Citrus & Horticultural Science | Florida Southern College Guide

Agricultural Excellence

Citrus and Horticultural Science at Florida Southern College

Agriculture is vital to the American economy, particularly in Florida. The Citrus and Horticultural Science program in Lakeland offers a pathway for students interested in sustainable farming, plant biology, and agribusiness.

01 Program Overview

Florida Southern College (FSC), the oldest private college in Florida, is located in Lakeland, a hub of the citrus industry. The program emphasizes immersion in real-world agricultural dynamics, focusing on citrus, ornamental plants, vegetables, and landscape design.

Strategic Location

Proximity to commercial groves and packing houses for deep industry networking.

Legacy of Excellence

Faculty are active researchers tackling challenges like Citrus Greening.

02 Curriculum & Specializations

Core Biological Sciences

✔ Botany & Plant Physiology
✔ Soil Science & Nutrition
✔ Plant Pathology
✔ Entomology

Horticulture Modules

• Citrus Grove Management
• Postharvest Physiology
• Fruit & Vegetable Production
• Nursery Management

Business & Tech

→ Precision Ag (Drones/GPS)
→ Agricultural Economics
→ Farm Financial Planning
→ Supply Chain Logistics

Admissions Criteria

1
HS Diploma or GED (GPA 3.0+ Recommended)
2
Strong Science & Math Coursework
3
Passion for Ag (FFA, 4-H, etc.)

* Test-optional policy often in effect for SAT/ACT.

Program Benefits

Small Class Sizes

Personalized mentorship and mastery of complex techniques.

Engaged Learning (EEL)

Hands-on activities like pruning, pest scouting, and soil analysis.

Financial Aid

Access to industry-sponsored scholarships for this major.

03 World-Class Facilities

The Citrus Archives

Historical data and research collections vital for industry study.

Modern Laboratories

Climate-controlled greenhouses for hydroponics and chemical analysis.

Living Laboratory

Campus arboretum and active groves for practical production training.

Career Outlook

Career Path	Primary Focus	Industry Demand
Production Manager	Operations, Yield, Staffing	High
Sales/Consulting	B2B Relations, Technical Advice	Very High
Research/Science	Innovation, Disease Control	Stable/Growing
Landscape Design	Aesthetics, Urban Planning	Seasonal/High

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the program only for farmers?

No, it prepares for sales, research, food safety, landscape design, and agribusiness management.

How does the program address Citrus Greening?

Curriculum is dynamic, integrating the latest research on disease management and resistant rootstocks.

Can I double major or minor?

Yes, minors/majors in Business Administration or Environmental Science are common and enhance career prospects.

Cultivate Your Future

FSC combines a personal academic environment with industry resources, providing graduates with contacts, hands-on experience, and the confidence to manage complex agricultural systems.

Explore Admissions Requirements