Landscape Architecture

Students must apply for candidacy to continue past the first two courses. To start your application:

• Click the Apply Now button below
• Login or create a new student account
• Once you are logged into the student portal, you can select “My Applications” from the left side menu at any time to return to your application. Click the yellow “Start” button to proceed.
• On the Certificate Application page, follow the instructions and click save. Students applying for candidacy must submit official transcripts from the university where their BA/BS was conferred directly to the program email address. Once complete, submit your application. Students who do not have a bachelor's degree, please email the program office for more information on how to apply.
• Upon submitting a completed application, students will receive an email with a link to pay the $300 nonrefundable application fee. Once payment is received, students are admitted into the program. 

The UCLA Extension Landscape Architecture Certificate is a post-baccalaureate program similar in scope and length to a Master of Landscape Architecture degree. It is a 3-year, low-residency, hybrid/in-person program. There is no option for an accelerated track.

Students are required to attend in-person (residency) class meetings; the number and duration of those residency components will vary depending on the course syllabus, format, instructor and learning objectives.

Residencies are a key element of the program, and when combined with distance-based learning, the result is a rich educational experience. Our low-residency model offers two or three Los Angeles-based, in person classes meetings per quarter (typically on weekends). The remaining class meetings are online and synchronous (i.e., NOT self-paced) to foster collaboration. The student cohort is required to attend classes and work together, regardless of class format.

During the residential period, program instruction includes site visits, site analysis, studio instruction, field trips, and opportunities for students to meet, brainstorm and network with their cohort. Coordinating the in-person class meetings per cohort will reduce travel costs and time for all students. Outside of the time program students are on-site, their main directive will be to attend eight (8) or nine (9) remote (Zoom) synchronous classes, meet learning objectives, complete assignments, and demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) of each course. Though not physically on campus for all class meetings, students are expected to structure their education in a self-driven and productive manner.

Courses are scheduled exclusively in Pacific Time (PT).

Attendance in remote instruction courses is required. Missed class meetings will have a negative effect on student grades.

Certificate candidates enjoy the following benefits:

• Priority on landscape architecture program course wait lists
• Access to quarterly program newsletter
• Access to advising appointments with Program Manager
• Access to Handshake, UCLA Career Center’s online job board, with access to thousands of job and internship postings.
• Become a member of the UCLA Alumni Association (upon completing your certificate) and a nationwide network of Bruin family.
• Join us for the annual UCLA Extension Graduation Ceremony on campus to celebrate all your hard work.
• Get access to UCLA Recreation facilities as a student affiliate.
• Open an affiliate/Guest UCLA Bruin ID Card for a number of student-related benefits.
• Access to UCLA Extension’s Career Resources including online career coaching, workshops and networking events.

It is recommended that students start the application process before enrolling in certificate program courses?

Students are welcome to enroll in the first two curriculum courses before officially apply to the program and starting the application process. This is our way of letting students see if the program is a good fit. Students who successfully complete the first two program courses and wish to continue in the program, need to complete the application process, including paying the application fee, in order to continue taking courses in the program. Students who do not complete the application are prevented from enrolling in 3rd quarter courses.  To start the application, click the “Apply Now” button below.

Can I complete the certificate online?

The short answer is no. Most courses for the Landscape Architecture Certificate are hybrid in-person, and students are required to attend all in-person class meetings to successfully complete the each course and the certificate program. Learn more about instruction methods.

Can I take certificate courses on a pass/not pass status?

All required courses in the certificate must be taken for a letter grade; a grade of “C” or better is required for the course to count towards the certificate. A minimum GPA 3.0 is required to earn the certificate.

How long does it take to complete the Landscape Architecture Certificate?

The program curriculum is designed as a three-year program. There is no option to complete it sooner. If students do need extra time to complete the certificate, the program office will work with individual students to accommodate a slower pace. Deviation from the curriculum sequence results in additional years to complete the certificate. 

How many courses should I take each quarter?

Each quarter is 11 weeks long and most courses meet once per week for three hours. Full-time enrollment is two courses per quarter. Reference the curriculum chart for quarterly core course offerings.

When are courses typically offered?

We know that many of our students are working professionals, so we schedule our class meetings in the evenings during typical non-work hours (5:30pm-10pm). We offer classes in the evenings during the week and in-person class meetings on weekends. Schedules vary; check course pages for specific schedules.

Can I work while I am a student?

Yes, this program is uniquely designed for the working professional, with courses offered weekday evenings typically after 5:30pm PT.

Is there a difference in costs for out-of-state residents?

Course fees are the same for both in state and out-of-state residents. Students pay for course fees at the time of enrollment.

Where are In-person class meetings located?

We offer in-person classes at a variety of locations in LA county. Remote instruction courses are held on the Zoom platform.