Do you have a creative mind or a passion for horticulture and plants? Are you looking to adopt this domain as a profession? Finally, are you looking to enroll in an online landscape architecture degree? This article closely focuses on how to choose different landscape architecture programs and start your professional career. Read on to learn more!
Article Navigation: Landscape Architecture Explained | Why Get a Degree in This Profession? | Online Landscape Architecture Degree Overview | How To Choose the Right Program | Online Landscape Architecture Degree/Graduate Certificate | Certifications and Licensure | Scholarships for Landscape Architecture | Career Overview | Professional Organizations for Landscape Architects | FAQs | Apply Today!
Landscape Architecture Explained
According to the University of Maryland, landscape architecture means combining the passion of people, hard work, design, and natural systems. It is one of the most in-demand career paths because it opens thousands of yearly opportunities. For example, many projects fall under the category of landscape architecture, such as:
- Interior landscapes
- Conservation planning
- Green infrastructure
- Historic preservation
- Academic campuses
- Resorts and hospitality
- Public spaces
- Low impact development
- Streetscapes
Besides those projects, transportation corridors, monuments, residential/urban site design, security design, and gardens also fall under the category. Landscape architect education familiarizes students with architectural settings for neighborhood cities or towns. At the same time, they learn the importance of protecting the natural environment, including coasts, rivers, fields, and forests. In short, landscape architects raise living standards by utilizing the best-structured environment designs for all life.
Types of Landscape Architecture
There are several types of landscape architecture. Every type examines a site’s unity, repetition, and proportion to introduce any plant or structure. A few of the most common landscape architecture types are listed below:
Parks
Park design involves creating recreational spaces and open areas for public use. A few examples of this type of landscape architecture are:
- Resorts
- Monuments
- Golf courses
- Public parks and gardens
- Zoos
- Sports facilities
- Playgrounds
Site Planning
Site planning effectively utilizes a particular piece of land for its deliberate use. In this case, it covers geology, grading, hydrology, and surface and sub-surface drainage systems. A few site planning examples include master planning and design for estates, communities, and residential areas.
Land Development
Land development professionals specifically focus on structuring residential development. In other words, they must consider the top factors in site planning. For example:
- Industrial parks
- Commercial parks
- Condominiums
- Shopping centers
- Apartment complexes
Environmental Planning
Slightly modifying existing natural areas to design public spaces is termed environmental planning. This type of landscape architecture includes natural parks, ecological design, coastal development, green spaces, and offshore developments.
Urban Design
Urban design is all about planning and designing the infrastructures of towns and cities, considering the natural geographic limitations. A few examples of urban design include:
- Urban plazas
- Transportation corridors
- Streetscapes
- Offices
- Academic campuses
- Public squares
Heritage Conservation
The recognition, protection, and restoration of historic lands fall under heritage conservation. The typical examples of this specific landscape architecture are conservation planning, historic preservation, and habitat restoration.
Landscape Architecture vs. Landscape Design
Next, let’s highlight the difference between landscape design and landscape architecture. Although both domains share some similarities, they are pretty different simultaneously:
- Landscape design projects are simple to complete, whereas complex projects are associated with landscape architecture.
- The landscape design is more focused on small projects inclined toward residential designs. In contrast, landscape architecture deals mainly with significant public projects.
- Comparing landscape designer vs. landscape architect shows that the licensing requirements for both professionals differ. Landscape architects should pass the Landscape Architect Registration Exam (LARE). The Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Board (CLARB) conducts this exam. However, landscape designers don’t always need licensing to work unless they work in a professional role, like preparing construction drawings.
Garden Design Vs. Landscape Architecture
Landscape architects generally deal with bigger commercial design projects within public spaces and city centers. They are authorized to work on complex and big projects. In comparison, garden designers work specifically on garden-related projects. They can also work in commercial settings, but primarily they are not licensed to do so. In a nutshell, landscape architects can do much more than garden designers.
Horticulture vs. Landscape Architecture
The study of technical and scientific principles applied to landscape planning and management is known as landscape architecture. In contrast, the field of horticulture deals specifically with producing, preserving, and processing plants. Let’s understand this difference more simply. A landscape architect is supposed to design a space where plants are grown. On the other hand, a horticulturist suggests to an architect what tree, soil, or plants to include in the design.
Difference Between an Architect and a Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, whereas architects mostly create structures. The critical difference lies in the area in which they focus. Usually, both artists work in design and collaborate closely. Also, both professionals deal with drafting designs, planning, inspection, budget, and contracts.
Why Get a Degree in This Profession?
Landscape architecture is one of the most diverse and demanding careers worldwide. It offers excellent job opportunities, handsome salary packages, and unique perks. So, many college graduates look forward to pursuing a landscape architecture education.
However, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows no change in job growth between 2020 and 2030. But you can increase your chances of landing jobs in top-rated organizations by earning a relevant undergraduate degree from an accredited school, gaining some experience through internships, and earning certifications.
With an online landscape architecture degree, you can serve public and private sectors, including architecture firms, government agencies, and big corporations. The salaries of professionals working in government departments are higher than in other settings. In 2020, the National Park Service (NPS) hired landscape architects with the highest annual salary.
Online Landscape Architecture Degree Overview
To better understand the importance of an online landscape architecture degree, we have to go through different parameters. For example, what to expect from this program, what courses you’ll take, what skills to focus on, and what degree requirements. Let’s get into the details of them all.
What To Expect
Program expectations vary depending on the level of degree you choose to earn. Suppose you have enrolled in an online landscape architecture associate degree. In that case, you will learn the basics and develop an understanding of various techniques to implement. A bachelor’s degree focuses more on landscape design than an associate degree. Bachelor students clearly understand how to design landscapes from different angles.
Similarly, a master’s degree in landscape architecture helps students learn how to analyze and evaluate sites and manage architectural projects effectively. On the other hand, advanced studies offer a range of opportunities for assessing landscapes and managing them efficiently to meet various environmental needs.
Courses
An online landscape architecture degree enhances students’ creativity, communication abilities, critical thinking, and presentation skills. Graduates can even prepare computer-based designs to create spaces for the public and outdoor environments. Landscape architecture degree programs allow students to choose the area of their interest. For example, if students are interested in preparing outdoor spaces, construction would suit them. Similarly, students who like creating greenspaces’ design plans should go for soil and plant science. The courses taught in the landscape architecture degree vary depending on your area of interest. The top three lessons students mostly learn from are listed below:
1. Plants and Landscape Architecture
This course familiarizes students with identifying and selecting shrubs and trees to get the desired results from landscaping. The course focuses on the advantages of utilizing native plants for better landscaping purposes. Similarly, the impact of soil health on landscaping plans is an essential lesson of this course. Furthermore, it helps students choose the perfect plants for different sites.
2. Site Engineering
There is no better option to understand the bond between the natural environment and site engineering. Students develop and enhance their site surveying and grading skills. This course explains the different topographic plans for various sites, which students get hands-on experience preparing. Moreover, site engineering courses prepare learners to complete a project by communicating effectively with civil engineers and contractors.
3. Urban Design Studio Course
This course teaches students how to prepare three-dimensional sketches and models of green space site plans. Students specifically learn how to perform site surveys and better understand the relationship between natural elements and artificial structures. This course also deals with landscape architectural challenges with a critical thinking approach.
Admission Requirements
Generally, different landscape architecture schools have unique admission requirements. Similarly, the requirements vary depending on the degree you choose to pursue. Therefore, reviewing the complete requirements carefully before applying to any school is necessary. The most common admission requirements include:
- Complete online application with personal and academic details
- Transcripts from all institutions attended
- Letter of recommendation
- TOELF/IELTS scores (for overseas students)
Skills You Will Acquire
We can divide the skillset into different categories. Below is a list of important skills landscape architects must have to stand out in the market.
Baseline Skills
These skills help learners set themselves apart while working in different sectors. The baseline skills cover research, planning, communication, Microsoft Office, creativity, etc. The architects who hold all of these skills excel faster than those who don’t have them.
Defining Skills
The defining skills are core or technical abilities required to apply for specific job positions. They include landscape design, Sketchup, landscape architecture, Adobe Photoshop, and AutoCAD. Getting hands-on experience with these tools helps students polish their practical skills and increase their chances of selection into top-grade organizations.
Necessary Skills
These skills are not specific to landscape architecture but are often required to establish promising careers. The necessary skills the students should have are; 3D modeling, budgeting, project management, sales, and Adobe Illustrator.
Distinguishing Skills
The skills required for different landscape architecture departments are known as distinguishing abilities. These skills include land planning, construction documentation, land development, civil engineering, and schematic design.
How To Choose the Right Program
Don’t randomly select an online degree in landscape architecture! Consult mentors, look at several programs, and list your determining factors. Getting in touch with senior students is also helpful when choosing an online landscape architecture degree. Let’s get into the details of what to consider before you enroll in this degree program.
Degree Level
A bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture is the minimum requirement for credibility. If you have completed your undergraduate degree, you can advance your studies with a master’s degree in the same field. Students who want to be in leading positions should pursue a master’s in landscape architecture.
Cost
Many students consider the cost a primary factor in their college choice. The best advice is to look for a return on investment. For example, will the program you enroll in also set you up for a job with a good salary? Does it offer certification, hands-on experience, and opportunities for career advancement? Other costs include in-state vs. out-of-state tuition, online vs. on-campus costs, and fees associated with the program.
Admission Requirements
As stated earlier, admission requirements differ from one school to another. Carefully review the complete requirements before registering for any program. Most institutions ask for a letter of recommendation, all degrees/transcripts obtained, and an online application. Additionally, overseas students may have to attach scorecards for IELTS or TOEFL exams.
Program Format
Understanding online program format means knowing whether a school offers synchronous or asynchronous degrees. Synchronous degree programs offer classes at a specific time, and students must follow a proper schedule. In contrast, the students enrolled in asynchronous degrees can attend classes anytime they want. It shows that asynchronous degree programs are more flexible compared to synchronous ones.
Location
It doesn’t matter if it’s an online degree you are applying for; location matters. Some programs, even online, require in-person participation. In addition, many students prefer visiting their campus at least once just to see the environment. Most students visit campuses to submit their fees. The location also factors into the cost.
Accreditation
The accreditation of landscape architecture schools is essential because accreditation ensures a program meets industry standards. In other words, enrolling in an accredited program significantly increases the chances of better job opportunities. The Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB) evaluates landscape architecture programs, following the highest possible educational standards.
Certification Opportunities
Certifications have proved to be great tools to gain employers’ trust. A certified landscape architect will open more doors to establishing a promising career. Landscape architecture offers many opportunities for students to enhance their skills through different certifications. A few of them are listed below:
- LEED Ap Building Design – Green Business Certification Inc. GBCI
- Certified Interior Designer – Council for Interior Design Qualification CIDQ
- Certified Landscape Architect – Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards CLARB
- Landscape Industry Certified Horticultural Technician – National Association of Landscape Professionals NALP
- Certified Urban Designer – American Planning Association APA
Online Landscape Architecture Degree/Graduate Certificate
Here we list the top five programs to benefit from landscape architecture. Let’s get into their specifics:
1. Texas Tech University
Accreditation: SACSCOC
Program/Degree Offered: Graduate Certificate in Horticultural Landscape Management
Duration of the Degree Program: One year
This graduate certificate covers different areas of landscape architecture, including but not limited to turfgrass science, nursery management, and arboriculture.
2. Academy of Art University
Accreditation: NASAD and WSCUC
Program/Degree Offered: Associate of Arts in Landscape Architecture
Duration of the Degree Program: Two years
This associate degree combines science and arts. At its core, it focuses on urban and rural landscape architecture. Subsequently, graduates know how to plan and create sustainable, practical outdoor spaces.
3. Academy of Art University
Accreditation: WSCUC and NASAD
Program/Degree Offered: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Landscape Architecture
Duration of the Degree Program: Four years
This degree program offers the necessary skills to become a credible landscape architect. Overall, it teaches students how to deal with design challenges effectively.
4. Academy of Art University
Accreditation: NASAD and WSCUC
Program/Degree Offered: Master of Arts in Landscape Architecture
Duration of the Degree Program: Two years
This degree familiarizes students with design elements and conducts efficient and effective research. Students also learn to identify key site implementation methods and demonstrate design ideas.
5. Academy of Art University
Accreditation: WSCUC and NASAD
Program/Degree Offered: Master of Fine Arts in Landscape Architecture
Duration of the Degree Program: 6 to 8 semesters
This online master’s degree facilitates two types of students. Explore this option whether you have an undergraduate degree in landscape architecture or a bachelor’s degree in any other discipline.
Certifications and Licensure
Becoming a licensed landscape architect and earning state certifications sets you apart. Certification gains employers’ trust. Hence you can confidently apply for jobs at reputed corporations. Three landscape architecture certifications and licenses are listed below.
1. Landscape Architect Registration
Though states may ask you for different licenses, most ask for the LARE exam. This exam covers public safety and landscape architecture-related topics. The CLARB conducts LARE.
2. SITES® Accredited Professional
Landscape architects with a bachelor’s degree in hand apply for this certificate. The applicants have the option to give this exam either online or on-site. This test closely focuses on sustainable landscape architecture.
3. Certified Stormwater Inspector
This certificate teaches applicants how to create effective plans for landscape by keeping the nation’s waterways in mind. They also learn to make projects follow local stormwater standards.
Scholarships for Landscape Architecture
The good news is that landscape architecture students can now benefit from various scholarships instead of simply depending on loans. What’s the best thing about these scholarships? The students don’t need to repay the amount. Though different schools offer different scholarships, a few are listed below to help students in their research process.
Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board
The LAAB-accredited schools offer several scholarships from which students benefit. Two of the most popular scholarships are listed below:
- ASLA Florida Chapter Career Discovery Scholarship offers $5,000 to support education expenses.
- ASLA Council of Fellow Scholarships offers three $5,000 and one $10,000 award to help students continue their education smoothly.
Beulah Frey Environmental Scholarships
Graduates from high schools in Western Pennsylvania are eligible for this scholarship. It offers educational support (for a two to four-year degree) of up to $2,500. While applying to this scholarship, the students must arrange a letter of recommendation, updated resume, personal statement, transcripts, and essay.
Apprentice Ecologist Scholarship
There is an age restriction while applying for this specific scholarship award. Students up to 21 years of age are eligible to apply. The requirements include producing an essay and completing a stewardship project. The amount varies from time to time.
The Garden Club of America Scholarships
This scholarship is offered in 12 different areas of landscape architecture. It is a merit-based scholarship, and 28 students can support their education expenses. Both online and on-site students are allowed to apply for this scholarship award. The amount to be offered varies depending on the circumstances.
Career Overview
Gathering in-depth information about career paths shows the real credibility of any field. The same is the case with landscape architecture. Let’s look closely at whether or not the careers in this domain are promising.
Landscape Architect Salary
Landscape architecture is one of the highest-paying professions in the United States. According to the BLS, the median landscape architect salary was $67,950 per year as of May 2021. It becomes equivalent to $32.67 per hour. The 311th most demanding job was a landscape architect in the US federal government in 2020. The average annual salary of landscape architects working in the federal department at that time was $99,480. Also, National Park Services took landscape architects on board in the same year at an average of $100,458 annually. In other words, this career pays very well!
Alternative Job Titles
Many organizations post vacant positions and ask for individuals with landscape architecture skills but with different role calls. Generally, you won’t see the single “Landscape Architect” title, but titles such as:
- Designer/Architect
- Architect/Designer
- Designer
- Designer/Sales
While applying to similar jobs, if you are unsure about the job title, look at the required skills. You are good to go if the skills mentioned match your skill set.
Similar Occupations
Are you on the hunt for other occupations having similarities with landscape architecture? If yes, below is a list of a few similar occupations:
- Transportation Engineer
- Interior Designer
- Community Planner
- Civil Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
- Regional Planner
Common Employers
Although hundreds of employers offer job opportunities across the country, some frequently post annual vacant positions. Employers who have shown the highest number of jobs for landscape architects in the last year include:
- Bolton Menk Incorporated
- Growth Factor
- Kimley-Horn and Associates
- Bohler Engineering Va, LLC
- Aslany
Career Outlook
The BLS has shown no employment change in this profession between 2020 and 2030. Still, over ten years, around 1,600 jobs are expected to open annually in the US. These numbers attract high school graduating students to adopt this field as a professional career and excel in the future.
Professional Organizations for Landscape Architects
Next is a list of the top three organizations working for the protection and prosperity of landscape architects worldwide.
Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB)
CLARB is an official body that issues licenses for architects to protect public welfare, safety, and health. The council operates across Canada and the United States.
American Society of Landscape Architects
ASLA was established in 1899 in Washington, DC, with over 15,000 registered architects. The mission areas of this society include parks and recreation, green infrastructure, climate action, and transportation for all.
International Federation of Landscape Architects
IFLA is the global representation of landscape architects. This federation’s fundamental goal is to ensure that the landscape architecture profession prospers worldwide.
FAQs
Is a degree in landscape architecture worth it?
It is worth it. In the US, landscape architecture is considered one of the most diverse and demanding careers. It offers skill enhancement, tremendous job opportunities, and good salaries.
Is a landscape architecture major hard?
Yes, to some extent. To become a landscape architect, you must spend time in the design labs. Along with specific academic requirements, you must work hard for a couple of years to complete this degree.
Can you learn landscape design online?
Yes, many universities are offering online courses to learn landscape design. Usually, industry experts design these courses.
Where is the highest demand for landscape architects?
According to the BLS, the state of California offers landscape architects the highest number of employment opportunities. Around 2,940 architects work in the local market with an annual mean salary of $89,690.
Apply Today!
Do you love landscape designs and being creative? Have you finished your college education? Are you looking for a suitable profession to make your dreams come true? If yes, then an online landscape architecture degree is the best option for you!
Online degrees teach students everything from the field basics to hands-on experience with professional landscape design, planning, and management. To this end, this article has presented an in-depth discussion on how to become a landscape architect. Don’t forget to check out some of the best online landscape architecture programs from the GetEducated.com database.