Trade Schools
Floral design is a challenging career path that blends creative artistry, nature, and design.
Floral designers create beautiful arrangements showcasing nature’s beauty and celebrating life.
Professional floral arrangements combine art and design, innate talent, and hands-on experience.
If this sounds exciting, floral design may be the perfect career option.
Here are some basic requirements and general costs.
What Type of Schools offer Floral Designer Education?
Floral design programs are taught online and in more formal settings, offering traditional coursework and practical experience.
Floral artists learn design principles, business management, and the importance of plant protection and sustainable practices.
Choosing the right program depends on interest, convenience, program length, and overall cost.
Community Colleges and Courses
Many Community Colleges offer floral design as a short course or adult education program.
Another community option is courses offered by florists or location non-profit organizations.
Community centers are also good locations for introductory floral design courses.
Working professionals often teach these programs — bringing real-world experience and the latest trends to the classroom.
Community programs typically range in cost from $0 to $300.
A 2-year degree program in floral design broadens basic floral education with plant and flower identification techniques, care, and potting basics.
Common courses in a two-year certificate program often include:
- Color theory and design
- Floriculture (Horticulture + Flowers)
- Seasonal trends
Two-year programs follow the policies of the community or vocational college with typical tuition costs of $4000+ annually.
Usually, the cost of books, tools, supplies, and flowers is extra.
University Programs
The most expensive programs are colleges or universities that offer floral design as part of a broader agriculture or floriculture four-year degree.
Many floral design degree pathways also have plant sustainability programs.
There is also a significant business component as many floral designs are independent business owners and entrepreneurs.
University degrees follow the admissions and cost of the university and can reach $15,000 per year plus books, supplies, room, and board.
Online Courses
Online floral design programs are a convenient alternative.
These courses offer foundational coursework and a certificate of completion.
Online and self-paced courses range from 12+ hours, costing $157 dollars, to 6 months, costing $700.
Books, tools, supplies, and materials are usually extra charges.
Some online programs offer grants or tuition payment plans and deep discounts for teachers, military personnel, or healthcare professionals.
Non-Profit and Professional Organizations
Floral designers can be part of both national and international member organizations.
These organizations are known for Certificates in floral design and professional designations.
The online self-paced programs average six weeks. Costs of $400 include classwork, a digital textbook, and an International Association of Professional Florists (IAPO) membership.
Another professional non-profit, the American Institute of Floral Designers, provides online education and the Professional Floral Designers Evaluation (PFDE) exam to earn AIFD and CFD level recognition.
The PFDE application costs $150 and $1,550 PFDE for the actual evaluation.
How Much Does it Cost to Complete a Floral Design Program?
The cost will depend on the education program chosen.
| Education Type | Cost Range | Average Length |
|---|---|---|
| Community-Based | $0 - $300 | 1 day to 1 month |
| Online Programs | $200 - $2,000 | 1 month to 6 months |
| Two-year Degree | $4,000 - $7,000 | 2 years |
| Bachelors Degree | $15,000+ | 4 years |
Most program costs do not include:
- Floral design tools
- Extra materials
- Silk and real flowers for practice
- Travel
- Books/reference materials
How Much Does a Floral Design License Cost?
Many states have licensing requirements for florists.
However, only a few have registration or certification requirements for floral designers.
This annual cost averages $50 – $100 dollars.
While there are limited formal education requirements, a strong understanding of floriculture and design principles is recommended.
Floral Designers also have an internationally recognized credential, CFD or AIFD Certified Floral Designer.
This credential is a voluntary certification from the American Institute of Floral Designers.
The CFD designation can cost up to $2000, plus annual costs for renewals and additional continuing education.
What Are the Additional Costs After Becoming a Floral Designer?
In addition to licensing or state registration, additional costs once you receive a floral design education include:
- Tools and materials
- Professional development
- Continuing education
- Professional networking
- Voluntary Credentialing
Is Becoming a Floral Designer a Good Career Investment?
The biggest cost of becoming a floral designer is in the initial education.
But if you love flowers and have a creative eye, then a career in floral design is a good career investment.
Short courses provide a quick entry into the field.
And most floriculturists develop their skills on the job, with internships or even volunteering – choosing to learn in a supportive environment.
The job and salary forecasts through 2028 for floral designers are relatively stable.
Salaries depend on location but average between $35,000 and $78,000 annually.
The median salary for a floral designer in the United States is $55,095.
Floral Design provides part-time or full-time hands-on career options.
Key Takeaways For a Career in Floral Design
The floral design profession:
- Blends creative talents and nature
- Offers easy entry into a profession
- Has education options
- Minimal education requirements.
- High and ongoing demand provides room for growth.
- Livable wages throughout your career.
