Landscape/Horticulture

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Dakota County Technical College (DCTC) turns over a new leaf with its Green Campus Commitment and the opening of the new campus greenhouse on Wednesday, Nov. 14.

• Landscape Horticulture — A.A.S. Degree 72 credits
• Landscape Horticulture — Diploma 65 credits

Major Description

This major provides the knowledge, technical skills and business skills needed for success in the landscape industry. First-year students learn the basic science and technical skills of all the related fieUlds of Landscape Horticulture. Second-year students can specialize in one of three interest areas: Design and Sales, Landscape Construction or Plant Production (nursery and greenhouse). Landscape business management subjects are also included in the second year. Instruction includes both classroom and lab activities. The 200+ acre campus, including greenhouses and a 1-1/2-acre nursery, serves as a resource and lab for many courses.

Nature of Work

Landscape professionals design, install and care for residential, commercial and public landscapes. In addition to working with plants, they design and install landscape features such as decks, retaining walls and patios. The landscape professional may specialize in plant production for nurseries, greenhouses, and garden centers.

Career Opportunities

Graduates enter a range of businesses including interior and exterior landscape or maintenance firms, design firms, nurseries, garden centers, or greenhouses. Some graduates are employed by parks, golf courses, or government agencies. Many graduates operate their own businesses.

Program Delivery

Students can begin this program fall or spring semester. Courses are offered primarily during the day. Full- or part-time starts are available.

After DCTC

DCTC has transfer agreements for this program with the following colleges: Southwest State University, the University of Minnesota-Crookston, Saint Mary's University, University of Minnesota-St. Paul and University of Wisconsin River Falls. See Career Services for more information.

Accreditation

This major is nationally accredited by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), the industry's national trade organization. PLANET defines standards for academic programs and assesses individual programs to assure excellence in meeting the needs of the students, industry and consumer. The Landscape Horticulture Program at DCTC is currently the only PLANET accredited program in the state.

Professional Organizations

Students may participate as student members of both state and national organizations. Many students are active in the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) that offer opportunities for networking with professionals and for education through MNLA workshops. The program also helps students pass the examination to become MNLA Certified Professionals. The MNLA offers two scholarships to DCTC students each year.

As PLANET accredited program, several students annually participate in the national PLANET Student Career Days. PLANET also offers competitive scholarships to DCTC students.

A very active Landscape Horticulture club serves the students by offering various opportunities for educational enrichment. The club, MNLA, and PLANET provide opportunities for professional growth and leadership.

Student Outcomes

1. Graduates of the program will be prepared for employment in the landscape horticulture field.
   
2. Students will have work experience through internships and hands-on projects.
3. Students will develop a high level of professionalism.
4. See General Education section for general education outcomes statement.
   

Faculty

Related Programs:

• General Education