Ithaca College

What you'll study

While Ithaca College does not run an accredited undergraduate degree specifically in Architecture or Landscape Architecture and Planning, students interested in the discipline can pursue related study pathways that build the same skill set: studio practice, ecological understanding and planning methods. Typical topics covered in undergraduate landscape architecture programmes (available at regional institutions) include:

• Design studios — iterative site analysis, conceptual design, masterplanning and detailed construction documentation.
• Site engineering and construction — grading and drainage, basic structures, construction materials and detailing for outdoor spaces.
• Planting design and horticulture — plant identification, plant communities, sustainable planting strategies and landscape ecology.
• Environmental systems and ecology — soils, hydrology, habitat restoration and stormwater management.
• History and theory — landscape history, urbanism, design theory and cultural context for public space.
• Technical skills — CAD, GIS, 3D modelling, rendering, physical modelmaking and surveying.
• Planning and policy — land use, zoning, community engagement, and environmental regulation.
• Professional practice — portfolio development, ethics, project management and preparation for internships or licensure pathways.

At Ithaca College, students interested in this field typically combine coursework in environmental studies, studio art or design foundations with internships and elective courses that develop technical skills in GIS, mapping and digital visualisation.

Entry requirements

For accredited undergraduate Landscape Architecture or Architecture degrees at institutions in the region, typical entry requirements include:

• Completion of secondary education or an equivalent high school diploma.
• A competitive academic record with strength in mathematics, sciences (biology or earth science) and arts or design subjects where available.
• Submission of a portfolio of creative work demonstrating visual literacy, creative thinking and basic design skills—sketches, photographs, models or design school work.
• Personal statement outlining interest in landscape architecture/architecture, relevant experience and career goals.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or employers who can speak to academic potential and creative aptitude.
• Some programmes may request standardised test scores or make them optional; check the specific institution for their policy.

Students at Ithaca College who plan to transfer to or apply for graduate-level landscape architecture programmes should aim to build a strong portfolio through studio courses, internships with design or planning firms, and relevant coursework (environmental science, GIS, site design, plant science).

Career prospects

Graduates of accredited landscape architecture and planning programmes typically pursue careers in a range of public and private sectors. Common roles include:

• Landscape architect in private design firms or multidisciplinary practices.
• Urban and regional planner working for municipal governments or planning consultancies.
• Environmental consultant specialising in stormwater, habitat restoration or sustainable site design.
• GIS specialist or spatial analyst supporting planning and landscape projects.
• Landscape contractor or construction manager focusing on implementation of designed landscapes.
• Community engagement coordinator or public realm designer for non‑profits and local authorities.

Many graduates also progress to professional licensure (which generally requires an accredited degree, practical experience and passing registration exams), or pursue postgraduate study in landscape architecture, urban design, environmental planning or related fields.

Why study at Ithaca College

Ithaca College offers a liberal arts environment with strong opportunities for experiential learning, small class sizes and close faculty mentorship—qualities that benefit students preparing for design and planning careers. Although the college does not grant a professional degree in landscape architecture, it provides relevant pathways:

• Interdisciplinary programmes in environmental studies, sustainability and studio art that allow students to develop analytical and creative skills transferable to landscape architecture.
• Opportunities for fieldwork and internships in the Finger Lakes region, giving hands‑on experience with ecological systems, community projects and regional planning issues.
• Access to digital resources, GIS training and fabrication studios to prepare a strong design portfolio.
• Proximity to regional institutions that offer accredited landscape architecture degrees, facilitating transfer pathways, cross‑registration or collaborative projects.

If your goal is a professional Bachelor’s in Landscape Architecture or Architecture, review accredited programmes at regional universities and consider how Ithaca College’s complementary offerings—hands‑on learning, environmental coursework and strong internship support—can prepare you for transfer or postgraduate entry into those professional programmes.

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