BACHELOR OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE (BLA)

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture program is a five-year undergraduate sequence of lecture and studio courses which introduces students to historic and contemporary concepts in landscape architecture. Coursework recognizes the effect of human interaction with the landscape and upon natural resources and focuses on urban and urbanizing environments such as Seattle, with both wilderness and rapidly growing development.

Program goals are to provide students with a strong design education, foster creativity, develop graphic and verbal communication skills, facilitate cognitive abilities, and encourage computer proficiency. The program will prepare students for entry level positions in public and private sector jobs and provide a professional education to develop successful long-term careers as Landscape Architects.

	Tristan Heberlin, BLA 06, presents his team's work to Delridge community members. Neighborhood Design Studio, Wi. 2005. Photo by Julie Johnson

Departmental courses include the history of landscape architecture, design theory and practice, construction, graphics, and professional practice. Required courses from other departments include urban horticulture, soils, geology, botany, and ecology.

Coursework is given practical application in design studios led by departmental faculty and members of the professional community. Studio topics include: site design in the urban environment, design for natural processes, planting design, housing design for communities, cultural landscape studio, and the Design- Build CAPSTONE project.

Coursework develops an understanding of the functioning of natural systems and an awareness of the cultural and sociological forces that influence the landscape architect's work. Individual as well as team-oriented projects encourage the development of strong interactive, verbal, and evaluative skills. The Practicum program offers opportunities to receive credit for work in public agencies or private firms. This unique experience often leads to employment upon graduation.

Students with prior coursework, which meets departmental and university prerequisites for graduation, may enter the three year program. The first year studio sequence is taken by both entering BLA and MLA students. Because both BLA and MLA programs are accredited first professional degrees, it is not unusual for students with BA or B.Sc. degrees to apply for admission to the BLA program for a second Bachelor's Degree.

In addition to required coursework, the program encourages students to pursue personal interests through directed research and independent study within the department and in other departments. The program is structured to permit students to explore design related areas which allow them to most fully realize their creative potential and professional growth.

Should you require further assistance, please feel free to contact the BLA Advisor, JoAnne Edwards at slocan@u.washington.edu.