University of Saskatchewan Master Gardener Program
Requirements
- The U of S Master Gardener Program is open to everyone. The only prerequisite is an interest in gardening–and enthusiasm. Register anytime and take as long as you want to complete the program.
- To receive your certificate, you will complete 7 core courses, a 40-hour volunteer internship and an open book exam. You may complete in any order and there is no time limit. The total cost of the program including registration fee, all 7 core workshops (6.5 days of class time), examination and certification is under $600.
- Once you become a certified Master Gardener, you are required to put in a minimum of 20 hours of volunteer service annually and participate in the Spring Renewal Workshop once every three years.
To Become a U of S Master Gardener:
- When you apply, include a registration fee of $157.50 (GST incl.) to begin your home study portion. The registration fee includes a program text, all administrative and final examination fees and a subcription to the U of S Master Gardener newsletter. Home study course material includes a newly adopted program text for reference purposes. At your discretion, a take-home, open book exam based on material from the program text and core courses can be written. The exam consists of multiple choice, fill in the blank, and matching questions. If you prefer, an essay series can be written as an alternative to the exam.
- Complete the seven core courses that are offered throughout the year and during Hort Week.
- Complete your internship: 40 hours of volunteer time within your community. Sometimes people feel there isn’t any volunteer opportunities in their community but if you see a need in your community, you can fill it through your volunteer internship. Some ideas include: writing articles, assisting seniors with yard work, assisting U of S researchers, planting a community garden, sitting on the board of your local hort club, growing plants for fundraising and charity, designing a therapeutic garden, etc. We also send out notices of volunteer opportunities through email and with our newsletter.
You will be considered a University of Saskatchewan Master Gardener Trainee until you have fulfilled all of the above requirements. Once you become a Certified University of Saskatchewan Master Gardener, the community volunteer commitment becomes 20 hours annually and attending Spring renewal every three years will keep your certification current.
To Apply
Call 306.966.5546 or email master.gardeners@usask.ca
Questions?
Email master.gardeners@usask.ca or call 306.966.5546
