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Why study to be a Assistant Horticulturist at FMCC


This direct to work certificate program combines off-campus “hands-on” experience with on-campus related instruction to prepare you to be an Assistant Horticulturist for garden and greenhouse businesses in the region and beyond. This flexible offering can be modified based upon student background and experience and the semester of entry into the program.

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Career Pathways

Our region boasts a wide variety of career opportunities with competitive salaries. The information presented is based on labor market estimates for Amsterdam, Gloversville, the Capital District, and the Mohawk Valley. Salary information is based on estimates for the Capital District from ZipRecruiter.

Assistant Horticulturist

MEDIAN SALARY

$42,474*

SALARY RANGE $19,500 - $85,500

Horticultural assistants undertake a range of tasks involving the cultivation, growing, harvesting and maintenance of trees, plants and gardens. Horticultural assistants usually work under the supervision of a horticultural tradesperson. They work outside and in greenhouses, often in a team. (careersonline.com.au)

Salary information presented are estimates and can be different for each individual based on education, experience, and the specific employer.
Labor market data is based on 2021 estimates derived from Lightcast (Career Coach | Lightcast)

Some of Our Regional Employers


Our commitment to your career path goes beyond the classroom with continued expansion of hands-on internships, job shadowing, and job placement opportunities with over 50 regional business and organization exclusive partners, a career network of over 200 regional companies and organizations; plus Annual Job Fairs every Spring semester.

29-36 Credits

for Assistant Horticulturist – Individual Studies Certificate

300+ Hours

of Hands-on Learning working at a local garden and greenhouse business.

1 Year or Less

to complete your Assistant Horticulturist – Individual Studies Certificate

Program Insight

Students learn from practicing professionals, who follow the competency guidelines prescribed by the College and based on O*NET online specifications, national competency catalogs, and employer input.

Learning Outcomes


Students will be able to:

  1. Acquire and demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to obtain employment as an Assistant Horticulturists at a local garden or greenhouse business.

  2. Acquire and demonstrate the oral and written communication skills necessary to obtain employment as Assistant Horticulturists at a local garden or greenhouse business.

  3. Acquire and demonstrate the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to obtain entry-level employment as Assistant Horticulturists at a local garden or greenhouse business.

  4. Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of attitude and professional ethics on the job.

  5. Acquire and demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary for the career development process.

Program Features


Hands-on Training
Train at a local garden or greenhouse business and learn from an experienced Horticultural tradesperson approximately 12 hours per week.

On-campus instruction
Courses selected to relate with your specific career area and generally totals 6-9 credit hours per semester.

Individual Studies Advisor
Students will be assigned an academic advisor to guide you through your program.

Flexible Offering
The program can be modified based upon student background and experience and the semester of entry into the program.

Special Admission Requirements

Program placement is competitive and determined by the student’s personal interview with the Individual Studies Advisor and the Director of External Partnerships and Applied Learning, as well as site availability.

Internship Opportunities

Although similar to cooperative education and internship programs, the Individual Studies Certificate program requires that students learn basic career skills at job sites without pay.