Landscape Architecture

Landscape Architecture is a diverse and interdisciplinary field that combines design with natural and environmental sciences, and societal consideration. This programme focuses on sustainable and environmentally responsible design with particular attention to unique landscape and conditions in Iceland.

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Do you want to have an impact on our environment?

Landscape architects play an important role in shaping environments that promote public health, well-being, and ecological balance. Through thoughtful planning and design, they help create places where people can live, work, and relax in harmony with nature.

Well-designed neighbourhoods that balance buildings with open spaces contribute to healthier and more enjoyable living environments. Effective land-use planning in both urban and rural areas is essential for the wellbeing of communities. Landscape architects work at the intersection of nature, society, and design, making education in this field increasingly important.

Course Catalog

Curriculum

The BSc in Landscape Architecture is a 3-year programme that provides students with a strong foundation in the design, planning, and management of outdoor spaces with focus on Icelandic environmental conditions.

The program integrates natural sciences, design, and spatial planning emphasises interdisciplinary work, real-world projects in cooperation and public organisations with a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Core subjects include:

Ecology
Soil science
Botany
Cartography and spatial analysis

Specialized courses focus on:

Landscape design
Landscape analysis and planning
Architecture and built environments
Outdoor recreation planning
Social and community aspects of landscape design
Computer-aided design (CAD)

Graduates will be equipped to address contemporary challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and nature-based solutions.

Career prospects for landscape architects are strong, and there is growing demand for professionals with expertise in sustainable environmental design.

A matriculation examination (Icelandic: Stúdentspróf) or another upper-secondary school qualification considered equivalent and recommended by the university council.

Portfolio (optional)

Applicants may submit a digital portfolio (2–10 pages) alongside their application, although this is not required.

The portfolio allows applicants to showcase their personal style, creativity, and design approach. It may include

Sketches and drawings
Concepts and ideas
Written reflections
Design projects or technical solutions

The work does not need to be completed. If any projects are collaborative, the applicant should clearly indicate their individual contribution

After completing a BSc in Landscape Architecture, graduates can work in various roles, such as:

Government agencies and municipalities
Environmental and planning consultancies
Landscape architecture and design studios
Architecture and engineering firms
Engineering and architecture firms
Nature conservation and recreation management

By continuing to get a master's degree, students can obtain professional certification as landscape architects or planners.

Landscape architects and planners contribute to projects such as:

Urban and rural development planning
Land-use planning
Design of parks, squares, and public spaces
School grounds and recreational areas
Tourist and outdoor recreation sites
Cemeteries and infrastructure landscapes

They are also involved in environmental planning and impact assessments, helping to ensure sustainable development.