WHAT IS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE?

by | Jan 17, 2024 | The Leaf Brief

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Designates

Landscape Architecture a S.T.E.M. Discipline

THE PRACTICE

In July 2023 the U.S. Department of Homeland Security designated landscape architecture as a S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) degree program. Sounds impressive, right? To truly understand the significance of this, one must first understand what landscape architecture really is.

Landscape architects are designers of the environment, encompassing both natural and social elements. They design artful and meaningful exterior spaces that bring together the environment, architecture, art, engineering, and sociology with the goal of improving human and environmental health.

In it’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics summarizes the duties of a landscape architect as follows:

      • Meet with clients, engineers, and building architects to understand the requirements of a project
      • Prepare site plans, specifications, and cost estimates
      • Coordinate the arrangement of existing and proposed land features and structures
      • Prepare graphic representations of plans using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software
      • Select appropriate landscaping materials
      • Analyze environmental reports on land conditions, such as drainage and energy usage
      • Inspect landscape project progress to ensure that it adheres to plans
      • Seek new work through marketing activities or by giving presentations

Individuals must be licensed to use the term Landscape Architect and licensure is required in all states.  Individuals interested in becoming a landscape architect should contact the respective state board of landscape architecture to familiarize themselves with each state’s requirements.  In general, to become a licensed landscape architect, one typically needs a bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture from a Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB) accredited school.  The LAAB sets the standards for accreditation of educational programs.    Once the educational requirements are met, candidates who have graduated from an accredited LAAB program may register to sit for the LARE or Landscape Architect Registration Exam, provided by the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB).  In addition to passing all four sections of the LARE, candidates must also test for competency on state-specific content related to the practice of landscape architecture.

THE DISCIPLINE

So how does all of this tie into the recent S.T.E.M. designation? According to the American Society of Landscape Architecture, landscape architecture programs are pioneering some of the most innovative research and developing new technologies – from using artificial intelligence for urban agriculture, to urban planning for autonomous vehicles; to hydraulic modeling, robotic fabrication, and augmented reality for water bodies, and more.

“Landscape architects have incredible responsibility for the health, safety and well-being of communities which is why it’s imperative for landscape architects to continue to be licensed to practice,” said Emily O’Mahoney, FASLA, President of ASLA. “The STEM designation will be an additional tool in helping decision-makers understand the rigor this discipline demands.” https://www.asla.org

Cheers to the profession that uses science to combine environmental awareness, social justice, and design! We have the best job on earth!

Written by Patty Biron

Director of Operations & Business Development