Horticulture, the cultivation of plants, is
by nature a hands-on science and as such is difficult to learn fully
through online education. The most common degree needed by
horticulturists is a Bachelor of Science, and some of these degree
programs are available through distance learning or in a hybrid format
of online and in-person classes.
Overview of Online Bachelor of Science in Horticulture Programs
Horticulture programs provide education in plant biology and
genetics, plant pathologies, soils, pest management, seed production,
cultivation and plant identification. Distance learning programs may
emphasize ornamental or edible plant horticulture, or include both.
Bachelor's degree programs in horticulture also include business and
marketing courses, as well as studies of the social and environmental
aspects of food production. Previous study or experience with plants are
helpful, along with access to a garden and local nurseries.
As with any baccalaureate degree, core education courses such as
literature, math, writing, chemistry and history are also required.
Students can also explore online undergraduate programs in agriculture,
agronomy, environmental science and natural resources, because these
fields typically include a strong component of horticulture curriculum.
Distance horticulture studies programs are often a mix of online
courses with research labs and internships that must be taken in person.
In-person work may be done at a local university or college; field
studies at a farm or nursery are also possibilities. Distance learning
students also have online access to on-campus libraries and technical
assistance for research.
Online horticulture students must have a computer with Internet
access and e-mail. Online teaching methods can consist of the Web, DVDs,
interactive media and streaming video. Adobe Acrobat Reader may also be
required. At some schools, students may need to purchase special
software, such as Blackboard or Camtasia, as well as textbooks. These
may be available through the school at a discount. The purchase of
mail-order kits for horticulture lab research projects may also be
necessary.
List of Common Online Horticultural Courses
Horticulture offers a wide variety of topics and themes, from urban
forestry to pest control and the economics of food. Students can focus
on a scientific or business perspective. Most core education
requirements can be met online as well.
Organic Gardening and Farming Course
Students learn about the methods and philosophy of producing organic
food. Environmental and biological aspects are examined, along with the
growing emphasis on locally produced food. This course is often a hybrid
of online learning and field work.
Plant Pests Management Course
An important component of online horticultural programs is learning
ways to keep plants safe from insect pests, weeds and plant diseases.
Students learn pest identification, pesticide and herbicide safety, and
alternative methods of management.
Greenhouse Management Course
This distance learning course covers the spectrum of information
needed to create and operate a greenhouse. Internal environment,
construction of greenhouses, growing plants and pest control are
included. Also explored are the marketing and management aspects of a
greenhouse business. This type of class may require previous
environmental or plant experience or education.
Landscape Design Course
A blend of art and science, this online class teaches students to
select and analyze a planting site and create a landscape design.
Selecting the best plants for both suitability and appearance is also
featured. These skills can be applied to personal, commercial or
residential projects.
Nutrition for Plants Course
The physiology of plants and how they absorb nutrients is presented.
Specifics online topics include how to provide different types of plants
with the right minerals in various soil conditions, along with the
diagnosis of nutritional problems.
An online education in horticulture provides an entry to many
careers, such as nursery manager, landscape designer and organic farmer.
The outlook is good for horticulture careers in general, but salaries
vary widely with specific jobs. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics (
www.bls.gov), there were 26,700 landscape designers
working in 2008, and the job outlook is for much faster than average
growth. Although the median wage for landscape designers varies
according to employer, regional of the U.S. where they work and
experience, the BLS records a median annual salary of almost $59,000 for
2008.
Continuing Education
Many options are available for horticulture continuing education,
both for professionals and hobbyists. Online Master of Science and
graduate certificate programs are available for those who wish to learn
specific topics in more depth, such as soil science or arboriculture, or
to study global issues in horticulture. Many individual courses from
bachelor's degree horticulture programs are also widely available for
online continuing education or as part of a distance learning graduate
certificate course.
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