Landscape Architecture MLA

Core modules:

Reading the Contemporary Landscape

This module introduces students to the full scope and diversity of landscape architecture and the role of landscape architects in tackling contemporary social and environmental issues, presenting and giving examples of the areas of practice known as design, management and planning, with particular reference to the Sheffield area. The role of the Landscape Institute is also introduced. The aim of this module is to familiarise students with the range of work undertaken by landscape architects and the challenges the profession seeks to address.

20 credits

Space Making

An understanding of the dynamic qualities of landscape and how space is formed, manipulated and communicated is central to the discipline of landscape architecture. This introductory module equips students with a range of skills and tools that enable them to evaluate existing designed landscapes and to present proposals for new landscapes. It will provide a basic introduction to materials of landscape and develop a theoretical understanding of the design process, use of precedent and different approaches to creating original and creative design solutions. The module will also introduce a limited pallet of trees and shrubs. This module is an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge developed in ALA110 - Current Challenges in Planning Design and Management, and digital skills developed in ALA111 Presentation Communication and Research Skills.

20 credits

Presentation, Communication and Research Skills

This module is about introducing students to some of the skills and knowledge needed on this course in general, in this School, at this University and in the world of work. Communication is central to the profession of Landscape architecture in general and to this course in particular. The bulk of this module is about giving students some of the digital communication skills needed when communicating ideas in the rest of this course and, later, in the workplace.  The module will explain and help students to understand learning methods used in the School of Architecture and Landscape. The module will also introduce some of the tools needed for academic and professional life, including navigating and using the library, correctly referencing your work and avoiding plagiarism.

20 credits

Histories of Landscape Architecture

This course is designed firstly to provide a broad introduction to the discipline of Landscape Architecture and develop an interest in the study of designed landscapes. In order to do this it aims to create awareness and promote a working knowledge of the theoretical context of the profession including: 1. A working knowledge of the terminology defining landscape architecture, garden design and place making. 2. A basic chronology of the history of the profession. 3. A basic understanding of how various theories which have influenced landscape design are related to social, cultural, ecological (environmental) and economical contexts.

20 credits

The Changing Landscape

This module aims to: - Introduce landscape and environmental planning as a means of intervening in landscape at the large scale. - Provide an understanding of landscape formation, change and the drivers of change. - Introduce the toolkit available to landscape planners. - Introduce the theory and technique of Landscape Character Assessment. - Develop report writing skills and visual literacy. - Introduce students to GIS. By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate understanding of/proficiency in: - The influences and processes that shape landscape. - The relationship between landscape planning and landscape policy. - Sourcing and interpreting landscape information. - Appreciating the (sometimes controversial) nature of landscape change. - Landscape Character and Landscape Character Assessment at an introductory level. Communicating landscape data and analysis at a planning scale in a critical imaginative and creative manner.

20 credits

The Dynamic Landscape

This unit is designed to further develop the landscape design skills and knowledge gained in the 1st semester. The module runs over 12 weeks and will be largely studio-based, but there will be field trips and visits. Based on one site students will work through all the stages of design development from site analysis through to final presentation. Precedent will be used to inform practice and students will undertake self-directed study to build knowledge of the theoretical basis of the design approach in such settings. Students will further develop their understanding of and use of landform manipulation, vegetation and other built structures to create a variety of space and experience. Studio exercises and seminars will be central to the learning process. Particular emphasis will be placed on the interaction with water and approaches to the 'water's edge' in the landscape. Graphic skills, freehand and technical, needed to convey ideas at both the design development and the presentation stage (essential to the landscape architect ) will be developed with further teaching in the area of digital design communication. Development of the knowledge of vegetation, particularly native trees, and its use and place in the landscape will take place through taught sessions, field study and individual research.

20 credits

Core modules:

Exploration of Contemporary Landscapes

This module aims to engage students in current practice in landscape architecture through inquiry based learning. Contemporary issues are introduced and critiqued primarily through participation in a staff-led Field study trip. Students undertake reading and case studies analysis prior to the trip, conduct on site observations of existing landscapes and make drawings. Afterwards this is used to develop a digital portfolio on their chosen area of inquiry.

20 credits

Ecological Processes, Design & Management

This module introduces the principles and practice of landscape ecology and ecological design and their application in a variety of contexts. Key ecological concepts such as 'biodiversity' and 'ecosystems services' are introduced and the special nature of urban ecology and its relevance to the design of urban green spaces is explored. Through lectures and site visits the structure and functioning of key UK biotypes, their characteristics and application on the designed landscape are explained, and particular emphasis is placed on the creative application of these in order to deliver ecosystems services and biodiversity. Site based project work is used to allow students to develop their own ecologically inspired concepts and designs for multifunctional green infrastructure that benefits both people and wildlife and to demonstrate their ability to communicate their knowledge of ecological principles and design to different audiences.Knowledge and skills developed will build on modules taken at level 1.

20 credits

Materials of Landscape - Planting Design

This module introduces students to plants used by landscape architects in urban and rural landscape and how these can be used to develop effective planting design. Knowledge and skills developed will be built on in modules the following year. By the end of the module students will be familiar with a basic palette of plants for use in design, their botanical names, visual and use characteristics familiar with key aesthetic, functional and ecological principles under pinning planting design: have practised the basic principles of plant selection according to site conditions: have developed stimulating, creative, attractive and easily interpreted planting plans and sections - elevations based on colour, textural and structural characteristics: have evaluated the structural role of plants in defining landscape spaces at a range of scales.

20 credits

Materials of Landscape - Construction Design

This module introduces the basic principles of landscape construction. It will demonstrate that construction is an integral component of the designed landscape creating its own design opportunities and constraints. Students will study the functional, aesthetic and technical properties of a range of different landscape components. They will undertake on-site observations and produce a range of contractual drawings for a small scale design project. Computer aided design will form an integral part of the project and will be used to produce technical details. This module is closely integrated with ALA210 Landscape Design, Exploration and Intervention. Students are encouraged to take forward their detailed design proposals from this module and to develop a more comprehensive understanding of material selection and the relationship with design detailing.

20 credits

Landscape Design - Exploration and Intervention

Successful design of shared places demands innovative thinking to respond to shifting contexts and actions in a world of increasing complexity and diversity. This module focuses on approaches for generating original site-specific concepts and resolving these at a range of planning and design scales. An urban area is thoroughly explored, critiqued and communicated through on-site and multi-media activities. Students research and adapt precedent studies in art practice, urban realm interventions and emergent placemaking, and actively reflect on their own design process. These inform aims for regeneration and public engagement, the design of an urban public open space, and detailed design integrating hard and soft landscape materials.

20 credits

Optional modules:

Landscape Planning for a Changing World

This module explores the relationship between landscape,planning, policy and governance at different scales and in different contexts. This ranges from international decision-making frameworks down to individual sites in different contexts. Students will learn about the impact of policy and ideas on landscape and vice versa, and explore the role of landscape planning tools, techniques and methodologies within the wider planning framework. The module will examine how decisions about landscape are made and the effects they have from the strategic to the site scale.

20 credits

Landscape Ecology - Habitat Survey Techniques

This module will allow student to:
* Introduce students to a range of ecological survey techniques.
* Improve their identification skills and knowledge of UK flora and fauna.
* Provide an opportunity for students to synthesise field data, review published science data and formulate a professional report.
By the end of the unit students should be able to demonstrate the ability to: *apply basic ecological survey techniques: Phase 1 and Phase 2 habitat surveys: * understand the importance of plant, bird, badger and bat surveys, and the use of key indicators: *identify advantages/constraints of different surveying approaches: *develop field craft skills: *appraise the ecological value of a particular site: *provide a concise scientifically-documented report on the ecological value of one of the sites surveyed: *understand conservation measures and related management approaches.

20 credits

Core modules:

Sustainable Communities

Sustainable communities is a module focusing on people and landscape. It introduces students to the theories and practice of the social nature of sustainable communities with a particular emphasis on diverse and under-represented users. It provides the foundation to develop an understanding about planning, designing and managing landscapes for users needs and desires.

20 credits

Site Planning For Sustainable Housing

This module will introduce the context and requirements of sustainable housing provision with a particular emphasis on how this might be achieved through a holistic landscape vision. It will provide the opportunity to explore different approaches to the sustainable development of a housing site, socially, ecologically and economically. By the end of this module students will be able to demonstrate 1. an understanding as to how different housing theories and typologies affect sustainability. 2. an awareness of the political and financial issues surrounding the provision of housing. 3. Their ability to challenge conventional ideas about living and housing. 4. How a specific layout contributes to social, economical and ecological sustainability. 5. An understanding of the design process from writing a brief to masterplanning, and skills in communicating design proposals.

20 credits

Integrated Urban Design Project

The integrated urban design focuses on  developing proposals for an area of urban greenspace  regeneration from the initial planning strategies through to site  masterplanning and detailed design.  The module is closely integrated with the Materials of Landscape module ALA327, and also draws on and applies theoretical material delivered in specialist Ecology and Planning modules.  The  module requires students to develop their own design manifesto in response to the client brief and also in response to contemporary social and environmental challenges.  The module looks to build on skills in landscape spatial design and communication through a reflective design research process which also draws on and applies critical analysis of relevant precedent studies.

20 credits

Materials of Landscape - Detailed Design

This module further develops knowledge and skills in detailed landscape design. It is focussed on developing the ability in students to demonstrate appreciation and knowledge of landscape materiality and the integration of organic and inorganic elements. It enables students to: produce a range of drawings which appropriately communicate the detailed design of soft and hard elements; select vegetation and hard materials in response to site conditions and design framework; demonstrate understanding of plant growth and establishment and appropriate construction techniques. It is integrated with ALA344 Integrated Urban Design Project, in that it follows the same overall development brief and site, and materiality exploration will feed into the design work you produce for that module (design strategy, masterplan, detail design). This module forms part of a programme of study accredited by the Landscape Institute.

20 credits

Optional module:

Landscape Planning Toolkits

On completing this module students will:- have gained an overview of contemporary landscape planning tools- be aware of the legislative basis to environmental impact assessment and the circumstances in which it is likely to take place- understand the scope of the process and the steps that are involved, distinguishing between the assessment process itself and the environmental statement- have gained knowledge and understanding of the range of environmental topics covered in environmental impact assessment and the techniques involved- have understood the place that considerations of landscape and visual impact play in the process- have gained practical experience of assessing the landscape and visual impacts of a development scheme- understand some of the methods of presenting information on landscape and visual impacts in an environmental statement.

20 credits

Landscape Planning - Urban Regeneration

This module addresses the patterns and processes of urban development, examining theories and typologies of urban form, the drivers of urban change and urban regeneration. It investigates the relationship between urban form and urban greenspace and the implications for green infrastructure. Students are expected to research and present understanding of a core component of relevant literature, and relate this to examples of urban form, and to devise a masterplan for a previously developed site in Sheffield, drawing on their understanding of history and theory of urban development and using precedent to inform their approach. The course uses a mixture of lectures, field work, workshops and studio based independent study to provide insight into planning and design approaches and languages relevant to successful urban regeneration. It aims to give students knowledge and understanding of the complex planning and design frameworks within which different aspects of urban regeneration take place.

20 credits

Green Infrastructure and Ecological Masterplanning

This module aims, through a site-based project, to apply the principles of ecological design and sustainable landscape management to a medium-large unit of urban greenspace. The integration of scientific ecological knowledge with creative design skills is central to the module. Emphasis is placed on enhancing biodiversity and developing appropriate vegetation types, while at the same time catering for the needs of site users. The importance of urban green networks and green links is stressed. Emphasis is placed on the use of locally appropriate species and habitats. The module will introduce students to knowledge and techniques applicable to specified topics within landscape ecology, ecological design, and ecological landscape management and enable students to undertake independent research into specified topics and apply their findings to tightly defined design or management scenarios. Specific focus is given to environmental engineering topics such as green roofs and water sensitive design, and their relationship with urban biodiversity

20 credits

Landscape Ecology - Habitat Creation and Restoration

This module will introduce students to the theory and practice of restoration ecology and vegetation management. It will provide the rationale as to why certain landscapes become degraded and require restoration. Students will develop an awareness of habitat creation and the appropriate design / management strategies that can be employed to enhance the value of a site for wildlife. It additionally aims to provide students with the practical knowledge and skills to optimise landscape management for biodiversity and provides experience in developing a fully integrated Management Plan.
By the end of this module students will:
Understand and apply a range of appropriate restoration techniques to different habitat types.
Appreciate the historical legacy surrounding key landscape / habitat types.
Identify the factors that constitute a degraded landscape.
Identify key characteristics that define 'high-value biodiversity' habitats.
Implement designs that promote ecological function and habitat creation.
Devise restoration and management plans that complement the design objectives, and ensure the on-going improvement of the site/s for wildlife and other key agreed objectives.
Put into practice a number of important habitat management techniques.

20 credits

Core modules:

Landscape Architecture Integrated Masters Year in Practice

This module enables students to spend their fourth year of the 5-year Integrated Masters working in a 'course relevant' role in industry. Students will secure their own, 9 months plus (fte), placement in a 'course relevant' organisation. This enables them to gain wide ranging experiences and opportunities that put their academic studies into context and improve their professional skills. Students will also benefit from experiencing the culture in industry, making contacts, and the placement will support them in their preparation for subsequent employment. Students will be expected to undertake at least 9 months in a relevant industry placement though the experience could be spread over 2 organisations or types of activity either simultaneously or consecutively. Students will complete a pre placement Skills and Knowledge self assessment. During the placement, they will maintain a Skills and Knowledge record, prepare a self-reflection document and also develop a visual portfolio, to be reviewed  at 'checkpoints' during the year,  and submitted at the end of the module.

120 credits

Core modules:

Landscape Research as Creative Practice

This module will introduce students to landscape research as a creative practice in order to address questions and challenges relating to current landscape practice, setting the stage and supporting preparation for further research through the Final Landscape Project in the Spring semester and, for MA students, through the Landscape Dissertation. Students will learn how to find sources of information, how to critically review and analyse this information and how to use and present the findings from this research. They will understand the relevance of research to their own project outputs and how research and evidence-based practice can underpin the planning, design and management of the landscape more generally. They will appreciate how research enables them to critically appraise a project and how they can inform, inspire and enrich their own work with the knowledge and insights gained from their research.

15 credits

Professional Skills and Technologies

This module offers intermediate or advanced level training in a variety of specific skills sought by contemporary landscape practices and responds to the requirements of the professional accreditation body (Landscape Institute). It also draws from current professional practice requirements in liaison with alumni and professional practitioners to develop a suite of training workshops to ensure that students are well equipped to respond to the needs of the profession and for finding employment.

Recognising the diverse backgrounds and interests of students on the programme, a suite of options is offered and students will select the options which align most closely with their interests or which fill gaps in their prior training. The outputs of these workshops, as well as work undertaken in previous semesters and/or in previous employment, are arranged into a personalised portfolio of work suitable for employment applications.

15 credits

Professional Practice of Landscape Architecture

This module provides students with an introduction to elements of the landscape profession that they are required to understand in order to become practising landscape architects and, in time, Chartered Members of the Landscape Institute. Three broad subject areas are covered: Professional Practice, Landscape and Environmental Law, and Landscape Contracts. These will touch upon issues related to working as a professional landscape architect, relevant landscape and environmental law and contract law as it applies to the practice of landscape architecture and the nature, forms and use of contracts in the landscape profession.

15 credits

Final Landscape Project

The Final Landscape Project aims to develop students' readiness to enter the profession by completing a largely independent project from start to finish to a professional standard. Through close collaboration with academic tutors and in parallel with a defined tutorial group, the final project aligns with a chosen design, planning, or management 'agenda' put forth by department tutors. This therefore aims to push the boundaries of the landscape disciplines through research design. As such, the final project undertaken in the Spring semester grows out of focused research into a specific topic already undertaken in the Autumn semester.

The aim of the project is to demonstrate the ability to integrate the knowledge and skills acquired in the programme and to apply these in an appropriate way to address the issues posed by the chosen project. Aligned with their tutors' agenda or research question, with the tutor acting as a client or consultant, students will manage their time and develop their required tasks and outputs independently.

30 credits

Experimental Landscape Design

This module will enable students to explore experimental and innovative design approaches. It will give them the opportunity to develop a supplementary significant design output in a largely independent manner. To achieve their aims, students may choose to enrol in one of several advanced workshops offered through the department, or may identify an independent topic of interest and formulate a work plan and output schedule after identifying learning resources which will help them achieve their goals. Interim results are shared with tutors and other students at defined intervals and are presented in a public forum at the end of the semester.

15 credits

Optional modules:

Advanced Landscape Design - Conceptual and Strategic

This module offers options for students to develop a creative, original, and appropriate response to a hypothetical or real site-scale landscape related project which might be encountered in practice. While various scales should be considered, there will be a particular focus on conceptual and strategic exploration of key issues related to landscape architecture design, which might include themes such as 'Sustainable Landscape Design', 'Design with Water' or 'Design for Climate Change'. Students will explore concepts and strategies to develop advanced and original landscape design proposals. Students are encouraged to be innovative and experimental in both the design response and their visual representation, while at the same time demonstrating good judgement in terms of project feasibility as well as social and environmental responsibility. A specific site and brief will be presented at the start of the module.

15 credits

Advanced Landscape Planning - Global Issues

This module offers options for students to develop an informed, coherent, and rational response to a particular landscape planning challenge and context, demonstrating a high level of sensitivity to, and understanding of, the underlying environmental, social and political dynamics. While many scales should be considered, the emphasis is on establishing a set of recommendations, policies and/or guidelines for future development under various scenarios indicating the character of potential interventions in complex real or hypothetical contexts. Students will explore global issues related to landscape planning, which might include themes such as 'Nature Based Solutions', 'Integrated Water Management' or 'Urban Heat Island'. Recommendations should be based on a sound methodology and should be communicated in a clear, coherent, succinct and accessible way comprehensible both by other landscape professionals and by the broader public. A specific brief will be presented at the start of the module.

15 credits

Advanced Landscape Management - Managing for Change

This module offers options for students to understand specific management principles and guidelines based on the constraints and challenges of a specific real or hypothetical site, study area or type of environment. The emphasis will be on exploring social change, climate change and ecological change considering a variety of landscape scales, developments and spatial patterns. Responses should demonstrate an understanding of landscape management and how these might change or develop over time, showing sensitivity to the ecological, social and political dynamics currently at play. A specific study area and brief will be presented at the start of the module.

15 credits

Advanced Landscape Design - Materiality of Landscape

This module offers options for students to develop a creative, original, and appropriate response to a hypothetical or real site-scale landscape related project which might be encountered in practice. While various scales should be considered, there will be a particular focus on detailed landscape design proposals. Students will explore qualities and materiality of landscape spaces through creative and original outputs. The exploration might include considerations related to 'Materiality and Identity', 'Environmental Impact' or 'Sensory Experiences'. Students are encouraged to be innovative and experimental in both the design response and proposals as well as their visual representation, while at the same time demonstrating good judgement in terms of project feasibility as well as social and environmental responsibility. A specific site and brief will be presented at the start of the module.

15 credits

Advanced Landscape Planning - Local Engagement

This module offers options for students to develop an informed, coherent and rational response to a particular landscape planning challenge and context, demonstrating a high level of sensitivity to, and understanding of, the underlying environmental, social and political dynamics. The emphasis is on establishing a set of recommendations, policies and/or guidelines for future development under various scenarios, indicating the character of potential processes and responses in complex real contexts. The exploration focuses on local communities engagement and inclusive planning processes, which might include themes such as 'Active Participation', 'Empowerment' or 'Long Term Engagement'. Recommendations should be based on a sound methodology and should be communicated in a clear, coherent, succinct and accessible way comprehensible both by professionals and the broader public. A specific brief will be presented at the start of the module.

15 credits

Advanced Landscape Management - Stewardship

This module offers options for students to develop maintenance principles and a set of guidelines based on the constraints and challenges of a specific real project site. Students are encouraged to be innovative and experimental in their exploration of the stewardship of a specific site, in order to respond to the challenges presented by social change, climate change and environmental change with an emphasis on long term solutions and stewardship. Responses should demonstrate an understanding of practical processes and solutions taking into account the specificity of a wide range of landscapes, showing sensitivity to the ecological, social and political dynamics currently at play and anticipating how these might change in the future. A specific site and brief will be presented at the start of the module

15 credits