PHC – Pacific Horticulture College

Providing Excellence in Horticultural Education

The Horticulture Centre of the Pacific Gardens are an internationally recognized botanical garden and a respected Centre of life-long learning, conservation and research. It is also the only private, not for profit post-secondary institution in British Columbia providing horticulture education. The Pacific Horticulture College has been training professional gardeners since 1987. Pacific Horticulture College is regulated by the Private Training Institutions Branch of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training (PTIB) and holds a designated certificate. Pacific Horticulture College is recognized by SkilledTradesBC of British Columbia as a designated training provider.

About the Pacific Horticulture College

Our Mission Statement

The PHC is committed to providing excellence in horticulture training under the umbrella of the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific. The College will enable its students to develop skills to maximize employment opportunities and to encourage sustainable, environmentally responsible stewardship of gardens and green space.

Our Purpose

To provide a high quality student program that integrates theoretical studies with the practical training required to start a career in landscape related industries. Graduates will be able to:

  • Work successfully in the landscape maintenance field as self-employed gardeners
  • Attain employment in nurseries, public gardens, municipal parks and horticulture supply companies

Why Choose Pacific Horticulture College

The PHC provides excellence in horticulture training in partnership with the Gardens at HCP. Together there is a strong focus on maintenance gardening and practical skills development. Students receive a variety of hands-on practical experiences that prepares them for a successful career in horticulture.

  • The Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, is a 42-hectare site that includes 30 demonstration gardens and a Conservation Park, ideal for practical skills development and plant identification. The Gardens are the classroom!
  • The support, mentorship and resources of the local horticulture community.
  • A wide range of highly qualified instructors who teach in their areas of expertise.
  • Small classes in an institution that revolves around horticulture.

Our Students

Students at the PHC come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. For some it is the first time in post-secondary education; many have a degree in a different field and are looking for a career change. The students all share a passion for plants and the outdoors, and a strong desire for hands-on work.

PHC graduates are in demand throughout the horticulture industry and go on to establish successful horticulture businesses in maintenance, landscape design or work for municipal parks departments, nurseries, farms, landscaping companies, public and private gardens and much more.

Our Programs and Resources

PHC – Pacific Horticulture College is committed to creating a safe and respectful learning environment for everyone.

For additional information please review the following: