Landscape Training: Education and Job Training Requirements for a Career in Landscaping

Published Aug 11, 2009

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If you have admired the layout of shrubs, ponds and trees at a park, office plaza or country club, you are witnessing the work of Landscaping professionals. From mowing lawns to designing elaborate gardens, Landscaping is a career that combines physical labor with artistic skills. If such work interests you, you will likely want to learn more about the education and job training requirements for a career in Landscaping.

Landscaping Career Summary

A career in Landscaping can mean more than mowing and weeding. Designing outdoor environments for residential areas, parks, golf courses, hotels, resorts and even theme parks can be part of a Landscaping career. Landscaping involves the placement of foliage, bodies of water, rocks and man-made structures such as fences to create attractive outdoor scenery. It also includes Landscaping maintenance and management.

Education Required For a Career in Landscaping

In most cases, no formal degree is required for a career in Landscaping. For instance, Landscaping professionals who perform lawn maintenance for residential homes generally do not need a degree. However, some colleges and universities offer degree programs in Landscaping design, landscape contracting, landscape architecture or horticulture. Students can pursue an associate's or bachelor's degree in these areas. Master's degrees in all of these areas but landscape contracting are also available. These programs teach students everything from creating site designs to operating their own Landscaping business.

Job Training and Certifications Required For a Career in Landscaping

For some, training in Landscaping involves working as helpers for Landscaping contractors. Some degree programs in landscape architecture, landscape contracting or Landscaping design offer internships to eligible students. Students can find internships with Landscaping management companies, Landscaping contractors, nurseries, country clubs, and golf clubs or through professional Landscaping associations. Many Landscaping contractors choose to get certified by professional organizations such as the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), www.landcarenetwork.org. Individuals can become certified Landscaping technicians, Landscaping designers or Landscaping contractors. Certifications in specific areas of Landscaping are also offered, such as in retaining wall construction or ornamental Landscaping.

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