Horticulture - degrees and certificates

A horticulturist develops sensitivity and awareness of the environment. There are almost limitless career options within the field, including the operation of one's own business and opportunities in horticultural research. With the growing interest in protecting and enhancing the environment there is an increased demand for park and recreation green belts. Employment opportunities for horticulturists with expertise in all specialties are continuing to expand in both the private and public sectors.

What will I learn through the horticulture certificate program?
This broad program prepares students for employment in plant production, pest management and retail nurseries. It will assist students preparing to take the California Association of Nurseryperson's exam and the arboriculture certification exam.

What can I do with a horticulture certificate?
The horticulture program prepares students for numerous state licenses and industry certificates. State licenses include landscape contractor and pest control operator. Industry certifications include: nursery person, arborist, landscape technician, maintenance technician, irrigation designer.

Career choices in horticulture includes:

  • nursery technician
  • propagator
  • plant breeder
  • nursery manager
  • greenhouse grower
  • greenhouse manager
  • garden center manager
  • arborist/tree worker
  • landscape architect
  • landscape designer
  • grounds manager/municipal
  • landscape contractor
  • landscape maintenance contractor
  • golf course manager
  • pest controller/advisor


Salaries vary from one area of interest to another, but are generally attractive for the well-trained individual in the industry. Many students go on to own and operate their own successful businesses.

Many course credits are transferable to a four-year college or university offering an advanced degree in horticulture.

How long will it take to earn a certificate?
Generally, students take at least two years to complete a certificate program. The number of required units varies with each certificate.

Back to top