Landscape Architect

What Landscape Architects Do

Landscape architects and designers design attractive and functional parks, gardens, playgrounds, campuses, and public spaces. They also plan the locations of buildings, walkways, trees, shrubs, and flowers within the environment. Their goal is to create spaces that are easy to use but blend well with the natural environment.

 

what you'll do

Landscape architects use different types of technologies for their work. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software, and may also prepare 3D models of their work to present to clients. In addition, they use geographic information systems (GIS), which provide the coordinates of different geographical features. This software helps them locate specific geographic points on the environment they are designing. 

 

license, certifications, and registrations

All states, except for Illinois, Massachusetts, Maine, and Washington, DC, require landscape architects to be licensed in order to practice. In addition, every state (except not Washington, DC) requires applicants to be licensed before they can use the title landscape architect when soliciting business. Licensing is based on candidates passing the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE), which is sponsored by the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards. If a person is not licensed, he or she can use the title landscape designer. Potential landscape architects usually need a degree from an accredited school and several years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed landscape architect, although standards vary. For those without an accredited degree, some states provide alternative paths to qualify to take the LARE; this usually requires more work experience. In addition, several states have their own registration exam to test for competency on state-specific issues, such as earthquakes in California or hurricanes in Florida. Because requirements for licensing vary by state, it is difficult to transfer registration from one state to another. By meeting national requirements, a landscape architect may also obtain certification from the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards, which might be useful in getting a license in another state.

all the other details

skills

Analytical skills
Communication skills
Organizational skills
Problem-solving skills
Technical skills
Visualization skills

education

A bachelor’s or master’s degree is required to become a landscape architect. There are two undergraduate professional degrees: a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) and a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA). These programs usually require four to five years of study. However, those who receive an associate degree or certification can work under the title landscape designer. Accredited programs are approved by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB). Those with an undergraduate degree in a field other than landscape architecture may enroll in a Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) graduate degree program, which typically takes three years of full-time study.

what you'll get paid

The average salary is $65,760 but will vary depending on experience and training.