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Get the Skills to Become a

Plant Science Professional

Student examines plants under grow lights in a plant science lab.

7-Month* Plant Science Training in Pittsburgh, PA

Are you an energetic, curious person with an appreciation for nature and the world of plants? Discover your place in the green industry with Bidwell Training Center’s Plant Science Technician program and build the skills to pursue a rewarding career in applied plant science.

In as little as 7 months*, Bidwell’s Plant Science Technician program combines science-based instruction with hands-on training to prepare you for careers in landscaping, greenhouse and nursery management, turfgrass maintenance, tree care, and more. You’ll build practical skills while learning current industry practices, sustainability, and emerging technologies to prepare for opportunities in today’s growing green industry.

The best way to see if Bidwell Training Center is the right fit for you is to contact an admissions representative. Get more information on our programs and class schedules so that you can make an informed decision about your future. Contact Us Now >>>

Prepare for a Career in Plant Science

In Bidwell’s Plant Science Technician program, you’ll build a strong foundation in plant science while developing the practical skills employers value. Through classroom instruction, hands-on training, field experiences, and real-world learning opportunities with industry partners, you’ll gain experience that prepares you for careers across the green industry.

Career-focused training includes:

  • Botany
  • Plant Identification & Taxonomy
  • Plant Propagation
  • Greenhouse Management
  • Food Crop Production
  • Turfgrass Management
  • Integrated Pest Management
  • Agricultural Operations
  • Equipment, Safety & Practicum
  • Professional Development

 

Is a Career in Plant Science Right for You? Take the "Bidwell Plant Science Technician Career Training Readiness Survey"

This fun online survey only takes 3 minutes to complete! You’ll get a personalized report that identifies your strengths and social style, plus the training and positions you’re best suited for. Get Your Plant Science Technician Career Readiness report now >>

No-Cost Programs

At Bidwell Training Center, students do not incur any tuition fees. Bidwell Training Center receives funding from the State of Pennsylvania. The tuition, fees, uniforms, supplies, and textbooks for individual students who attend Bidwell Training Center are covered for all accepted students by an internal one-time institutional grant made possible by these state funds. This grant is automatically awarded to students upon acceptance, with no application process required on their part.

We know how difficult it can be trying to make ends meet while pursuing your career goals. That’s why all our programs are offered at no-cost.

Tuition is not charged to students who are residents of Pennsylvania and who also have their high school diploma or equivalent. Funding for Bidwell Training Center is received through the State of PA, foundations, grants, and individual donors. The tuition, fees, uniforms, scrubs, and textbooks are covered for all accepted students.

Net Cost Estimate: Plant Science

Description Amount
Tuition $12,000
Application Fee $0
Computer $0
Books $1,117
Student Supplies $229
Lab Fee $0
Certification Test Fee $180
Clearance Fees $47
Student/Practicum Insurance $0
Uniform $400
Graduation Fee $50
Sub-total Required Materials $1,746
Sub-total Fees $277
Program Total $14,023
Internal One-time Institutional Grant Award $14,023
Balance Due $0

Experience a Plant Science Technician Externship

Near the end of your program at Bidwell Training Center, you’ll complete a 4-week externship, giving you the opportunity to apply your skills in a professional setting while building confidence for your future career. Working alongside industry professionals, you’ll gain valuable real-world experience and strengthen the knowledge you’ve developed throughout the program.

The combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and on-site experience will help prepare you for careers across the growing green industry.

Career Opportunities

After completing the Plant Science Technician program, you’ll be prepared to pursue entry-level opportunities such as:

  • Turfgrass Technician
  • Landscape Technician
  • Greenhouse Technician
  • Nursery Technician
  • Tree Care Technician
  • Arboriculture Technician
  • Plant Propagation Technician
  • Irrigation Technician
  • Groundskeeper
  • Interior Plant Technician
  • Spray Technician
  • Urban Farmer
  • Garden Center Sales Representative
  • Parks Maintenance Technician

Your Future Plant Science Career

Not only does Bidwell Training Center provide comprehensive career training, but we also offer career placement services to help you prepare for what’s next. With dedicated placement staff available from day one and Professional Development courses built into the program, you’ll graduate with the skills, confidence, and support to pursue opportunities in the growing green industry.

Is a Rewarding Career in Plant Science Right For You? Get More Info…

If you’re interested in learning more about careers in the Green Industry and exploring whether Bidwell Training Center is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.

For immediate questions, call 412-402-9761

Frequently Asked Questions

What is plant science?

Plant science is a broad field that focuses on the study, care, and cultivation of plants. It includes everything from botany and plant identification to hands-on careers in landscaping, tree care, greenhouse operations, nursery management, and food crop production.

What skills will I gain in the Plant Science Technician program?

You’ll learn how to identify plants, manage plant health, grow and maintain a variety of plant species, and safely use industry tools and equipment. You’ll also develop the teamwork and practical skills needed for careers across the green industry

How long does the Plant Science program take to complete?

The Plant Science Technician program can be completed in as little as 7 months* and combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, field experiences, and a 4-week externship.

Is the Plant Science program offered online?

No. This program is offered in person to provide the hands-on training and real-world experience needed to prepare for careers in the plant science industry.

What does it take to be successful in the Plant Science Technician program?

Successful students enjoy working outdoors, are dependable team players, and are comfortable performing physical work in a variety of weather conditions. A curiosity about plants and a willingness to learn are also important qualities for success in the program and the industry.

What career opportunities are available after completing the Plant Science program?

Graduates may pursue entry-level opportunities in landscaping, greenhouse and nursery operations, turfgrass maintenance, tree care, plant propagation, and other areas of the growing green industry.

*Program length when completed in normal time.