Skip to Content
Expires in:
::

Get 5% OFF with code:

DG91WR

Garden Design

Certificate

Design and plan your own garden - from site analysis and layout to planting schemes and scaled drawings - via five hands-on projects with expert feedback.



Hero background

Why this course?

Turn ideas into an achievable garden plan. This beginner-friendly course gives enthusiasts a solid foundation in garden design—no prior qualifications required.

Structured around five practical assignments, you'll build skills step by step: surveying and analysing your site (aspect, soil, drainage), developing concepts and layouts, balancing hard and soft landscaping, designing planting for structure and seasonality, and communicating your scheme with clear drawings and presentations. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and know-how to plan a garden that suits your space and lifestyle.

You'll learn with expert - created resources - video tutorials, written guides and project briefs - and receive timely tutor support with detailed feedback on every submission, so you can progress with confidence and produce a resolved plan for your own garden.



UPCOMING

Certificate course

Date Start Date:
ANYTIME
HOME STUDY
The Home Study course allows you to learn entirely at your own pace and can be started anytime.

Best for: Students who want complete flexibility and prefer to study independently.

SCHEDULE

Online Self-Directed Learning

£455 Payment plans available
Enrol now
info

Entry requirements: To enrol on this course, you must be over 18 years of age.

BAC

BAC

Accreditation

The National Academy of Creative Arts is an accredited provider of the British Accreditation Council (BAC), a leading authority in quality assurance for independent education in the UK. Recognised globally by students, agents and government bodies, the BAC mark represents the highest standards in teaching, student welfare and institutional management.

STUDY MODE

Explore Our Flexible Learning Path

Home Study courses allow you to learn entirely at your own pace.

You will study through the Online Learning Centre, which provides access to instructional videos, written lessons, and course assignments, working through course materials and assignments independently while receiving feedback and guidance from your designated tutor.

There are no scheduled classes or assessment submission dates, giving you maximum flexibility to study around work, family, or other commitments.

Best for: Students who want complete flexibility and prefer to study independently.

OUTCOMES

What will you learn?

Understand landscape design fundamentals: balance, proportion, unity, rhythm, and focus

Learn to apply these core design principles to outdoor layouts, creating visually balanced and harmonious exterior spaces.

Plan simple outdoor layouts and functional pathways

Gain skills for designing practical outdoor spaces - drawing paths, patios, decks, and structuring yard flow effectively.

Select appropriate plants and materials for cohesive outdoor schemes

Learn how plant choices, color palettes, and hardscape materials work together to create inviting exterior environments.

Use basic presentation tools: sketches, layout drawings, and mood boards

Develop visual communication skills to express your outdoor design ideas clearly and confidently.





PROGRAM

Course Overview

Transform your garden into a masterpiece with our comprehensive guide to garden design essentials. Discover how to select the perfect plants and craft stunning color schemes that breathe life into your outdoor space. This course offers you the secrets to creating harmonious and visually striking gardens that captivate the senses.

Key learnings:

  • Balance and Proportion
  • Unity and Repetition
  • Movement and Rhythm
  • Creating Contrast
  • Mastering Colour
  • Designing Focal Points
  • Embracing Simplicity
  • Understanding Material Choices
  • The Seven Principles of Plant Selection

Transform your outdoor space into a stunning garden retreat with our expertly curated guide. Discover essential elements that will enhance the beauty and functionality of your garden, from stylish outdoor floors to captivating themes. Dive into the art of garden design and create an outdoor haven you’ll love.

Key learnings:

  • Path and Patio Planning
  • Decks
  • Living Floors
  • Lawns
  • Garden Walls
  • Living Walls
  • Hedges and Shelterbelts
  • Seaside Themes
  • Cottage Style
  • Mediterranean Style
  • Modern or Architectural Garden
  • Fragrance Garden
  • Wildlife Garden
  • Vegetable Border Garden
  • Rockeries
  • Japanese Gardens

TUTORS

Meet Our Garden Design Educators

All our tutors are creative professionals working in the industry.

FAQ

Can't find what you need?

Find answers to commonly asked questions about admissions, programs, financial aid, and more. If you have a question that's not listed here, feel free to reach out to us directly.

The National Academy of Creative Arts is dedicated to helping aspiring creatives develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in today's creative industries.

Whether you're looking to start a new career, develop your professional skills or pursue higher education, we offer flexible study options, experienced tutors and industry-focused courses designed around real-world practice.

As part of the Further Learning Group, an established education provider supporting thousands of students across specialist academies, we're committed to delivering a high-quality learning experience from enquiry through to graduation.

Yes.

We offer a range of professionally recognised qualifications, including Certificates, Diplomas, Professional Diplomas and Pearson BTEC Higher National qualifications.

Selected higher education pathways also provide the opportunity to progress to a BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree, validated and awarded by the University of Hertfordshire.

Our BTEC qualifications are awarded by Pearson, one of the world's leading education organisations, giving students confidence that they're studying qualifications recognised by employers and educational institutions.

Absolutely.

Our flexible study options are designed to fit around your lifestyle. Depending on your chosen course, you can study from home, attend live online classes or join classroom sessions, allowing you to balance your studies with work, family and other commitments.

We know everyone learns differently, so many of our courses are available in a choice of study modes.

Depending on the course, you can choose from:

  • Home Study
  • Live Online Classes
  • Classroom-Based Learning

Whichever option you choose, you'll receive expert tutor support throughout your studies.

Not usually.

Many of our students begin with little or no previous experience. Whether you're taking your first steps into a creative subject or building on existing skills, our tutors will support you throughout your learning journey.

Individual entry requirements vary for higher education courses, and these are clearly explained on each course page.

Yes.

From the day you enrol, you'll have access to experienced tutors who provide guidance, feedback and encouragement throughout your studies.

You'll also have access to our Online Learning Centre, comprehensive learning resources and our Student Services team, ensuring you always have someone to turn to whenever you need help.

That's exactly what many of our students are looking to achieve.

Our courses are designed to develop practical, industry-relevant skills that prepare you for employment, freelance opportunities or further study.

Selected courses also include optional work placement opportunities, helping you gain valuable real-world experience.

Yes.

We offer selected higher education pathways that enable students to progress from the Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) to the Higher National Diploma (HND) and then to a BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree, validated and awarded by the University of Hertfordshire.

These pathways combine practical, industry-focused learning with recognised higher education qualifications.

We're here to help.

Whether you're exploring a creative hobby, preparing for university, changing careers or looking to advance professionally, our friendly Course Advisors can help you choose the course and study option that's right for your goals.

People increasingly want flexible ways to develop creative skills without putting their careers or personal lives on hold.

A high-quality online creative course allows you to learn from experienced tutors, study at times that suit you and build practical, industry-relevant skills from anywhere. At the National Academy of Creative Arts, many courses are also available through Live Online and Classroom-Based learning, giving you the flexibility to choose the study experience that works best for you.

Back to top