Colorado State University

What you'll study

This programme blends core plant science with applied production, pest management and business coursework. Typical subject areas include plant identification and taxonomy, physiology, soils and plant nutrition, integrated pest management, greenhouse and nursery production, landscape systems, plant propagation and post-harvest handling. Business-focused modules cover small business management, marketing for horticulture, accounting fundamentals, supply chain and sales techniques specific to nursery and garden centre operations.

• Foundational sciences: plant biology, ecology, soils and basic chemistry relevant to plant growth.
• Production and practicum: greenhouse management, container and field nursery production, crop scheduling, propagation methods and hands-on laboratory and greenhouse practicum.
• Pest and plant health: integrated pest management, disease diagnostics and control strategies for ornamentals and food crops.
• Landscape and urban horticulture: landscape installation and maintenance, irrigation fundamentals and sustainable landscape practices.
• Business and professional skills: horticultural business planning, marketing, finance basics, project management and internship or capstone experience.
• Experiential learning: field labs, student-run operations, internships with industry partners and opportunities to work with Extension or research projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong preparation in science and mathematics at secondary level — such as biology, chemistry and algebra — is recommended. Admissions consider overall academic record, relevant coursework and extracurricular engagement; practical experience in gardening, nurseries or related work is advantageous. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional exemptions. Prospective transfer students should review credit-transfer policies for horticulture and allied coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across the green industry, public sector and related businesses. Typical career paths include nursery or greenhouse manager, production grower, garden centre manager, landscape contractor or foreman, sales or technical representative for horticultural products, urban forestry technician, public garden or arboretum staff, extension educator and consultant. The business training also enables graduates to start or manage horticultural enterprises, pursue roles in supply chain and wholesale operations, or continue to graduate study in horticulture, plant science or business.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers a strong mix of classroom instruction, applied laboratory work and field experience within a department known for horticultural research and extension. Students benefit from campus greenhouses, controlled-environment facilities and nearby research and extension centres where practical skills and production techniques are taught. Close ties to the region’s nursery, greenhouse and landscape industries provide internship and employment pathways, while Extension outreach projects and student organisations offer opportunities for leadership and community engagement. Faculty research and applied projects mean students can gain experience in current production systems, pest management strategies and sustainable practices relevant to diverse climates and markets.