Ornamental Plant Cultivation

Program Objective

The Associate Degree Program in Ornamental Plant Cultivation aims to provide students with comprehensive training in the proper cultivation and maintenance of ornamental plants. The program’s primary goal is to offer students practical knowledge and hands-on experience in ornamental horticulture. Students will gain theoretical understanding in subjects such as plant anatomy, physiology, plant species, soil science, irrigation techniques, and pest and disease control. Additionally, through practical coursework and field studies, students will reinforce their learning by acquiring diverse real-world experiences.

Vision

The Ornamental Plant Cultivation Program is committed to delivering a comprehensive education in plant cultivation and aims to graduate competent and successful individuals for the industry. The program envisions producing well-equipped graduates who contribute to the ornamental plant sector through both academic knowledge and practical expertise.

Mission

The mission of the Ornamental Plant Cultivation Program is to educate qualified individuals in the field by equipping students with the skills necessary for plant identification, cultivation, and sector-specific practices. Our mission emphasizes not only the acquisition of theoretical knowledge but also the development of practical skills through applied courses. The program seeks to enhance students’ understanding of plant science, environmental awareness, and ecological sensitivity, and to cultivate expertise in the cultivation, care, and marketing of various ornamental plants including outdoor, indoor, and cut flowers. Furthermore, the program aims to foster environmentally and economically conscious individuals who are aware of current industry developments and who promote sustainable practices.

Program Description

The Ornamental Plant Cultivation Program is a two-year associate degree program offered under the School of Vocational Studies. Over four semesters, the curriculum provides students with a strong foundation in plant identification, botany, plant physiology, plant pests and diseases, irrigation techniques, seasonal and cut flower production, indoor and outdoor plant cultivation, agricultural tools, soil science, and plant nutrition and fertilization. In addition, the program offers hands-on training in areas such as plant design, open-field applications, tissue culture labs, and greenhouse cultivation to develop practical competencies.

The program also aims to raise awareness of sustainable agricultural practices and offers opportunities for students to stay up-to-date with industry developments. Moreover, it equips students with knowledge in business management, marketing strategies, and commercial ornamental plant production to prepare them for successful careers in the sector.

Admission Requirements

Students who are citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and have completed their high school education in the TRNC may apply by participating in the university’s annual scholarship examination or by registering during the official enrollment periods announced each year.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate from the Ornamental Plant Cultivation Associate Degree Program, students must complete a 90-credit (132 ECTS) curriculum over two academic years and obtain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 on a 4.00 scale.

Employment Opportunities

Graduates of the Associate Degree Program in Ornamental Plant Cultivation at Cyprus American University, School of Vocational Studies, receive the title of “Technician” and may find employment in various public institutions involved in landscaping, in municipal services, or with private firms engaged in landscape design and implementation. Additionally, they may work in greenhouses and nurseries involved in the production and marketing of ornamental plants.