People examine aquatic plants outdoors on a sunny day

Therapeutic Horticulture Summer Intensive

Fast-track your therapeutic horticulture training.

NYBG’s Therapeutic Horticulture Certificate Program emerges from a health and wellness model of human development, combined with research supporting nature as an effective therapeutic medium. Learn to create experiences that utilize plants, gardening, and nature to empower individuals and groups whose lives have been affected by illnesses, injuries, disabilities, and life circumstances in order to achieve improvements in their cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

In just three weeks, complete more than 30% of the coursework required for the Certificate and gain a solid understanding of how to utilize plants, gardening, and nature to empower specific individuals and groups. All courses are offered in a condensed format, making it easier than ever to start the Certificate this season!

Classes:

Introduction to Therapeutic Horticulture
Therapeutic Horticulture for Neurological Conditions
Therapeutic Horticulture for Youth with Disabilities
Indoor Plants for Therapeutic Programs
Outdoor Plants for Therapeutic Programs
Two Site Visits
One Specialty Elective

You can either register for the entire Summer Intensive program as a package of 8 classes or sign up for the classes individually, allowing you to continue your Certificate at your own pace.

Schedule:

Tuesday–Saturday, July 11–29, 2023;
Start and end times vary; at NYBG

Tuition:

$2,335 (Member) / $2,565 (Non-Member)
A $1,075 non-refundable deposit is due at registration.

An optional payment schedule is available if requested. No refunds after Monday, June 26.

LEARN MORE

Questions about the intensive? Email ContinuingEd@nybg.org or call 718.817.8720

Headshot of David Connolly

I began taking classes while in the midst of selling my former business. I only hoped to take a few classes, clear my head and prepare for life’s next chapter. Once begun, I decided to pursue a Certificate in Landscape Design. Soon I was spending my days walking the paths at NYBG. Nights I spent drawing and solving design problems. Now, Certificate in hand, I’ve happily turned a page in my life—with a clear head, some talented new friends, and a growing design consultancy.

David Connolly

2019 Graduate

Liz Crawford headshot



The NYBG Landscape Design Summer Intensive gave me the jump-start I needed to start my ‘encore career.’ I am so grateful for the warm camaraderie of both my fellow classmates and the instructors. I hope to keep these friendships long after I graduate.


Liz Crawford

2018 Summer Intensive Student, Owner of Arcadia Design

Andrea Spunberg's headshot

At NYBG, I discovered more than a challenging curriculum: outstanding instructors, a community of nature enthusiasts, and inspiration through the ever-changing garden grounds. The Landscape Design Program gave me a strong foundation for lifelong learning aligned with my philosophy of a sustainable relationship with nature. As a result, my curiosity and passion for plants, art, and design evolved into an exciting and fulfilling new career as a landscape designer.

Andrea Spunberg

2018 Graduate, Landscape Designer, Leslie Needham Design LLC

Marcia Kirkley headshot



I have rediscovered my love of learning here. NYBG offers an extensive collection of classes taught by exceptional instructors, and the Garden is a national treasure.



Marcia Kirkley

Nonprofit Founder, 2014 Landscape Design & Horticulture Graduate, 2018 Botany Graduate

A headshot of Landscape Design Intensive student Sarah Rabdau.

I came to NYBG as a Summer Intensive Landscape Design student to see if I wanted to pursue a career in the field. From the first day, I knew I’d made the right decision. The teachers—landscape architects, historians, horticulturists—were experienced and encouraging, and the work was challenging. The Intensive confirmed my direction, and I’m currently on track to complete the Certificate program within a year.


Sarah Rabdau

2017 Graduate