Shape Resilient, Meaningful Places
The University of Rhode Island’s Department of Landscape Architecture offers a fully accredited, four-year Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (B.L.A.) degree, recognized by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and structured to support students on the path toward professional licensure. We also offer undergraduate minors in Community Planning, and Landscape Architecture, along with a Graduate Certificate in Community Planning for those looking to expand their impact.
For over thirty years, we’ve built a strong community of motivated students, dedicated faculty, and successful alumni. Our program emphasizes real-world learning through interdisciplinary outreach studios in partnership with nonprofit, municipal, and state agencies across southeastern New England. Students work on timely issues—such as sustainable community design, coastal resilience, and transportation planning—and many have earned regional and national awards for their innovative solutions.
Our graduates pursue meaningful careers in both the public and private sectors, designing environmentally responsible, culturally grounded, and socially inclusive landscapes. With a strong foundation in design, technology, and ecological thinking, URI students are well prepared to meet the educational requirements for licensure and to lead the profession into a more sustainable future.
Department Quick Facts
Professional Licensure Disclosure
In accordance with the 2019 Reauthorization of the Higher Education Act, URI hereby discloses that the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture curriculum, which is accredited by the American Society of Landscape Architects, meets the educational requirements for licensure as a Landscape Architect in all U.S. States and Territories. The applicable licensing board in your state may impose additional non-educational requirements on candidates prior to granting a license (e.g., passing of an exam; obtaining a certificate; performing supervised clinical/practicum hours; etc.), and we encourage you to investigate those requirements.
Our Mission
The Landscape Architecture Department at the University of Rhode Island offers an accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) degree that prepares the next generation of innovative spatial planners and designers. Blending STEM and fine arts within a studio- and project-based learning environment, the program emphasizes regenerative systems, coastal resiliency, working landscapes, and participatory community planning. Through hands-on collaboration with local communities, students engage with real-world challenges while advancing the integrative mission of Rhode Island’s land and sea grant institution.
Rooted in inclusive and experiential education, the LAR program supports diverse learning styles and encourages students to explore their individual design voices while building creative and technical skills. As a small, student-centered department committed to interdisciplinary problem solving and community engagement, the Landscape Architecture program at URI is uniquely positioned to equip students to address the critical environmental and social issues of our time. (Revised 2025)