Landscape Design Classes
Design the landscape of your dreams.
The need to develop, preserve, and protect our open spaces and environmental and cultural resources has never been greater. NYBG’s engaging program gives you a solid, plant-focused foundation along with the skills and confidence to pursue your passion. What’s more, the Garden offers 250 inspiring acres of sustainable, functional landscapes for up-close, in-depth study. Take a single course for fun or pursue a professional Certificate in Landscape Design.
The NYBG Landscape Design Certificate Program prepares students for creative endeavors as landscape designers. Outstanding instructors who are working professionals cover every step of the design process, from landscape history to site analysis and design development. This interactive program enables you to take on a spectrum of projects from simple to complex and also to develop hands-on landscape design skills and expertise.
During the course of the Landscape Design Certificate Program, students will:
- Analyze existing landscapes, identify site-specific problems, and develop design solutions.
- Prepare planting plans that are practical, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing for a variety of projects.
- Demonstrate skills associated with site engineering practices, principles, and techniques.
- Develop strategies for practical success using business skills in pricing, purchasing, and more.
Student Testimonal
I began taking classes while in the midst of selling my former business. I only hoped to take a few classes, clear my head and prepare for life’s next chapter. Once begun, I decided to pursue a Certificate in Landscape Design. Soon I was spending my days walking the paths at NYBG. Nights I spent drawing and solving design problems. Now, Certificate in hand, I’ve happily turned a page in my life—with a clear head, some talented new friends, and a growing design consultancy.
David Connolly
2019 Graduate
The NYBG Landscape Design Summer Intensive gave me the jump-start I needed to start my ‘encore career.’ I am so grateful for the warm camaraderie of both my fellow classmates and the instructors. I hope to keep these friendships long after I graduate.
Liz Crawford
2018 Summer Intensive Student, Owner of Arcadia Design
At NYBG, I discovered more than a challenging curriculum: outstanding instructors, a community of nature enthusiasts, and inspiration through the ever-changing garden grounds. The Landscape Design Program gave me a strong foundation for lifelong learning aligned with my philosophy of a sustainable relationship with nature. As a result, my curiosity and passion for plants, art, and design evolved into an exciting and fulfilling new career as a landscape designer.
Andrea Spunberg
2018 Graduate, Landscape Designer, Leslie Needham Design LLC
I have rediscovered my love of learning here. NYBG offers an extensive collection of classes taught by exceptional instructors, and the Garden is a national treasure.
Marcia Kirkley
Nonprofit Founder, 2014 Landscape Design & Horticulture Graduate, 2018 Botany Graduate
I came to NYBG as a Summer Intensive Landscape Design student to see if I wanted to pursue a career in the field. From the first day, I knew I’d made the right decision. The teachers—landscape architects, historians, horticulturists—were experienced and encouraging, and the work was challenging. The Intensive confirmed my direction, and I’m currently on track to complete the Certificate program within a year.