Applied Horticulture at North Carolina State University at Raleigh
A 40% acceptance rate puts North Carolina State University at Raleigh in competitive admissions territory, with 26,389 students enrolled in Raleigh, NC.
Program Analysis
At $38,339 per year, Applied Horticulture graduates from North Carolina State University at Raleigh earn slightly above the $31,250 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
The 22.5x 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.
The median debt load of $14,075 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios in vocational education.
With only 9 programs offering Applied Horticulture nationally, this is a niche field. North Carolina State University at Raleigh ranks #4 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 North Carolina State University at Raleigh
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.