SOME OF THE MOST INTERESTING careers available today can be found in the field of landscape architecture. A landscape architect plans and designs land areas for parks, recreational facilities, private homes, campuses and other open spaces. The architect makes these outdoor spaces functional and attractive while ensuring they exist in harmony with the natural environment. The profession calls for creative and artistic skills as well as technical knowledge. Landscape architects play a vital role in protecting the environment. They make sure their projects meet the needs of the people who visit, while preserving nature itself. Their projects aim to reduce pollution and conserve scarce water. In addition to conceiving and helping to create man-made settings, landscape architects also restore natural places disturbed by human intervention, such as wetlands, mining areas and estuaries. They also work on historical preservation and cultural projects. Landscape architects earn on average almost $70,000 annually, and salaries are expected to increase. There are currently more than 20,000 jobs, with almost 15 percent growth in employment expected over the coming decade. Jobs can be found in cities large and small, in every state and many countries around the world. Many landscape architects work for private consulting firms, academic institutions, nonprofits and government agencies. Others own their own firms, either alone, or in a group partnership with other professionals, which can include residential and commercial architects. They collaborate with civil engineers, construction contractors, urban planners, garden designers, and other professionals to create projects that are attractive and useful. It takes at least seven years of education and training before you can receive your license as a landscape architect. You need a bachelor's degree to get started, followed by additional training as an intern or apprentice working under a licensed landscape architect, before you can be eligible to seek a state license. Master's degree programs are also available for graduate study. Would you be a good fit as a landscape architect? As in many other technically-oriented fields, an analytical mind and attention to details are necessary. An affinity with nature and artistic talent, are also helpful. Can you visualize better ways to arrange and enhance a natural setting? Could you translate your ideas into working models? Do you communicate well, speaking and in writing? Are you proficient with computer software? Can you keep pace with innovative techniques and regulatory changes? Would you like to create parks, resorts, campgrounds, golf courses, or school campuses that provide a relaxing, attractive setting for others? If you have good analytical, interpersonal, artistic and technical skills, you can enjoy a fulfilling career as a landscape architect. The work can be challenging and the hours are sometimes long. However, with the right training and experience, you can join others who achieve personal and professional satisfaction in landscape architecture.