Graduate Diploma (GDip) Landscape Design
A one year full-time course
This one-year conversion course aims to provide opportunities for graduates in related subject areas to pursue a design vocation within the professional field of landscape architecture. The syllabus is designed for UK graduates who already have a relevant degree and are looking to undertake the MA in Landscape Architecture. Relevant degrees include those associated with Art & Design, Geography, Biology, Horticulture and the Social Sciences.
This course is also suitable for overseas landscape students aspiring to achieve the MA in Landscape Architecture, as a transitional year, enabling them to adapt to a different cultural and professional context.
Top facts
- Provides entry to the MA in Landscape Architecture, accredited by the Landscape Institute for entry to the chartered profession.
- A small intake of highly motivated students from a wide range of backgrounds
- You will be taught alongside BA students, with additional input and support in Landscape History and Theory, design process and representation skills
- A 'Creative Laboratory' provides opportunities to enter design competitions and undertake small design commissions for community groups.
- Study tour to a major European city with all BA students
You will study
Graduate Diploma students are taught alongside 3rd year BA students in studio. Using Manchester as a laboratory, core design modules consider the issue of urbanism, 'space making' in the city and the natural and cultural dynamics of landscape as 'place'. Emphasis is placed on the role of landscape and its employment as a sustainable technology in urban systems.
Studio projects are complemented by skills sessions undertaken alongside 1st year BA students, which provide a grounding in basic drawing skills and the use of a range of key software applications. The historical, theoretical and cultural contexts for the discipline are taught through a series of small group seminars and workshops, encouraging independent research and shared group-based learning, led by a tutor. Finally, opportunities for involvement in 'live' projects or exploration of individual interests are encouraged through the Critical Practice unit.
Assessment
Portfolio of work submitted at the end of each session, which includes drawings, 3D models, digital imaging. Supporting Studies units are assessed through the submission of reports, essays and a Technical File. An award 'with Distinction' is offered.
Graduates
The majority of graduates continue their studies by taking the MA Landscape Architecture, which includes a work placement with a landscape design practice in the North West. Together the GDip/MA are jointly accredited by the Landscape Institute for entry to the chartered profession as a 'Licentiate Member' and recognised within the EU by the European Foundation for Landscape Architecture (EFLA) and the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA). Opportunities exist for postgraduate studies after either qualification.
Location
All Saints Campus, Manchester
Fees
UK and EU students full-time £9,000
UK and EU students part-time £750 per 10 credit unit. A Masters qualification typically comprises 180 credits.
Non-EU overseas students £11,000
Entry Requirements (2013 Entry)
You will normally have an undergraduate honours degree in a related field, with demonstrable commitment, enthusiasm and ability in art and design. Admission will normally be dependent on the presentation of a portfolio of art and design work at interview.