Become a landscaper

Perhaps we are best served by beginning this topic with an explanation of just what a landscape architect is, and then explore how to find a school for landscape architecture afterward.

Landscape architecture combines art and science to design our landscapes for maximum efficiency, while providing for sound environmental management. Central Park in New York City is a prime example of what good landscape architecture can achieve. It is truly a place where nature meets civilization, and the two learn to coexist in harmony.

Landscape architects generally plan and design public areas like parks, shopping centers, school campuses, and waterfront developments. Wetlands, logging forests and areas that have been mined for coal also benefit from a restoration planned by a landscape architect.

A landscape architect also helps city officials and civil engineers plan projects and historical preservations while keeping an environmental balance in mind.

A college education is essential to develop all the necessary skills and knowledge needed to perform such a complex but rewarding job. A landscape architect will have earned one of three degrees, a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA), a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA), or a Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA). These degrees are designed to give the potential landscape architect a well rounded background in art history, natural as well as social sciences, and construction/design.

There are a number of things to think about when choosing a school for landscape architecture. What is it that attracted you to landscape architecture in the first place and what type of future landscape projects do you want to work on? Once you have a clear idea of your personal goals you are ready to begin your search for a school of landscape architecture.

The school of landscape architecture you eventually choose should be able to tell you exactly how they can best prepare you for the vein of landscape architecture you are most interested in working with. They should be able to provide a clear course of study, and have support staff in place to provide you with individual counseling necessary to help you achieve your educational goals. It is also good to find out how many of their graduated landscape architects found job placement, and what types of landscaping firms hired them. You really need to get the big picture before you decide on one school of landscape architecture over another.

Perhaps one of the best ways of initially locating a school for landscape architecture is to call your local university first. They can tell you if landscaping is included in the curriculum offered, or possibly direct you other schools of landscape architecture in your region.

Another method may be to look in your local phone book for actual landscape architects listed and call a few. You may actually find a landscape architect who is willing to mentor your a little and share their landscape schooling experience with you. This may even lead to future job opportunities.

With some self-determination and diligence, you will be able to find a school for landscape architecture that will be the perfect fit for you.