No other program combines practical experience, coursework, interactive projects, and study abroad opportunities—tuition free.
The Professional Horticulture Program is a two-year, tuition-free program that combines hands-on, immersive learning with classroom experience to train and prepare future horticulturists for successful careers. It is a life-changing, exciting, and inspiring opportunity.
Our two-year Professional Horticulture program (formerly called the Professional Gardener Program) offers hands-on learning alongside our expert staff in one of the great gardens of the world. Whether you are currently working in the field, a recent high school or college graduate, or looking to change careers, our program prepares graduates to enjoy successful careers in public, private, or commercial horticulture, and join a network of Longwood alumni working in leadership positions around the globe.
During the program, students are immersed through six core modules, each with a compelling mix of coursework and masterclasses, hands-on practical experiences, field trips, and certification opportunities.
Core modules include:
- Fundamentals of Horticulture
- Plant Health Care
- Horticultural Crop Production
- Plant Identification and Culture
- Design & Landscape Maintenance
- Professionalism
Integrated in the modules are experiential learning projects; the design and construction of a Student Exhibition Garden; production of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers on the student-run Red Lion Farm for Longwood’s 1906 Restaurant; three specialty plant sales for the public; opportunities for personalized learning; and study abroad.
The program’s academic courses are taught at the collegiate level by Longwood staff and external faculty. Graduates of the program can apply credits to pursue a bachelor’s degree through articulation agreements with Delaware Valley University and Temple University.
In addition to being tuition-free, our Professional Horticulture Program enables students to live rent-free on the Longwood grounds. Other benefits include an hourly wage for program participants, eight paid holidays, twelve days per year of personal time off, and health insurance.
Whether you are currently working in the field, a recent high school or college graduate, or looking to change careers, our program prepares graduates to enjoy successful careers in public, private, or commercial horticulture, and join a network of Longwood alumni working in leadership positions around the globe.
Learn More About the Program
If you’re considering applying to the program, view this recorded webinar to learn more about the program, hear from existing students, and get your questions answered. Applications open February 1 through April 1, 2023. The program begins in August 2023.
