Landscape Architecture BA (Hons)

This course is designed for students interested in environmental issues and design of the landscape. Landscape architecture is a well-established discipline which encompasses the study of design, environmental and cultural issues as well as the technical skills which enable landscape designs to be implemented.

In recent years the practice of landscape architecture has been dealing with an increasingly wide variety of exciting topics, ranging from large-scale landscape planning projects through to high quality city centre and urban landscape projects. This course provides students with strongly design-orientated approach to the subject, which equips graduates with the skills necessary to operate effectively across a wide range of design projects and topics. It provides students with the skills, confidence and ability to meet the challenges of the professional landscape architect in today's society.

Course Content

At Level 4 (first year of full-time study) the modules provide students with an introduction to landscape architecture. Modules include design methodology, landscape design history, the earth sciences, and computer aided design, as well as graphics, IT and visual communication. The central focus of the year is a systematic series of design projects which enable students to apply the material from the taught courses and enable the development of basic design skills.

The Level 5 modules build upon Level 1 work in order to teach more creative and experimental approaches to landscape design, and include modules dealing with design theory and process, landscape planning and urban design, graphics, communication, landscape science and technology, and a series of design projects each of which focuses on one aspect of the creative design process. They include planting and construction technology, strategic landscape design, and the design of detail elements.

As the course progresses more student choice is available, and Level 6 provides students with an opportunity to develop their individual strengths and confidence in design, through enabling students to choose their specialist studies from a range of options. Modules at this level include theory, culture and society, technology and complementary skills, and two major design projects, each of which lasts one semester.

The course also offers opportunities for field study tours in England and Europe, as well as study exchange opportunities in America.

Assessment

The majority of learning is through course work and therefore most modules are assessed by coursework based on continuous assessment.

Entry Requirements

An average tarriff point offer is likely to be 230, including a minimum of two subjects at A2 or equivalent.

Mature students without formal qualifications will be considered individually.

Applicants for this course will be invited to present a portfolio to demonstrate their design ability.

Careers

The course is fully recognised and accredited by The Landscape Institute. Landscape architects are employed in a wide range of national, private and public practices in this country and abroad. Successful candidates can also pursue environmental design based careers in related fields, such as landscape management or landscape planning.

Students who graduate from the course at the appropriate level have access to Birmingham City University's Postgraduate Diploma course in Landscape Architecture, which provides access to graduate membership of The Landscape Institute, the profession's governing body.