FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours of studying can I anticipate?
For every hour of class time, students can expect from two to three hours of studying and homework time. On horticulture rotation days, students start their day at 8 a.m. and finish at 4 p.m. On a class day, students may start classes at 10 a.m. and finish at 6 p.m. Students can also expect to have classes at least one night during the week throughout the year.

I want to be a horticulturist, so I don't need to touch computers, right?
Wrong. The modern-day demands of horticulture require individuals to be skilled in record-keeping, Web searches, and basic word processing. Students are required to submit typed homework assignments. Six computers are available in the Student Room.

How is the two-year program divided?
The two-year program is divided into nine terms. Academic classes are concentrated in the fall and winter months, and include some evening and one or two weekend sessions.

I’m very interested in organic gardening and sustainable practices. What could I expect to learn at the School?
The Garden practices and upholds an integrated pest management approach throughout its 250 acres. Students learn how to minimize the impact on the environment through the use of native plants and sustainable practices.

How do I register for courses?
New course listings are published in February and August. You are pre-registered for all required courses. You may choose to change sections. The Director must approve your request prior to registration.

What if I have fewer hours of experience by application deadline, should I still apply?
Yes, contact the Director to assess your situation.

Will you accept volunteer hours as part of the 1,800 hours of work experience required?
The School does accept volunteer hours. Please contact the Director well ahead of the deadline to discuss your specific case.

Is it possible to work part-time while I am a student in the School?
Due to the intense schedule of academic courses and horticulture rotations, in addition to various lectures, field trips, plant ID walks, and study time, it’s very difficult to hold a part-time job and stay in good academic standing for the two-year program.

What kind of job can I expect to find upon graduation?
Graduates from the School find exciting and rewarding positions as estate managers, gardeners in public parks and botanical gardens, horticulturists with landscape design companies, or start their own businesses. To see what some School alumni are doing, visit nybg.org/edu/ soph/alumni.php

Why are some courses taught in the evenings?
Many of our courses are taught by our expert Horticulture staff. Due to their demanding schedules, they are only able to teach after 4 p.m.

Am I too old/young for the program?
Graduates of the School over the past decade have ranged in age from their early 20s to mid-50s.