Urban Design and Landscape Architecture

This multidisciplinary field combines urban design and landscape architecture to create sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces and urban environments. Students explore urban planning, landscape design, environmental sustainability, and community development. The program focuses on creative problem solving and technical skills to enhance urban and natural environments. Graduates are prepared for careers in urban planning firms, landscape architecture practices, government agencies, and environmental consulting firms.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the fundamentals of urban design and landscape architecture.
• Develop skills in urban planning, landscape design, and environmental analysis.
• Learn techniques for creating sustainable and resilient urban environments.
• Explore the role of urban design and landscape architecture in community development and environmental conservation.
• Understand regulatory standards and ethical considerations in urban design and landscape design.
• Analyze challenges and opportunities in urban and environmental design.
• Develop teamwork and problem-solving skills for urban and landscape design projects.

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Urban Design and Landscape Architecture
   • Overview of the field, history, and applications in urban planning and environmental conservation.
   • Basics of design principles and theories.
2. Urban Planning and Design
   • Study of urban planning principles including zoning, land use, and transportation planning.
   • Techniques for designing urban spaces such as parks, plazas, and streetscapes.
3. Landscape Design
   • Basics of landscape design including site analysis, plant selection, and hard landscape elements.
   • Techniques for creating functional and aesthetic outdoor spaces.
4. Environmental Sustainability
   • Principles of environmental sustainability in urban and landscape design.
   • Techniques for incorporating sustainable practices like green infrastructure and renewable energy.
5. Community Development
   • Methods of engaging communities in the design process and promoting social equity.
   • Techniques for creating inclusive and accessible urban spaces.
6. GIS and Mapping
   • Principles of Geographic Information Systems and their applications in urban and landscape design.
   • Techniques for using GIS software to analyze spatial data and inform design decisions.
7. Regulatory Standards and Ethical Considerations
   • Understanding urban planning regulations, environmental laws, and ethical considerations in design.
   • Techniques for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and promoting ethical practices.
8. Emerging Technologies
   • Analysis of innovations such as smart cities, green roofs, and vertical gardens.
   • Techniques for adapting to new technologies and industry trends.
9. Capstone Project
   • A real-world project applying acquired skills in urban planning, landscape design, or environmental conservation.
   • Techniques for delivering comprehensive urban or landscape design solutions.

Assessment Methods:

Design projects, simulations, written assignments, group projects, and internships.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Urban Design" by Alex Krieger and William S. Saunders.
• "Landscape Architecture: An Introduction to Thought, Process, and Method" by Robert Holden and Jamie Liversedge.
• "Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design with Nature" by Douglas Farr.

Prerequisites:

Basic knowledge in design principles, environmental science, and social sciences. Suitable for students in urban planning, landscape architecture, environmental studies, and related fields.

Program Duration:

Typically 4 years to earn a bachelor's degree, including coursework, design projects, and internships.

Certification:

Graduates can earn a degree in urban design and landscape architecture and pursue certifications such as Licensed Landscape Architect (LLA) or the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Target Audience:

Aspiring city planners, landscape architects, and environmental designers seeking to specialize in creating sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban and natural environments. This field equips students with the skills necessary to excel in urban design and landscape architecture, supporting advancements in urban planning, environmental sustainability, and community development.