High School

Because the minimum education required to be a horticultural inspector is generally a bachelors degree, those interested in this field should take college preparatory courses. High school students should focus on general classes in speech; English, especially writing; business; computer science; and general mathematics. They should also focus on biology, health, chemistry, agriculture, earth science, and shop or vocational training.

Postsecondary Training

The specific degree and training qualifications vary for each position and area in which inspection is done. In this line of work, earning a bachelors degree in agriculture, chemistry, or food science would be helpful to gaining employment. College courses in agricultural science, biology, government, or related subjects will also be useful for aspiring agricultural inspectors.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in horticulture, agriculture, and related areas. For example, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers several horticulture-related certificate programs. Classes in these programs include Introduction to Horticulture; Integrated Pest Management; Urban Food Production; Plants, Pathogens, and People; Plant Disease & Management; and Weed Sciences and Management. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Horticultural inspectors can continue to update their skills by participating in continuing education classes, webinars, and other learning opportunities that are provided by professional associations, colleges and universities, and other providers.

Certification or Licensing

Certification and licensing requirements vary according to the position. Contact the agency for which you would like to work for detailed information on certification and licensing. For federal positions, a civil service examination is generally required. Education and experience in the specific field is usually necessary.

Inspectors should have experience inspecting and testing a variety of horticultural products, such as plants and livestock. They should be skilled at collecting samples from animals and plants, analyzing them accurately, and writing clear and concise reports that convey vast amounts of information and investigative work.

Horticultural inspectors must be precision-minded, have an eye for detail, and be able to accept responsibility. They are tenacious and patient as they follow each case from investigation to its conclusion. They also must be able to communicate well with others in order to reach a clear analysis of a situation and be able to report this information to a superior or coworker.