Horticulture Major
Horticulture is the art and science of growing and cultivating plants for the benefit of society—whether it is via vegetable production or creating landscapes to enhance our living spaces and minimize our environmental footprint. Horticulture plays a role in the life of every single person on earth, and the possibilities for study are endless.
The Horticulture Major at Virginia Tech provides students with a foundation in plant biology and physical sciences, and plant identification and cultivation. Students choose from three options that allow them to guide their program of study to their chosen career. For complete programs of study consult the current Checksheets posted by the University Registrar.
Crops Option
Students learn to manage and market both food and nursery crops with a additional focus on sustainable and organic alternatives.
Landscape Contracting Option
Students learn to design, build, and manage beautiful and functional landscapes using science-based practices that improve the living environment and contribute to environmental sustainability.
Science Option
Graduates are ready to find a cutting-edge career improving horticulture crops through micropropagation, biotechnology, and plant-pathogen interactions. The science option is recommended to students who plan to attend graduate school.
Education Option
Students in the Education Option gain a broad horticulture education with an emphasis on education. They are then prepared to continue for a Masters, through the Agricultural Extension and Education Masters. These students are then eligible for teaching certification.