Program Requirements
Typical Program
Degree/Certificate: Associate in Applied Science
HEGIS Code: 5402
SUNY Code: 0610
Major Code: HRT
The Career
Are you the kind of person who enjoys the outdoors? Are you environmentally conscious? Do you take pride in growing plants and caring for the landscape around your home? Are you interested in growing your own food or working in a greenhouse? Do the opportunities available in the Cannabis industry interest you? Have you always wanted to design outdoor spaces or create the floral arrangements for large events? If so, you may want to pursue a career in horticulture.
Horticulturists need to understand how plants grow; and how to identify, propagate, install and maintain different types of plants including trees, shrubs, vines, herbaceous perennials, bedding plants and floral crops. They also focus on environmental concerns and pest problems associated with plants and the landscape. The NCCC Horticulture program is geared to help both the novice and the more experienced “plant person” gain the education and training necessary to obtain employment or advance their careers in the industry. Graduates of the program are prepared for careers as landscape designers, landscape installation crew leaders, diagnosticians, floral designers, nursery salespeople, garden center managers, greenhouse production assistants, turf managers, grounds people, cannabis growers, bud tenders and more. The field of horticulture is rapidly expanding and offers numerous career opportunities both locally and nationally. Graduates may also choose to continue their education at a four-year college.
The NCCC Approach
The mission of the Niagara County Community College Horticulture program is to prepare students for employment in the green industry by engaging them in the art and science of plants. With an emphasis on sustainable horticultural techniques, the latest scientific research and best management practices, the NCCC Horticulture program provides students with the knowledge, skills and field experience necessary to excel in their careers and build a greener community. Coursework is based on real-world projects similar to those professionals encounter in the industry. With both theory and practical hands-on experience, students are introduced to the techniques and processes of the industry using various formats, professional tools and equipment. Field trips, externships and collaborative activities with trade associations provide students with educational and networking opportunities with the owners, managers and employees of local industry leaders. Graduates are also fully prepared for and eligible to take the New York State Certified Nursery and Landscape Professional exam and the NYS Pesticide Applicator’s exam. Graduates may be prepared for other types of professional certification exams depending upon course selection.
Admission
Students are admitted in fall, spring and summer.
The Horticulture, AAS, is offered as a full-time or part-time program. Because of the sequencing of courses, it may take more than two academic years of full-time study if a student begins this program in a spring or summer semester.
Program Goals and Objectives
- To provide students with an education in the principles of horticulture that will prepare them for employment in the industry
- To ensure students fulfill at least four General Education categories
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Describe the principles of plant taxonomy, anatomy, morphology and physiology and the influence of environment on plant function and development
- Analyze soil properties and use sustainable practices to optimize plant growth
- Identify, use and care for woody and herbaceous plants in the landscape and greenhouse, emphasizing ecological relationships and the importance of site analysis, plant selection and proper planting and maintenance practices
- Identify and manage common biotic and abiotic pests and disorders in an environmentally safe and sustainable manner
- Describe the variety of careers available in the horticulture industry including the landscape, greenhouse, nursery, turf management areas as well as emerging career trends
