How to become a landscape architect

Bring harmony and function to the outdoors of cities, residential areas, and other spaces.

Pathways to this career

  1. Complete tertiary qualifications accredited by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA). This may be a bachelor degree followed by a masters or a dedicated undergraduate degree in landscape architecture.
  2. Are you an experienced landscaper? Advance your career progression with a master's qualification.
  3. Join recognised institutions such as AILA to stay up to date with industry news, meet like-minded people and expand your knowledge in the field.

What does a landscape architect do?

Landscape architects plan and oversee the creation and reinvigoration of outdoor areas including parks, urban plazas, and monuments. They combine creativity with technical know-how around materials, plants, soils, and ecological factors.

Duties and tasks

  • Create designs and material options indicating current vegetation, structures and properties of proposed area location.
  • Review companies to implement design, then oversee their progress and make sure they meet specifications.
  • Offer budget and time estimates for design, materials and labour.
  • Recommend design options, maintenance and improvements on landscaped areas.
  • Research geographical and ecological features of soil, runoff, and vegetation to determine appropriate land use.
  • Work with clients and landscape professionals to meet size requirements, budget and aesthetics.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

Step up your career with these resources

How to negotiate a higher salary

Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.

Is a career in project management right for you?

Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager. 

Are microcredentials worth it?

You can study a microcredential in just about any industry, from healthcare and education to business and marketing. Here’s why these skills-based short courses are worth your time.

5 qualities that make you a leader vs a manager

While managers dole out tasks, leaders take things a step further by inspiring everyone around them. Discover how you can become this kind of leader, no matter where you work.  

We're here to guide you there

Our student advisors can assist you with enrolment, help you plan your studies, and answer questions about how studying through Open Universities Australia can get you from where you are today, to where you want to be tomorrow.

13 OPEN (13 67 36)

Message, chat or SMS

Talk to a student advisor

We'll be in touch to answer your questions.

Student advisor Jason Student advisor Maria Student advisor Peter

Usually replies in 30 mins