Landscape Architecture Degree Program
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture is a discipline that incorporates bodies of knowledge from the liberal arts area as well as the sciences into an educational program, which focuses on the design, planning, and management of the environment. Artistic design principles and ecological planning strategies harmonize on the land in the creation of spaces that allow humankind to live, survive, and enjoy the surrounding environment. Landscape architects have historically been involved in the creation and layout of public lands such as parks, highways, preserves, and conservation districts. Landscape architects have also contributed to the design, planning, and management of private land development such as housing, resorts, and urban centers. The profession also offers services in the construction, maintenance, and nursery industry sectors.
The Washington State University program in landscape architecture is a fully accredited five-year program. Enrollment is limited in the upper division so that the student/faculty ratio is kept at a reasonable level. Students who enroll often enter the program while others might have more training in the arts and humanities. The landscape architecture program educates the student in basic drafting and design skills to build up a sense of the perception of space. Students are further trained in basic human and natural forces. Students are given a certain degree of flexibility in the choice of elective and the development of courses that can lead to a minor. Opportunities to take courses throughout the university system are available to each student. Working closely with an advisor, the student can pursue a course of study, which is reviewed and updated each semester.
Departmental Options/Sample Course Work
Landscape architecture offers students a professionally oriented foundation of course work in landscape design, planning and construction, facilities design, computer technology, social sciences, and natural and cultural land-use analysis. Course work in the physical and biological sciences, humanities, and fine art is an integral part of the program.
The curriculum prepares students to deal with a broad spectrum of issues, ranging from new community design to farmland protection, and from park design to campus planning developing countries. Graduates are prepared to pursue a variety of careers dedicated to solving sensitive land use and design problems in close association with both public and private clients.
Special Strengths of WSU's Program
Courses in landscape architecture provide small-group experiences directed by faculty committed to maintaining a close and supportive relationship with students. A progression of projects developed by the design faculty allow students to express personal solutions within a one-on-one environment. Lecture rooms adjoin studios with individual drafting stations, and students have access to a microcomputer laboratory with an extensive graphic software libary.
The program in Landsape Architecture is composed of a five-year curriculum leading to a professional degree, bachelor of landscape architecture. Each Student will spend the first, second, and third years at the Pullman campus and the fourth year at the WSU Spokane Interdisciplinary Design Institute. The students then have the option of staying in Spokane for their fifth year or returning to the Pullman campus. Dual residency allows each student to explore most facets of landscape architecture and work in an interdisciplinary academic environment. Landscape architecture faculty are available to students on both campuses through personal contact and interactive television. The fifth year involves an independent design/research project selected by each student with one-on-one assistance by a member of the faculty. An active student club affiliated with the American Society of Landscape Architects keeps students involved with their chosen profession and opportunities in the field.
