Open-entry courses are fully self-led, online courses. Students can access the content on their own time and complete the program at their own pace. There are no refunds for open-entry courses.
Get trained in industry best practices and prepare to take the Landscape Industry Certified Technician exams.
Study online to become Landscape Industry Certified
As the field of landscaping continues to advance, it's important that technicians can earn credentials to stand out as experts. Created in partnership between the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) and Colorado State University, this program covers material contained in the following NALP training manuals:
Irrigation Technicians Manual
Installation Technicians Manual
Maintenance Technicians Manual
Created for both entry-level and experienced landscape technicians, this three-course training series offers "how-to" resources for landscape installation, irrigation, and maintenance. This program also serves as the recommended preparation courses for the Landscape Industry Certified – Technician Exterior certification exam, and meets the educational requirements for the Landscape Management Apprenticeship Program.
Note: Become a member of NALP before you register to receive a 20% discount on course registration. If you are already a NALP member, sign-in here to receive your discount code.
Learn essential industry information
Featuring practice problems and visuals, courses in this training series offer industry-specific information related to effective planning, management, safety, conservation, and sustainability. Topics include:
Effective landscape planning
Surveying, grading, and drainage
Irrigation techniques and water management
Sod/turf installation
Seeding, tree planting, and pruning
Aquatic plant maintenance in water features
Safe operation of equipment
Effective communication
General safety protocols and first aid
Participants will receive step-by-step information on how to get work done right the first time, tips on how to troubleshoot problems in the field, and checklists for equipment operations and maintenance.
What are digital badges and how do they work?
Digital badges are visual representations of new knowledge you have gained. You earn badges each time you successfully complete one of CSU’s online digital badge courses. Take only the courses you want to take, and build your own unique set of credentials.
Courses in this program are self-paced. Study on your own schedule, and customize your learning experience to match your individual goals. Take only the courses you're most interested in.