Landscape Horticulture |
Landscape Horticulture…naturally enhancing your environment Landscape Horticulture involves both the growing of trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers and herbaceous perennials and their uses in designed, aesthetic environments. They add functionality by moderating temperature, abating noise, reducing glare and increasing privacy and security. The Landscape Horticulture industry is a multi-billion dollar business in Ohio alone, employing more than 96,000 workers. Career Opportunities range from production to design, from management to marketing and from research to teaching. Since gardening is the number one outdoor leisure activity involving some 75 million American households, it makes for a very large customer base! Ornamental plants are in demand for landscaping private residences, commercial parks, botanical gardens, highways and other areas. Although closely associated with the art of gardening, Landscape Horticulture also involves the science of plants. Landscape Horticulture students learn plants’ optimal growing conditions; how plants grow, develop, reproduce, and adapt to different environments; plants’ relationships with other organisms; the business of managing people, plants and construction materials, such as brick, wood, stone, and concrete; how to relate to customers; and the artistry and creativity of landscape design and manipulation. At least one internship is required for graduation. Salary Trends The average annual salary for entry-level positions in Crop Science, Landscape Horticulture and Turfgrass Science is $34,000. Salaries will vary depending on location, the candidates skill, and previous job-related experience. High School Preparation Students interested in these majors should develop a high-school program emphasizing the sciences. Advanced placement courses in math and science are highly recommended. All freshman applicants are considered within a competitive admission process. The primary criteria for admission are the completion of the applicants high school college preparation program, performance in that program as indicated by class rank and/or grade-point average, and performance on either the ACT or SAT. Students with good academic backgrounds may receive credit for some courses by examination after enrolling at Ohio State. General Education Curriculum Requirements During the first year at Ohio State, students begin taking courses to satisfy the General Education Curriculum (GEC) requirements. The GEC assures that each student becomes acquainted with the basic areas of academic study. To satisfy the GEC requirements, credit hours must be completed from the following eight areas:
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