Online Horticulture Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

Numerous schools and colleges offer online programs either entirely or partially online in the field of horticulture. These programs are available at the certificate, bachelor's and master's degree level. Students will want to consider program types and award levels when selecting an online school.

How to Choose an Online Horticulture School or College

Program Types

Students considering online horticulture schools and colleges must determine if the programs are available completely online or in a hybrid format. The hybrid programs, particularly at the undergraduate or graduate level, may require students to come to campus and take examinations or complete work in laboratories. Some hybrid programs allow lab work and internships at a partner school or other facility where the student resides.
Online certificate programs in horticulture can be completed in as little as one semester to one year. Distance learning bachelor's degree programs typically take four years, while online master's degree programs in horticulture can take two years to finish.

Award Levels

When selecting an online or hybrid horticulture program, students must consider the level of training desired. Most employers look for candidates with at least a bachelor's degree, although job seekers who want to be supervisors or managers may need a master's degree. Certificate programs are available for those who want to brush up on their horticulture skills or figure out if horticulture is the right career. Associate's and doctoral degree programs are not typically available online, but students can earn these degrees in a traditional classroom setting.

List of Online Programs Related to Horticulture

Online Certificate of Completion in Horticulture Management

Online certificate programs in horticulture management are most often offered through a college's or university's continuing education division and may have prerequisites. Students learn about caring for a lawn, composting, mulching, managing pests and gardening. Some programs send gardening kits home for students to use for homework assignments, while others allow students to communicate via online discussion forums.

Online Bachelor of Science in Horticulture

A distance learning bachelor's degree in horticulture includes courses in chemistry, biology, economics and plant propagation. Students can complete a majority of the coursework via the Internet, but most programs require students to complete lab work on campus or at a facility where the student lives. The online portion is delivered through streaming video, DVDs and interactive media applications.

Online Master of Science in Horticulture

Online master's degree programs in horticulture can be a good alternative for students who are already employed. Typical online courses include geostatistics, soil fertility, crop production, arboriculture, weed management, perennials and pesticides. Hybrid programs allow students to listen to lectures through interactive television and complete coursework online. These programs usually do not have a thesis requirement. Students may be required to visit the school for an exam before graduation.