The Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training is a 3-part, comprehensive curriculum designed to supply learners with a foundational horticulture education suitable for skilled entry-level positions in the horticulture industry. Developed with input from horticulture industry leaders, this program will prepare learners with the practical horticulture knowledge and skills desired by employers.

After successful completion of the training and a 200-hour apprenticeship with a host (employer or non-profit volunteer position) chosen by the student  the participant will receive the Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training micro-credential, and the title of Maine Horticulture Apprentice. Backed by the University of Maine System, this micro-credential verifies to potential employers that the apprentice has successfully completed a high-quality, rigorous training and demonstrated the skills necessary to be a valuable horticulture industry employee. Learn more about micro-credentials.

• Course Schedule: The training program is divided into three parts, all of which are required:
  • Part 1 & 2: The online course consisting of self-paced modules and live Q&A sessions using Brightspace and Zoom will take place from October 30 to December 17, 2023 (part 1) AND January 8 to March 17, 2024 (part 2).
  • Part 3: The 200-hour apprenticeship will take place at an apprenticeship site that meets learning objectives and must be completed by March 17, 2025.
• Time: Self-paced modules and live sessions
• Location: Online (Brightspace and Zoom)
  • Part 3: 200-hour Apprenticeship, to be completed within one year.

Participants will be responsible for securing their own apprenticeship that meets program requirements. An apprenticeship agreement will be submitted prior to beginning, and should be completed by both the apprentice and the host. This agreement confirms that the apprentice will receive significant experience in key areas while working as an apprentice. Both parties should also review the requirements of the Apprentice Evaluation, which will be submitted upon completion of the 200 hours apprenticeship.

We strive to make the training accessible and affordable for all Maine residents. The course fee covers expenses including books, supplies, and other direct course-related expenses. Please select the course fee that is the best fit for you:

• $600 (Full Price): Suggested for those who can afford the full course fee.
• $300 (50% discount): Suggested fee for those who can afford 50% of the full course fee. Please use voucher code: 50_discount
• $150 (75% discount): Suggested fee for participants for whom the full course fee would prove a barrier to participation. Please use voucher code: 75_discount
• A 50% refund will be available until November 6, 2023.

• Pay it forward through our Cooperative Extension Horticulture Fund! This fund is intended to help us with our goal of offering horticulture learning opportunities to economically challenged individuals at an affordable rate.

Technology Requirements: This course content will be entirely online on Brightspace. An email address, access to a reliable internet connection, the newest version of your web browser and an electronic device (i.e. laptop, desktop, iPad, or tablet) with video/audio capabilities are required to complete this course.

For more details about the program, please visit our website: Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training or contact us at extension.gardening@maine.edu

Accommodations: If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in this course, please contact us at extension.gardening@maine.edu or 207-581-3188 by October 15, 2023. Requests received after this date may not allow sufficient time for the necessary accommodations.