Landscape Architecture

[English Ivy]

Hi All,

I have applied to a grad program in landscape architecture and would like to know if anyone here is currently a landscape architecture student or a practicing landscape architect? If so, I was curious to know what interested you about the profession/field and what has your experience been like?

English Ivy :D

[SmilesSoSweet]

I have a bachelor of science degree in landscape architecture. I graduated in June 2001. Personally I wouldn't go the grad school route because after you're done with the program you still end up at an entry level position at a landscape architecture firm. From the MLA programs I've seen it's all theory based and you don't really learn the basics like construction, grading, technical detailing, plant identification, etc. But that's what I've heard, and it probably has changed a bit since I graduated and each university is different.

Really I settled for landscape architecture because I couldn't get into the architecture program.

I'm still trying to convince myself to take the state board exam, I'm just a bad test taker so it's really a personal issue. And really being licensed in the industry will get you in higher work positions than having an MLA.

I'm one level below a project manager (I'm trying to get promoted this year) and most of my duties are 80% AutoCAD construction documents, with the rest of it being construction site visits, meetings with clients and consultants, etc.

PM me if you want.

[English Ivy]

Hi Smiles,

Thanks for your response.:D I have opted to pursue an MLA degree because my bachelor's degree is in another field.

Good luck on your promotion!! :)

[SmilesSoSweet]

One of my classmates in the undergrad program already had a BS in another field. He wanted to go in the BSLA program instead of the MLA.

It's really a personal choice, but I really don't see the point in a MLA degree. The first year (that's if you never had any design background in undergrad) is basically the entire four year undegrad program crammed into one grad year.

But feel free to PM with any more questions. Oh and if you could, could you PM me what school you'll be getting your MLA? Just curious.

And there's alway www.asla.org to check out.