CCM Offers Programs to Build a Business in Landscaping
Published on August 06, 2019
Learn the Ins and Outs of Being an Entrepreneur in This Green Field
CCM's Landscaping and Horticultural Technology building features flourishing perennials and a rainwater cistern, which provides water for the department's plants. Photo by Erin Sytsema
For those who dream of building a business in the landscaping industry, County College of Morris offers a number of pathways to make that possible through its Department of Landscape and Horticultural Technology.
Degrees and certificates are offered in Agribusiness, Landscape Management and Design, and Turf and Turfgrass Management. The Landscape Management and Design track is the most popular, according to Brian Oleksak, associate professor and chair of the LHT department.
An average of 85 students enroll in the department each year, keeping class sizes small and professor-student relationships close.
Many students in this department are working part-time landscaping jobs while enrolled, said Oleksak. They tend to be the best students because they are applying what they are learning right away.
A degree or certificate from CCM's LHT department allows students to propel a small landscaping business to the next level. Education in cutting-edge technology and practices can transform a small business into one with multiple employees and a highly profitable income stream.
Students learn in a setting where science, sustainability and technology come together. They study and work in a LEED Gold Certified Building in design labs using the latest programming tools. Included among the software students learn is DynaSCAPE, an industry recognized landscape business management program. Students also have access to two Kubota sub-compact tractors, a skid-steer and various small-to-mid sized equipment.
Fall Semester courses begin on Sept. 4. Classes offered include Plant Science, Land Plant Identification, Management and Use, Horticulture Computer Application, Landscape Design and Planning I, Plant Pest Management, Landscape Construction and Equipment, and Arboriculture.
To view and register for courses, visit http://bit.ly/Titansdirect and click on Browse Course Catalog. For more information on LHT programs, courses and certificates, contact Brian Oleksak at [email protected], or 973-328-5363. Visit http://bit.ly/ccmland for details on how students can Start Right . . . .Finish Strong in the LHT department.
Students of all ages may qualify for free tuition. Explore the Community College Opportunity Grant requirements for more information.