The premier program of its kind, our Professional Horticulture Program combines hands-on, immersive learning with classroom experience and mentorship to train and prepare future horticulturists for successful careers.
Application Requirements
To apply for the Professional Horticulture Program, the following requirements must be met:
- A high school diploma or equivalency diploma
- Be at least 18 years of age at the time the program begins
- Possess a valid driver’s license that has not been suspended in the past two years
- Have demonstrated one year of hands-on experience in the field of horticulture prior to the program beginning. This experience may be volunteer or paid (part-time or full-time) experience.
- Hands-on experience is defined as the action(s) of planting, maintaining, recording, and/or removing live plants. Working in one’s own garden does not qualify.
- The ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, working from ladders and aerial lifts up to 30 feet, stooping, lifting at least 50 pounds, and operating small equipment
- Must complete the application in our online system, submit all requirement documents, and be able to interview (by Zoom and in-person)
The selection process includes three progressive steps – application review, an initial Zoom interview with Student Programs staff, then an in-person interview and visit at Longwood Gardens (travel and accommodations are paid for and arranged by Longwood Gardens). If selected for an interview, applicants should be prepared to discuss their horticulture experience, their career aspirations, what they can contribute to Longwood Gardens, and how the Professional Horticulture program can help them to achieve their goals.
The application includes the following:
- Résumé: Submit a summary of your work and educational experiences.
- Official Transcript(s): If you have been awarded an undergraduate or graduate degree, request an official college/university transcript from the degree-granting institution. Otherwise, request an official transcript from the respective institutions for all high school, college, and/or university courses. Transcripts should be mailed to you, then uploaded as a PDF into our system.
- Work and Academic References: Please provide two professional references including name, title, place of employment, address of employment, phone number, and email address. One of these references should be able to speak to your hands-on experience in horticulture.
- Essay: Submit an essay (fewer than 500 words) answering both questions:
- What has inspired you to pursue a career in horticulture?
- How will the Professional Horticulture program help you achieve your personal and professional goals?
Longwood Gardens is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.