Higher National Diploma in Garden Design
Introduction
A Garden Designer is a qualified professional involved in the design and implementation of outdoor spaces. Successful designers are skilled in a wide variety of disciplines, including; spatial design, plant knowledge, project management, construction and lighting design. They are self-motivated, independent and have excellent interpersonal communication skills.
Garden Designers are typically self-employed, sourcing new clients through advertising or recommendation, and will usually manage projects from inception to implementation and aftercare. While the majority of designers are self-employed, some work in conjunction with building contractors, architects, developers, or as part of a small design team.
Career Opportunities
Currently there are very few qualified garden designers working in this country. Those that have obtained recognised qualifications have done so abroad and have returned to reap the benefits. With the increasing demand outstripping supply, there are huge opportunities for successful graduates.
Successful designers can find themselves involved in a wide variety of projects, including; domestic scale gardens, small developments, roof gardens, showhouse design and historic restorations. Many designers are also exploiting the increased demand by specialising in one of the many emerging niche markets, of which, lighting, water gardens, sculpture and eco friendly gardens are just a few.
Aside from the burgeoning domestic market there are employment opportunities available abroad. With a recognised qualification, an eager graduate can obtain work throughout the world.
The garden design business is a dynamic, challenging and ultimately rewarding and satisfying career choice for the determined candidate.
Course Structure
This SCD course is run in conjunction with the Landscape Design course. The emphasis is on good quality design skills, supported by practical input in planting and construction. There is a strong emphasis on work experience in the second year. The support subjects Professional Practice and Business Management will help designers to set up and maintain their own businesses. Learners will visit sites and analyse the environment, soil, design issues etc. Returning to the studio, learners will then develop their design under the guidance of the design tutors.
Core Elements
Year 1
- Graphic Techniques
- Botany, Ecology and Plant Knowledge
- Digital Manipulation for Design 1
- Landscape Design in History (Historical Referencing)
- Graphic Techniques
- 2 and 3D Composition
- Construction
- Garden Planning
- Autocad/Photoshop/Illustrator
Year 2
- Surveying, Evaluation and Design
- Garden Detailing
- Advanced Digital Manipulation for Design
- Garden Maintenance
- Professional Practice
- Business Management
- Autocad/Photoshop/Illustrator
- Work Experience
| Course Code | GD1 (first year) GD2 (second year) |
| Duration | 2 years – full time September to May |
| Number of places | 30 each year |
| Number of contact hours per week | 20-26 |
| Timetable contact | 5 days |
Support Elements
- Field trips - visits to sites of interest.
- A European city is visited each year.
- Study Skills
- Career Advice and CV Preparation
- Enterprise Workshop
Assessment and Certification
- Assessment is by means of studio projects which are completed on a continuous assessment basis to develop analytical and presentation skills.
- Upon successful completion of the second year, graduates will be awarded a Higher National Diploma in Garden Design (HND) certified by BTEC/EDEXCEL.
Progression
Education/Training
SCD students who successfully complete the Higher National Diploma may apply to Year 3 of the BSc [Hons] Landscape and Garden Design degree course at Writtle College, University of Essex*. This degree is recognised by the Landscape Institute (UK).
*Awaiting approval
Entry Requirements
Year 1
Five passes at ordinary level (grade D or better)
Leaving Certificate Applied and Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme
Applicants should submit details of achievements.
Mature Students (including VTOS and BTEA)
Applicants without formal qualifications will be considered on the basis of
experience and overall demonstrable ability.
All applicants will have an advisory meeting to offer guidance and to ensure course suitability. Applicants will also be advised on course costs and registration details.
It is not a requirement to bring a portfolio, however, a portfolio can be made up of a variety of work that reflects the applicant’s drawings, paintings or any work that shows a keen interest in design.
Year 2
- Applicants must have successfully completed Year 1 or equivalent.
Fees
- There are no tuition fees for EU students. At course commencement, students are required to pay for books, exams, €200 PLC Government Levy (unless exempt), a Student Services fee and where applicable professional body registration fees.
- Students will also be required to purchase certain items, including drawing equipment.