Degree Emphasis for B.A. in Horticulture
Urban HorticultureThe urban horticulture concentration is intended for students interested in professional careers which promote horticulture and emphasize people and their education and enjoyment of plants in an urban setting. Students in this emphasis area can choose to gain skills and experiences in a broad range of areas. This emphasis area prepares students for a variety of career opportunities including careers in public gardens, federal, state, and city horticulture programs, Cooperative Extension Service, professional garden writer/editor or publication manager, horticulture marketing, horticulture education and print and electronic media.
Directed technical electives allow the student to concentrate in an area of their interest while encouraging the development of good people skills.
Horticulture Therapy
Horticulture therapy is a process in which plants and gardening activities are used to improve the body, mind and spirits of people. It is an effective and beneficial treatment for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. A horticultural therapist is a trained professional who uses horticulture, nature, and plant-related activities to assist in the therapy and/or habilitation of people with special needs. This emphasis area prepares students for careers in horticulture therapy positions in hospitals, rehabilitation and vocational facilities, nursing homes and senior centers, community gardens, botanic gardens, schools, horticultural businesses and prisons.
Floral Design
This emphasis provides a strong foundation for undergraduate students who wish to receive a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture that is concentrated in the area of the art of floral design. Graduates in this area are highly skilled for careers in many areas of floral design including: retail floristry, international and national wholesale and retail floral marketing, floral design publishing, event planning and floral design education.
Horticulture Landscape Design
This emphasis is tailored to provide the skills necessary for undergraduate students who wish to receive a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture that is concentrated in the area of landscape design. This expanding field allows students with artistic capabilities to work in the horticulture arena. Landscape designers create aesthetic concepts and practical plans for improved outdoor living. Students electing this emphasis will gain the skills necessary for designing residential and small scale landscapes. Landscape designers are highly sought by garden centers, botanical gardens, arboreta, landscape maintenance and installation firms, nurseries, and governmental agencies. Private consulting is also a possibility. Some jobs will involve consumer relations and retail sales including landscape communication and publishing, landscape marketing and landscape design education.