Arboriculture & Urban Forestry

Are you passionate about the environment and interested in making a tangible impact on urban landscapes? Hennepin Tech offers a comprehensive two-year associate's degree program in Urban Forestry designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in this growing field. Our program prepares you to transform your passion for nature into a rewarding career.

Our urban forestry degree programs cover everything from tree biology and soil science to pest management and arboriculture courses. You'll gain hands-on experience through practical training and workshops, ensuring you are job-ready upon graduation.

The curriculum includes tree and plant identification, proper pruning and planting techniques, soil science and propagation, integrated pest management, safety protocols, equipment handling, and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping technology for urban forestry.

In addition to your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications, such as the International Society of Arborists (ISA) Certified Arborist credential. These certifications enhance your professional credibility and open doors to more career opportunities.

With an urban forestry technician training from Hennepin Tech, you can pursue various career paths. Graduates of our program find employment in roles such as Urban Forestry Technician, Arborist, Tree Care Specialist, Environmental Consultant, and Park and Recreation Manager.

State and local government agencies, environmental organizations, and private tree care companies actively seek our graduates for jobs. Urban Forestry graduates also contribute to the health and care of urban green spaces, and leverage their skills in forestry and environmental science programs to advocate for better urban ecosystems.

By enrolling in our urban forestry degree program, you're not just investing in your education; you're investing in the future of our urban environments. Hennepin Tech provides a supportive learning environment with experienced instructors dedicated to your success. Our program prepares you for a fulfilling career in urban forestry, where you can make a difference every day.

Ready to start your journey? Transform your passion for nature into a rewarding career and join the green movement today! Apply now and be part of the next generation of urban forestry professionals. Together, we can create healthier, greener cities for everyone.

100% Online Program

Learn from anywhere on your schedule so you can balance school, work, and life.

Real-World Accounting Skills

Build skills in financial reporting, bookkeeping, and tax preparation that employers look for.

Career-Ready Training

Graduate prepared for entry-level accounting jobs in business, non-profits, and government.

person in a tree with a chainsaw and safety equipment

Overview

Class Time	Day \| Evening
Semester	Fall \| Spring \| Summer
Campus	Brooklyn Park

Awards

Arboriculture Certificate

Urban Forestry Technician Associate of Applied Science

Tuition & Learning

Planning your investment is easy. Our program provides comprehensive training that prepares you for immediate entry into your chosen field. Below you'll find detailed information about program costs and required materials.

Tuition Estimates by Award

Costs below apply to each specific award option:

Certificates

Arboriculture

$5,243

Occupational Certificate

Associates Degrees

Urban Forestry Technician

$12,587

Associate of Applied Science

The tuition rate for 2025-2026 academic year is

$209.73 per credit

Scholarships & Savings

Ready to turn your dreams into reality? At Hennepin Tech, we believe that nothing should stand in the way of your education. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of paying for college, so you can focus on what really matters – your future.

FAFSA

Your key to financial aid. The first step to unlocking financial assistance for college is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By completing this form, you’ll qualify for a variety of federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities that can help offset the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses.

Not sure if you’re eligible? Don’t worry, our financial aid advisors are here to help, even if you have unique circumstances or are an undocumented individual.

Check out your first step to funding college

North Star Promise

If you’re a Minnesota resident who meets certain income criteria, you may also qualify for the North Star Promise, which provides additional financial support to cover the cost of tuition and fees. It’s another way we’re making college more accessible and affordable for students like you.

See if you qualify for free tuition

Foundation Scholarships

The Hennepin Tech Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to help students offset the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reduce your college expenses!

Explore scholarships just for our students

PSEO & Concurrent Enrollment

High school students can jumpstart their college education by participating in our Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) or Concurrent Enrollment programs. Earn college credits while still in high school and save on future tuition costs!

Discover how you can earn college credit in high school

VA Benefits

Veterans and their dependents may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can help cover tuition, housing, and other costs associated with attending college. Contact our veterans services office for assistance in accessing and maximizing your VA benefits.

Maximize your military education benefits

Third-Party Payments

Did you know that some employers, organizations, or government agencies offer tuition assistance programs? If you’re eligible, you can use these funds to help cover your college expenses. Be sure to check with your employer or inquire about any available benefits.

Let a sponsor help fund your education

Transfer Credits

Transfer the credits you’ve already earned from previous colleges or programs to reduce the classes you need, helping you finish your degree faster and at a lower cost.

Make your hard work count twice

To maximize your savings, apply for FAFSA early, explore scholarships, and review your potential for credit through prior learning and transfer evaluations.

Accreditation & Recognition

Our Landscape Program hosts the MNLA Certified Nursery and Landscape Professional test every January. This is a regional test for industry professionals to become certified in the areas of Landscape Design, Greenhouse Growing and Garden Center Operations.

Our landscape program is very active at the state level with the MNLA.
Our student club is a member of PLANET. This allows our students access to many national green industry benefits.
The Landscape and Horticulture program became the first TREE CAMPUS USA in the state of Minnesota.

Articulations

If you choose to continue your education, visit the Minnesota Transfer website to see all current agreements.

Industry Partners

Our Advisory Committee consists of many industry professionals that represent the best in Greenhouse Technology, Landscape Design, and Urban Forestry.

How to Apply

Ready to start your journey at Hennepin Tech? Learn the skills you’ll need to succeed and follow our simple application process to take the first step toward your career goals.

Application Process

Applying to Hennepin Tech is easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to get started on your educational journey:

Submit Your Application
Visit our Get Started page to complete your application online. As part of the application process, you will need to pay the application fee. This helps us process your materials quickly.
Submit Transfer Requests (If Applicable)
If you have previously completed college courses or earned a degree, you can save time and money by transferring your credits. Be sure to submit official transcripts or transfer requests from any previous colleges or high schools you attended. This allows us to evaluate your credits and apply them toward your new program.
Receive Your Admission Decision
Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive an official admission decision.
Placement Testing for New Students
If you are new to college, you will need to take a placement test after you have been accepted. The placement test helps identify your current skills in reading, writing, and math. It is used to determine if developmental courses are necessary before you start certain college-level classes. Please note that the placement test does not affect your admission status.
Plan Your Courses
Based on your placement test results and transfer credit evaluation, you will work with an advisor to select the right courses to ensure your success.

Special Admissions Processes

If you are an international student, please visit our international admissions page for specific instructions.
If you are a PSEO (Postsecondary Enrollment Options) student, please visit our PSEO admissions webpage for details on the application process.

If you have questions or need help during the application process, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.

Faculty & Staff

Amy Birdsall Landscaping Faculty Phone: ${phone} E-mail: Amy.Birdsall@HennepinTech.edu

Christina Jerkins Faculty Phone: ${phone} E-mail: Christina.Jerkins@HennepinTech.edu