Bachelor of Science in Horticulture

Horticulture is the science and art concerned with the culture, production, marketing, and utilization of high–value intensively cultivated plants. Horticultural crops are diverse, including annual and perennial species, food and ornamental plants, and plants grown outdoors and in controlled environments. Horticultural foods and food products, flowers, and landscapes sustain and enrich our lives. The primary horticulture discipline areas include floriculture, landscape horticulture, oleri-culture (vegetables), and pomology (fruits). Graduates with a major in horticulture may enter a broad range of challenging and rewarding professional careers in production, management, marketing, education, consulting and service industries, or research. In addition, graduates frequently become entrepreneurs or obtain employment in horticultural business enterprises (e.g., commercial production operations, landscape design/build and maintenance companies, nurseries, retail flower shops, or fruit and vegetable markets). Graduates may also pursue careers in nontraditional areas that require knowledge of horticulture such as secondary education, the publication industry, or international development. The study of horticulture is highly integrative combining scientific and technical knowledge, and problem–solving skills for application in various professions related to horticulture. Students in horticulture combine diverse fundamental disciplines in physical science (chemistry), biological sciences (botany, genetics, plant physiology, entomology, and plant pathology), and environmental science (soil science), with horticultural crop production, and business (economics, management, and marketing). Communication and computer skills are also cultivated within the horticulture curriculum. Students complete one of three concentrations: Horticultural Science, Sustainable and Organic Horticulture, or Horticulture Landscape Design, Construction, and Management. In all concentrations, students obtain hands–on experiences through laboratory exercises in the greenhouses, in the horticulture gardens, or at the farms. Field trips expose students to successful horticultural businesses, industries, and support services within Michigan. Students may gain professional work experience through internships, independent study, and part–time employment in research and extension programs within the Department of Horticulture. Students who are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree program with a major in horticulture may elect a Specialization in Agricultural and Natural Resources Biotechnology. The University requirements for bachelor's degrees as described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture.