If you have been fascinated by flowers and see yourself becoming a florist in the future, you might consider earning a certificate in floral design. A number of certificate programs are offered in this field. Jobs for florists are expected to grow from 2012 to 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. You can work towards an online certificate if you cannot pursue a course at traditional schools.
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As a floral designer, you may find yourself making different floral decorations for a number of events, including Christmas, weddings, and birthdays. You may also have to cut and arrange live or dried flowers and decorative plants to create the theme of an event.
Certificate in Floral Design
Many aspiring florists acquire experience working under experienced florists while others can develop the skills and knowledge essential for this field by working towards a certificate.A certificate in floral design may take 6 months to 1 year to complete, or shorter or longer, depending on the enrollment status of the students.
A number of private floral schools, vocational schools, as well as community colleges offer certificates in floral design and provide students with a chance to learn how to design and care for flowers. They will also get a chance to understand the fundamental guidelines to aesthetic floral design and identify how specific design techniques are used in professional floral designs. Graduates may find opportunities in grocery stores, retail florists or Internet florists. Students who earn a certificate can also set up their own business.
Program Coursework
A certificate in floral design may include courses in flower and plant identification, advertising and floral design concepts. Students can also take business courses among other areas of study. Some programs may require candidates to complete training in a greenhouse where they get a chance to gain hands-on training in the field.
Admissions Requirements
Students who want to enroll in the certificate in floral design must hold a high school diploma. Taking art and design classes can also be useful.
Online Certificate in Floral Design
Some online schools also offer certificate courses in floral design. The ones who cannot attend programs offered at traditional schools can work towards an online floral design certificate course and study from any location. Instructors give virtual lessons and students have to submit various assignments online. They are provided with a number of tools such as elearning software, online libraries, video conferencing and more that help acquire the skills essential to become a florist remotely.
Career Prospects
Earning a certificate in floral design may help you find opportunities in a number of settings including grocery stores, merchant wholesalers, florists and other general merchandise stores. You may also choose to set up your own business as well or get into floral designing on weddings.
Some florists work for online floral arrangement websites while others opt to design gardens, parks, and other public greenery areas.
Income may vary by employer, location and experience. According to the BLS, the median pay for floral designers in 2012 was $23,810 on an annual basis. Most of these professionals generally work full time while some also work on part time basis.