Associate of Applied Science Degrees in Ornamental Horticulture and Turfgrass Management

The Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture confers Associate of Applied Science Degrees in Animal Science, Plant Science, and Urban Forestry and Arboriculture. This two-year program of technical and applied education is only available at the Storrs campus. The School was established in 1941 by the University of Connecticut through a bequest from Mr. Ratcliffe Hicks of Tolland, Connecticut.

Students include recent high school graduates as well as adults who are interested in continuing education or a career change. Course work offers a balance between technical and theoretical aspects of each subject with emphasis on hands-on learning.

Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture graduates have the skills and knowledge to enter challenging and exciting careers. They are highly qualified for competitive positions and often manage or own businesses and production operations. Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture graduates can also continue their education and pursue baccalaureate or higher degrees.

Students from some New England states may be eligible to enroll in the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture at a reduced tuition rate through the New England Regional Student Program. Eligibility for Associate degree programs in Animal Science, Plant Science, and in Urban Forestry and Arboriculture are described in the Admissions section of this Catalog.

Applicants follow the same process as other undergraduate programs at UConn. Applicants submit the Common Application or the UConn Admission Application, high school transcript, SAT or ACT scores, and personal essay, which is included in the application. Applicants are encouraged to emphasize their interest, experience, and career goals when completing the essay and activities sections of the application. Applicants with prior post-secondary course work must submit official college transcripts. Applicants who are not graduates of a secondary school must present a copy of a State Equivalency Diploma and a personal statement.

Your submitted high school transcript(s) should include your senior classes, class rank (if applicable), and latest grades earned. Postsecondary official transcript(s) from each institution attended are also required whether or not credit is desired or expected. Transcripts must be submitted to UConn directly from the secondary institution, either electronically or by mail in a sealed envelope.
All academic credentials not written in English must be accompanied by an official, certified English translation.
The minimum score requirement for the TOEFL is 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), or 79 (internet-based), minimum score requirement for the IELTS exam is 6.5. Test scores must be sent directly to the University of Connecticut from the respective test provider. Meeting the minimum score requirements does not guarantee admission into the University.
The personal essay is required and provides the applicant an opportunity to add a unique voice to the application as well as demonstrate writing ability. The personal essay is a component on the Common Application or the Coalition Application and should range between 250 – 650 words.
Two letters of recommendation are optional but can distinguish an applicant's character and are preferred. Recommendation letters can be sent electronically, by fax, or by postal mail.
International applicants who have achieved 510 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section of the SAT or 24 or higher on the English, Reading, and Composite on the ACT.