School of Landscape Architecture

As an international student with F-1 immigration status by enrolling in, and completing our STEM-designated Landscape Architecture program, you become eligible for three years of Optional Practical Training (OPT). That’s three years of invaluable US-based work experience, which can lead to full-time sponsored employment and residency in the US and/or greater opportunities back in your home country.

The landscape architecture school at Academy of Art University provides students with the design and technical content and skills to enter the profession of landscape architecture and to create beautiful, viable, and innovative outdoor places both here at home and around the globe. You’ll learn the multiplicity of opportunities available in the profession and gain the skills and tools to help you succeed.

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What We Teach

Landscape Architecture is the perfect combination of art and science, urban and rural, living systems and sculptural form, historical precedent, and innovative vision. It is the profession of the future.

Advanced Digital Graphics
As a landscape architect, effectively communicating your vision to your client is essential to success, as a professional. We teach you how to apply advanced rendering software and interactive modeling to clearly illustrate your design intent.
Ecological Foundations of Design
You learn to interpret and analyze the landscape, refining your knowledge of the interconnected natural systems involved in designing a landscape. Such systems include climate and water systems, plant life and wildlife habitat, soils and terrain, and geologic processes. You learn to map and record this information and use it as a basis for design decisions in studio.
People & the Environment
Designing outdoor space is all about people. You learn methods of observing, recording, analyzing and engaging with people’s complex and rich relationships with their outdoor environment.
Sustainable Designs & Practice Studio
Landscape architecture is, at its very core, a pursuit of sustainability and resilience. These courses emphasize resolving contemporary design challenges with real world projects and clients. You explore innovative details, strategies, and systems of landscape construction throughout the design process.
The Technical World: Grading & Drainage
Sculpting the earth and controlling the movement of water across it are crucial skills that differentiate landscape architecture from other design professions. We teach you strategies and calculations to create accurate grading and drainage plans that incorporate functionality and artistry.

School of Landscape Architecture Overview

It’s estimated that by the mid 21st century, more than two-thirds of the world’s population will be living in cities. This generation of landscape architects will need to devote themselves to planning and designing healthy cities by creating stronger connections between people and the natural world. Check out the video that provides an overview of the School of Landscape Architecture and discover how the Academy of Art University will prepare you for a successful and gratifying career in landscape architecture.

The Ridge Lane Project

Designing a Safe Community Park

A reimagined Ridge Lane in San Francisco’s Ingleside neighborhood is the latest addition to the city’s 132 street parks. Design for the project was contributed by Academy of Art University School of Landscape Architecture student Nahal Sohbati (2017 MFA alum). Check out her project!

Start Your Career Now

Your dream is within reach. Follow your heart and get started on the career of your dreams.

Facilities & Technology

The latest in software and equipment is essential to preparing you to enter the work force, which is why we keep up with current advancements in the technology and industry practices that affect landscape architecture. Whatever the pros are doing and whatever the pros are using is what you will find in our classrooms and studios.

Student Success: Changing the Landscape with Virtual Reality

See how Jason Jeon used his knowledge of virtual reality to bring his Landscape Architecture graduate thesis to life.

Featured Alumni

Careers in Landscape Architecture

As one of the top art and design schools in the country, Academy of Art University landscape architecture graduates have a range of opportunities to choose from. Our facilities, faculty, and hands-on learning approach are designed to provide you with the tools you need to succeed as a landscape architect.

VIEW ALL CAREERS

Your career starts here.
Take the first step.
Or call 415-274-2222 to request more information about this program.
Landscape Architect
As a landscape architect, you'll analyze, plan, design, and implement natural as well as built environments of all scales. Design and plan the restoration of disturbed natural places and systems such as stream corridors, wetlands, forested areas, and mines.
Garden Designer
As a garden designer, you'll be responsible for planting, irrigation, and some hardscape design for residences and estates, Work with other designers and staff to create a holistic vision of urban spaces in this exciting career.
Master Planner
Abstract an idea in spatial forms as a master planner. You'll envision and design large-scale communities and lead the design process from conception to final construction.
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COMPANIES THAT HAVE HIRED OUR GRADUATES

Learn Online

Our revolutionary online courses provide the same rigorous education that we offer on campus with greater flexibility. Our online programs are purpose-built to deliver art and design courses. Study on your own time, at your own pace. Combine online and on-site classes.

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