How to Become a Professional Landscape Designer

Landscape designers develop exterior spaces, such as parks.

Landscape designers develop and implement plans for outdoor spaces. They work with businesses as well as residential clients. Land Lovers, a website for individuals interested in landscape or gardening careers, explains that landscape designers use pencil-and-paper as well as computer software programs to prepare plans for their clients. In addition to enjoying the outdoors, aspiring landscape designers should be well-organized to keep projects on time and under budget. Solid communication skills are also a must, as landscape designers must supervise other contractors, and keep clients apprised of a project's progress.

Instructions

1. Select an appropriate educational program. While an associate's degree in landscape design is the minimum educational requirement, a bachelor's or higher degree is preferred by many employers. An undergraduate degree includes courses in plant identification, irrigation design, landscape design and landscape management. Graduate-level programs cover topics such as sustainability, construction methods, site engineering and the history of landscape design.

2. Earn a professional credential. The Association of Professional Landscape Designers administers certification in the field. Candidates need at least four years experience as landscape designers, and must be "professional" members of the association, meaning an academic background. Certification is awarded to landscape designers based on a review of three completed projects. For each project, a candidate submits a plan drawing, photographs, a statement of design intent and a plant list. The association reviews candidate portfolios four times per year.

3. Maintain your professional landscape designer certification. The association requires certified landscape designers to recertify every three years. You can do this by submitting proof of completion of at least 30 continuing education credits. Acceptable forms of continuing education credits include lectures and workshops.

Tips & Warnings

• The certification review committee may return submissions that demonstrate an insufficient educational background and require an applicant to complete further study before resubmitting the application.

References

• The Land Lovers: Landscape Design
• Kent State University: Horticulture Technology Degree Requirements
• Association of Professional Landscape Designers: Criteria for Certification
• Association of Professional Landscape Designers: Certification
• George Washington University: Graduate Certificate or Master's Degree in Landscape Design