BS in Sustainable Horticulture
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Description
The Sustainable Horticulture Bachelor of Science degree is designed to provide students science-based education which can be applied in a wide variety of careers in landscape plant production and use of plant materials in constructed and natural landscapes.
The curriculum provides fundamental knowledge in plant biology, soil and nutrient management, and the life of potential insect pests and plant diseases harmful to plants as well as beneficial organisms which help support plants. The basic science courses are complemented by a number of applied horticulture courses in both landscape and edible crops to build a valuable skill set for future careers in Sustainable Horticulture. Students will also learn the principles of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the important quality-of-life enhancements provided by landscape plants.
Two “focus areas”, science or business, are available to students based on the future career plans. The science focus prepares students for graduate school or technical careers in the horticultural industries. The business focus is for students who plan on owning a business or who will work for a plant production facility, a landscape operation, or in horticultural product sales. Either focus would be useful to students planning careers in education, outreach, or recreation.