Employment opportunities
Landscape professionals are most often hired by design/build landscaping firms or are self-employed. They may also be hired by cities, private developers, golf courses, and park services, working in planning, development, and conservation. Expertise in this area of horticulture may also lead to sales careers.

Job outlook
Landscaping is currently a $61 billion industry with endless job opportunities, according to the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA). Growth in this field is on a par with jobs in construction, which has been booming since the 1990s. With our ever-changing urban and suburban environments—from roadways to shopping malls—the landscaper’s skills will continue to be in demand.

The fastest growth has occurred in landscape maintenance. Besides designers and contractors, people with horticultural degrees are needed at resorts and golf clubs, parks, plant nurseries, botanical gardens, retail garden centers, and other related businesses.


Earning potential
Nationally in 2000, landscape architects and designers averaged about $43,500 annually. Further education and specialization can lead to high-end salaries of $85,000. Entry-level positions in landscaping firms average about $23,000.

Career advancement
Advancement is possible in landscape design fields, whether you are working in sales, maintenance, or design. An academically broad background, like the one Parkland offers with the A.A.S degree, can help, with computer and communication courses, business math, or art.

Career choices with your certificate:
• Landscaper for landscaping firm
• Landscaper for city or state
• Groundskeeper
• Self-employed landscaper
• Salesperson for gardening store
• Conservation worker

With experience and/or further education you may go on to:
• Landscape architect
• Surveyor
• Landscape architect with construction firm
• Golf course specialist
• Parks and conservation manager
• Horticulturist