Undergraduate studies in landscape architecture provide full preparation for a student to take the national professional licensing exam, the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE). As of 2008, 49 states required landscape architects to be licensed. In addition to the LARE, some states require a local test to be taken, too. Graduate studies in landscape architecture, while less common, can offer further depth of exposure to a specialty in the field. A graduate of an undergraduate program in another field can study landscape architecture at the graduate level and likewise receive full preparation for the LARE.
At Ball State University, students of landscape architecture may pursue both bachelor's and master's degrees in the field. In addition, landscape architecture is offered to undergraduates as a minor. The Department of Landscape Architecture is housed within the College of Architecture and Design. The bachelor's degree takes five years to complete. Coursework covers issues such as landscape architecture history, environmental systems, park and open space design, house and community design, engineering, and urban design. The fourth year of the program includes an internship and the final year culminates in a comprehensive project.
The curriculum is designed to permit students the option of complementing their studies with a minor in a separate field or a semester of study abroad. The undergraduate program accepts 160 students each year. It involves a broad first year of study, involving classes on architecture and urban planning, as well as an introduction to landscape architecture.
Department of Landscape Architecture
Architecture Building (AB), Room 226
Ball State University
Muncie, IN 47306
765-285-1971
bsu.edu
Purdue University offers an undergraduate degree in landscape architecture. It typically takes five years to complete, beginning with a broad, humanities-based first year of study called "prelandscape architecture." Following the first year of math, English and science courses, students continue with studies in professional landscape architecture. Coursework covers issues of preservation, architectural design, professional practices and computer technology in design. During the sixth semester, students pursue an internship. In the final semester, they complete a capstone course.
During the majority of the semesters, students have the opportunity to take one or more elective courses in mathematics, sciences, social sciences or humanities. The department does not publish a set number of places available within the undergraduate program. Instead, those interested in the undergraduate landscape architecture program may apply direction through the Purdue admissions office.
Horticulture & Landscape Architecture
Purdue University
625 Agriculture Mall Drive
West Lafayette, IN 47907-2010
765-494-1300
purdue.edu