Garden Design

Overview

If you have a degree in geography, biology, horticulture, environmental science, arts, interior architecture or architecture, you are suitable to apply to this Garden Design programme from Writtle University College. In addition, we have successful graduates who came from diverse backgrounds and varied careers, such as teachers, managers, theatre set designers, artists, scientists and many more.

Degree structure

1st year: Conversion course

In order to apply to this course, you should select ’Master of Landscape Architecture Programme’, as the first year is shared by conversion landscape architecture and garden design students. The curriculum is based on the necessary set of skills and knowledge that both groups share and learn together in a variety of modules ranging from planting design and ecological principles, design studios and construction. In this year you will learn spatial design principles in our design studios while also working in our campus-wide outdoor studios and glass houses.

Creative design studio culture

Conversion students share the design studio with other landscape and garden design students. Our design studio culture is part of the teaching and learning experience where students have the opportunity to experience a professional design working environment and teamwork within a dynamic and creative environment.

2nd year progression

In your 2nd year you will be automatically enrolled to MA Garden Design programme after successful completion of the conversion year where you will continue with your studies in the MA Garden Design programme.

Delivery and Assessment

The MA in Garden Design course engages in this method of teaching by organising its professional programmes through lectures, seminars, studio and site visits as a critical combination for learning. As a studio-based design course, Garden Design is taught through core seminars and lectures in landscape and garden theory, landscape ecology, history and advanced design studio. These modules are accompanied by study i.e. in professional practice and garden technology and construction. 

Career Prospects

Graduates will gain the intellectual, organisational, communication and technical skills and tools needed in a profession that must understand and create gardens and designed landscapes through social, cultural, ecological and economic implications of sites, communities and regions.

Career possibilities for graduates include working for garden design practices, private or public organisations and gardens, community-led outreach work, writing and media projects, and teaching in the fields of garden design.