Attractive public spaces don't just build themselves. Landscape architecture
students learn to analyze the natural elements of the site -- climate, soil,
slope of the land, drainage and vegetation -- and incorporate them into a
pleasing design.
You'll need at least a bachelor's degree, and often a master's, says the
Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Most states require landscape architects to pass the three-day Landscape
Architect Registration Examination in order to be licensed. They also usually
require a degree from an accredited school plus one to four years of work
experience, although standards may vary.
Dozens of colleges and universities offer accredited undergraduate and
graduate programs. But since this is a very specialized field, program
space can be limited. Dale Sutliff is head of a university landscape architecture
department. He says that his school accepts about one out of every two or
three applicants.
Some schools may ask applicants to submit a portfolio of creative work.
Students are encouraged to develop a wide range of interests. Candidates with
high academic standing are favored.
"In architecture, the ability to mentally manipulate three-dimensional
space is fundamental," says landscape architecture professor Patrick Mooney.
"The personality type found in landscape architecture likes to work alone
[and] deal with detail, places a high value on nature and economic return,
and has good people management skills."
Good written and oral communication skills are necessary too. Landscape
architects have to write reports, put together proposals, and make presentations
in front of large groups.
Lolly Tai, a professor of landscape architecture at Temple University,
says that patience and perseverance are important. "It is a 'hard'
profession, as it takes a long time to learn, gain experience and mature,"
she says.
Students will be expected to learn to use computer-aided design (CAD),
geographic information systems and video simulation. Professors say that
incoming students will also benefit from familiarity with word processing,
spreadsheet and graphics programs.
To prepare, Tai recommends asking a local firm if you can visit and
see what they do. Sutliff suggests getting involved with environmental
and cultural clubs or organizations.
Besides tuition and books, you might have to pay for drafting equipment,
graphic supplies and printing fees.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Landscape
Architects
UC Berkeley's Environmental Design Library
Literature on the history of landscape architecture
Landscape Architecture Magazine
Learn more about current landscape architecture in America
Landscape Architects Network
Read about these 10 influential landscape architects