Education & Programs

The North Carolina Arboretum offers year-round educational programs and learning experiences for adults, families, youth, school groups, and trade professionals that focuses on environmental sustainability, art, science and economic development. From formal classes, to self-guided programs, to lectures and symposia, the Arboretum serves more than 18,000 children and 6,000 adults annually.

Adult Education Classes

The North Carolina Arboretum’s formal Adult Education program offers more than 140 classes a year. All participants must register for classes in advance.  New class schedules are released every six months at the beginning of February and August. Arboretum members receive discounts on class fees.

Youth & Family Programs

Get outdoors and explore! Kids and families can experience the Arboretum through a variety of educational programs that inspire adventure, exploration and environmental awareness. Programs range from free, self-guided activities to formal parties and programs. Click here for more information on the Arboretum’s youth programs, including its award-winning Discovery Camps.

School Groups

Inspire your student’s curiosity about science, nature and art with one of the Arboretum’s many school programs, including field trips, classroom visits and self-guided tours. Click here for more information.

Certifications & Professional Development

The Arboretum is pleased to offer several certification and professional development programs through its Education Department. All certification programs follow strict curriculum guidelines and protocols to ensure participants receive the best experience from leading educators and instructors. View certification programs here.

Green industry professionals seeking continuing education units (CEUs) or those who simply want to stay abreast of the latest news and trends can attend The North Carolina Arboretum’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) symposium. This annual event brings in some of the industry’s leading academics and professionals to reveal the latest techniques in solving pest problems using beneficial insects. Find out more about the IPM symposium here.