I do not have a degree and I am not a professional. Mostly based on my reading of this forum I would be willing to bet that the horticulture and design degrees are not the same thing as a landscape architecture degree. Search this forum for "landscape architect" and you will find some threads talking about the topic (including the one linked below).

- Brent

Here is a link that might be useful: Landscape Architect career vs Landscape Design

Look at the American Society of Landscape Architects web page. They do not control the licensing of LA's, but they are the most dominant organized group that influences the LA industry, so they have a great deal of information on their site.

Here is a link that might be useful: ASLA

I studied architecture in college and I could have gone down a Landscape Architecture path if I wanted to.

First, the program is a Bechelors Degree and is at least 5 years. It is a VERY intense program where you will spend a minimum of 12 hours per week of classroom time in studio, PLUS your regular classes, PLUS your homework time in studio. At least once a week, most students pulled an all nighter. It is a full time program and there are no exceptions ever made to that. It's pretty much impossible to complete the program part time.

Now, on top of all that work in school, you will likely have to apprentice for a period of time, before you can actually call yourself a LA.

If you consider studying Landscape Design or Landscape Architecture, you'd likely go to work for a Landscaper or Nursery and do design work for them. It may or may not include hardscape work as well.

LA's, however, are concerned about very big picture and potentially even with site manipulation, for improved drainage, city compliance or other reasons.

HTH!
Melissa