15-Credit Certificate Program
The arboriculture program offers a new 15-credit certificate, delivered fully online, through University+.
Add arboriculture to your degree plan
The online certificate in Arboriculture and Urban Forestry is a gateway for students eager for an introduction to the arboriculture and urban forestry fields. The certificate can be added to any UMass degree, and has a flexible course sequence, allowing students to begin in any fall, spring, or summer semester.
Keep growing as a career professional
The certificate program also provides continuing education for career professionals. To accommodate varied work schedules, the course sequence is flexible, allowing students to begin in any fall, spring, or summer semester. ISA Certified Arborists are eligible to earn Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) in several of the courses offered in the certificate program.
Get a head start on your AS or BS degree
The certificate can be earned by both current UMass students and non-matriculating University+ students, and all credits earned for the certificate can be applied either to the Associate of Science degree in Arboriculture and Community Forest Management at Stockbridge School of Agriculture, or to the Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Conservation in the Department of Environmental Conservation. Certified arborists can earn both academic credits and continnuing education Unites (CEUs).
Fall course offerings
NRC 232 Principles of Arboriculture 3cr; plus 36 CEUs for certified arborists
SUSTCOMM 335 Plants in Landscape 4cr
STOCKSCH 106 Soil Science and Management 3cr (also available in summer)
Spring course offerings
NRC 310 Community Forestry 3cr; plus 36 CEUs for certified arborists
NRC 235 Sensible Pruning for Beginners and Experts 2cr; plus 24 CEUs for certified arborists
Tuition and fees
The five designated courses can be completed at your own pace, and in any order. Prices are set by University+ and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on tuition and fees, see University+.
Enrollment in online courses
Enroll for our online courses directly through University+.
Earning the certificate
Students do not need to formally apply to the certificate program. Once they have completed all five of the required courses, students simply complete and submit a Declaration of Certificate form to the certificate coordinator in the ECO department, who will certify completion of the certificate. Please note that completion of the certificate or courses does not guarantee admission to the university or into any specific program. Students must apply for admission to either of the degree programs using the common application.