Landscape Design DLS

Holland Code: A (Artistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy Drawing and creative abilities are assets.

Math & Science Grade 11 or 12 math required; Moderate math skills needed for drafting and measurement purposes; Basic understanding of science or botany.

Technology Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office, email, Internet).

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• The ability to think three-dimensionally and visualize spatial relationships
• Creativity and problem solving skills
• The ability to do precise work
• An interest in computers and the development of natural and created environments
• Enjoy using instruments and equipment to perform tasks requiring precision
• Enjoy analyzing information and taking a methodical approach to their work
• Enjoy being an assistant to a landscape architect or landscape designer
• Good oral and written communication skills
• The ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Sensitivity to the needs of people and their relationship with their environment
• Good time management skills
• Enjoy sketching, doodling
• Interest in plants, gardening

Useful background experience for this program would be …

Drawing, gardening, landscape construction, building, and designing environments.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Landscape designer, landscape architect, landscape construction supervisor, project manager.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Architectural and landscape architectural firms, parks and recreation offices, landscaping contractors and supply companies, irrigation design and building companies , greenhouses and nurseries, golf course design companies, government agencies, or self-employed.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Usually working regular hours in an office environment
• Travel may be required  for site visits

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Involved in the technical aspects of planning, designing and developing: residential landscapes and private gardens; institutional and commercial properties; rehabilitation of naturalized areas ; public parks; storm water retention ponds; multi-family residential projects; new communities or subdivisions; resorts and entertainment facilities; interior courtyard spaces in residential, commercial and institutional buildings.
• Draft plans
• Prepare graphic presentation drawings to communicate and sell designs
• Prepare computer-assisted technical drawings
• Assist in compiling site analysis information
• Construct models
• Draft construction-drawing packages that include grading, planting, irrigation, layout and details/preparation
• Estimate project cost
• Supervise and/or inspect projects under construction
• Write contracts and proposals
• Assemble specifications
• Help select plant materials, hard surface materials, site furnishings, play equipment and outdoor lighting
• Consult with clients and assist in making presentations
• Provide graphics for marketing brochures and portfolios

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA)
• Landscape Ontario
• Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Graduates may receive advanced standing into the third year of Fanshawe’s Bachelor of Environmental Design and Planning 
• Credits from advanced diploma may transfer to a university degree at many different schools, and in particular the University of Guelph More information.
• The Landscape Design Program offers a semester abroad in Italy as well as study trips Brazil and the United States. More information. 

Last Modified: January 11, 2024