Landscape Design Degrees: Career Options for Graduates with a Landscape Design Degree

Published Jul 31, 2009

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A Landscape Design specialist has the opportunity to be both creative and practical in the design and implementation of landscape features. An understanding of plants and a strongly developed sense of visual creativity help provide landscapes and grounds for the enjoyment of homeowners, businesses and the general public. Many Landscape Design careers require a bachelor's degree, although an associate's degree or a master's degree can open the way to career opportunities; read further for more information.

Associate's Degree in Landscape Design Career Summary

An associate's degree program in Landscape Design is the entrance into many horticultural careers. Many graduates go to work for an established residential Landscape Design firm in order to gain experience. A career in Landscape Design can include working in a garden center, greenhouse operation or at an architectural firm. Other entry-level positions related to Landscape Design are nursery assistant, pest and weed controller, and tree service technician.

Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Design Career Summary

Some graduates with a bachelor's degree in Landscape Design serve as consultants in retail garden stores or nurseries. Landscape Design consultants answer customers' questions about plants, landscape elements, water management, pest control and erosion prevention. In a wholesale operation, a Landscape Design specialist can provide purchasing suggestions for buyers. Maintenance of outdoor public areas, such as parks, resorts, golf courses and nature preserves, is another career for holders of a bachelor's degree in Landscape Design. An internship completed while earning a bachelor's degree in Landscape Design helps to expand the practical knowledge of the student.

Master's Degree in Landscape Design Career Summary

A master's degree in Landscape Design provides graduates with the right skills and knowledge to establish a business of their own. Landscape Design architects design and initiate hardscapes, select plants and other landscape features, and supervise placement and maintenance of plants in order to beautify sites. Hardscape elements include masonry, concrete, wood or other non-plant items placed in the Landscape Design. Landscape Designers can work with indoor spaces, such as shopping malls, as well as with outdoor areas. Other Landscape Design career options include teaching, administrative roles and supervisory positions.

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