Horticultural Therapist-Registered (HTR)
Horticultural Therapist-Registered (HTR)
The HTR is intended for practitioners who provide horticultural therapy services aligned with the AHTA definition:
- The engagement of a participant in horticultural-related activities.
- The participant has an identified disability, illness, or life circumstance requiring services.
- The activity is facilitated by a registered horticultural therapist.
- The participation is in the context of an established treatment, rehabilitation, or vocational plan.
INTRODUCING HT-BC | FALL 2026
Honoring Our Roots, Growing Our Future: The Transition to HT-BC
The legacy of our profession is built on the dedication of those who have paved the way for horticultural therapy. As we evolve, we remain committed to honoring the work of our current HTR and HTM professionals while elevating the field through a new standard of excellence.
To ensure a seamless transition toward the Horticultural Therapist—Board Certified (HT-BC) credential, AHTA will conclude new HTR applications this summer. This move marks a pivotal step in strengthening professional credibility and ensuring our practitioners are recognized through a formal, third-party evaluation process that aligns with national standards.
Key Transition Dates
- July 1, 2026: Final day to submit HTR applications.
- July 1, 2026: HT-BC applications officially open.
- August 1, 2026: Exam Handbook available for review.
- October 31 – November 14, 2026: First HT-BC exam window.
What happens to my current HTR designation?
We deeply value the expertise of our existing HTRs and HTMs. You may continue to use your current designation and are not required to take the HT-BC exam to maintain your standing. The new board certification will simply become the primary credential for new applicants entering the field after July 1, 2026.
Why is the AHTA moving from a registry to a board certification?
Certification provides a more robust, third-party validation of a professional’s knowledge and skills. By introducing a comprehensive examination based on core professional domains, we are building stronger public recognition and aligning our field with the highest standards of professional practice.
If I am currently working toward my HTR, can I still apply?
Yes, provided your application is submitted by the July 1, 2026 deadline. After this date, all new applicants for professional credentialing will move through the HT-BC pathway, which includes the board examination.
How does board certification differ from a certificate program?
While a certificate is awarded for completing a specific educational course + professional requirements, board certification is a formal evaluation of your entire professional scope. It combines your education and verified experience with a standardized test to ensure a high level of ethical and practical competence.
Will study resources be available for the new exam?
The AHTA is dedicated to supporting our community through this growth. We intend to provide a comprehensive exam handbook, sample questions, and a list of recommended resources to help eligible candidates prepare for the inaugural testing window in late 2026.
Continue below to apply for the HTR; applications accepted until July 1, 2026.
Professional Registration & Ethics
The Horticultural Therapist-Registered (HTR) credential ensures that professional competencies have been achieved based on standardized academic requirements and professional training.
Professionally registered horticultural therapists are expected to adhere to the AHTA Code of Professional Ethics for Horticultural Therapists. The AHTA's Standards of Practice for Horticultural Therapy describe the expectations of professional conduct and delivery of horticultural therapy service.
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Please note: the application does not save your progress. Please gather all required documents and 45-minutes to complete the application.
Am I Eligible? Review the Checklist.
Verify that you have completed all of the following requirements before submitting your application:
- Current AHTA Membership: You must be an Associate Level I or Associate Level II member after year 2.
- Education in Plant Science: Completed coursework in horticulture, botany, or related plant sciences
- Education in Human Science: Completed coursework in psychology, counseling, therapeutic recreation, or related fields
- Horticultural Therapy Education: Completed coursework specifically in horticultural therapy
- Practical Experience: Completed either an approved internship OR 1,500 documented work hours (see pathways below).
Reminder: Applications for the HTR will stop being accepted July 1, 2026 as the HT-BC is launched Fall 2026.
Educational Requirements: Three Pathways
There are three educational pathway options to meet HTR requirements. Choose the option that matches your educational background.
Pathway
Degree Requirement
Coursework Details
Option A
Baccalaureate degree in Horticulture with a concentration in Horticultural Therapy
Required Credits Within the Horticulture Degree
- 9 semester credits in horticulture therapy
- 12 semester credits in horticulture science
Option B
Equivalent baccalaureate degree in a field other than horticulture
Must Complete Full 33 Semester Credits
- Plant science coursework
- Human science coursework
- Horticultural therapy coursework
(may be completed within a degree or in addition to a bachelors degree)
Option C
Master’s or Doctoral degree in an AHTA-approved plant science OR human science field
Exempt from undergraduate coursework in your field
- Masters in plant science exempt from plant science requirements
- Masters in human science exempt from human science requirements
- Must remaining coursework area and HT courses
Required Coursework Content Areas
A minimum of three (3) semester credits in each individual subject area is required.
Plant Science
Core Requirements:
- Introduction to Horticulture
- Plant Propagation
- Pest & Disease Plant Management
Plus ONE Elective from:
- General Plant Pathology
- Greenhouse Production/Management
- Nursery Production
- Landscape Design
- Plant Materials
- Soils
Human Science
Core Requirements:
- General Psychology
- Abnormal Psychology
- Human Lifespan Development
Plus ONE Elective from:
- Counseling Theories
- Aspects of Disabilities and Illnesses
- Group Dynamics
- Principles of Therapy
- Human Anatomy/Physiology
- Adult Development and Aging
Horticultural Therapy
Core Requirements:
- Introduction to Horticultural Therapy
- Horticultural Therapy Methods
- Horticultural Therapy Programming
Quarter System?
If your educational institution uses a quarter system instead of semesters, you’ll need to convert your credits. ALL AHTA requirements are in semester credits, NOT quarter credits. Use our conversion table to calculate your credits correctly.
General Coursework Requirements
- Grade: All coursework must earn a grade of C- or above (or Pass for pass/fail courses)
- Credit: All coursework must be for college credit (not CEUs or workshops)
- Semester vs Quarter: You may combine semester and quarter credits (use conversion table)
- Pre-Approval Available: AHTA offers pre-approval of plant and human science coursework ($35 for members, $75 for non-members)
Two Pathways to HTR
Pathway 1 - Intensive Internship
480 hours of supervised clinical experience in horticultural therapy
What You’ll Need:
- Completed internship with approved supervisor
- Signed internship performance report
- Long-term project OR internship case study
Best for: Recent graduates or career changers who can dedicate focused time to an intensive training experience.
Pathway 2 - Work Experience
1,500 hours of documented employment providing horticultural therapy services
What You’ll Need:
- Signed Verification of Work Experience-HTR form
- Documentation of employment dates
- Verification of 1,500 hours of HT services
Best for: Professionals already working in the field who want to formalize their registrations.
Required Documents Checklist (HTR)
Everyone Must Submit:
- Official Transcripts: From all institutions where you completed relevant coursework (must be sent directly from the institution or in sealed envelope)
- Completed Online Application: AHTA professional registration application form
- Application Fee: $150 USD (online payment or check)
Plus ONE of the Following (based on your pathway):
- Internship Pathway Documents
- Work Experience Pathway Documents
Document Format Requirements:
- All documents must be submitted online.
- Acceptable formats are clean scanned copies in JPEG or PDF format.
- It is your responsibility to verify all materials have been received.
- Applications will not be reviewed until ALL documents are received.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
01
Verify Your Eligibility
Review the eligibility checklist above and make sure you meet all requirements before proceeding.
02
Gather Your Documents
Collect all required materials before starting your application, including:
- Official transcripts (ordered from your institutions)
- Completed and signed verification forms
- Internship reports OR work experience documentation
- Scanned copies in JPEG or PDF format
03
Complete the Online Application in One Sitting
Set aside 30–45 minutes in a quiet space. The form does not save, so you must complete it in one session. Have all documents ready to upload.
04
Pay Application Fee
- Submit $150 payment
- Online at time of application (recommended)
- Mail check to: AHTA Office, 8635 W Sahara Ave #711, Las Vegas, NV 89117
05
Wait for Review
Your application will be evaluated by the AHTA Professional Registration Review Board. Expect results in 6 weeks from the date all materials are received.
HTR Registration Resources
HTR Frequently Asked Questions
What if my school uses quarters instead of semesters?
No problem! Use our quarter-to-semester conversion table to calculate your credits. All AHTA requirements are listed in semester credits.
Do the 1,500 hours of work experience have to be internship hours supervised by an HTR?
No. If you choose the work experience option instead of an internship, the 1,500 hours do not have to be supervised by an HTR. You will need a verification form confirming the hours.
Can work experience from independent contract work count toward HTR hours?
Yes. Independent contracting hours can count if you provide proof of services (e.g., signed contract, paid invoices, or written agreement), and submit a work experience verification form for each site where hours were earned.
What happens if membership lapses after earning the HTR?
HTR status must be maintained by renewing the Professional-level AHTA membership annually. After three months of lapsed membership, a reinstatement fee applies; after two years, you must reapply for registration.
How long does the HTR application review take?
Once your complete application (including transcripts and verification forms) is received, AHTA’s Professional Registration Review Board generally takes about 6 weeks to review and respond.
HTR Fees & Timeline
How much does it cost to apply for the HTR credential?
There is a one-time application fee of $150 due at the time of your submission.
How long will it take to process my application?
The review process typically takes six weeks from the date your submission is considered complete.
Do I need to renew my HTR status every year?
While the credential itself does not expire, you must maintain an active Professional Membership with the AHTA to keep your HTR designation.
What happens if membership lapses after earning the HTR?
If your membership is inactive for three months or longer, a $75 reinstatement fee is required to restore your HTR status to good standing.
Important: Maintaining Your Regstration
Once approved, you must maintain Professional-level AHTA membership annually to keep your HTR status. After 3 months of lapsed membership, you'll pay a $75 reinstatement fee. After 2 years of lapsed membership, you must reapply for registration.
Ready to Apply?
Make sure you have all required documents ready before starting your application. The system does not autosave your progres
Reminder: Applications for the HTR will stop being accepted July 1, 2026 as the HT-BC is launched Fall 2026.
Resources & Support
Access essential documentation and direct support to ensure your application meets all AHTA standards