The Temple horticulture curriculum is built on a strong scientific foundation that includes both technical course work and hands-on learning experience. In order to broaden and deepen knowledge and understanding of the natural and cultural world, students also receive solid education in the liberal arts.

The unique curriculum is one of the few undergraduate programs in which horticulture and landscape architecture are integrated. This relationship allows students to gain a greater understanding of the full range of the landscape process, which includes design, plant production, installation, and management of the urban and suburban landscape. They learn the relationships between horticulture, technology, and natural ecological processes, and develop a responsible horticultural approach toward the environment. The department encourages students to consider ways to eliminate many outmoded, environmentally damaging practices such as over-dependence on pesticides, herbicides, and irrigation, and use of harmful, invasive plants.