In this first course, students gain an overview of historical uses and theoretical foundations for the use of plants and nature for wellness. The broad range of populations and locations served are presented, with specific examples from therapeutic horticulture programs in North Carolina. We explore how therapeutic horticulture supports human needs, including physical, social, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual needs, will all be explored. Students learn about the profession of therapeutic horticulture, related practices, and ways to pursue further study. Using dynamic interactive forums, students will research, discuss, and reflect on the people/plant relationship, and will be provided with references and resources for further study.

We welcome all people who want to learn more about therapeutic horticulture, whether interested for personal enrichment or service to others. If serving others is your goal, the course gives a solid foundation for allied health professionals, master gardeners, and other practitioners to go forward in the field. Students who choose to achieve a record of “Mastery” in the course are enabled to enroll in future advanced classes in this online series.

Students can watch lectures and fulfill assignments when their schedule permits during the six-week period the class is in session, with a new module opening up every Monday morning. Despite the asynchronous nature of this course, it is highly recommended that students keep up with lectures and assignments before the next module is introduced since it is possible to fall behind quickly. 

Two (optional) live Zoom events have been added to the course schedule, allowing for virtual face-to-face interaction. These are a Student/Instructor ‘Meet & Greet’ during the second week of class and ‘Special Topic’ breakout sessions during the fifth week of class (dates to be determined.)