Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The curriculum balances design studios with courses in ecology, planning, construction technology and professional practice. Studio core work emphasises site analysis, conceptual design, masterplanning and detailed landscape proposals delivered through iterative projects and critique. Technical and theoretical subjects typically include landscape ecology and planting design, stormwater management and sustainable site systems, materials and construction methods, digital design and representation (CAD, GIS and parametric tools), history and theory of landscape and urbanism, and planning fundamentals such as land use, policy and community engagement.

Students also take research methods and professional practice modules that address contracts, project delivery, ethics and interdisciplinary teamwork. Fieldwork and site-based learning in the Cleveland region are integral, and many students undertake design-build projects, community-engaged studios or independent capstone projects that synthesise planning and landscape design priorities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with a strong academic record and a portfolio that demonstrates visual thinking, design process and creative problem solving. Successful candidates typically show strength in drawing, model-making or digital representation and an interest in environmental systems and urban issues. Admissions consider academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation and a portfolio; standardised test requirements vary and should be checked on the university admissions pages. International applicants must meet English language proficiency standards.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of practice and planning roles. Typical career paths include landscape designer, urban planner, environmental consultant, site planner, GIS specialist, green infrastructure designer and roles in public sector parks and recreation departments. Many graduates pursue postgraduate professional degrees or licensure pathways where required for registration as landscape architects; others move into allied fields such as urban design, ecological restoration, transportation planning, real-estate development or community advocacy. Alumni find work with private design firms, municipal planning agencies, non-profit organisations and multidisciplinary consultancies.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve offers an education that combines studio-led learning with access to technical resources and an active urban laboratory in Cleveland. Students benefit from interdisciplinary links across architecture, engineering, environmental studies and public policy, enabling integrated approaches to complex site and infrastructure challenges. The university's partnerships with local government, community organisations and regional design practices provide opportunities for real-world projects and internships. Facilities commonly available to students include fabrication and digital labs, GIS resources and faculty engaged in applied research, supporting a practice-oriented education in landscape architecture and planning.