Applied Horticulture at Lake Land College
a compact campus enrolling 2,492 students in Mattoon, IL.
Program Analysis
Lake Land College's Applied Horticulture graduates start at $7,972/yr, trailing the $31,250 national average by 74%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
The 19.5x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 28% task exposure — and the 0% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Applied Horticulture graduates.
With only 9 programs offering Applied Horticulture nationally, this is a niche field. Lake Land College ranks #9 among them.
With 12 registered apprenticeships mapped to Applied Horticulture, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Applied Horticulture graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers | $87,980 | -1.3% | 63% |
| Agricultural sciences teachers, postsecondary | $86,350 | +4.1% | 50% |
| First-line supervisors of farming, fishing, and forestry workers | $59,330 | +2.5% | 72% |
About Applied Horticulture Careers
Your career in horticulture starts with your hands in the soil. As an entry-level landscaping or groundskeeping worker, you’ll spend your days outdoors operating mowers and trimmers, planting seasonal beds, and installing irrigation systems. You’ll learn the trade from the ground up, transforming ordinary spaces into beautiful, functional landscapes.
Compare & Explore
Applied Horticulture Overview
Applied Horticulture at Other Schools
Other Majors at Lake Land College
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.