University of California Davis

Overview

The Environmental Horticulture and Urban Forestry program at the University of California Davis equips students with the skills necessary to manage vegetation in urban and natural settings through sustainable, science-based practices. This comprehensive course focuses on nurturing healthy green infrastructure, addressing aspects from soil health to urban canopy planning.

What you'll study

This bachelor’s degree program encompasses a blend of applied plant science and management training. Students engage in a variety of core courses and electives that align with their interests, covering essential areas in plant science and sustainable landscape management.

Core course areas

• Arthropod Pest Management
• General Plant Nematology
• Plant Pathology
• Concepts in Pest Management
• Weed Science

Additional learning components

• Fundamentals of urban forestry and arboriculture, including tree health and maintenance
• Soil science focused on plant growth and site management
• Management of landscapes and green infrastructure with an emphasis on sustainability
• Topics in environmental sustainability, including biodiversity and climate resilience

Practical learning: Students will participate in lab and field-based activities to apply their knowledge, such as plant health observation and pest management planning.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: Applicants should be on track to complete a high school diploma or its equivalent and meet the general UC freshman admission criteria.
• Selection process: Applications are evaluated as part of UC Davis’s freshman application review.
• Standardized tests: Applicants must submit either the ACT with Writing or the SAT with Essay as part of their application.
• English proficiency: Demonstrated through one of the following:
  • Duolingo English Test: minimum score of 115
  • TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 80
• International applicants: Must fulfill the same admission requirements and are part of the same selection process as domestic students.

Note: Admission requirements and documentation may vary by applicant type. Be sure to consult the UC Davis application portal for the latest information.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Environmental Horticulture and Urban Forestry program can pursue various career paths in urban forestry, landscape management, environmental consultancy, and horticultural science. This degree prepares students to contribute to sustainable practices in urban and rural landscapes, promoting ecological balance and community well-being.