The next generation of curators, horticulturists, educators, and administrators who will care for both new and established public gardens will need a professional level of skills and training. Traditionally, there have been very few graduate programs focused on the management of public gardens.

Now, the Cornell University Department of Horticulture, in conjunction with Cornell Plantations, has developed a Master of Professional Studies program in Public Garden Leadership. The MPS is a four-semester program, with an internship required between the first and second year. Each student accepted into the program is offered a fellowship that covers their tuition and expenses, as well as provides an annual graduate stipend. Fellows are required to enroll in and complete 24 academic credits tailored to meet their needs. In addition, each fellow identifies a topic for graduate study and completes an action project before graduating. The program provides a balance of academic training and practical experience that qualifies fellows to be leaders in the field of public garden management.

For more information, call Sonja M. Skelly, Director of Education at (607) 255-2406 or email sms92@cornell.edu.