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The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) program holds accreditation from the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB). This degree fulfills educational prerequisites for professional licensure across all U.S. states. LAAB mandates that foundational degree programs incorporate essential landscape architecture competencies, encompassing historical context, ethical principles, design theory, planning strategies, and implementation techniques. As a design-focused field rooted in physical sites, the program also addresses broader regional and environmental challenges. The studio-centered curriculum weaves ecological and social considerations into the design process, progressing from introductory design concepts in year one to comprehensive research projects in the final year. Course offerings span Site Analysis, Urban Design Studios, and Professional Practice, with digital studios blending traditional design methods with cutting-edge technologies like CAD and GIS.
Licensed landscape architects specialize in analyzing, planning, and preserving both constructed and natural spaces, directly influencing environmental equity, public wellness, and living standards. The discipline equips students to create resilient landscapes capable of addressing contemporary global challenges. Professionals in this field collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to transform environments while protecting ecological systems. The curriculum develops both creative design thinking and practical skills—from contract documentation to physical implementation—while training students in advanced 3D modeling and data analysis tools. Graduates gain expertise in leading design initiatives, evaluating natural and cultural landscapes, effective visual communication, sustainable water management solutions, and employing current digital applications alongside professional research methodologies.
High school students and students with fewer than 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of university-level credit beyond secondary school should apply as freshman applicants.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
University of Maryland passing score: 95
Maryland English Institute score: 94 or lower
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
University of Maryland passing score: 7
Maryland English Institute score: 6.5 or lower