Catalogue 2008-09

• The Schools
• USC School of Architecture
  • Undergraduate Degrees
    • Bachelor of Architecture
    • Bachelor of Science, Architectural Studies
    • Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
    • Minors in Architecture
    • International and Other Programs
  • Graduate Programs
    • Master of Architecture
    • Master of Landscape Architecture
    • Master of Historic Preservation
    • Master of Building Science
    • Dual Degrees
    • Doctor of Philosophy in Architecture
  • Courses of Instruction
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Undergraduate Degrees

Bachelor of Landscape Architecture

The degree in landscape architecture provides the ability to critically examine and creatively respond to a wide array of environmental issues and purposes. New professionals must be equipped to take on the challenge of working in interdisciplinary fields, mediating between the goals and desires of diverse groups while soliciting their participation. Generating creative solutions for forming a supportive and humane urban environment requires certain fundamental skills. This program encourages development of students' skills and abilities so that they can flourish in a professional setting:

• Knowledge of the physical world and the interrelationships between humans and the natural systems of which they are part.
• The ability to define the critical issues of places and sites through inventory, analysis and resolution of physical, social and cultural forces and meanings.
• The ability to use knowledge and experience to creatively respond to the problems that confront them and the dedication to understand great purpose and to take effective action.
• The ability to effectively communicate with peoples of diverse backgrounds through both words and images.
• The ability to interact collaboratively with individuals, community groups, public agencies or large corporations.
• Familiarity with new technologies, their impacts and their potential for the profession of landscape architecture and land planning.
• Awareness of the constant evolution of knowledge and a commitment to continually reexamine assumptions.

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture is a four-year program of lectures, seminars and studio courses in conjunction with general education courses. Through academic research, personal participation and group endeavor, the program will introduce students to historic and contemporary issues in landscape architecture. Projects will concentrate on the design of spaces in the urban landscape. This emphasis derives from our location in Southern California, at the very heart of an exuberant and dynamic metropolitan area.

Each semester, the design studio will be paired with courses that develop technical skills, expand the students' working knowledge of plant materials and natural systems, and explore the history and theory of design. A component of each studio project will be team-oriented to develop the ability to work collectively.

Curriculum