They plan the location of buildings, roads and walkways, arranging flowers, shrubs and trees so that areas are functional, aesthetically pleasing and compatible with the natural environment. They confer with clients, engineering personnel and architects on the overall program. They gather and analyze data on the natural elements of the site, including the soil, vegetation, rock features, climate, slope of land, drainage and structure locations when preparing their report and plans. Then they develop detailed plans of the site which includes written reports, land - use studies, costs estimates and sketches showing new topography, vegetation walkway and landscape amenities. Once the project is underway they continue their involvement inspecting and approving the construction work in progress.
Many people continue to get a Master's Degree which takes two or three years.
To be a licensed landscape architect you also need to pass a Uniform National Licensing Exam and have one to four years of work experience depending on the state. Few schools in Missouri offer horticulture and agriculture programs. Employment opportunities are good through the year 2005. Opportunities will vary depending on the economy and ocation. Most jobs are directly related to the amount of construction occurring.