today's world, where organic produce, legal cannabis production, farmer's markets, sustainable landscapes, and outdoor recreational spaces are gaining popularity, the demand for skilled professionals in farming, greenhouse operations, grounds maintenance, landscape design, and other specialized areas is steadily rising.
Through this program, you're equipped with a diverse range of technical skills, occupation-specific knowledge, scientific insights, and the professional aptitude required to excel in the field.
Upon completion of the certificate, graduates can apply their newfound expertise directly in the workforce or further their education by the credits earned can be applied toward the related Landscape and Horticulture Technology A.S. degree at EFSC.
Landscape and Horticulture Professional Certificate - Course Curriculum
The courses in this certificate program are designed to provide you with essential knowledge for a successful career in the green industry. We understand that life can be busy, so we offer flexible options, such as weekend, evening, online, and hybrid classes. This allows you to work while pursuing your studies. You'll practice hands-on skills through coursework at the local Rockledge Gardens greenhouses through an agreement with the college
Landscape and Horticulture Professional - Certificate Program
Program Overview
- Certificate Type
- College Credit Certificate (CCC)
- Delivery Methods
- On-Campus, Hybrid
- Location
- Melbourne
- Total Credit Hours
- 18
- Academic Community
- Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics
- Contact Information
-
Email Program Advisor
321-632-1111Advising Appointments
Amanda Rose Newton, M.S.
Program Manager
newtona@easternflorida.edu
321-433-5750
Landscape and Horticulture Professional Certificate - Admissions Information
If you're interested in the Landscape and Horticulture Professional Certificate program, you can apply through EFSC's regular enrollment process. This program has open admissions, meaning you can apply and start classes in any term. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, feel free to reach out to the program manager or advisor.
Please keep in mind that to ensure your success and safety in this program, we highly recommended that you meet the following criteria: being able to lift 25 pounds or more, having the ability to read and understand labels for horticulture chemicals (including application, warning, disposal, and instruction labels), being able to identify different color codes, being easily able to access plants; ground; and soil, demonstrating proficient skills in using a variety of horticulture tools, and being comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and for extended periods of time.
Brief Costs and Financial Aid Eligibility
If you reside in Florida, the Landscape and Horticulture Professional Certificate at EFSC offers in-state tuition for an approximate total of $1,875. It's important to note that this cost doesn't include expenses for course materials or lab fees. However, there are opportunities to seek financial aid and scholarships that can help reduce your overall expenses.
College Courses You Would Take
This 18-credit-hour certificate program comprises six courses that are designed to equip you with the skills needed for diverse career paths in horticulture and landscaping. The faculty members of EFSC's program have over 10 years of experience in the green industry, specializing in areas such as integrated pest management, small space growing, greenhouse management, plant propagation, beekeeping, and niche crop production.
Get ready to dive into the following courses:
Explore soils, pesticides, and fertilizers in horticulture. Learn safe and responsible use for plant health. Prepare for the applicator's license exam.
Learn turf grass and landscape plant care and maintenance, while covering topics like species, soil, water, pests, and landscape repair.
Covers nursery management, employee management, basic plant propagation, inventory control, nursery organization, marketing, and pest control.
Required for both specializations, these courses provide a foundation in plant science, plus the maintenance and management aspects of the horticultural business.
Why Become a Landscape and Horticulture Professional Through EFSC?
Excellent Career Prospects
The use of new technologies and emerging industries like hydroponics, cannabis, and organic farming has created a consistent need for professionals in horticulture. As the reliance on plants and the incorporation of local produce, hemp products, and green spaces continue to rise, there are diverse career opportunities available for graduates.
Certifications and Networking
By completing this program, you'll not only gain valuable knowledge and skills but also earn a Florida fertilizer applicator license and a Green Industries Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) certification. These credentials will instantly boost your résumé and demonstrate your expertise in the field.
Additionally, while you're enrolled in the program, you'll have the opportunity to attend events and participate in various activities organized by the Florida Association of Native Nurseries, Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association, and Florida Native Plant Society. These networking and learning opportunities are available to you either for free or at a reduced cost, further enhancing your educational experience.
Related Landscape and Horticulture Programs
If you're interested in the Landscape and Horticulture Professional CCC at Eastern Florida, it's worth exploring the related A.S. degree and other certificate options.