Courses

Find course descriptions below for Landscape Architecture, Community Planning, and Geography.

Landscape Architecture

LAR 101

Freshman Inquiry into Landscape Architecture

(1 cr.) Introduction for freshmen to Landscape Architecture: the profession, practices and principles.Interact weekly with faculty and staff. Explore hands-on studio and field studies (Lec. 1) S/U credit.

LAR 201

Survey of Landscape Architecture

(3 crs.) Introduction to landscape design theory and composition as an applied art form. (Lec. 3/Online) (A4)

LAR 202

Origins of Landscape Development

(3 crs.) Examines the impact of environment, social history, philosophy, art, and literature on architecture and landscape development from ancient to modern times. Emphasis on European Renaissance through contemporary United States. (Lec. 3) (A4)

LAR 202

Origins of Landscape Development

(3 crs.) Examines the impact of environment, social history, philosophy, art, and literature on architecture and landscape development from ancient to modern times. Emphasis on European Renaissance through contemporary United States. (Lec. 3) (A4)

LAR 243

Landscape Architecture Graphics

(4 crs.) Introduction to landscape graphic communication techniques with emphasis on design and construction drawing and perspective illustration. (Lec. 2, Studio 4)

LAR 244

Basic Landscape Architectural Design

(4 crs.) Introduction to the development of outdoor space with emphasis on the design process and the manipulation of spatial volumes. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: 243.

LAR 300

Computers In Landscape Architecture

(4 crs.) Intensive course in computer usage for landscape architects. Focus on the application of landscape architecture computer-aided design software to project development. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: sophomore standing in landscape architecture. Intended for landscape architecture majors only.

LAR 301

Landscape Expression and Analysis

(4 crs.) Focuses on existing landscape methodologies to examine the earth's surface: using topographical surveying, 3-D mapping, soils analysis, graphic depiction, land interpretation and land development drainage and associated environmental impacts. (Lec. 3, Studio 2) Pre: LAR 244 and MTH 103. For LAR majors or with permission of instructor.

LAR 302

GIS Applications for Landscape Architecture

(3 crs.) GIS software, data and orthophotos will be explored and used for site analysis and the creation of plans suitable for standing alone or being incorporated into CAD design/planning applications. (Lec.2, Lab.2) Pre: junior or senior landscape architecture major or permission of instructor.

LAR 302

Digital Applications for Design and Analysis

(3 crs.) Introduction to digital design software (Adobe Suite applications) and GIS software with emphasis on principles and practices within the profession of landscape architecture. (Lec. 3) Pre: LAR 243, MTH 103, ART 207 or equivalent. For LAR majors or with permission of instructor.

LAR 343

Landscape Architecture Studio I

(4 crs.) Landscape concepts in graphic form. Emphasis on preparing landscape plans for small- to intermediate-scale properties. Students study in a professional studio environment. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: LAR 201, 202, and 244. Intended for landscape architecture majors only.

LAR 344

Landscape Architecture Studio Ii

(4 crs.) Continuation of landscape concepts and graphics. Emphasis on drawing landscape plans for intermediate to larger scale properties. Advanced rendering. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: LAR 301, 343, and 345; credit or concurrent enrollment in 346. Intended for landscape architecture majors only.

LAR 345

Landscape Construction I

(4 crs.) A comprehensive survey of construction materials and their uses in landscape construction. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: LAR 244 and 300. Intended for landscape architecture majors only.

LAR 346

Landscape Construction II

(4 crs.) The study of soil adjustment; grading, drainage, cut and fill, reshaping of earth surfaces. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: 301 and 345. Intended for landscape architecture majors only.

LAR 350

Sustainable Communities for the 21st Century

(3 crs.) Conditions affecting cities and towns, and the challenges facing designers, planners and citizens engaged in envisioning and creating sustainable environments in a time of climate change. (Lec. 3) Pre: Sophomore standing or permission of instructor. (C1) (B2)

LAR 353

Landscape Plants I

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (LAR), PLS 353. Identification and description under fall conditions; classification and adaptation of the important trees and shrubs including broadleaf evergreens and their value in ornamental plantings. (Lec. 1, Lab. 4) Pre: BIO 102 or PLS 150.

LAR 354

Landscape Plants II

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (PLS), LAR 354. Identification and description under winter and spring conditions; classification and adaptation of the coniferous evergreens, vines, and groundcovers and their value in ornamental plantings. (Lec. 2, Lab. 2) Pre: LAR 353 or PLS 353.

LAR 387G

Exploring Climate Change using Visual Design Tools

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (LAR), ART 387G. This course uses landscape architecture/art as a conduit to investigate climate change. While exploring the confluence of ethics and design, students will increase cultural consciousness and move toward civic responsibility. (Lec. 3) Pre: 12 credits earned at 100 level or above, and one of LAR 201 or LAR 202 or ART 105 or ART 214, or permission of instructor. Basic knowledge of climate change is expected. (D1) (C1) (GC)

LAR 434

Introduction to Environmental Law

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (CPL), LAR 434. Surveys issues arising out of laws designed to protect the environment and manage resources: right to a decent environment, government regulation versus private property rights, citizen participation in planning environmental controls. (Lec. 3) Pre: sophomore standing (45 credits completed) and above.

LAR 443

Planting Design

(4 crs.) The use of plant materials in landscape composition. Combines spatial definition of various land uses with plant selection. Preparation of plans, details, and specifications. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: LAR 344 and 354. Intended for landscape architecture majors only. Not for graduate credit.

LAR 444

Landscape Architecture Studio III: Sustainable Design

(4 crs.) Sustainable design principles and practices. Theoretical and real-world problem solving for individual sites and local communities. Explore sustainability practices, green infrastructure, and public participation. (Lec. 2 Studio 4) Intended for LAR majors, MESM students, or with permission of instructor. Pre: LAR 344 and 346 or by permission of instructor.

LAR 445

Landscape Architecture Studio IV

(4 crs.) Study of comprehensive landscape architectural projects. Coordination of research and preparation of alternative design solutions and work with public agencies and communities. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Service learning. Intended for LAR majors, MESM students, or with permission of instructor. Pre: LAR 443 and 444 or by permission of instructor. (D1)

LAR 447

Professional Landscape Architectural Practice

(3 crs.) Professional practice, ethics, marketing design services, preparation of contract documents, and effective time management. (Lec. 3) Pre: senior standing in landscape architecture. Not for graduate credit.

LAR 447

Professional Landscape Architectural Practice and Portfolio

(4 crs.) This senior-level course will cover professional practice, ethics, marketing design services, preparation of contract documents, effective time management as well as the strategy and skills necessary for constructing a professional portfolio (Lec 3, Lab 1). Pre: LAR 443 and LAR 444. Not for graduate credit.

LAR 450

Landscape Architecture Portfolio Development

(1 cr.) This senior level course will cover the strategy and skills necessary for constructing a professional portfolio and provide students with an opportunity to understand the full potential of the portfolio within the profession. (Lec. 1) Pre: LAR 443 and 444. Not for graduate credit.

LAR 472

The Design of Home-Scale Renewable Energy Systems

(4 crs.) Explores the design and implementation of renewable energy systems for household or small site use. Intellectual property, patents and business potentials are explored for two prototypes developed in class facilities. (Lec. 2, Studio 4) Pre: Junior standing and above. Not for graduate credit.

LAR 477

Landscape Architecture Internship

(1-6 crs.) Directed work experience program at landscape architecture offices, contracting firms and related industries. (Practicum) Pre: permission of instructor.

LAR 491

Special Projects and Independent Study

(1-3 crs.) Special work to meet specialized needs in the landscape architecture profession. (Independent Study) Pre: permission of instructor. Not for graduate credit.

LAR 492

Special Projects and Independent Study

(1-3 crs.) Special work to meet specialized needs in the landscape architecture profession. (Independent Study) Pre: permission of instructor. Not for graduate credit.


Community Planning

CPL 202

Introductory Urban Geography: Understanding Cities

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (CPL), GEG 202. Introduction to the origin and development of cities in the U.S.; contemporary urban issues as well as the planning and governance of cities in the U.S. (Lec. 3/Online) (A2) (C1)

CPL 391

Directed Study in Community Planning

(1-3 crs.) Independent work in planning for individual students or groups. (Independent Study) Pre: CPL 410 and permission of instructor.

CPL 392

Directed Study in Community Planning

(1-3 crs.) Independent work in planning for individual students or groups. (Independent Study) Pre: CPL 410 and permission of instructor.

CPL 397

Field Work In Community Planning

(1-3 crs.) Student works as a part-time intern in a planning agency under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Fieldwork must be pre-arranged with agency and instructor. (Practicum) Pre: CPL 410 and permission of instructor.

CPL 410

Fundamentals of Community Planning Practice

(3 crs.) Survey of the planning profession and its different functional areas: land use, environment, urban design, transportation, housing, economic development, and growth management. (Lec. 3) Pre: junior, senior, or graduate standing, or permission of instructor.

CPL 434

Introduction to Environmental Law

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (CPL), LAR 434. Surveys issues arising out of laws designed to protect the environment and manage resources: right to a decent environment, government regulation versus private property rights, citizen participation in planning environmental controls. (Lec. 3) Pre: sophomore standing (45 credits completed) and above.

CPL 450

Urban Design

(3 crs.) Concepts of contemporary urban landscapes, ranging from entire cities to specific building sites. Includes private development, public spaces, transportation systems, aesthetics, and sprawl. Emphasis on urban design processes and standards. (Lec. 3) Pre: junior, senior, or graduate standing, or permission of instructor.

CPL 483

Land Development

(3 crs.) Study of land development including land acquisition, development and project effectiveness. Techniques focus on land suitability and project viability, as well as environmental considerations. Focus on coastal development. (Lec. 3) Pre: junior, senior, or graduate standing, or permission of instructor.

CPL 485

Environmental Planning

(3 crs.) Theories, methodologies, and substantive concerns of environmental resource analysis with attention given to coastal environmental issues. Focus on land, soils, watersheds, water quality, vegetation, air quality, wildlife, noise pollution. (Lec. 3) Pre: junior, senior, or graduate standing, or permission of instructor.

CPL 501

Introduction to Community Planning Practice

(3 crs.) The development of community planning in the United States, history of governmental planning and evaluation of the planning profession, and the elements of planning practice. (Lec. 3)

CPL 510

Community Planning and Political and Social Change

(3 crs.) Introduction to systems and central theories of determinants for social and planned change in urban and urbanizing communities. Focus on methodologies for political and social assessments. (Seminar) Pre: CPL 523 or permission of instructor.

CPL 516

Seminar On The Urban Waterfront

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (MAF), CPL 516. The urban environment and its evolution, structure, and function as it pertains to metropolitan waterfronts and small recreational harbors. Emphasis on the permitting process, public participation, marine recreation, and management issues. Field trip and student project required. (Seminar)

CPL 522

Planning Law

(3 crs.) General review and discussion of legal principles and thought concerned with property rights, political power, and the legal aspects pertinent to the planning and development of public and private activities. (Lec. 3) Pre: second-year graduate standing or permission of instructor.

CPL 523

Planning Theory

(3 crs.) Critical survey of planning theories and contemporary planning concepts. Values, assumptions, and processes of various planning paradigms as related to decisions in community planning. Specific emphasis on values and ethics in planning theory. (Seminar) Service Learning.

CPL 525

Introduction To Planning Methods

(4 crs.) Application of basic quantitative methods in planning: collection, analysis, and presentation of demographic, housing, and economic data. Introductory survey techniques. Introduction to computer applications in planning. (Lec. 3, Lab. 2) Pre: one course in statistics or permission of instructor.

CPL 526

Planning & Policy Analysis

(3 crs.) Elementary social science research methods. Introduction to methodological approaches, research design, quantitative and qualitative data collection, and computerized data analysis in community planning and related urban social science. (Lec. 3, Lab. 2) Pre: CPL 525.

CPL 536

International Comparisons In Urban And Regional Planning

(3 crs.) Urban and regional development issues and policies in advanced and developing countries. Emphasis on population growth, urbanization, and spatial development. (Seminar) In alternate years.

CPL 537

Land Resource Economics

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (CPL 537), EEC 532. The study of economic relationships of human and scarce natural and human-made resources. Supply and demand, rent theory, resources conservation, and the impact of public policy and law. (Lec. 3)

CPL 538

Site Planning

(3 crs.) Site analysis, planning, and design processes. Principles and techniques addressing residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. Presents techniques to review site plans and evaluate post-development impacts. (Lec. 3) Pre: graduate standing or permission of instructor.

CPL 539

Environmental Law

(3 crs.) Analysis of specific environmental issues and policies including facility siting, land use and constitutional issues, comprehensive planning, public trust doctrine, concurrence and state impact assessments. Independent research and presentation required. (Lec. 3)

CPL 546

Urban and Rural Transportation

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (CPL), CVE 546. Issues confronting planning for urban and rural transportation systems; the variety of policies that governments pursue in addressing issues and problems; technical and political constraints, transportation studies, and demand analysis techniques. (Lec. 3) Pre:CPL 410 or 501 or permission of instructor. In alternate years.

CPL 549

Seminar In Ecological Planning

(3 crs.) Advanced seminar in ecological planning. Topics include hazardous waste, power plant siting, major transportation facilities, solid waste, aquifer protection, among others. Particular emphasis on wetlands and marine and coastal settings. (Seminar) Pre: CPL 511 or permission of instructor.

CPL 550

Urban Design

(3 crs.) Overview of the fundamentals of urban design. Urban design concerns the arrangement, appearance and functionality of towns and cities, and in particular the shaping and uses of urban public spaces. Urban design is regarded as a disciplinary practice that operates at the intersection of the three professions of “urban planning”, “landscape architecture”, and “architecture.” Urban design deals with the design of the community, its form and pattern; the massing and grouping of the buildings; and the design and organization of spaces between them. (Accelerated Online Program) Pre: Only for students in the Community Planning Certificate program

CPL 585

Environmental Planning

(3 crs.) Current environmental planning and management best practices for healthy, sustainable and resilient communities. Students develop a basic understanding of the concepts of environmental planning and how it can be applied to the design and development of healthy and sustainable communities. (Accelerated Online Program) Pre: Only for students in the Community Planning Certificate program

CPL 591

Special Problems in Planning

(1-6 crs.) Individual investigation of special problems in planning. (Independent Study)

CPL 592

Special Problems in Planning

(1-6 crs.) Individual investigation of special problems in planning. (Independent Study)


Geography

GEG 101

World Geography

(3 crs.) An examination of major world regions. Basic geographic concepts are presented. Physiographic, political, economic, social, and cultural influences are addressed in a spatial context. (Lec. 3)

GEG 104

Political Geography

(3 crs.) Pattern of political units throughout the world; special emphasis on boundaries, newly independent nations, and other aspects of political control over territory. (Lec. 3)

GEG 200

Human Geography

(3 crs.) The evolution of human environments from the Stone Age to the contemporary megalopolis and the emergent world city in terms of human-earth-space-resource relationships. (Lec. 3)

GEG 202

Introductory Urban Geography: Understanding Cities

(3 crs.) Cross-listed as (CPL), GEG 202. Introduction to the origin and development of cities in the U.S.; contemporary urban issues as well as the planning and governance of cities in the U.S. (Lec. 3/Online) (A2) (C1)