Overview

If you are interested in greenhouse management or growing bedding plants, potted plants, perennial flowers, woody plant production or nursery and garden center management then the UMass Horticultural Sciences program at the Stockbridge School is the place to be. Our students design their own focus of study by electing courses in a range of horticulture topics.  The "Green Industry" is the largest segment of plant agriculture, by economic measures, in Massachusetts and New England. Abundant career opportunities exist in the field and in related industries and services.  We offer two degrees:

Associate of Science Degree  (2-year)

Bachelor of Science Degree (4-year)

 

The next generation of students graduating from Land Grant universities will be faced with the challenge to redesign sustainable landscapes in response to diminishing supplies of fossil fuels and water as well as greater financial stress in public and private enterprises.

UMass Horticultural Sciences undergraduate program

What You'll Learn

The UMass Horticultural Sciences curriculum provides fundamental knowledge in basic science, plant biology, sustainable management, and applied horticulture courses.  Students hone their skills in the following areas:

  • Horticulture science and techniques
  • Greenhouse cultivation and landscape horticulture
  • Production of herbaceous ornamentals, nursery crops, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Horticulture business management
  • Plant physiology, plant pathology, postharvest biology, and tissue culture
  • Soil science and management

Careers

Horticulture is the science and art of growing flowers, ornamental plants, fruits, and vegetables. If you like the idea of combining art and science, enjoy working with plants and people, or wish to beautify the environment, then a career in horticulture would be very satisfying to you.
  • Plant Grower, breeder, or propagator in greenhouse operations and landscape nurseries
  • Owner or manager of Horticultural Business
  • Landscape Operation
  • Horticultural Product Sales & Marketing
  • Technician for plant production facility
  • Researcher, Educator, or Professor of Horticultral Sciences
  • Extension Specialist
  • Greenhouse Operator

Students & Alumni