What background do I need to enter the Joliet programs?
Although no specific coursework is required for entrance, students should have an interest in scientific and horticultural principles, an appreciation for the beauty of flowers and plants and the ability or interest in communicating effectively. Physical endurance is necessary, as well as a positive attitude and flexible nature.
What type of work can I do with an A.A.S. degree or certificate in floral design – interior plantscaping?
Graduates of Joliet Junior College’s Floral Design/Interior Plantscaping Program have experience and skills in basic floral design, wedding and sympathy designs, dried and silk design, party and event work, as well as care and handling of fresh cut materials. The student also has a working knowledge of care and maintenance of a variety of tropical plants used in interior plantscaping. They have knowledge in insect and disease identification and controls. Jobs exist as retail floral shops as well as in wholesale floral supply operations. Students can obtain jobs at area event companies as well as in grocery store floral shops. Students can work in the interior plantscaping world as technicians. Installing holiday designs and maintaining indoor plantings are part of this occupation. Several students go on to start their own businesses. Some are traditional retail businesses and others offer design services from a studio location. Jobs exist in the free-lance world of design as well.
How much can I earn?
A community college graduate may expect to earn 25-50 percent more than the entry level pay (of about $6 per hour) in the floral or plantscaping industry. The employment potential for competent, educated people is very good, including part time employment with flexible hours to management positions at higher salaries which may require relocation.
What are the opportunities for career advancement?
Opportunities are abundant for individuals who want to apply their skills and educational background to careers in the floral design or plantscaping industries. The need for good floral designers and interior plant technicians is particularly strong. Entry level jobs in sales, design, and plant care could lead to advancement to head designer, shop manager, supervisor of technicians, buyer and plant specialist as well as owning your own business. The key to employment in the floral design or plantscaping industries, in addition to having the required skills, is to be a service- and people-oriented person. You must enjoy helping and working with other people.
What types of learning experiences are included in floral design/interior plantscaping programs?
Areas of study in Joliet Junior College's Floral Design/Interior Plantscaping Programs include basic, advanced and creative floral design, cut flowers and foliages, greenhouse management, interior plants and plantscaping. In addition to the broad base of study, the A.A.S. degree program includes 19 weeks of work experience in the field.
Joliet Junior Degree Programs
- The two year Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) career programs prepare students with practical, job preparatory knowledge to enter specialized careers.
- Our one year certificate career programs prepare students for immediate employment in a wide variety of professional fields.
- The Associate in Arts (A.A.) and Associate in Science (A.S.) transfer programs provide students with an opportunity to complete the first two years of study leading to a baccalaureate degree from a four-year college or university.