MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BA Hons Landscape Architecture
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture program at the University of Gloucestershire offers a comprehensive and well-regarded education in the field. It is one of the longest-running landscape architecture degrees in the UK and holds full accreditation with the Landscape Institute and recognition from IFLA (International Federation of Landscape Architects) Europe. The program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to address the challenges of the 21st century in the built and natural environments. A key feature is its studio-based learning environment, where students work on real-world projects with client-driven briefs, simulating professional practice. This hands-on approach allows students to develop their design creativity and refine their professional skills.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture program at the University of Gloucestershire is structured to provide a balanced mix of theory, design work, and an introduction to professional practice. Core modules typically include "Design Projects," which are central to the program and involve working on both studio-based and on-site projects to understand the relationships and processes of landscape architecture. Students also study "Professional Practice" modules, covering essential aspects like digital communication, contract law, ethical considerations, and professional procedures. "Cultural Context" modules delve into the historical and contemporary influences on landscape design, exploring aesthetic, environmental, social, and cultural factors. Furthermore, "Sustainable Technology" modules provide a crucial understanding of how to integrate plant, construction, and ecological knowledge into sustainable landscape design projects, addressing the vital issue of creating landscapes for sustainable living.
Research Focus: The program's research focus is deeply embedded within its teaching, with a teaching team comprising both research-active academics and practicing architects. This ensures that the curriculum is informed by the latest advancements and critical perspectives within the field. Students are encouraged to engage in research throughout their studies, particularly in the "Cultural Context" modules where they appraise landscapes and analyze historical and contemporary trends. The "Landscape Architecture Dissertation" in the final year provides a significant opportunity for students to undertake in-depth research on a topic of their choice, developing their research skills within a professional context. The emphasis on sustainability is also a key research area within the program, with students exploring how to apply ecological knowledge and sustainable technologies in their design projects.
Industry Engagement: A significant strength of the University of Gloucestershire's Landscape Architecture program is its strong industry engagement. The program boasts excellent links to the industry and professional bodies, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and that graduates are well-prepared for the professional world. Students benefit from working on "live briefs" for both private and public sector clients, providing invaluable real-world experience. The program's location offers proximity to both urban and rich English landscapes, providing a diverse range of case studies and site visits. There are opportunities for work experience and placements with various organizations. The university also actively facilitates networking opportunities for students, including an annual Degree Show where students can showcase their work to leading landscape design practices, and where some students have even been directly recruited by firms. Guest speakers and influential partnerships further enhance the students' connection to the professional landscape.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture program at the University of Gloucestershire incorporates a global perspective to broaden students' understanding of the discipline within an international context. Through national and international study trips (though additional costs may apply for international trips), students have the opportunity to explore and analyze a diverse range of historic, contemporary, and cultural landscapes in different locations, such as past trips to Copenhagen, New York, and Barcelona. This exposure to international examples and practices helps students develop a more comprehensive and globally informed approach to landscape architecture. The program also addresses broader global issues such as the impacts of climate change, the conservation of the natural world and biodiversity, and the role of landscape architecture in promoting public health and well-being on an international scale. Furthermore, the program's recognition by IFLA (International Federation of Landscape Architects) Europe signifies its adherence to international standards in the field.
Location
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 64.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Gloucestershire offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at making education more accessible and affordable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the UK without financial stress. The university provides several merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships to help ease the cost of tuition fees for international students.
International Scholarships: The University of Gloucestershire offers International Scholarships for students coming from various countries across the globe. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 per year, based on academic achievement and the chosen course of study. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students upon acceptance of their offer to study at the university. These awards are designed to make studying in the UK more affordable and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Excellence Scholarships: For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, the University of Gloucestershire offers Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. The Excellence Scholarship can be worth up to £3,000 and is designed to recognize and support high-achieving students who show great potential in their chosen field of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, the University of Gloucestershire offers country-specific scholarships to students from certain regions. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific countries, helping to promote international diversity at the university. The scholarships vary in amount, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
Graduates of the University of Gloucestershire's BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture program are well-equipped for a variety of rewarding careers within the landscape architecture and related design and environmental sectors. The program's blend of creative design, technical skills, and understanding of environmental and social contexts opens up numerous professional pathways.
Landscape Architect: This is the primary career path, with graduates working to design and manage outdoor spaces, from urban parks and public squares to large-scale infrastructure and rural landscapes. They are involved in the entire process, from initial concept and design to the supervision of construction.
Landscape Designer: Similar to a Landscape Architect, a Landscape Designer focuses on the aesthetic and functional design of outdoor spaces, often working on smaller-scale residential or commercial projects. Their role emphasizes the creative and visual aspects of landscape design.
Urban Designer: With an understanding of how people interact with the built environment, graduates can contribute to the design and planning of urban areas, focusing on public spaces, streetscapes, and the overall urban form to create more livable and sustainable cities.
Environmental Consultant: The program's emphasis on sustainability and ecological understanding prepares graduates for roles as environmental consultants. They might work on environmental impact assessments, ecological restoration projects, or advise on sustainable land management practices for various clients.
Horticulturalist/Garden Designer: Graduates with a passion for plants and planting design can specialize in horticulture and garden design, creating and maintaining planting schemes for private gardens, public parks, or botanical gardens.
Landscape Planner: This role involves working at a broader scale, contributing to the development of regional and local plans that guide land use, conservation, and the management of the landscape. Graduates can work for local authorities or private planning consultancies.
GIS Technician/Analyst: The use of digital technologies, including GIS (Geographic Information Systems), within the program provides graduates with the skills to work as GIS technicians or analysts. They can use spatial data to analyze landscapes, map environmental features, and inform design and planning decisions.
Community Engagement Officer: Given that landscape architecture often involves working with communities, graduates can utilize their communication and engagement skills in roles that involve facilitating community participation in design and planning processes for public spaces and local amenities.
Construction/Project Manager (Landscape): Graduates with an understanding of the construction aspects of landscape projects can work in project management roles, overseeing the implementation of landscape designs on site, managing budgets, and coordinating with contractors.
Further Study/Academic Research: The program provides a strong academic foundation for graduates who wish to pursue further study at the Master's or PhD level in Landscape Architecture or related fields, potentially leading to a career in academia or specialized research.
