Colorado State University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous design studios with coursework in landscape technology, ecological systems, and planning. Core subjects typically include site analysis and design, planting design and horticulture, grading and construction detailing, landscape history and theory, ecological restoration, hydrology and stormwater management, and GIS for landscape planning. Students work through progressive studio sequences that emphasise conceptual development, technical proficiency and collaborative problem‑solving, and complete a capstone project or professional practicum that demonstrates integrated design and research.

• Design studios: multi‑term studios focused on urban, suburban and rural projects, emphasising iterative design, fabrication and representation.
• Technical courses: grading and drainage, construction materials and methods, digital representation and fabrication, and plant materials.
• Ecology and planning: landscape ecology, restoration practice, stormwater and green infrastructure, and land‑use planning.
• Methods and research: GIS and spatial analysis, visualisation, design research methods and a professional capstone or thesis option.
• Electives and cross‑disciplinary work: opportunities to take electives in architecture, urban planning, ecology, horticulture or sustainability studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree. Candidates with an undergraduate degree in landscape architecture typically enter the professional track; applicants from related fields (architecture, planning, environmental science, horticulture, engineering or fine arts) are also considered and may be required to complete foundational coursework. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a current curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation and a portfolio that demonstrates design or creative work. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Admissions may consider professional experience and the strength of the portfolio in lieu of specific course prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers in private practice, public agencies, non‑profit organisations and interdisciplinary design firms. Common roles include:

• Registered landscape architect in design firms and consultancies
• Urban and regional planner or site planner for municipal governments
• Landscape designer specialising in ecological restoration, parks and open space, or green infrastructure
• Environmental consultant focused on stormwater, habitat and watershed planning
• Project manager, community engagement specialist or policy advisor in sustainability and land‑use organisations

Graduates may also continue to doctoral study or transition into allied fields such as urban design, architecture, or environmental planning.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers landscape architecture students access to a diverse physical setting — from high plains and riparian corridors to nearby mountain environments — providing rich living laboratories for ecological and design research. The programme emphasises sustainability, resilient design and hands‑on learning, with studio culture supported by digital fabrication and GIS resources. Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration with related departments, field‑based learning opportunities and professional networks in the Rocky Mountain region and beyond.

The department's focus on applied design, ecological systems and professional practice prepares students for registration and for careers that require both creative design thinking and technical proficiency.