About Landscape Architecture School

Landscape architects develop landscape designs for homes, businesses, parks, playgrounds, golf courses and schools. This field requires professionals to have a creative vision, solid organizational skills and a working knowledge of plants, trees and flowers. Selecting an educational institution for landscape architecture involves time and research.

Purpose

Landscape architecture schools teach landscape design, construction and maintenance. Students learn how to develop landscaping plans that incorporate the current architecture, while also creating outdoor designs with both function and beauty. Basic landscaping principles, including gardening and plant species knowledge, are a focus in this type of school as well.

Curriculum

Course offerings vary depending on the institution, but schools generally require students to take courses covering basic environmental design, landscape fundamentals and the construction process. More specialized courses involve golf course planning, sustainable landscape design and soil analysis are available at some colleges.

Programs

Landscape architecture programs range from associate degrees that can be completed in two years to four-year programs leading to the Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture degree. Some schools offer online or distance education options. To ensure you choose a reputable program, find out if the school holds accreditation with a recognized organization, such as the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

Benefits

Although some companies allow landscape architects to participate in on-the-job training, those with a degree are more likely to receive higher levels of compensation. In addition, landscape professionals have better opportunities for employment in high-profile positions, such as those offered by golf courses, urban development agencies or construction firms.