Training for Professional Certification
A number of Professional Certifications are available as students pursue various horticultural educational opportunities. This may be the only reason for taking classes, or it may be an excellent bonus while earning a degree. Some courses provide certification as part of completed course work, while other courses help students prepare for industry-administered exams.
The following is a listing of the different certifications and the courses that qualify for certification, or help prepare for the certification test.
Utah Nursery and Landscape Association (UNLA) Certified Nursery Professional This certification is a strong indication of a student's commitment to success in most areas of retail horticulture. It increases job opportunities and is sought after by many employers. Utah State University offers four classes, which if completed with a grade of A- or better, qualifies a student for UNLA certification without further testing. Those courses are: Residential Landscape Design (PLSC 3300), Woody Plant Materials: Trees and Shrubs for the Landscape (PLSC 2620), Pest Management- Principles and Practices (PLSC 2200) Introduction to Horticulture (PLSC 2100) OR Structure and Function of Plants (PLSC 3500)
State of Utah Commercial Pesticide Applicators License This license is required by anyone working for a company that handles or applies pesticides commercially. In addition most companies that use chemicals within their own business must have a licensed applicator working for them. The Commercial Pesticide Applicator's License will increase your employment opportunities. This license can be received by taking PLSC 2200, Pest Management Principles and Practices, through Utah State University. The final exam for this course is the state-administered Commercial Applicator's Exam. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist This certification is important for anyone interested in the tree care industry. It is an excellent enhancement to any horticultural student's resume. The exam for this certification is offered through the ISA, but is administered locally through the Utah Community Forest Council. Students help prepare themselves for this exam by taking Sustainable Landscapes (PLSC 3400. The Community Forest Council also teaches a preparatory class for the exam. For information regarding the ISA Certified Arborist Exam, contact Ruth Pickett at Utah Community Forest Council at 801-292-3417. The Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA) Certified Interior Landscape Technician This is a unique certification for those interested in a career in interior plantscaping and maintenance. The exam for this certification is administered by ALCA regionally. Students may prepare for this exam by taking PLSC 2610, Indoor Plants & Interiorscaping.
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