Applied Horticulture at Michigan State University
A 84% acceptance rate means Michigan State University is accessible to most applicants, with 40,243 students enrolled in East Lansing, MI.
Program Analysis
Michigan State University Applied Horticulture graduates command $42,513/yr out of the gate, well above the $31,250 national median. That 36% premium suggests the program's industry reputation carries real labor-market weight.
With a 28.1x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Applied Horticulture career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $12,000 in median debt clears fast against $42,513 in annual earnings.
Applied Horticulture is offered at just 9 schools in our analysis. Michigan State University's #2 ranking should be read in that context.
The limited growth from $42,513 to $44,933 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.
The 12 apprenticeship pathways connected to Applied Horticulture reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.
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 Michigan State University
Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree
Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.