Parks and landscapes are pleasing for the environment and they keep on increasing the demand for landscape architecture. Landscape architects prepare for this career by either getting a bachelor’s or a master’s degree with a concentration in landscape architecture. Internships during bachelor’s program help aspiring students gain the required experience.
What Is Landscape Architecture?
Landscape Architecture is a field where students are taught to design aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor sites, from parks to urban sites. Having a bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement to enter this field. Students who are enrolled in this program are expected to be creative and well versed in the technical side of the profession. Except Maine, Illinois, Massachusetts and the District of Columbia, all states require licensing.
During this program, students are taught to design, plan and manage engineered structures and natural environments. They have to complete a variety of projects which help them understand how to create outdoor areas that are cost effective, sustainable and mirror the personality and characteristics of the locality.
What to Do with a Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture?
People who earn their bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture usually work for construction companies, real estate development, architectural firms and government agencies. Students with a bachelor’s degree begin their career with an entry-level job; however, they may eventually get promoted to managerial positions.
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Landscape Architects
Landscape architects design different outdoor spaces like parks, recreational facilities, campuses, homes, office buildings and other structures. These professionals also plan the locations of roads, walkways, buildings, shrubs, flowers and trees within a given area. Landscape architects are responsible for designing these places in a way that they not only easily accessible but have a pleasant outlook as well.
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Annual Median Salary, 2019: $69,360
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Annual Mean Salary, 2019: $73,970
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Job Growth, 2018-2028: 4%
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State with the Highest Salary, 2019: California- $90,940
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State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019: California- 2,510
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Interior Designers
Interior designers make indoor spaces safe, beautiful and functional by determining decorative items, space requirements and other essential elements. They are required to interpret, draw and edit blueprints. They also need to be aware of inspection regulations and building codes.
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Annual Median Salary, 2019: $56,040
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Annual Mean Salary, 2019: $60,990
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Job Growth (2018-2028): 4%
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State with the Highest Salary, 2019: Rhode Island- $73,190
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State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019: California- 9,420
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Construction Managers
Construction managers plan, budget, coordinate and supervise a construction project from beginning till the end. Referred to as project managers, they supervise various projects like buildings, bridges, roads and memorials. They supervise the project and seek feedback from their clients to refine the construction plan. They are responsible of making the project meet the client demands.
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Annual Median Salary, 2019: $95,260
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Annual Mean Salary, 2019: $105,000
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Job Growth, 2018-2028: 10%
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State with the Highest Salary, 2019: New Jersey- $147,410
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State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019: Texas- 34,560
Note: These figures have been obtained from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What to Expect from a Landscape Architecture Program?
The program requires students to create a portfolio, serve in internships, participate in design studio and complete a thesis. They are given the opportunity to work with architects, engineers, urban planners, etc. Site construction and engineering, plant materials, urban design and housing landscape design are some of the core courses.
How to Choose a Landscape Architecture Program?
To choose a Landscape Architecture Program you should:
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Choose an accredited school
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See if there are any scholarships available
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Consider the cost and time required to complete the degree
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Check if it is an online or a campus-based program
Bachelor’s in Landscape Architecture Admission Requirement
People who aspire to pursue Bachelor’s in Landscape Architecture need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some schools require them to submit their SAT score while others ask for essays or creative portfolios. These essays and creative portfolios should demonstrate their technical and creative skills.