Cape Fear Community College Launched Arboriculture Program
The college partnered with Bartlett Tree Experts to offer a new hybrid certificate in tree care.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Adult Education
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Cape Fear Community College has launched an arboriculture certificate program in Wilmington to prepare students for careers in urban forestry. The hybrid course offers training in tree biology, climbing, and safety.
Why it matters
The program was developed to meet the real-world needs of local employers for skilled labor in tree care. It provides a direct pathway for students to enter the industry without requiring prior experience.
The hybrid certificate program consists of 116 hours of study covering tree identification, biology, and rigging. Enrollment is currently open to any interested student with no prior arboriculture experience required.
The players
Cape Fear Community College
An educational institution based in Wilmington that offers a variety of vocational and academic programs.
Bartlett Tree Experts
A professional tree care company that is providing curriculum support and research laboratory access to the college.
The details
Students will engage with both online coursework and hands-on training sessions to build professional skills in equipment operation and safety. The curriculum also includes a visit to the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories in Charlotte to provide practical experience.
Timeline
Registration for the new certificate program opened on September 29, 2026.
Culture Shift
The launch mirrors the ongoing shift toward hybrid vocational training models in North Carolina. This curriculum design reflects a broader societal move toward flexible, accessible career education that maintains rigorous on-site skill development.
Residents can now register for the program to gain professional tree care credentials without needing previous experience. Students should plan for a time commitment of 116 hours to complete the hybrid curriculum.
The takeaway
This program offers a low-barrier entry point for those seeking to transition into the specialized field of urban forestry. Prospective students should review the program requirements to ensure the 116-hour commitment fits their current schedule.
Further reading
Learn more about local learning opportunities in our Adult Education section.
More information
To review course requirements or sign up, visit the CFCC arboriculture certificate registration page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Port City Daily.
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