New MSU landscape contracting and management concentrations expand career pathways

Author: Karen Brasher

Students compete in a hardscape installation at the National Collegiate Landscape Competition, which Mississippi State hosted in 2023. (Photo by Submitted)

Mississippi State is introducing two new degree concentrations designed to boost graduate competitiveness and potential earnings in the thriving landscape contracting and management industry.

MSU's Department of Landscape Architecture has added landscape ecosystem management and landscape business management concentrations, set to significantly expand graduate opportunities, according to Timothy J. Schauwecker, professor and degree program coordinator.

"As our industry moves toward sustainable practices and habitat restoration, the landscape ecosystem management concentration, which delves into biology, environmental science, ecology and environmental economics and policy, equips students to join the growing number of habitat restoration firms in our region," he said.

Alongside this academic addition, the landscape business management concentration offers a robust curriculum in entrepreneurship, management, marketing, human resources and business regulations.

"This pathway is perfect for students aiming to launch their own businesses or enhance their profiles for top-tier industry positions," Schauwecker said.

Accredited by the National Association of Landscape Professionals, MSU's Bachelor of Science in Landscape Contracting and Management equips students not only with the skills to execute a landscape architect's design, but also the ability to design and implement planting plans and best management practices.

To explore the possibilities of a career in landscape contracting and management, schedule a visit or apply to MSU, visit https://www.lalc.msstate.edu/students/degrees.php.

Date: 2024-08-29