ROOTED IN SCIENCE, GROWING SUCCESS.

The Horticultural Science (HRT) program prepares students for careers in the production and management of plants for food, landscaping, and enhancement of the human environment as well as advanced studies in the horticulture and plant science fields.

From the classroom to the greenhouse to the field, you will develop a strong foundation in plant biology, soil science, pest management, weed management, and plant production and propagation systems. Our hands-on undergraduate degree program allows you to develop the employability and technical skills needed to work within your desired field of study. Along the way, you will receive one-on-one career and professional development mentoring.

You can choose from two options: Horticulture Management or Horticulture Science. The Horticulture Management option emphasizes horticultural production and business skills. The Horticulture Science option focuses on coursework in life sciences and emphasizes an undergraduate research experience.

Careers

The Horticultural Science degree will prepare you for production, management or research focused careers in a variety of sectors including private industry, academia, government, and nonprofit, such as:

  • Botanical garden educator
  • Entrepreneur
  • Extension agent
  • Floral designer
  • Fruit and vegetable grower
  • Greenhouse manager
  • Landscape project manager
  • Ornamental horticulturalist
  • Plant breeder
  • Research scientist

Accelerate Your Career Into Graduate School

For highly motivated students, the opportunity exists to integrate up to 12 credit hours of undergraduate and graduate coursework through the Accelerated Master’s Pathways or AMP program. Students will save time and money by receiving dual credit for select courses taken during their senior year of undergraduate studies. Those interested in pursuing this path to a graduate degree should consult with their academic advisor.

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MAKE NATURE YOUR CLASSROOM

Students have an abundance of opportunities for hands- on learning in the HRT program at top facilities such as the 100-acre Horticulture Research Farm, also known as South Farm; The Arboretum State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, a 100-acre public garden located on campus; and in our greenhouses and research laboratories. Whether through active learning in the classroom or independent work with a faculty mentor, our students are able to use these amazing facilities to enhance their education.

Horticultural Science
Campus Ruckus Horticulture Club

GET INVOLVED

Opportunities abound for students in the HRT program. Whether you are interested in undergraduate research, gaining hands- on experience through an internship, or exploring horticulture industries while developing your professional network through the Horticulture Club, the HRT program is sure to have an opportunity that meets your needs.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learning is at the heart of what we do in HRT. Our program provides students with opportunities to practice what they learn in the classroom in real-world settings. Our students develop the essential employability skills needed to meet the demands of the industry.

HRT 100 An Introduction to Horticulture Professions

Students are introduced to the horticultural profession, explore career opportunities, and interact with experts in the profession.

HRT 220 Introduction to Plant Identification

Students learn and practice techniques for identifying plants commonly encountered in daily life.

HRT 395 / 399 Research / Experiential Education in Horticulture

Students independently complete research projects or pre-professional internship experiences.

HRT 500 Series of Classes

Students engage in production-themed classes emphasizing fruit, vegetables, or greenhouse crops.

Living Learning Program

The Living Learning Program (LLP) supports student success by placing students with similar interests into smaller communities in particular residence halls.

Academic Enrichment

Our college believes in learning by doing. Our students are required to complete at least one type of experiential or hands-on learning opportunity, such as undergraduate research, an internship or an education abroad experience.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous alumni, donors and community partners, we have one of the largest scholarship programs at UK. Only one application is required for our college’s scholarships, but there are hundreds of potential awards.

Student Services

We’re here to help you grow personally, academically and professionally.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Academic Advisor II
Andrew Bond

Director of Undergraduate Studies
Rick Durham, PhD

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