OverviewAbout this course

    The Diploma of Landscape Design provides you with the expertise and knowledge to succeed in the landscape industry. You'll be able to learn practical, real world skills that are used by a landscape designer. These may include hand drawing and computer-aided design (CAD) skills, assessing sites and soil, and being able to identify different varieties of plants and trees.

    By combining these practical skills with your creative vision, you'll be equipped to plan, prepare and produce functional, outdoor designs that meet client needs. In addition to these skills, you'll also learn how to comply with work health and safety, environmental regulations and legislations that apply in the workplace.

    TAFE NSW is the leading provider of education and training in Australia, with over 130 years of history. Our courses are designed in close consultation with industry, so you graduate with relevant, up-to-date skills and knowledge.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:

    • Understand emerging technology such as computer-aided design (CAD) software
    • Build a strong knowledge of plants and trees
    • Gain site assessment skills
    • Complete small and large-scale residential gardens
    • Design projects with local parks

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in:

    • Preparing a landscape design
    • Designing for the construction of landscape features
    • Producing drawings for landscape design projects using CAD software
    • Designing sustainable landscapes and assessing landscape sites
    • Preparing estimates, quotes and tenders

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • Creativity and imagination
    • An enjoyment of working outside
    • An interest in gardening and design
    • An eye for detail
    • Effective communication skills
    • An interest in technical details

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Landscape Designer
    • Landscape Gardener

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    To achieve this qualification, competency must be demonstrated in 12 units of competency 6 core units plus 6 elective units. 3 must be from the electives listed below 3 from the remaining electives listed below or any currently endorsed Training Package or accredited course.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Prepare a landscape designAHCDES505

    • Design for construction of landscape featuresAHCDES506

    • Produce drawings for landscape design projects using CAD softwareAHCDES507

    • Design sustainable landscapesAHCDES508

    • Assess landscape sitesAHCDES509

    • Specify plants for landscapesAHCPCM511

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Whatever your career ambitions, we will help you get there with a range of courses to develop your skills, build your knowledge and prepare you for work.

    TAFE NSW is here to create exceptional learner experiences and to support you on your study journey to make sure you achieve your goals.

    Explore your study options across a range of disciplines and talk to your TAFE NSW Education Agent or contact us.

    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
    • Smarthinking - online access to a tutor
    • LinkedIn Learning - an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International