Landscape Architecture

Program Overview

The Landscape Architecture program combines design and ecology to address environmental challenges. It emphasizes critical thinking, artistic principles, and collaboration, preparing students for careers in landscape architecture, urban design, and environmental management. Through studio-based learning, internships, and research opportunities, students gain hands-on experience and develop a comprehensive foundation for professional practice and lifelong learning.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program Overview: Landscape architecture is a discipline that merges design and ecology to address the environmental needs of growing populations, expanding cities, and fragile ecosystems.
The Landscape Architecture program emphasizes critical thinking, artistic principles, environmental awareness, and construction technology, providing students with a comprehensive foundation for professional practice, scholarly research, and personal growth.
• Objectives: Graduates will possess the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to:
• Critically analyze and respond to the challenges and opportunities posed by the built and natural environments.
• Creatively and sustainably design landscapes that enhance the human experience, protect ecosystems, and promote social equity.
• Communicate effectively through a variety of media, including drawing, modeling, writing, and presentation.
• Collaborate effectively with professionals from diverse disciplines to create innovative and integrated design solutions.
• Engage in lifelong learning and professional development to stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies.

Outline:

• Course Sequence:
• First Year:
• Landscape Architecture 2300: Outlines of the Built Environment
• Landscape Architecture 2310: Seeing and Making
• Second Year:
• Studios emphasizing drawing and modeling
• Exploring terrain and ecology
• Conceptual exercises
• Design interventions on small local sites
• Third Year:
• Programs, systems, and details of landscape practice
• Studio projects engaging the medium of landscape architecture
• Fourth Year:
• Advanced seminars and electives
• Special topics with faculty
• Hybrid programs on complex sites
• Design and material research
• Study Abroad:
Students are encouraged to participate in Knowlton-led education abroad programs during their studies.
• Course Structure: The program revolves around studio-based learning, supported by lectures, seminars, and coursework in technology, ecology, digital representation, and history/theory.
Studio projects range from designing small gardens to planning regional agricultural systems and ecosystems.

Assessment:

Assessment methods may include, but are not limited to:

• Studio Work: Projects, critiques, and presentations
• Written Assignments: Essays, reports, and research papers
• Exams: Midterms, finals, and quizzes
• Participation: Attendance, engagement, and contributions to class discussions
• Portfolio Development: Students will develop a professional portfolio showcasing their work

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Studio-based learning
• Lectures and seminars
• Fieldwork and site visits
• Guest speakers
• Internships
• Faculty: The program is led by a team of experienced landscape architects, architects, and urban designers with expertise in a wide range of areas.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through studio projects, internships, and research opportunities.
Students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects, collaborate with professionals, and engage in interdisciplinary research.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates are prepared for careers in:
• Landscape architecture firms
• Architecture, urban design, engineering, and planning firms
• Development and design/build companies
• Environmental management
• Public sector roles
• Academic careers
• Potential Roles:
• Landscape Architect
• Urban Designer
• Environmental Planner
• Park Ranger
• Landscape Contractor
• Project Manager
• Sustainability Consultant
• Opportunities: Graduates have opportunities to pursue advanced degrees in landscape architecture, architecture, planning, urban design, and other related fields.