Professional Horticulture Program FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between the Professional Gardener Program and the Professional Horticulture Program?

  
  

  Our Professional Gardener program transitioned to the Professional Horticulture Program in 2019. The reinvigorated Professional Horticulture Program continues the compelling mix of coursework and practical experience for aspiring horticulture professionals, but now also offers new experiences and topics of study that better align with our dynamic industry. 

  
  

• Why did the name of the program change? 

  
  

  The new name reflects the curriculum content delivered and the diversity of careers our graduates pursue, while also aligning with Longwood’s institutional terminology for professional staff. 

  
  

• Did the purpose of the program change when the name changed? 

  
  

  The pillars of our program have not changed: We maintain academic rigor and have articulation agreements with Delaware Valley University and Temple University, we support immersive learning and hands-on application in our gardens; and we continue to be a tuition-free experience. 

  
  

• How would you describe the program to a candidate?

  
  

  The Professional Horticulture Program is a two-year program that combines hands-on, immersive learning with classroom experience to train and prepare future horticulturists for successful careers. It is life-changing, exciting, inspiring, and fun. 

  
  

• What is the format and structure of the program? 

  
  

  The curriculum is delivered in six core modules that combine working in the Gardens with Longwood staff, coursework, masterclasses, practical learning projects, and personalized immersive learning. 

  
  

• What are the benefits of the program for students?

  
  

  The program remains tuition free, and comes with a taxable biweekly stipend of $1,280.00 for the duration of the program, based on a 40-hour work week. Free, furnished housing and health insurance are additional benefits.

  
  

• When does a new Professional Horticulture cohort begin?

  
  

  We recruit for the two-year program during the spring season and the new class begins in August of each year. 

  
  

• Are these college-level courses?

  
  

  The program’s academic courses are taught at the collegiate level by Longwood staff and external faculty. 

  
  

• Can graduates apply credits from the program towards a degree? 

  
  

  Yes. We work with our university partners, Delaware Valley University and Temple University, to ensure that our program will continue to articulate toward a bachelor’s degree. 

  
  

• Do students work in the gardens?

  
  

  Absolutely! Students work in the gardens weekly with a focus on Longwood’s core areas of the Gardens: Greenhouse Production, Outdoor Landscapes, Conservatory Display, Woody Nursery Production, Conservation Horticulture, Integrated Pest Management, and Land Stewardship & Ecology. 

  
  

• What is the schedule like for students in the Professional Horticulture Program? 

  
  

  The Professional Horticulture Program is a two-year program where students have varying class and work schedules year-round. Students spend two or three days per week in classes and the other three or two days of the week working with Longwood professionals.  Weekend watering is required as assigned.

  
  

• Are pets allowed in Longwood student housing?

  
  

  Pets are not allowed in Longwood student housing with the exception of Emotional Support Animals that have been approved for Longwood student housing.  Emotional Support Animals must be approved by the Director of Domestic & International Studies prior to arrival at Longwood student housing.