Two innovative new degree programs in landscape design begin this fall at Chesapeake College, making the regional community college Maryland’s first to offer a landscape architecture degree.
The area now has two new associate’s degree programs in Landscape Architecture and Landscape Management.
Highlighting modern techniques for design with an emphasis on sustainability, Chesapeake’s new programs are a perfect fit for the Eastern Shore, according to the program developers and local business owners.
“We have a bounty of natural resources on the Eastern Shore. The people who live here are committed to preserving those resources and showcasing all of this natural beauty,” said Greg Farley, director of the Chesapeake College Center for Leadership in Environmental Education (CLEEn).
The foundation course, Introduction to Landscape Architecture, will be offered this fall on Wednesday evenings. The course is required for both the Landscape Architecture and Landscape Management programs. The new curriculum includes classes in graphic design, plant science, and horticulture and landscape design. Majors in both degree concentrations will also take General Education courses such as chemistry and English composition.
Before developing the program, Farley gathered industry professionals in the region to gauge interest.
“The professionals enthusiastically supported the program. There is a definite need for credentialed professionals in our area,” Farley said. “It is growing industry in our region and Chesapeake is answering the call of industry leaders to provide highly-trained employees.”
One such local industry leader, Jan Kirsh, agreed with Farley.
“Training opportunities to produce skilled and knowledgeable landscape workers locally is a great idea whose time has come,” said Kirsh, who owns Jan Kirsh Landscapes, Ltd.
Jess Murphy, owner of JM Landscapes & Associates, said the program will appeal to both students looking to begin their careers and professionals already working in the field.
“I’ve found many people who have all kinds of experience in the landscape profession, but they lack a credential,” Murphy said. “This program is flexible and will meet the needs of those who want to brush up on some coursework, earn a certificate, finish the complete associate’s degree program or eventually transfer to a bachelor’s program.”
Murphy, a graduate of the University of Georgia’s master’s degree program in Landscape Architecture, will teach the introductory course this fall.
In addition to the two new associate’s degree programs, Chesapeake offers a letter of recognition in Land Use Management, a certificate in Environmental Monitoring and an associate’s degree in Environmental Science.
Fall classes begin Aug. 25. For more information, log on to chesapeake.edu or call 410.822.5400.
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