Bachelor of Science - Horticulture

Horticulture is the application of scientific principles in the growing, marketing, processing, and utilizing of fruits, vegetables, flower and foliage plants, trees, shrubs, and turf grasses. The major requires a strong grounding in botany, chemistry, and horticulture. There are four concentrations in the Horticulture major: Floriculture, Horticultural Business Management, Horticultural Food Crops, and Horticultural Science.

Potential Occupations:

Horticulture is both a production and service industry. Well-educated horticulturists have the best opportunity for obtaining positions and moving up in the industry. The industry will be looking for professionals who can manage greenhouses, nurseries, and floral outlets, buy and sell supplies, plant material, and equipment, or edit journals and newsletters. Meeting the nutritional needs of the world population is an important challenge. Researchers are needed to develop improved fruit and vegetable varieties. Other professionals are needed to improve production and transportation methods and to develop and market better fertilizers. Within this field, students can exercise their talents and interests in computers, construction, engineering, chemistry, physics, social services, or business management. Participation in internships and cooperative education opportunities is highly recommended to enhance practical training and development. Graduates who go on for advanced studies can attain more responsible positions with the possibility of rising to top professional levels.

Some examples include: biotechnologist, extension specialist, floriculturist, fruit and vegetable grower, grape producer, greenhouse supplies/seed and plant material sales representative, greenhouse production manager, interior plant maintenance technician, marketing representative, plant breeder, produce buyer.