Course Info

Foundations of Gardening (FOG) is a comprehensive 10-week online MSU Extension course. This course is designed for any adult who wants to learn the science behind great gardening and is also the first step toward becoming an MSU Extension Master Gardener (EMG) volunteer. People who wish to apply to the MSU EMG volunteer program can continue the application process once they have earned their FOG certificate. Those who do not want to become an EMG have no further obligations. Receiving a FOG certificate does not guarantee an individual will become an MSU EMG and the timing of volunteer application steps may vary by county.

Learn more in our Foundations of Gardening Course Syllabus 

This course replaces MSU Extension's former MSU Extension Master Gardener training; however, not everyone who registers for this course needs to apply to become an MSU Extension Master Gardener. You may take this course for personal reasons and leave with our certificate if you pass the course.  If interested in joining the MSU Extension Master Gardener Program after enrolling in this course, click here for more details on steps to apply to become and MSU EMG. Taking this course does not guarantee you will become an MSU EMG but is the first step needed to apply to become one. A FOG certificate can be used to apply to the MSU EMG Volunteer Program for up to three years after receiving the certificate.

Although this course is directed to adults, teens can take the FOG course; however, no one under the age of 18 can apply to become an MSU EMG.

Inquiries about the MSU Extension Master Gardener Program: MSUE.MG@msu.edu

Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. Please indicate any accessibility requests by emailing MSUE.FOG@msu.edu. 

Foundations of Gardening Course Content

 

10 Self-Paced Units
(One per week)

Ten units composed of readings, videos, activities, and website explorations. Learning materials are completed prior to attending the live virtual class each week.

10 Live Virtual Class Sessions
(One per week)

Each week a 2.5-hour webinar is taught by MSU experts in the field. Lectures reinforce and expand on content and include polls, demonstrations, and a Q&A session.

 

Assessments and Certification

Weekly assessments are used to track knowledge gains. Those who achieve a score of 80% or higher on all unit post-assessments and the final exam earn a Certificate of Completion.

 

Social Opportunities

A virtual social discussion board provides opportunities to connect with others taking the course.

 

Downloadable Resources

The contents of this course are entirely online. All readings and many resources can be downloaded for use during and after the course.

 

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