Landscape/Horticulture Technology: Plant Production Emphasis
The Plant Production Emphasis curriculum involves the greenhouse, nursery, and field production of horticulture plants from the initial propagation, by seed or assorted plant parts, to the finished landscape or retail product. Sustainability from an environmental and economic perspective is highlighted. Classroom and laboratory instruction include plant structure, physiology and growth, plant growing structures and environments, production tools, equipment and materials, and techniques of production. Depending on the electives chosen, students prepare for careers in all phases of the plant production industry, including woody landscape plants and herbaceous plants used in the landscape, greenhouse, floriculture, and vegetable trade. In addition to vast career opportunities, graduates may transfer into advanced-degree programs at other colleges and universities.
Graduates of this program will have the skillset required to sit for the PA Certified Horticulturist (PCH) exam and the PA Pesticide Certification exam.
Graduates have a diverse set of skills and abilities that could prepare them for "green" careers focused on energy, renewable energy, and the environment.
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: LP – view in catalog
- School: Natural Resources Management
- Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
About the curriculum
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog.
Accreditation & Industry Connections
The Landscape/Horticulture Technology - Landscape Emphasis is the first horticulture degree in the state of Pennsylvania to be recognized and accredited by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET).
PLANET recognizes schools that have landscape-contracting curricula that meet or exceed industry standards. The prestigious accreditation offers scholarships to students, continuing-education opportunities for faculty development, and a wealth of online and printed resource materials.
The PLANET evaluation team praised the faculty for an excellent program and the College for its commitment to the future.
"We are pleased that PLANET has recognized the quality of our Landscape/Horticulture Technology curriculum, faculty and facilities," said Dr. Mary A. Sullivan, dean of the School of Natural Resources Management. "The accreditation has created additional educational opportunities for students and faculty, which will result in overall program enhancement."
After graduation
List of jobs via the College Catalog.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics industries with the highest published employment and wages for first-line supervisors of landscaping, lawn service, and groundskeeping workers are:
| Industry | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Services to Buildings and Dwellings | 53,730 | $20.71 | $43,080 |
| Local Government (OES Designation) | 11,570 | $24.28 | $50,510 |
| Other Amusement and Recreation Industries | 11,410 | $23.30 | $48,460 |
| Elementary and Secondary Schools | 2,790 | $22.43 | $46,650 |
| Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools | 2,460 | $22.59 | $46,980 |
*Statistics reported in May 2010
Tools, Uniforms & Supplies
Tools
Tools should not be purchased until you have consulted with your faculty adviser or have attended HRT101 the first week of classes.
Uniform (required for all labs)
- Hardhat
- Safety glasses
- Hearing protection (ear plugs)
- Work gloves
- Thick sole leather steel-toe safety boots for work labs
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Clubs & Activities
Horticulture Club
The purpose of the Horticulture Club is to promote and advance the field of horticulture through its members by giving back to the school and community. A practical experience in the field and exposure to the industry through out of the classroom experiences and sharing of knowledge between members is what the Horticulture Club is all about.
Regular Horticulture Club activities include community and college service projects, fund-raising projects, interscholastic competitions, and social club gatherings.
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Landscape/Horticulture Technology Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
