Landscape Architecture Major
Landscape Architecture is the design of outdoor areas such as public parks, restored wetlands, urban plazas, historic sites, and botanical gardens. Landscape architects also collaborate on large projects, such as housing complexes, remediation of former industrial areas, and the design of new towns and cities.
Landscape architects have the responsibility of creating ecosystems that must thrive over time. As a result, CALS is looking for Landscape Architecture students who are talented in both art and science to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
CALS’ Landscape Architecture major is well suited for students interested in urban development, land-use planning, conservation and ecological design. The curriculum includes design studio courses as well as courses in horticulture, architecture, city and regional planning, and fine arts.
Special Requirements
- Students applying to the Landscape Architecture major are required to submit a portfolio.
- Transfer students applying to the Landscape Architecture major should apply to enter Cornell in the fall, although spring acceptance is possible in some cases.
Interesting Facts
- Students in the Landscape Architecture major work with their faculty advisors to create their own, individualized concentrations of study. Some sample concentrations: environmentally sustainable design, community-based design, landscape archaeology, golf course design, environmental law, ecotourism, and playground design.
- Students are encouraged to study abroad in their junior year; a popular option is the Rome Program.
Sample Classes
LA 1410 Grounding in Landscape Architecture
Introduction to the representation and design of landscapes and to working in a studio setting. Uses freehand drawing, measured drawing, and model making to understand design principles of the landscape within a cultural and ecological paradigm.
LA 3010 Integrating Theory and Practice I
This studio engages participants in the art and science of design as well as focusing on site-scaled projects that consider significant cultural and natural landscapes. This course explores theories of landscape design, restoration, sustainable design, and landscape representation through site-specific projects.
LA 4860 Placemaking by Design
This seminar provides an understanding of contemporary planning and landscape architecture design strategies that reaffirm and reclaim a sense of place. Readings and discussions focus on the theory and practice of placemaking as represented in the literature and in built works.
What recent graduates are doing
- Landscape Designer
- Landscape Architect
- Plant Science Researcher
- City Engineer