Are you interested in a hands-on major that focuses on studying plants that have direct impact on consumers, such as ornamentals, fruits, and vegetables? Are you interested in helping the environment and learning about ways that plants can improve human well-being? If so, then consider majoring in Horticulture in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences!
What is Horticulture?
Horticulture is the science and art of growing fruits, vegetables, flowers, or ornamental plants. At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, undergraduate horticulture majors gain specialized training in greenhouse/field management and the production and use of fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbaceous/woody ornamentals through the Bachelor of Science degree program.
Why study Horticulture at UW-Madison?
- Nationally prominent faculty with proven record of mentoring students
- Opportunities to get involved with research or work in faculty labs early in your undergraduate career
- Active student group – The UW Madison Horticulture Society
- Study Abroad Opportunities – a course on Tropical Horticulture in Costa Rica, a course on Organic Agriculture in Costa Rica, a semester abroad in Wageningen, and much more via CALS or UW-Madison International Academic Programs
Major Requirements
- Biology (151 and 152, or Botany 130+Zoology 101/102, or Biocore)
- Chemistry (103/104 or 109)
- Math (112 and 113, or 114, or 171)
- 3 credits required from Math 211, 217, 221, Stat 301, 371, Comp Sci 300
- Foundation Courses in Entomology, Genetics, Soil Science, Botany, and Plant Pathology
- Core Courses in Horticulture
- 5 credits of electives
- Capstone
Career Opportunities
Majoring in Horticulture serves as excellent preparation for careers in: food/vegetable production, urban agriculture, gardening, landscaping, community supported agriculture (CSA), extension and community based educational work, horticulture education, research, greenhouse production, horticultural therapy, etc. For sample career profiles, please check out our careers page.