What to expect from an Arboriculture career
Every year, we’re putting greater emphasis on the importance of our environment. A career in arboriculture means you can help preserve existing plants and trees and create urban green spaces, which play an important role in protecting our environment by increasing clean air. Arboriculture programs at Ontario colleges prepare students for a career in this in-demand and rewarding field.
If you love being outside, care about the environment and have the passion for trees and plants necessary for a career in arboriculture, here’s what you need to know.
Arboriculture Courses
Arboriculture courses provide students with the knowledge and experience necessary to incorporate green landscapes amidst the concrete and skyscrapers of today’s urban world. Program courses will prepare students with theory and practical skills such as tree climbing and rescue, plant growth, maintenance and development, urban landscape regulations, tree identification and more.
Programs tend to be very skill-oriented – outdoor training exercises are a significant component of the learning process. Co-operative work placements make arboriculture programs truly comprehensive, giving students the opportunity to gain real-life experiences in their field.
General Arboriculture Program Requirements
Arboriculture programs at Ontario colleges typically require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit. A grade 12 math credit is usually strongly recommended. Additional credit requirements may vary depending on the program.
Aside from academic criteria, other recommendations or requirements may include basic computer skills (word processing and spreadsheets), a background in horticulture and knowledge of plant biology.
Arboriculture Jobs and Salaries
Ontario college arboriculture programs prepare students for a diverse selection of jobs, including (but not limited to):
- Tree Climber
- Urban Parks Worker
- Commercial Arborist
- Plant Health Care Specialist
- Tree Care Contractor
Tree climbers, in particular, are in high demand. Arboriculture positions are common in government and municipal organizations, private contracting companies and public utilities.
Salaries in the arboriculture field will vary depending on the position and the organization, but typically start in the low- to mid-$30,000 range.
Ontario Colleges Offering Arboriculture Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of arboriculture programs at Ontario colleges.
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