Announcements
The application period for the 2024 intern class is now closed.
- Watch here for our next offering of training. Application for the 2025 intern class will be posted in August of 2024.
WAYS TO APPLY
- The online application: Applications can be completed online.
- If you wish to complete you application on your computer: download it the link, find it in your downloads, and open it from there. You should not open it from the browser. (If it opens in the browser, it will not work.) After filling out the application, save it and attach the document to an email. Email your completed application to the county program coordinator.
Becoming a Master Gardener
Becoming A University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener
Our Mission and Vision
The mission of the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program is to use research-based horticultural knowledge and practices to deliver educational outreach and project-based efforts that inspire change and promote healthy people, healthy communities and a healthy planet. Our vision is that University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Volunteers are community members respected and valued for their research-based horticultural expertise and community-strengthening capacity.
How to Apply
- In September, attend the information session. This optional session provides meaningful information intended to aid applicants in determining if the Master Gardener program is a good fit for them.
- Apply by October 1. The application can be completed online or downloaded as a pdf.
- Be selected for an interview. Selected applicants will be notified by mid-October.
- Interviews are held in late October.
- Selected applicants are notified by November 1.
- Submit and pass a background check conducted by the University of Minnesota. Note: all Master Gardener volunteers must have a recurring background check every three years.
- Receive notification that background check has cleared.
New Interns
- Before December 1, register for the UMN Core Course. The course fee is $320 (includes $30 for the background check) and includes a digital manual. The course fee with a print manual is $369. Cost for the Core Course is the responsibility of the Master Gardener Intern. Limited funds are available for those that need financial help. See the details at the end of the application.
- January:
- Complete the Core Course at the U of M Landscape Arboretum.
- Complete a one-hour online training program on Safety of Minors.
- Attend the orientation for new Carver-Scott early January, 2023.
- Attend the CSEMG Recognition and Awards banquet on January 9, 2023 where you will be introduced to CSEMG community and can begin to know your colleagues
What to Expect Your Intern Year
Interns are partnered with a Carver-Scott Extension Master Gardener (CSEMG) mentor, who helps guide through the first year and beyond. Mentors are available to answer questions and to help interns become better acquainted with the program.
Interns with the Carver-Scott Extension Master Gardeners must:
- Comply with applicable University and local policies and procedures
- Complete the Core Course
- Attend at least five (5) monthly meetings (held the second Monday of each month)
- Complete an additional five (5) hours of continuing education credit. (Note: each monthly meeting, where there is an educational component, can be counted as one (1) hour)
- Present and 10-minute presentation at a CSEMG monthly meeting on a topic of your choice! (Assistance and mentoring will be provided. They can and should be fun!)
- Contribute 50 hours of volunteer service, at various events throughout the year
- Report education and volunteer hours online by December 31
- Have fun! Enjoy! Share your love of gardening!
Education, mentoring,
volunteering and more
The Core Course
Intern Requirements
The University of Minnesota Core Course will be permitted online beginning in January. There is also an on-line option. Interns accepted into the program must complete the training and pass the section exams.
Program Fees
There is a fee of $320 for the Core Course with a digital manual provided. The cost of the Core Course with a printed Companion Guide is $369. Interns are responsible for the fee, which includes the background check.
Limited funds are available for those that need financial help. See the details at the end of the application.
Core Course Details
- Approximately 40-60 hours of basic horticulture education, beginning in January
- Online class begins in January, self-paced through mid-May
- REQUIRED: Active email address and reliable Internet access. All students must complete online quizzes for certification.
- Taught by Extension Educators and faculty through the University of Minnesota.
- Topics include an introduction to the program, community engagement as a volunteer, basic botany, soils, herbaceous plants, trees shrubs and vines, lawn care, weeds, growing vegetables, growing fruits, integrated pest management, indoor plants, plant pathology, plant diagnostics, entomology, living with wildlife, and practical application as a volunteer.
Master Gardener
education course
Master Gardener Requirements
Master Gardener Requirements
- You will start the January 2023 year (after the recognition banquet) as an active University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener.
- You must continue to comply with applicable University and local policies and procedures.
- Attend at least five (5) monthly meetings (held the second Monday of each Month).
- Contribute 25 hours of volunteer service at various programs and events throughout the year.
- Gain an additional five (5) hours of continuing education credit. (Note: you will receive one (1) hour for each monthly meeting where there is an educational component – so this is easy!)
- Report your hours online by December 31.
- Have fun! Enjoy! Share your love of gardening!
Master Gardener
education course