Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BA (Hons)
Landscape Architecture and Design
Explore landscape architecture and understand how to design solutions that address our environmental challenges from climate change to biodiversity loss.
Course Overview
-
K312 -
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
16 Sep 2024
We believe in bringing out the best in our students. We’ll teach you to become creative, perceptive and bold landscape architects improving our environment for future generations.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Explore your creativity, spatial design skills and your individual approach to develop a passion for landscape design
- Gain the practical skills required to become an effective landscape architect, from nature-based solutions and retro-fitting our cities, to health and wellbeing and the radical changes needed in our rural landscapes
- Study in a supportive environment in well-equipped studios in the vibrant city of Leeds. You’ll be taught by staff from diverse backgrounds with experience from landscape practice and research
- Develop your environmental ethics and values through sharing ideas, teamworking and collaborating on live projects that mimic professional practice
- Expand your knowledge by studying the theories that shape the practice of landscape architecture
- Build the essential tools for employment in the expanding landscape architecture sector
Our heritage
We are proud to have been teaching landscape architecture for more than 55 years at Leeds Beckett University.
Showcase your work
We'll give you the opportunity to show off your projects to the public and impress industry by exhibiting your work at the end of your final year.
You can see examples of our students' work and follow Landscape Architecture and Urban Design on Twitter @LandscapeLBU and Instagram @landscapeleedsbeckett
Find out more about landscape architecture
Find out more about what it means to be a landscape architect on the Choose Landscape website and learn more about architecture at Leeds Beckett University on the architecture subject page.
Specialist facilities
You'll have access to our multimedia studios equipped with drawing boards, computers and model-making facilities, our 24/7 Library, and IT suites. The Sustainable Technology & Landscape Resource Centre provides opportunities for hands-on practical experience.
Guest lectures
We often run a number of guest lectures and workshops throughout the year, both on campus and in conjunction with external organisations. The INSIDE/OUT lecture series brings together some of the most exciting names from the fields of art, architecture, design, fashion, film, music, performing arts and beyond. You can catch up on previous lectures by visiting the Leeds Arts Research Centre site.
Professional recognition
Our course is accredited by the Landscape Institute. LI accreditation requires education providers to meet important criteria which ensure high standards are maintained, meaning you can be sure your course meets the standards needed for you to enter the landscape profession.
Why study Landscape Architecture and Design at Leeds Beckett University...
- Close links to landscape and architecture practices
- Opportunity to showcase your designs and network with potential employers through the End of Year Show
- Join an academic community that has been teaching landscape architecture for more than 50 years
- Tutors with extensive professional experience networks
- Interdisciplinary study; gain access to a vast range of ideas, skills and facilities
Explore videos and blogs
Alumni stories | Simon set up his own landscape design practice, PWP Design, after working in private practice in Chicago.
Simon Hall
BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture & Design
Landscape Architecture & Design - End of Year Show 2022 Hear from students studying landscape architecture and design about their experiences.
course alumni collection
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
120
points required
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Entry requirements
120
points required
UCAS Tariff Points: 120 points required.
(Minimum 80 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies).
GCSEs
GCSE English Language Grade 4 or above (Grade C for GCSEs taken before 2017) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma
Pass overall with a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points.T Levels
Pass overall with a minimum of 120 UCAS tariff points, including a C or above on the core.Scottish Awards
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade B or above.Irish Leaving Certificate
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 subjects at higher level of which at least 3 must be grade H3 or above.International baccalaureate
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.Interview Required
We conduct interviews as part of the admissions process and suitable applicants will be invited to an interview - interview dates will be published in due course. Invitations are sent via UCAS and you should check your UCAS Hub for further interview details. At interview you are assessed on your portfolio (artwork or photographs of artwork together with written assignments), general knowledge and your enthusiasm for Landscape Architecture & Design.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Our commitment to help every student succeed
Leeds Beckett University is committed to ensuring that every student with the potential to succeed at our University is able to do so regardless of their background. For this reason we operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we take into account a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria will be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff (above).Our contextual admissions criteria are:
- Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website).
- Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants).
- Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts.
- Declared as a care experienced on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants).
Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade C in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
International baccalaureate
120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.Interview Required
We conduct interviews as part of the admissions process and suitable applicants will be invited to an interview - interview dates will be published in due course. Invitations are sent via UCAS and you should check your UCAS Hub for further interview details. At interview you are assessed on your portfolio (artwork or photographs of artwork together with written assignments), general knowledge and your enthusiasm for Landscape Architecture & Design.
IELTS
IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Teaching & Learning
The tabs below detail what and how you will study in each year of your course. The balance of assessments and overall workload is indicative and may be subject to change.
What you'll learn
Heighten your awareness of environment, its characters, and the natural and human processes which shape its evolution. Through the practice of drawing and key graphic communication skills, you'll learn to observe, record and analyse place – skills that are essential to the practice of landscape architecture.
Working in a studio environment, you will explore the 3D nature of design by developing a project from concept to resolution in the form of an abstract model.
Examine the key natural and cultural processes that have, over time, contributed to the contemporary landscape. You'll study elements of geology, soil, ecology and some of the major landscape changes that have been brought about by human society throughout its history. Your learning will be undertaken through lectures, study guides, on-line resources and a field-study of a local area of landscape.
Develop an appreciation and understanding of the integrated nature of landscape design in the environment and the ability to design in a sensitive and responsive manner.
Working to a brief, you will research and select a group of materials, develop the design to a basic technical resolution and communicate your ideas through the production of a model and construction drawings.
Explore plant communities in the landscape, both semi-natural and designed. You'll gain an appreciation of their variety, their contribution to the landscape and an understanding of the ecological, horticultural and design factors that affect their composition and maintenance. This module will also incorporate a simple practical planting design and establishment project.
What you'll learn
This module will provide you with the opportunity to create and apply design interventions within landscape types and character areas. You'll undertake research into the current influences on a rural landscape. Using a range of visual 2D and 3D media to communicate your ideas, you'll design a relevant landscape intervention and associated planting proposals.
Develop and resolve creative ideas that will complement the landscape.
Complete an in-depth analysis of a neighbourhood with emphasis on creating a rationale for future design actions. You'll explore a broad range of physical, social, and cultural contexts applicable to the built and semi-natural environment. Your analysis work will inform design proposals for the area.
Develop spatial and landscape site designs using the organisation of place, space, activities, materials, plants and people. You'll gain knowledge of issues, processes, methods and tools that impact the design and delivery of landscape designs. With the opportunity to explore live client requirements, this module will enable you to develop skills in the design and communication of proposals for delivery.
Learn to examine and identify a broad spectrum of indigenous and introduced plant materials. You'll apply this knowledge to a wide range of landscape scenarios as you consider the key principles of plant and landscape management. You'll also develop an understanding of sustainable hard materials.
Explore the significant designers, ideas, movements and design processes of the 20th and 21st centuries from around the globe. This module will provide a basis and theoretical understanding of the practice of landscape architecture. It will inform your associated design projects and introduce you to design research.
What you'll learn
Experience, reflect upon and develop an understanding of the processes of engaging with communities in the planning, design and management of their environments.
Explore and resolve a detailed design project for a real community-based client using appropriate materials and fabrication techniques, and communicate the outcome via a range of digital and traditional media.
Using a variety of sources, you’ll research an aspect of landscape architecture and write an illustrated critical study of 6,000-10,000 words on a topic of your choice. You'll prepare your research as a written document, supported by appropriate graphics, that incorporates critical analysis and relevant conclusions.
This module will provide the opportunity for you to demonstrate creativity, personal focus and design competence. You'll undertake a comprehensive landscape architecture challenge, from design research through to a resolved design, including technical details.
This module will prepare you for professional practice by encouraging a critical awareness of landscape architecture. You'll develop individual skills and knowledge relevant to your chosen career through the production of a reflective portfolio, incorporating a CV.
Fees & Funding hellooo
£9,250
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
£16,000
International 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Fees & Funding
£9,250
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Membership of the Landscape Institute
- Free entry to Inside/Out lecture series
- Studio equipment and facilities, including our multimedia studios with drawing boards, computers and model-making facilities
- Landscape Resource Centre, where you can gain valuable experience working with plants, planting design, ecology, environmental art and construction
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Course materials (£100-150)
- Printing (£50-100)
- Degree show printing and paper (£80-120)
Optional Costs
- Year 1 field trip (£150)
- Year 2 field trip (£150)
- Year 3 European trip (£300)
- Other site visits (£50-100)
- Year 2 potential internship with local practice (£0-50)
- USB or Mac-compatible external hard drive (cost will vary; alternatively, you could save your work free online on LBU OneDrive)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,000
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Membership of the Landscape Institute
- Free entry to Inside/Out lecture series
- Studio equipment and facilities, including our multimedia studios with drawing boards, computers and model-making facilities
- Landscape Resource Centre, where you can gain valuable experience working with plants, planting design, ecology, environmental art and construction
Essential Costs
- Course materials (£100-150)
- Printing (£50-100)
- Degree show printing and paper (£80-120)
Optional Costs
- Year 1 field trip (£150)
- Year 2 field trip (£150)
- Year 3 European trip (£300)
- Other site visits (£50-100)
- Year 2 potential internship with local practice (£0-50)
- USB or Mac-compatible external hard drive (cost will vary; alternatively, you could save your work free online on LBU OneDrive)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture & Design Based in a well-equipped studio environment in the vibrant city of Leeds, you will study the theories that shape the practice of landscape architecture, explore your individual creativity and develop a pragmatic understanding of the external environment within the landscape profession.
Landscape Architecture Study the theories that shape the practice of landscape architecture, explore your individual creativity and develop a pragmatic understanding of the external environment
Leeds School of Architecture facilities Our spaces include workshops, computer-modelling software, drawing desks and more.
Moving on up
Leeds Beckett climbs 40 places in the Complete University Guide 2024
Your future in our hands
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
Accredited by the Landscape Institute, this course will enable you to work towards full UK chartered membership. You will develop as an enthusiastic, confident, independent thinker, team player and creative problem solver for landscape solutions, attributes which are highly sought after by employers in the industry. Previous students have taken diverse routes into environmental professions and now contribute to many high-profile national and international landscape projects. This lively group of alumni regularly contribute to our course.
- Landscape architect
- Garden designer
- Environmental consultant
- Landscape conservation officer
- Architect
My time studying Landscape Architecture at Leeds Beckett pushed me to think differently and explore opportunities that question the status quo. Each studio project enabled me to explore, grow, and develop critical themes that are still a part of my practice today. I came away grounded in the knowledge that I had the design skills and creativity to forge my own path and a portfolio of work that would enable me to undertake the breadth of projects that I have been fortunate to work on throughout my career.”
Philip Dugdale
Associate Principal, Sasaki
One minute Rich brothers Harry and David Rich - Landscape Architects at Rich Landscapes, BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture and Design
Our degree allowed us the creative freedom to build our own garden design projects. The tutors were really encouraging and gave us the knowledge to begin our careers and help grow our business. We're now able to reconnect people with their natural surroundings through our garden designs.
Harry and David Rich
Landscape Architects at Rich Landscapes
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
Your Beckett experience
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
Leeds School of Arts ShowÂ
The End of Year Show celebrates the work of students from across the arts. We invite you to experience their visionary projects online.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed.
Leeds - Best Place to Live in the North and Northeast*
From music venues and art galleries to parks, shopping and transport – we’ve got it all. We also have the best-paying jobs outside of London.
*The Sunday Times Best Place to Live guide, 2024.
Still thinking about your uni choices? Discover Uni has official information to help you decide. They provide statistics for courses taken from national surveys and data collected from universities about their students.
