Introduction to the Career
Landscape Design is both creative and scientific. The Landscape professional very often works as part of a team, comprising architects, planners, civil engineers and others. Landscape Designers not only create new landscapes but they also rehabilitate and conserve derelict and existing ones. Landscapes are needed in projects such as housing, roads, sports and leisure complexes, parks and gardens and land reclamation. Site sensitive selection together with expert design creates new landscapes of quality and visual interest.

Career Opportunities
The current shortage of Landscape Designers means qualified people are in high demand. There are very few qualifying courses in Ireland and most professionals are educated in the UK and USA. SCD graduates progress to degree-level in Gloucestershire University which is recognised by the European Federation of Landscape Architects, enabling graduates to work abroad. This accreditation is not yet available anywhere else in Ireland.

Opportunities exist to work in private practice as consultants undertaking commissions for both public authorities and private clients. There are also career opportunities in government departments, public bodies, local authorities, industry, sustainable development agencies and in the offices of architects, engineers and building contracting companies. Landscape Design offers an interesting, challenging and rewarding career for those with a talent for drawing, art and design and who have an interest in enhancing the natural environment.

HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN LANDSCAPE DESIGN