Bachelor of Landscape Architecture at The Ohio State University
The Landscape Architecture is a Bachelor degree offered by The Ohio State University on the Columbus campus in United States of America. The program is delivered on campus as a Full Time course in English and requires approximately 4 years to complete. Students study at the Columbus campus while gaining the knowledge and practical experience expected for this area of study. The next intake is available from August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
School: Architecture
Landscape architecture is a discipline at the intersection of design and ecology. Landscape architects recognize the significant role the environment plays globally in the health of growing populations, expanding cities and fragile ecosystems.
Students in the landscape architecture program in the Knowlton School combine critical thinking skills with artistic principles, environmental consciousness and construction technology to address people’s relationship to the land in a range of situations. They develop practical and evolving knowledge and skills as the foundation for professional competence, academic scholarship and individualized enrichment.
Ohio State's Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA) is a four-year accredited professional degree leading to licensure. It is the only such program in Ohio and has an established reputation going back over 100 years.
Get started
Upon admission to the university, first-year students who declare a major in landscape architecture within the Knowlton School are directly admitted to the major. No prior experience or portfolio is required.
In the first year, students enroll in Landscape Architecture 2300: Outlines of the Built Environment and Landscape Architecture 2310: Seeing and Making. These foundation courses introduce fundamental knowledge, language and skills to prepare students for the landscape architecture major.
First-year students who begin at Ohio State as landscape architecture majors are eligible to continue into the second year upon earning a cumulative GPA of 3.3 or above and earning a B+ or higher in both architecture foundation courses. Additional seats in the cohort may be available to transfer students from other institutions or to major change students on a space-available basis.
This program operates on a cohort model. Students should expect four years to complete the Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture degree regardless of previous credit earned.
Curriculum
The landscape architecture curriculum is structured around studio—an intense one-on-one pedagogy modeled after a traditional apprenticeship—supported by lectures, seminars and courses in technology, ecology, digital representation and history/theory. Projects range from the design of small gardens to regional agricultural and ecosystems planning.
During the first year, students gain a foundation in design and an awareness of the built environment. Through a process of drawing and making models, students learn to develop and communicate ideas across landscape architecture, architecture and urban design.
Second-year students participate in studios that emphasize drawing by hand and computer and model-making abilities by exploring terrain and ecology through conceptual exercises and design interventions on small local sites.
Third-year students delve into the programs, systems and details of landscape practice. Students participate in studio projects that engage the medium of landscape architecture (topography, vegetation and water).
Fourth-year students take advanced seminars and electives and explore special topics with faculty. In studio, they tackle hybrid programs on complex sites and conduct design and material research to prepare for professional practice and graduate studies.
Study abroad
Students are encouraged to participate in a Knowlton-led education abroad program during their time as a student. Knowlton programs are traditionally offered during academic breaks, allowing for the greatest flexibility and participation. Recent programs have taken place in Cuba, Chile, Ghana, Italy, Japan, Taiwan and multiple European countries, with a focus on topics from the development of modern architecture and landscape architecture to sustainable urban planning practices.
Students may apply for one of the Knowlton School’s Architecture Research Travel Awards (ARTA) in order to pursue independent travel and research abroad.
Learn more about study abroad opportunities.
Internship
Many landscape architecture students pursue internship opportunities. Some landscape architecture students participate in a six- to nine-month cooperative education experience between their junior and senior years.
Students are encouraged to pursue internships using resources such as the Knowlton School Career Fair and the Knowlton School's mentor program that connects students with professionals.
Student organizations
Students can join the Student Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (SCASLA) to connect with professionals and gain professional development through firm visits, portfolio and resume reviews, and mock interviews.
Students can also participate in SERVitecture, which links students with design-based service experiences such as Habitat for Humanity. SERVitecture’s annual Fashion Schau is a highlight for students of all majors.
Possible careers
Students in the landscape architecture program are prepared to enter a range of professional fields or graduate programs. Graduates of Ohio State’s landscape architecture program are successful in finding positions at regional, national and global landscape architecture firms; architecture, urban design, engineering and planning firms; development and design/build; environmental management; public sector roles with metropolitan park systems, recreation and parks departments; state and federal agencies of environmental law, policy and management; and academic careers.
In these fields, common project types include designing and managing gardens, parks, neighborhoods, urban systems, bikeways, transit systems, streetscapes, community gardens, campuses, recreation zones, playgrounds, zoos and golf courses, residential developments, urban plazas, green roofs, brownfield reclamation, stream and wetland restoration, ecosystem management, wildlife conservation, and much more.
In addition, graduates of the landscape architecture program consistently enroll in leading graduate programs in landscape architecture and in other fields, including graduate programs of architecture, planning and urban design and career paths in areas of law, business, art, education and more.
Salary estimates
New graduates report entry-level salaries between $45,000 and $60,000. Those who have completed experience requirements and registration exams may earn salaries of $70,000 or more. Partners and senior associates in large firms may earn considerably more, often exceeding $200,000.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Landscape Architecture at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Landscape Architecture at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Landscape Architecture at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus