Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services at Kirkwood Community College

Among Iowa's eight horticulture programs, Kirkwood sits at the median for both earnings and debt—which actually places it in the top 20% nationally. Graduates earning $35,900 in their first year substantially outpace the national median of $34,190, while the $11,000 debt load comes in $1,000 below the typical graduate. That 0.31 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly four months of income, a manageable starting point in a field that often requires hands-on experience before higher wages kick in.

The minimal earnings growth over four years (+3%) is typical for horticulture careers, where compensation tends to plateau early unless graduates move into management or business ownership. The real question is whether your student has a genuine interest in this work—$36,793 won't fund a lavish lifestyle, but it provides stable employment in a field with consistent demand. The low debt burden means graduates won't spend their twenties burdened by loan payments.

One important caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual experiences may vary more widely than these numbers suggest. Still, for a student passionate about plants and outdoor work, Kirkwood offers affordable training that leads to earnings comparable to the best horticulture programs in the state.