Below is information on the most recent Landscape Design School in Massachusetts and FAQs. Updates on future schools will be posted here.
Schools in other parts of the country that meet the credential requirements of the LDC can be found here.
The Garden Club Federation of Massachusetts
LANDSCAPE DESIGN SCHOOL 2024
Series 17 Course 2
October 29-31, 2024
8:00 AM-12:45 PM Via Zoom
Contacts:
Local School Chair
Susie MacPherson
(781) 249-8905
Registrar
Judy Karlin
5 Mattakesett Circle
Sharon, MA 02067
(781) 784-1958
About Landscape Design School
National Garden Clubs, Inc. (NGC) welcomes everyone to its educational program in landscape design. Courses are held under the guidance of the state garden clubs and international affiliate garden clubs. The purpose of the school (LDS) is to develop in students an appreciation of the environment, both natural and built. It is not to be considered professional training, but is designed to further educate the accomplished, as well as inform the novice gardener.
The curriculum is a series of four 10-hour courses that is usually held over a period of three days. It covers a wide range of subjects: from landscape design history to landscape architecture in the current year and beyond, as well as instruction from landscape architects in a variety of design techniques used in home and municipal settings. The courses may be taken out of sequence and in any location in the country. A written examination is given after each of the four courses.
Students completing the four courses may become NGC accredited Landscape Design Consultants and may join the Landscape Design Council (LDC). Consultants are required to refresh their credentials every 5 years. Students who successfully complete 2 courses may become provisional members of the LDC. Further requirements, procedures aand other information may be found here.
Since its founding in l958, the program’s professional instructors have maintained the high standards originally incorporated in the school. Also offered are many optional programs, such as conferences, symposiums, and tours. Students acquire the tools for making their own gardens more beautiful and easier to maintain. Many students have been motivated to serve in political decision-making areas where awareness of the impact of a well-designed landscape can enhance the beauty and enjoyment of life in the public arena.
FAQs
What is Landscape Design School?
Landscape Design School (LDS) is a series of four courses presented by distinguished lecturers on landscape design, methods, history, theory and analysis. In Massachusetts, one course is given each year in sequential order. LDS is open to the public.
Who is it for?
LDS benefits anyone who wants to enhance their knowledge of landscape design—personally, for civic projects or as an introduction to a future career. It is a prerequisite for GCFM members who wish to become a Consultant of the prestigious Landscape Design Council (LDC.) After successfully completing two courses, a member may obtain Provisional Consultant status in the LDC. After four courses, a member may obtain Consultant status. LDS also serves as credit for Consultants to refresh their credentials or attain Master Consultant status.
Do the courses have to be taken in order?
No. A student may start with any course. To receive credit for Consultant status, the four courses must be completed in seven years.
Why an exam?
While optional, all students are encouraged to take the exam. Passing two exams provides eligibility for becoming a Provisional Consultant. Passing four exams provides eligibility for becoming a Landscape Design Consultant. Refreshers do not take the exam.
What the exam based on?
The exam is on the assigned readings, lectures and Course Booklet. The lectures supplement the readings and do not teach the text. Therefore, it is important to read the text prior to taking the exam.