About the Horticulture Program
Ornamental Horticulture is a career which involves the production and distribution of ornamental plants that are decorative and usually not used for food. California is the leading horticulture producer in the United States. Not only does California export horticulture products to the rest of the United States, but more importantly Californians use 70% of the plants produced in the state. People in California have developed a horticulture lifestyle and are interested in planting and enjoying the beauty of flowers, trees, and shrubs.
California is currently experiencing a shortage of trained people to work in the horticulture industry. In fact, the shortage is a critical factor in limiting industry expansion and growth. At Mt. SAC you have an opportunity to learn about horticulture and join the trained professionals in this exciting career pathway.
Mission Statement
The Horticulture Team at Mt. San Antonio College is committed to:
- Training that develops employable skills
- Teaching critical thinking skills
- Inspiring, encouraging, and promoting a passion for the world of horticulture
- Celebrating the learning process and success of our students
Horticulture Program Benefits
- Collaboration with nearby industry in Los Angeles County, one of the largest dollar-volume counties utilizing horticultural products in the world, provides opportunity for student field trips and job placement not available elsewhere.
- Practical approaches to horticulture with hands-on industry experience and interaction.
- Classes offered in blocks one day per week so students can work and earn a degree or certificate, and certificate program classes scheduled so students can earn a certificate by taking evening courses.
- Learning to propagate, produce, and market horticultural products through hands-on experience
- Horticulture and Equipment Club activities.
- Work Experience Program (earn units for on-the-job work experience).
- Individualized and personalized instruction with low instructor-to-student ratio.
- Full-time and part-time faculty with more than (60) years of practical industry experience.
- An Advisory Committee composed of many industry leaders in horticultural enterprises.
