Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Visual Arts

Landscape Architecture

Landscape architects work at a variety of scales, ranging from major regional projects to urban developments which include industrial, commercial, institutional, recreational and residential environments.

The scope of their work includes all aspects of landscape and land use planning, design and management, the restoration and rehabilitation of disturbed environments, the identification and assessment of environmental and social impacts associated with a variety of public and private developments. It also includes the design and management of outdoor spaces to create exciting, functional and attractive environments which will contribute to the quality of life of the community.

Common to all this work is the ability to understand natural systems and their interactions with human activities.

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture is a professional course with emphasis on design and environmental management.

In the design units you will learn drawing techniques, site analysis, basic ecology, landscape construction and site manipulation in the context of environmental, climatic, cultural and historical considerations.

Technology units introduce you to computer aided design and terrain modelling using computer software. You will also learn the fundamentals of site engineering, including the standard calculation and drafting of earthworks, grading, drainage and landscape elements.

Units on plants and ecology focus on the use and related design considerations of plants in landscape architecture, providing an understanding of taxonomic structure and the identification of plant species.

There is a special focus on plants suitable for Perth and arid climates. Ecological concerns are examined at the global, regional and local level. General principles of land management in relation to geology, hydrology, soil science and horticulture are studied and then applied in practical projects. You will also be exposed to the ideas of art history and theory.Fish Eye You will also take a unit in professional practice, which provides an understanding of project management, the application of the Law to the profession, tendering and procurement, contracts, construction management and dispute resolution.

Career opportunities

Public emphasis on preserving the natural environment and minimising the impact of potential developments has increased employment opportunities for landscape architects - both in private practice and with state, federal and local government agencies. The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture has been established as a high quality degree which is directed towards membership of the Institute of Landscape Architects. The course has been accredited by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects. Recent graduates have been employed in WA by private firms such as Thompson Palmer, Blackwell and Associates, Tim Davies, Tract and Peter Cala and Associates. Government employers of graduates include the Department of Enviroment and Conservation and local government in Stirling and Fremantle. Graduates have also gained employment overseas, for instance working in the USA, UK and Germany.