Applied Horticulture and Business Services: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Applied Horticulture and Business Services integrates practical plant science with operational management to prepare students for dynamic careers in landscape maintenance, nursery operations, and green space management. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes real-world application, equipping learners with technical expertise and business acumen to thrive in sustainable horticultural enterprises.
- Integrated Plant Systems Management: Learn to cultivate, maintain, and optimize diverse plant species across urban, suburban, and commercial landscapes using science-based techniques.
- Landscape Design and Implementation: Develop skills in translating design concepts into functional, aesthetically pleasing outdoor environments using sustainable practices and modern tools.
- Green Infrastructure and Urban Forestry: Explore the role of vegetation in improving environmental quality, managing stormwater, and enhancing urban resilience through strategic planting and maintenance.
- Business Operations in Horticulture: Gain foundational knowledge in budgeting, staffing, client relations, and enterprise planning tailored to horticultural service providers.
- Equipment and Technology Use: Become proficient in operating and maintaining modern tools and machinery, including precision irrigation systems and data-driven monitoring technologies.
- Sustainable Practices and Environmental Stewardship: Apply eco-conscious methods in pest management, soil health, water conservation, and waste reduction to support long-term ecological balance.
Applied Horticulture and Business Services Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Applied Horticulture and Business Services Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Applied Horticulture and Business Services degrees, including . These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements.
Career salary data is not available for this program.
Top Universities for Applied Horticulture and Business Services by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 11 institutions offering Applied Horticulture and Business Services programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Applied Horticulture and Business Services is found at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale (18 graduates), Kirkwood Community College (14 graduates), Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) (12 graduates), University of Rhode Island (URI) (10 graduates), and Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) (9 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 84 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Illinois University |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Bachelor's
|
18 | Carbondale, Illinois | Public | siu.edu |
| Kirkwood Community College |
Associate's
|
14 | Cedar Rapids, Iowa | Public | kirkwood.edu |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) |
Other Award
|
12 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Public | matc.edu |
| University of Rhode Island (URI) |
Bachelor's
|
10 | Kingston, Rhode Island | Public | web.uri.edu |
| Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) |
Associate's
|
9 | Ankeny, Iowa | Public | dmacc.edu |
| Berkshire Community College (BCC) |
Other Award
|
5 | Pittsfield, Massachusetts | Public | berkshirecc.edu |
| University of Delaware (UD) |
Bachelor's
|
4 | Newark, Delaware | Public | udel.edu |
| Northeast Community College |
Associate's
|
4 | Norfolk, Nebraska | Public | northeast.edu |
| Vermont State University (VTSU) |
Associate's
|
3 | Randolph, Vermont | Public | vermontstate.edu |
| Mid-State Technical College (Mid-State) |
Other Award
|
3 | Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin | Public | mstc.edu |
| Connecticut State Community College (CT State) |
Other Award
|
2 | Hartford, Connecticut | Public | ctstate.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Applied Horticulture and Business Services programs
Which universities have the largest Applied Horticulture and Business Services programs?
Currently 11 accredited institutions offer Applied Horticulture and Business Services degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Southern Illinois University, Carbondale (18 graduates), Kirkwood Community College (14 graduates), and Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) (12 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Applied Horticulture and Business Services growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 153 in 2010 to 84 in 2023-24. This represents a 45% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
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