Working for an established florist, even as a cashier or delivery driver, provides valuable education and training. The American Institute of Floral Designers considers three years of on-the-job training equivalent to college coursework and certification.
An associate or bachelor's degree in either floral design or a related field may prove especially useful if you plan to become a chief florist or open your own business. Four-year and community colleges, as well as online degree programs, offer degrees in ornamental horticulture, floriculture (flower farming) or floral design. Such programs often include classes not only in floral design, but also in accounting, marketing and other skills required to run a floral design business.
Floral design certification programs, also offered by colleges and online, usually span a year or less and focus more on actual floral design than business management. Many national and state florist associations offer similar types of certification.
The American Institute of Floral Designers offers accreditation to those who have completed extensive on-the-job training; possess a college degree or certification in floral design or a related field; have taken specific courses from providers recommended by the institute; or have completed five online AIFD classes and a hands-on workshop.
The accreditation process involves an online test on the basics of floral design and an in-person evaluation that grades applicants on five specific designs they make themselves. As of April 2011, the institute charges $150 for enrollment and about $1,700 for the evaluation, which includes registration at the American Institute's National Symposium. If you pass, you may call yourself a Certified Floral Designer.