Program Format Graduate Certificate

Students must complete two introductory courses (PSLD 100 & 102) plus 26 credit hours (PSLD 201, 202, 203, 204, 210, 211,214, 215, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 231, 240) with a GPA of 3.0 or above. Courses are taught in a cohort format and are designed to be completed in 2-1/2 years. Permission from the instructor is required for students not admitted to the Graduate Certificate Program to take courses 201 and above. A maximum of six credits (including introductory courses) can be taken in non-degree status.

The following introductory and core courses are required for the completion of the program:

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

INTRODUCTORY COURSES

These courses must be completed with a grade of B or higher prior to application to the program.

PSLD 100 Landscape Graphics
(l credit)
Learn to use drafting equipment and develop graphic and sketching skills. Course work includes landscape plans, section, elevation, and axonometric drawings, and an introduction in the use of color media. Entry-level course. Materials & equipment purchased for this class are used in all studio courses.

Click here for PSLD 100 Supply List

*Please keep in mind that this is a general list and may be subject to change. Please be sure to keep your receipts, and to ask the store about their return policy.

PSLD 102 Introduction to Plants
(l credit)
A survey course in Plant Science which introduces students to the common groups of plants with a general focus on the structure and function of higher vascular plants. An entry-level course, this is a prerequisite for the Woody Plants series.

CORE COURSES

PSLD 201 Introduction to Design
(2 credits)
Develop an understanding of design tools available to the landscape designer through analysis of existing landscapes, exploring design through media other than the landscape, and a final design project. Group projects, in-class reviews, and an introduction to study models, research techniques, and writing begin to create a vocabulary with which students can both describe and critique their designs and the work of others. Prerequisite PSLD 100.

PSLD 202 Site Analysis
(2 credits)
Learn to inventory and record existing site conditions including slope, soil, microclimate, and context. Studio work includes base plans, sections, and site program. Two Saturday or Sunday field exercises are required for this course. The dates are discussed at the first class. Prerequisite: PSLD 201.

PSLD 203 Site Engineering
(2 credits)
Learn the principles and techniques of basic site engineering, including grading, drainage, earthwork, and the design of steps, ramps, walls and terraces. Prerequisite: PSLD 202.

PSLD 204 Construction Methods & Materials
(2 credits)
Develop an understanding of commonly used landscape construction materials, including stone, concrete, masonry and wood. Learn to incorporate design elements such as decks, patios, fences and walkways into the landscape. Prerequisite: PSLD 203.

PSLD 210 Site Design I
(2 credits)
Through lectures, site visits, and design projects, this studio design course focuses on analyzing the requirements of the program and the site to develop designs that respond both to client needs and environmental context. Continued development of graphic techniques. Prerequisite: PSLD 204.

PSLD 211 Site Design II
(2 credits)
Continuation of Site Design I. Moving through a series of projects, this course examines different issues in context, program and client requirements. Prerequisite: PSLD 210.

PSLD 214 Planting Design I
(2 credits)
This studio course focuses on the use of plants as an important design element. Topics include plants in contemporary design, plant characteristics, cultural requirements, environ-mental factors, plant selection, the process of planting design, planting specifications, planting details, planting cost estimates, and continued development of graphic skills. Prerequisite: PSLD 211 and PSLD 220, 222, 224, 226 and 228.

PSLD 215 Planting Design II
(2 credits)
Continuation of Planting Design I. Prerequisite: PSLD 214

PSLD 220-228
(1 credit each)
Identification characteristics, design applications and aesthetic, functional and cultural aspects of approximately 60 trees, shrubs, vines and flowering plants for each of the periods specified. Lectures and field study.
PSLD 220 Woody Landscape Plants for Early Fall
PSLD 222 Woody Landscape Plants for Late Fall
PSLD 224 Woody Landscape Plants for Early Spring
PSLD 226 Woody Landscape Plants for Late Spring
PSLD 228 Woody Landscape Plants for Summer

PSLD 230 History of Landscape Design
(2 credits)
Slide-illustrated lectures present the major traditions in landscape design history. Readings, in-class exercises, and out-of-class projects may be required. Prerequisite: PSLD 100.

PSLD 231 Contemporary Themes in Landscape Design Seminar
(1 credit)
Faculty-moderated active discussions on contemporary movements in landscape architecture. Readings, in-class exercises, and out-of-class projects may be required. Prerequisite: PSLD 230.

PSLD 240 Comprehensive Project
(2 credits)
Under the direction of a practicing professional, you will prepare a full set of design and working drawings for a selected site. Completed projects are presented to a jury of professionals.

SCHEDULE OF CLASSES BY TERM: Cohort I (begins Fall 2006)

Program Format Master's Program

Stackable Credentials
43 Credit Program

The Master's of Professional Studies in Landscape Design combines the 28-credit Graduate Certificate in Landscape Design with the 15-credit Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Landscapes. It is a unique program that prepares students for careers as landscape designers with in-depth knowledge of sustainable design practices, focusing on small-scale and residential projects. The degree program includes the courses in the Landscape Design program and those in the Sustainable Landscapes curriculum. Classes are scheduled in the evening and on weekends to accommodate the schedules of students in career transition.