Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Program

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (B.L.A.) program at Penn State is a professional program that prepares students to make a difference in the world. As one of the most admired programs in the country, it nurtures creativity and challenges perspectives. The program emphasizes real-world projects in real places, from Pittsburgh to Tanzania, and includes a required semester abroad to build a global perspective.

Program Description

The B.L.A. program is designed to inspire work grounded in environmental and social good. It is a STEM discipline that has the ability to transform not only physical spaces but also the way people think and feel about those spaces. The program's curriculum emphasizes flexibility, opportunity, and affordability, allowing students to complete all requirements in 4.5 years or graduate in 4 years with a summer abroad program.

Program Highlights

• The program is accredited by the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board.
• It is the first step toward seeking licensure.
• Graduates are well-prepared to join the ranks of distinguished professional alumni with a clear path to licensure.
• The program challenges students to envision the future and provides the skills needed to shape, drive, and responsibly steward positive change.

Curriculum and Coursework

The curriculum emphasizes real-world projects and includes a required semester abroad. Students can choose from various study abroad options, including:

• Academy of International Education | Bonn, Germany
• Lincoln University | Christchurch, New Zealand
• University of South Wales | Sydney, Australia
• University of Melbourne | Melbourne, Australia
• University of Western Australia | Perth, Australia
• Victoria University of Wellington | Wellington, New Zealand
• University of Hong Kong | Hong Kong, China
• University of Buenos Aires | Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Technische Universitat Berlin | Berlin, Germany

Popular Minors

• Environmental Inquiry Minor
• Architecture Studies Minor
• Sustainability Leadership Minor
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation Minor

Student Organizations

• Alpha Rho Chi: Co-ed professional fraternity dedicated to architecture and the allied arts.
• Landscape Architecture Student Society (LASS): Focused on advancing the future of design within the community and the profession.
• National Association of Minority Landscape Architects (NAMLA): Student branch of the National Association of Minority Landscape Architects.
• National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS): Student branch of the National Organization of Minority Architects.

Alumni Spotlight

Demetrios Staurinos, RLA, ASLA, is an associate at OLIN, a landscape architecture, urban design, and planning firm. He has received awards from the American Society of Landscape Architects, the American Planning Association, and the American Institute of Architects and American Public Works Association.

College of Arts and Architecture

The College of Arts and Architecture at Penn State is committed to artistic and scholarly creativity, research, and the preparation of specialized practitioners in all of the arts and design disciplines, including:

• Architecture
• Art History
• Graphic Design
• Landscape Architecture
• Music
• Theatre
• Visual Arts

Conclusion

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture program at Penn State is a professional program that prepares students to make a difference in the world. With its emphasis on real-world projects, global perspective, and flexibility, it is an ideal choice for students who want to pursue a career in landscape architecture. The program's accreditation, curriculum, and study abroad options make it a unique and valuable opportunity for students to gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field.