Program Overview
The Landscape Contracting program provides students with hands-on training in design, horticulture, and business aspects of landscaping to prepare them for roles such as crew leaders, project supervisors, and estimators. The "learn by doing" approach involves field and laboratory experiences in surveying, design application, and construction. Graduates have career prospects in landscape contracting companies or entrepreneurship, and may pursue further education in related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Landscape Contracting program is designed to prepare students for careers as crew leaders, project supervisors, and estimators, as well as other managerial positions in the landscape industry. The program focuses on three primary areas: landscape design, horticulture, and landscape construction/business. It aims to develop students' skills in design, estimating, installation, and management.
Teaching:
The program emphasizes a "learn by doing" approach. Students gain practical experience through hands-on activities in both laboratory and field settings. They learn surveying techniques, apply design principles in studios and construction labs, and gain practical experience in building projects. The program also incorporates lectures and regular application of plant identification knowledge on campus.
Careers:
Upon completion of the program, graduates can pursue careers in:
- Landscape contracting firms
- Starting their own businesses
- Becoming a Massachusetts Certified Landscape Professional (MCLP) Graduates can also pursue further education in:
- Landscape Architecture (BSLA)
- Sustainable Community Development (BSSCD)
- BDIC
- Urban Forestry
Other:
The program is offered through the Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning and administered through the Stockbridge School of Agriculture. Students have opportunities to participate in:
- National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC)
- Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals (MLP)
- Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA)
