Program Overview

Landscape Architecture BA

The Landscape Architecture BA course is designed to train landscape architects who understand planning and how design proposals affect the environment. This course has two optional specialisms in planning or ecology.

Course Description

Landscape architecture is the design, planning, and management of spaces for both nature and people. If you enjoy biology, geography, art, politics, economics, or history, you will appreciate the scope and challenge of this course.

Modules

The course structure includes the following modules:

• Reading the Contemporary Landscape
• Space Making
• Presentation, Communication, and Research Skills
• Histories of Landscape Architecture
• The Changing Landscape
• The Dynamic Landscape
• Exploration of Contemporary Landscapes
• Ecological Processes, Design & Management
• Materials of Landscape - Planting Design
• Materials of Landscape - Construction Design
• Landscape Design - Exploration and Intervention
• Integrated Design Project
• Sustainable Communities
• Site Planning For Sustainable Housing
• Materials of Landscape - Detailed Design

Optional modules include:

• Landscape Planning for a Changing World
• Landscape Ecology - Habitat Survey Techniques
• Landscape Planning Toolkits
• Landscape Planning - Urban Regeneration
• Green Infrastructure and Ecological Masterplanning
• Landscape Ecology - Habitat Creation and Restoration

Learning and Assessment

The studio is the heart of learning, where you will participate in workshops, small group seminars, tutorials, and project reviews. Studio learning is supported by lectures, site visits, field trips, and practical sessions in the Print and Make workshop.

Assessment is through group and individual coursework, which may include design portfolios, written reports, or presentations. Feedback is given throughout the semester via tutorials, interim, and peer reviews.

Entry Requirements

The standard offer for this course is ABB at A Level. Other qualifications, such as International Baccalaureate, BTEC Extended Diploma, and Access to HE Diploma, are also accepted.

English language requirements include GCSE English Language at grade 4/C or an IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.

Graduate Careers

Graduates of this course wishing to pursue Chartership must complete an independent year in practice, followed by a master's in Professional Landscape Architecture. Alumni include a former President of the International Federation of Landscape Architects and multiple RHS medal winners.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for 2026 entry have not been confirmed. The annual fee for the course includes a number of items in addition to tuition. Additional costs may include public transport to site visits, art materials, and a digital camera.

The University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to help fund your study. You can also use the Student Funding Calculator to work out what you are eligible for.

University Rankings

The University of Sheffield is a world top-100 university, ranked 92nd in the QS World University Rankings 2026. It is also number one in the Russell Group for student experience, based on aggregate responses in the National Student Survey 2025.

Student Profiles

Students on the Landscape Architecture BA course come from a variety of backgrounds and have a range of interests. You can read profiles of current students and alumni to find out more about their experiences on the course.

Facilities

The School of Architecture and Landscape has a range of facilities, including studios, lecture theaters, and a Print and Make workshop. The University's library service is also available, with over 1.3 million books and periodicals, as well as online resources and study spaces.

Placements and Study Abroad

The University offers a range of opportunities for placements and study abroad, including the chance to spend a semester or year studying at a partner university overseas. You can also take part in field trips and site visits, both in the UK and abroad.

Extra Information

The Landscape Architecture BA course is accredited by the Landscape Institute, allowing graduates to pursue their professional qualification in landscape architecture and become a licentiate Member of the Landscape Institute. The course is also recognized by the International Federation of Landscape Architects.