Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Student Handbook for Academic Year 2026/2027
Department of Architecture
College of Design and Engineering
National University of Singapore
PROGRAMME ADMINISTRATION
Administration Ofce Mailing Address
Department of Architecture
National University of Singapore College of Design and Engineering
4 Architecture Drive SDE1 #03-01 Singapore 117566
Programme Director
Dr. Lu Xiaoxuan xxland@nus.edu.sg
Administrative Lead Alicia Wong Foong Foong aliciawong@nus.edu.sg
Programme Manager Neesha Suryakant Shinde Neesha84@nus.edu.sg
DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Lu Xiaoxuan
BLA Programme Director
Welcome to the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture family at NUS!
Landscape is humanity's shared ground. Landscape architects work at the intersection of ecological systems, cultural contexts, and human experience, bringing together design, science, and environmental stewardship in ways few other disciplines can. Ours is a discipline that holds a profound moral responsibility toward the natural world, calling upon us not merely to physically transform the land, but to care for it. There is no better place to develop this sensibility than Singapore, a city that has long grappled with questions at the heart of landscape architecture: how to sustain biodiversity within a built environment, how to manage water across an entire urban watershed, and how to integrate living systems into the fabric of everyday city life.
NUS's BLA programme offers a curriculum designed to be both grounded and expansive. We celebrate interdisciplinarity and encourage productive engagement between landscape architecture and its expanded field, supported through NUS's “Build Your Own Degree” framework and opportunities to pursue specializations, minors, or second majors. We also encourage students to broaden their firsthand experience through NUS's Student Exchange Programme and the newly launched BLA Overseas Travel Award, which supports student led design research through direct observation and exploration in the field.
In an age when artificial intelligence can process data at scale, what education must cultivate are the “uncomputable” parts of human experience: the capacity to think critically, to question, to empathize, and to create with authentic purpose. Landscape architecture has a role to play in celebrating humanity as a profession rooted in careful observation, ethical commitment, and a willingness to sit with complexity.
This handbook provides information on curricular matters, courses, grade regulations, and useful links to scholarships, exchange programmes, and internships. We hope it helps you chart a fulfilling journey toward a career leading the industry in Singapore and beyond.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) is a four-year Honours degree programme that prepares students to respond to multifaceted socio-ecological issues in Asia through critical thinking, analytical inquiry, and creative expression. The BLA provides core foundation training in skills and knowledge that equips our graduates for professional practice or entry into advanced master’s degree programmes at NUS and internationally. Relevant topics, including tropicality, site specificity, boundaries and scales, densification, multifunctionality, and placemaking are played out in the programme through integrated learning in design studios and lecture courses. The BLA is taught in unique education settings that concurrently promotes speculation while being grounded and action-oriented design outcomes relevant to real life issues.
In the first year, students are introduced to foundational knowledge in landscape architecture, history and theory, and essential representation techniques. Studio courses specifically focus on core design methodologies: ways of sensing, reading, understanding, and interpreting fundamental landscape elements in forms, structures, materiality, and functions.
In the second and third years, students acquire skills in design representation, site analysis, specialized software, and spatial analytical tools. Students begin to synthesize landscape forms, structures, processes and functions with more specialized knowledge in planting design, landscape engineering, and advanced water sensitive urban design principles.
The fourth year is open and flexible with multiple options and combinations possible Those who wish to become landscape architects are offered a choice of two specialisations, one in Landscape Studies and another in Landscape Practice. Both of which further enrich and deepen a student’s knowledge in field, preparing them to enter the workforce.
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, graduates are eligible to apply for the MLA programme at NUS with direct admission into the second year if they fulfil the necessary criteria for advanced placement credits. Those who chose one of the two specialisations and acquired the necessary professional experience are eligible for professional accreditation as Landscape Architects through the Landscape Architects Accreditation Programme of the Singapore Institute of Landscape Architects (SILA).
BACHELOR
OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
GCE A-level, IB diploma, NUS High School Diploma, and other high school qualifications
MASTER OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
Landscape Architecture Diploma
Bachelor of Landscape
Architecture or other design-based built environment discipline
NUS BLA Graduates can get up to one year of Advanced Placement Credits (application required)
NUS BLA Graduates with a specialisation in either Landscape Practice or Landscape Studies
+ 3 years of practice
+ 2 years of practice
Eligible for LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE ACCREDITATION by the SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS (SILA)
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Grading
Students’ performance will be assessed through various modes of continuous assessment. All work done within the studio courses will be assessed based on degree and quality of contextual understanding, critical thinking, creative design process and communication. Detailed evaluation criteria and grading weightage can be found in the brief of each course. The DOA Board of Examiners will govern all assessments.
Grade and Grade Point Equivalent
Assessment can be based on tutorials, laboratories, projects, reports, as well as midterm and final examinations. A student’s final grade in a course will be based on absolute and relative performance. Accordingly, there may not be direct correspondence between particular marks in continuous assessment and the overall course grade.
Grades released to students will be in the form of letter grades: A+, A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, D+, D, F. The grade and grade point equivalent shall be in accordance with the University regulations as follows:
Grade Point Average (GPA)
Academic progress is tracked by the GPA, which is the weighted average grade point of all courses taken by the student. Therefore, a student’s GPA is the sum of the course grade points multiplied by the number of course credits (Units) for the corresponding course, divided by the total number of Units.
Courses with no assigned grade points and associated Units are excluded from the calculation of GPA.
An online GPA calculator is available here: https://inetapps.nus.edu.sg/capcalc/cap_calculator.aspx
The GPA simulation is based on the entries made by you for individual course grades. As such, NUS will not be held responsible for any misuse, mistakes or wrong decisions made arising from the use of this Online GPA Calculator.
GPA= SUM(Course Grade Point X Units assignment to course) SUM(Units assigned to all courses)
Graduation requirements
To graduate, a student must complete 160 Units with a minimum “D” grade for all courses.
To graduate, a student must have a minimum GPA of 2.00. To remain in good academic standing and to continue in studying in any undergraduate programme at NUS, a student may not have GPA below 2.00 for two consecutive semesters.
For any semester in which the student's GPA falls below 2.00, she or he will be placed on probation. If the student's GPA remains below 2.00 for the second consecutive semester, the student will be issued a letter of dismissal by the University Registrar and denied re-admission.
A dismissed student may submit an appeal if there are extenuating circumstances, to the relevant Faculty/Department within two calendar weeks of the last day of the release of each semester's examination results. Normally every student is allowed only one such appeal per candidature. If the appeal is rejected, the student will not be re-admitted. If the outcome of the appeal is positive, the student will be given one semester in which to achieve the minimum GPA required for continuation and graduation.
Degree Classification
The criteria for degree classification applicable to BLA students are as follows:
Honours Degree Classification
Honours (Highest Distinction)
Honours (Distinction)
Honours (Merit)
Honours
Pass
GPA 4.50 and above
GPA 4.00 – 4.49
GPA 3.50 – 3.99
GPA 3.00 – 3.49
GPA 2.00 – 2.99
For more information on Graduation and Continuation requirements, please see: https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/academic-information-policies/undergraduatestudents/continuation-and-graduation-requirements
Plagiarism
All students share the responsibility to uphold the academic standards and reputation of the National University of Singapore. Academic honesty is a prerequisite condition in the pursuit and acquisition of knowledge. Academic dishonesty is any misrepresentation with the intent to deceive or failure to acknowledge the source or falsification of information or inaccuracy of statements or cheating at examinations/tests or inappropriate use of resources.
There are many forms of academic dishonesty; plagiarism is one of them. Plagiarism includes handing in the work of another as your own, and failure to appropriately cite your sources. Plagiarism is an academic misdemeanour and may be considered grounds for failure from this course as well as further disciplinary action from the University.
Students should adopt this rule:
You have the obligation to make clear to the assessor which is your own work, and which is the work of others. Otherwise, your assessor is entitled to assume that everything being presented for assessment is being presented as entirely your own work.
Any student found to have committed or aided and abetted the offence of plagiarism may be subject to disciplinary actions in accordance with the Section 1 (I) of Statute 12 (Discipline) of the National University of Singapore. In addition, the student may receive no mark/grade for the relevant academic assignment, project, or thesis; and he/ she may fail or be denied a grade for the relevant subject or course.
NUS policies on plagiarism, as well as detailed descriptions of how to properly cite and source material in student written work and examinations is available here:
https://libguides.nus.edu.sg/new2nus/acadintegrity, under “Plagiarism”.
Guidelines for the use of AI tools
The use of AI tools to generate an output, to paraphrase it, and then to present it as your own work or idea, or to process an original source not created by yourself to plagiarize it, violates NUS policies on academic honesty and anyone found to have done so will be dealt with accordingly.
The appropriate use of AI tools is allowed and includes: - gathering information and looking up explanations for basic concepts; - generating output for critique and analysis, for self-learning, or to compare against one’s work for self-evaluation and improvement;
- and assistance with proofreading and editing writing work.
If you used any AI tools at any step to produce any course deliverables, you are required to acknowledge it through a note or “methods section” at the end of the assignment explaining which AI tools were used, in which parts of the process they were used, what were the prompts used to generate results, and what you did with the outputs to add value.
More detailed information on how to acknowledge the use of AI in your assignments is available at: https://libguides.nus.edu.sg/new2nus/acadintegrity, under “AI Tools: Guidelines on Use in Academic Work”.
Retention of student works
All students should note that, pursuant to NUS Statutes, any work prescribed to be done by a candidate during his or her study for the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture may be deemed as the property of the University. Since the Department may be required to retain selected student work for exhibition, archiving and other reasons, students should make their own copies or records of their work for job interviews, competition entries, and other purposes.
CURRICULUM STRUCTURE
All BLA students are required to fulfil a minimum of 160 units to graduate. The curriculum is divided into 4 categories of courses: Core Courses (specific to the BLA programme), Common Courses (common to all CDE students), General Education Courses (for all NUS students), and Unrestricted Electives (specific courses chosen by students).
The College of Design and Engineering (CDE) adopted a new undergraduate curriculum structure for students enrolled in the academic year starting in August 2025. Throughout this handbook, please check which curriculum applies to you based on when you joined NUS.
Curriculum for students admitted in AY2025/26 and after
RECOMMENDED ROADMAP
The following roadmap is recommended to fulfil all BLA required courses by the end of Year 3. It is provided here for reference only and should be adapted to your own goals. See the last pages of this handbook for a step-by-step guide on how to create your own study plan.
Roadmap for students admitted in AY2025/26 and after
BLA CORE COURSES
There are 14 core courses divided into 2 categories: 6 Design studios (worth 8 units each) in which students develop an individual design project following a common theme; and 8 Lecture courses (worth 4 units each) in which students acquire the necessary skills to support their studio learning.
Design Studios
In the first three years, design studios introduce students to six lenses to design for the landscape – nature, experience, site, community, humanity, and operations. Each studio strives to integrate conceptual rigour and technical competence and is strategically sequenced to support progressive learning from foundational to advanced design exploration.
Lecture Courses
Essential lecture courses, conducted in tandem with design studios, cover both theoretical and technical knowledge to build disciplinary grounding while expanding students’ intellectual horizons toward a career in landscape architecture.
Introduction to Landscape Architecture
Landscape Construction 1 Landscape
Representation
Planting Design and Horticulture
Introduction to GIS for Landscape Architecture
History and Theory of Landscape architecture
Landscape Ecology BLA Recognised Elective
List of BLA Recognised Electives
Not all courses listed below are offered every year. Please check NUSMods and EduRec before planning to enrol in any of them.
For students admitted in AY2025/26 and after
LAD3003 Professional Practice
LAD3005 Landscape Architecture Internship Programme
LAD4005 Topics in Landscape Architecture
For students admitted in AY2024/25 and before
Department of Architecture
LAD3005 Landscape Architecture
Internship Programme
LAD3006 Basics of Ecology
LAD4005 Topics in Landscape Architecture
AR3223 Introduction to Urbanism
LA5901 Special Topics in Landscape Architecture
College of Design and Engineering
CDE2502 Cities for All
CDE2503 Cities in Nature
Department of Geography
GE2101 Methods and Practices in Geography
GE2102 Politics, Economies and Space
GE2103 Our Planet: An Earth Systems
Science Perspective
GE2215 Introduction to GIS
GE2231 Living Space: Introducing Social and Cultural Geography
GE3204 Cities and Regions: Planning for Change
GE3206 Gender, Space and Place
GE3210 Natural Resources: Policy and Practice
GE3216 Applications of GIS and Remote Sensing
GE3226 Tourism Development
GE3230A Field Studies in Geography: Southeast Asia
GE3231 Natural Hazards
GE3235 Geographies of Development
GE3236 Transport and Communications
GE3238 GIS Design and Practices
GE3240 Geographical Research: Developing Ideas
GE3241 Geographies of Social Life
GE3247 Worlds of Work
GE3249 Geographies of Life and Death
GE3250 Nature and Society
GE3252 Cartography and Geovisualization
GE3253 Weather and Climate
GE3254 Energy Futures: Environment and Sustainability
GE3255 Aquatic, Riparian and Coastal Systems
GE3256 Earth Surface Processes, Landforms and Ecosystems
Department of Biological Sciences
LSM3254 Ecology of Aquatic Environments
LSM3255 Ecology of Terrestrial Environments
LSM3256 Tropical Horticulture
LSM3258 Comparative Botany
LSM4262 Tropical Conservation Biology
School of Business
BSN3703 Entrepreneurial Strategy
MNO3715 Leading Groups and Teams
TR3008 Technological Innovation
Department of Real Estate
RE1901 Real Estate Wealth Management
RE3903 GIS for Real Estate
COMMON AND GENERAL EDUCATION COURSES
Since August 2021, students are required to read an equivalent of 10 courses outside of their main discipline. These comprise of General Education courses (GE) imparting interdisciplinary skills and Common courses (Common) which enhance the students’ learning experience across the University.
Common and General Education courses are divided into 10 carefully curated pillars to give a solid foundation in interdisciplinary skills. They emphasise lifelong skills in data and digital literacy, design thinking, and critical thinking via the following pillars:
• Design Thinking
• Maker Space
• Artificial Intelligence
• Project Management
• Data Literacy
• Digital Literacy
• Critique and Expression
• Cultures and Connections
• Singapore Studies
• Communities and Engagement
Students are responsible to plan and self-enrol on EduRec for Common and General Education courses. The Common and GE courses required for BLA students are listed in the table below:
You can choose other courses for the General Education Pillar from the list here: https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/academic-information-policies/undergraduatestudents/general-education/list-of-courses-approved-under-the-ge-pillars
UNRESTRICTED ELECTIVES
While students are free to choose their Unrestricted Elective (UE), it is highly recommended to select courses to obtain either one of the two landscape specialisations, to gain advanced placement credits into the Master of Landscape Architecture at NUS, or to obtain Minor(s), and/or a Second Major Students are responsible to select, plan, check course availability and prerequisites, and self-enrol on EduRec for the Unrestricted Electives of they choose.
Landscape Specialisations
The BLA programme offers a broad range of topics to meet the diverse demands of the landscape architectural profession. Two specialisations are offered in the fourth year to encourage students to develop an expertise in specific areas of the landscape architecture discipline by utilising 20 units of their Unrestricted Electives.
The Singapore Institute of Landscape Architects only recognises the NUS BLA degree with a Specialisation in either Landscape Studies or Landscape Practice.
1. Landscape Practice
The Landscape Practice Specialisation is intended for students who wish to enter the practice of landscape architecture. Students seeking to obtain this specialisation are required to take both design studios in year 4 along with Landscape Construction II to bolster their understanding on how to design and build actual landscape projects upon graduation.
2. Landscape Studies
The Landscape Studies specialisation seeks to deepen and broaden student’s understanding of more advanced topics in landscape architecture beyond practice. As such, other than Design 7 which serves as a common studio across both specialisations, students can choose 3 out of 6 unrestricted electives based on their interest to fulfil the requirements for this specialisation.
MLA Advanced Placement Credits
Upon completion of the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, students are eligible to apply for the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) programme at NUS with direct admission into the second year if they fulfil the following criteria for advanced placement credits (APCs). The final decision remains at the discretion of the MLA programme director.
The following courses, totalling 40 units, need to be taken and passed in Year 4:
Some of these courses are subject to change, please check the latest MLA curriculum here: https://cde.nus.edu.sg/arch/programmes/master-of-landscape-architecture/
Upon graduation of BLA, it is possible to enter the workforce and decide to apply to the Master of Landscape Architecture at NUS later. The 40 Units of courses mentioned above are eligible for credit transfer if they were taken within 5 years prior to admission into MLA.
Tuition rebates might be offered to eligible students upon successful admission into MLA.
Minors and Second Major
Minor
A Minor programme is an additional area of study outside of the Major. Doing a Minor programme contributes to the breadth of learning envisaged for an NUS undergraduate education.
The unit requirement for a Minor is at least 20 units, of which:
• Up to 8 units may be double counted and used to meet the Minor requirement and another requirement.
• At least 12 units for any Minor must be taken from outside the entire set of courses that are listed for the major(s) or another minor that the student is taking or has taken.
The Minor will be reflected in the student's transcript upon successful completion.
Students can be admitted to Minor programmes at the point of admission to NUS, or by applying/declaring to the relevant Faculties/Schools no later than the end of the fifth semester of study.
The Minor programmes that are currently on offer at NUS are listed here: https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/academic-information-policies/undergraduatestudents/special-programmes/minor-programmes
For details on the requirements of each Minor, please refer each Faculty/School’s website.
Second Major
A Double Major is a single degree programme, in which a student satisfies the requirements of two Majors. It is an opportunity for students to broaden their knowledge and competencies by pursuing a Second Major alongside their Primary Major. The Second Major affords a degree of depth, although its unit requirement is set below that of the Primary Major. The Second Major is a non-Honours major and may be taken in the same Faculty that offers the student’s Major or from a different Faculty.
The unit requirement for a Second Major is at least 40 units, of which:
• Up to 16 units may be double counted and used to meet the Second Major requirement and another requirement. Meaning that at least 24 units of the Second Major must be distinct and not overlapping.
• At least 12 units must be at Level 3000 or above.
Students can be admitted to Double Major Programmes at the point of admission to NUS, or by applying to the relevant Faculties/Schools no later than the end of the fifth semester of study.
For a list of Double Major Programmes available at the point of admission, please refer to the website of the Ofce of Admissions. The Second Major will be reflected in the student's transcript upon successful completion.
The Second Majors that are currently on offer are listed here: https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/academic-information-policies/undergraduatestudents/special-programmes/double-major-programmes
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2026-2027
Semester 1
Orientation
Instructional Period (6 weeks)
Week From To
0 Mon, 3 Aug 2026 Sat, 8 Aug 2026
1 Mon, 10 Aug 2026 Fri, 14 Aug 2026
2 Mon, 17 Aug 2026 Fri, 21 Aug 2026 3 Mon, 24 Aug 2026 Fri, 28 Aug 2026 4 Mon, 31 Aug 2026 Fri, 4 Sep 2026
5 Mon, 7 Sep 2026 Fri, 11 Sep 2026 6 Mon, 14 Sep 2026 Fri, 18 Sep 2026
Recess week Sat, 19 Sep 2026 Sun, 27 Sep 2026
Instructional Period (6 weeks) 7 Mon, 28 Sep 2026 Sat, 3 Oct 2026
8 Mon, 5 Oct 2026 Fri, 9 Oct 2026
9 Mon, 12 Oct 2026 Fri, 16 Oct 2026 10 Mon, 19 Oct 2026 Fri, 23 Oct 2026 11 Mon, 26 Oct 2026 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 12 Mon, 2 Nov 2026 Fri, 6 Nov 2026
Final Review week 13 Mon, 9 Nov 2026 Fri, 13 Nov 2026
Reading week Sat, 14 Nov 2026 Fri, 20 Nov 2026
Examination (2 weeks) Sat, 21 Nov 2026 Sat, 5 Dec 2026
Vacation (5 weeks) Sun, 6 Dec 2026 Sun, 10 Jan 2027
Semester 2
Instructional Period (6 weeks)
Mon, 11 Jan 2027
Mon, 18 Jan 2027
Mon, 25 Jan 2027
15 Jan 2027
22 Jan 2027
29 Jan 2027
Mon, 1 Feb 2027 Fri, 5 Feb 2027 5 Mon, 8 Feb 2027
Fri, 12 Feb 2027
6 Mon, 15 Feb 2027 Fri, 19 Feb 2027
Recess week Sat, 20 Feb 2027 Sun, 28 Feb 2027
7 Mon, 1 Mar 2027 Sat, 6 Mar 2027
8 Mon, 8 Mar 2027 Fri, 12 Mar 2027
Instructional Period (6 weeks)
Final Review week
9 Mon, 15 Mar 2027 Fri, 19 Mar 2027
10 Mon, 22 Mar 2027 Fri, 26 Mar 2027
11 Mon, 29 Mar 2027 Fri, 2 Apr 2027
12 Mon, 5 Apr 2027 Fri, 9 Apr 2027
13 Mon, 12 Apr 2027
Fri, 16 Apr 2027
Reading week Sat, 17 Apr 2027 Fri, 23 April 2027
Examination (2 weeks) Sat, 24 Apr 2027 Sat, 8 May 2027
Vacation (12 weeks) Sun, 9 May 2027 Sun, 1 Aug 2027
Special Terms
Special Term (Part 1)
6 weeks Mon, 10 May 2027
Sat, 19 Jun 2027
Special Term (Part 2) 6 weeks Mon, 21 Jun 2027 Sat, 31 Jul 2027
For the latest NUS Academic Year 2026/2027 calendar please visit: https://nus.edu.sg/registrar/docs/default-source/calendar/ay2026-2027.pdf
COURSES OFFERED IN AY26/27
BLA Core Courses
LAD1001A DESIGN 1
8 Units
Offered in Semester 1
SENSING LANDSCAPES
This foundation-level studio explores “landscape as process” - referring to a dynamic relationship between humans and nature, one that unfolds by shaping and reshaping the physical, social and cultural environment over time. Students discover, describe, conceptualize, and synthesize diverse modes of ‘sensing' landscapes with related landscape architectural vocabulary and approaches. Emphasis is placed on developing spatial literacy and proficiency in systemic design thinking processes.
LAD1003
INTRODUCTION TO LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
4 Units
Offered in Semester 1
What is a landscape? This course introduces the concepts of landscape and how its conception relates to the profession of landscape architecture. It challenges the view of landscape as a static, objective reality. Instead, it explores landscape as a fluid, relational medium shaped by the environment, memory,
contested histories, and human perception. Emphasis is placed on understanding the significance of environmental, socio/cultural, physical/visual, and aesthetic factors in developing intervention strategies and designs. Contemporary landscape architectural issues, practitioners and work are presented. Through 3 paced assignments, students investigate memory spaces using theories and techniques from cultural geography, memory studies, and documentary media practices. This course is held in a seminar style with in-class discussions, workshops and student presentations.
LAD1005 DESIGN 2
8 Units
Offered in Semester 2
COASTAL IMAGINARIES: FROM ABSTRACTION TO EXPERIENCE
This second of two first-year studios introduces students to the foundations of landscape architecture design through critical thinking, conceptual development, and representational skills. Students learn to approach design as a process of inquiry, using abstraction, observation, and iteration to interpret landscapes as dynamic, layered, and experiential environments. The course emphasizes
conceptual clarity, spatial reasoning, and multi-media exploration from cinematic analysis to model-making and drawing to translate ideas into site-specific interventions. Students refine their ability to read, analyse, and communicate spatial relationships, while fostering craft, experimentation, and collaboration. By the end of the studio, students gain confidence in using representation as a thinking tool, preparing them for more complex design challenges in later years.
LAD2003
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION I
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This course introduces landscape architectural students to the fundamental principles of construction detailing, materials and site engineering (grading), placing equal emphasis on both as a reflexive practice; equipping students with the sensibility and technical skills to understand how landscapes designs are conceived, iterated and constructed. Through a combination of lectures, workshops, applied drawing and modelling exercises, students develop essential professional skills in observation, measurement and technical documentation. The course bridges design intent with built realities, establishing a technical foundation that supports subsequent design studios, advance construction coursework and professional practice.
LAD2004
PLANTING DESIGN AND HORTICULTURE
4 Units
Offered in Semester 1
Urban environments present growing conditions that differ significantly from the natural habitats in which most plants have evolved. For plants to establish and thrive in urban landscapes, two fundamental requirements must be met: providing favourable growing conditions and applying appropriate landscape design principles. This module focuses on (1) understanding unique urban conditions - microclimatic conditions, water, soil composition and nutrients that affect plant health and growth, (2) applying design principles, strategies and elements, (3) understanding the large diversity of plants suitable for different urban conditions through field trips, showcased projects and assignments, (4) tree conservation, maintenance, pest and diseases identification.
LAD2005
INTRODUCTORY GIS FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
4 Units
Offered in Semester 1
This course provides an understanding of the basic concepts and uses of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology and spatial analysis. By linking data to maps, GIS reveals relationships not apparent with traditional item-referenced information systems and database management products, and by displaying information in a graphic form, it unpacks complex spatial
patterns. The course emphasizes the concepts needed to use GIS correctly and effectively for manipulating, querying, analysing, and visualizing spatial data. The course includes tutorials and lab exercises that coincide with the studio site.
LAD2006
DESIGN 3
8 Units
Offered in Semester 1
LANDSCAPE AS SITE CONTEXT, USAGE, PROCESS
This design studio will focus on key approaches to landscape architecture design, with an emphasis on site matters. The underlying theme of “Landscape as site” seeks to uncover human-nature relations in complex built environments, curated through proper site analysis and inventory. The key learning objectives include an appreciation of morphological and ambient components in the design palette, such as building configurations, threshold between indoors and outdoors, flora and fauna, the microclimate, etc. Students will be exposed to landscape design skills such as basic topographic manipulation and responses to existing or proposed buildings. In addition to landscape-driven learning objectives, the studio will place an emphasis on effective communication of design intention through drawings, virtual and physical models.
LAD2007
DESIGN 4
8 Units
Offered in Semester 2
ENVISIONING EVERYDAY LIFE: PUBLIC, COMMONS, FUNCTION, PERFORMANCE
This course develops competence in design and critical thinking through exploration of public space as a socio-cultural environment. Students will investigate how landscapes are shaped not only by physical form and environmental processes; but also, everyday life, collective practices, and the relationships between people and place. Through interactions and participatory workshops with the community members, the studio introduces theory and methods for understanding urban conditions and translating them into inclusive and meaningful design responses. Students will also work across a range of representational modes, including mapping, infographics and technical diagrams, to develop confidence in communicating their design proposal’s functional and aesthetic metrics. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the analytical, representational, and design skills necessary to develop context-responsive proposals that balance social, ecological, and spatial considerations.
LAD2008
LANDSCAPE REPRESENTATION
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This course introduces the visual vocabulary essential to describe, analyse, and operate within the built environment. Focusing specifically on the operative process of taking measures, the course is designed to develop advanced representational skills that connect software, technology, and analogue modes. The emphasis is not only on developing students’ operational knowledge of software and representation tools, but also on enhancing their ability to customize analytical and representational methodologies for a dynamic landscape.
LAD2009
HISTORY AND THEORY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This course introduces students to the history and theory of landscape architecture as both a long-standing human practice and a modern professional discipline. It explores how landscapes have been shaped by cultural, ecological, and political forces across civilizations, while critically examining the Western-centric narratives that dominate the field. Through lectures, case study presentations, and reflective writing, the course encourages students to reconstruct historical perspectives by incorporating Asian and Southeast Asian examples, fostering a more globally inclusive understanding of
landscape architecture. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyse landscapes through historical and theoretical lenses, communicate arguments effectively, and reflect on the evolving role of the profession in addressing contemporary environmental and urban challenges.
LAD2010
LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This course will introduce students to basic ecological principles which underlie the practice of ecological landscape design. It will provide students with a fundamental understanding of the composition, structure and dynamics of ecological systems such as forests, lakes, streams, wetlands and cities. It will also provide students with a working knowledge of several ecological concepts such as stability, complexity, diversity, equilibrium, conservation, restoration, sustainability and resilience. A mixture of lectures, reading materials, field trips and discussions will assist students in providing insights on how to fill the knowledge gaps between the science of ecology and the practice of landscape architecture.
LAD3001
DESIGN 5
8 Units
Offered in Semester 1
RIDGE PARK: REACTIVATING A BIOCULTURAL HERITAGE IN THE CITY
This studio advances students' skills to document, discuss, and critically engage with the biocultural, spatial, and historical dimensions of Singapore's changing urban landscapes, understood as a biocultural archive tracing exchanges between ecological processes and human intervention. It centres on three concepts that landscape architects work with constantly but often take for granted as neutral: heritage, forest, and park. Each term carries embedded assumptions about what is worth preserving, who defines it, and whose knowledge and values count in its management.
LAD3002
DESIGN 6
8 Units
Offered in Semester 2
TRANSFORMING INFRASTRUCTURE PLACE, FLOW, INTEGRATION
This course continues to develop a level of competence in design skills and critical thinking through a design task that increases the scale and complexity of considerations. Focusing on a high-density urban context, students will be asked to transform existing monofunctional infrastructure by layering cultural, ecological, and biophysical functions to
enhance surrounding natural ecosystems and redirect human and natural flows. The project asks students to consider how to create a sense of place, integrate passive and active recreational programmes, visualize visible and invisible flows of people and nature, and phase development over time. The course will also introduce a problem-solving approach in landscape design that will guide students toward logical and comprehensive design solutions.
BLA Recognised Electives
LAD3003
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This course introduces students to how landscape architecture is practiced in Singapore and internationally. It provides an overview of how landscape projects are planned, designed, managed, and delivered throughout different stages of a project. Topics include the development of landscape projects from site analysis and concept design to design development, authority submissions, construction, and site implementation. Students learn about the roles and responsibilities of landscape architects within multidisciplinary teams, ofce operations, project management, and different forms of professional practice, including private consultancies, public agencies, interdisciplinary collaborations, and international projects. Through case studies and sharing sessions by industry professionals, the course helps students connect academic learning with real-world practice. It aims to provide a better understanding of career opportunities, workplace expectations, and the challenges and opportunities landscape architects face today.
LAD3005
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME
4 Units
Offered in Special Terms I & II*
The internship programme aims to provide opportunities for third year students to work in landscape architectural firms or allied organisations with a design-centric focus to gain exposure and experience, and apply the knowledge learnt in professional setting. Students are required to perform internship in a firm/organisation for a minimum of 8 weeks. Weekly logbook as well as internship reports will be used for the evaluation of their internship experience. This course takes place over the Special Terms Part 1 and 2 (from May to Aug) with no extra tuition fee for BLA students.
LAD4005
SPECIAL TOPICS IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
4 Units
Not offered in AY26/27
Unrestricted Electives
Enrol in the following courses to obtain either one of the 2 Landscape Specialisations or gain Advanced Placements Credits into the MLA programme at NUS.
LAD4003
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION II
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This course has two parts – application of water sensitive urban design (WSUD) in landscape design and professional landscape practice. It has three main areas; 1) Fundamental skills in landscape engineering knowledge for design of WSUD elements; 2) Socio-ecological considerations in application of WSUD in landscape design; 3) Professional and practical considerations in landscape architecture practice. Areas covered can include coordination with other practices in a development project, applicable codes of practices, ethical considerations in practice, etc.
LAD4006
DIGITAL LANDSCAPES TECHNIQUES
4 Units
Offered in Semester 1
From the invention of the axe to surveying tools like the graphometre, technological advancements have always influenced how we document, understand, design and modify our landscapes. Perhaps the most influential was Geographic Information System (GIS) technology which allowed the convergence of topological, ecological and even social data into the discourse of landscape architecture. However, unlike
the two-dimensional nature of GIS, landscapes are inherently three dimensional. The course thus explores the various advances that allow landscape architects to operate within a 3D environment with data collected from reality, studied and modified through computational thinking, enriched through information modelling and tested through simulations.
LAD4007
URBAN POLITICAL ECOLOGY
4 Units
Offered in Semester 1
Urban political ecology (UPE) is an analytical approach that rejects as false any dichotomy between nature and society. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the origins of urban political ecology, as well as contemporary examples of the approach. Students will explore diverse topics including the cyborg, metabolism, vitalism, and commons/commoning, considering their own and others’ perspectives. Engaging with influential thinkers’ ideas, the course teaches students to form meaningful questions and apply an urban political ecology lens to a found condition through design. The course aims to cultivate a lasting interest in critical thinking about nature-society, fostering appreciation and change.
LAD4008
DESIGN 7
8 Units
Offered in Semester 1
This studio-based course develops higher level skills in landscape design and marks the first of four subsequent master-level core studios in landscape design. Projects of city quarter scale are undertaken to explore issues of context, programme and socio-economic considerations. Projects will cover sites with different functions, e.g. residential, commercial, industrial, educational, health and recreation. Civic spaces like roadsides, highways, plazas, parks and city squares will also be tackled. There is an emphasis on sustainability and tropical design
LAD4010
DESIGN 8
8 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This studio-based course develops an appreciation for design skills in tropical landscape design as applied on a large city scale and marks the second of four subsequent master-level core studios in landscape design. Interdisciplinary requirements from planning guidelines, architecture design, engineering limitations; as well as understanding existing natural land and urban systems will be introduced into the design process. Project sites will be larger in scale with more complex urban design issues, with projects ranging from peripheral nature
conservation sites to mix-use urban centres. There will be an emphasis on deriving innovative design solutions using ecological and sustainability principles.
LAD4012
URBAN GREENING: TECHNOLOGIES AND TECHNIQUES
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
Driven by global urbanization trends, landscape architects are increasingly called upon to sensitively and creatively introduce landscapes in highly urbanized settings. To achieve this, fundamental knowledge of the challenges that the urban environment poses, solutions to these challenges, as well as the use of R&D to develop innovations are important in the skill set of landscape architects. This course introduces students to contemporary and emerging technologies and techniques that have become essential components of urban greening design and practices. It traces the origins of such technologies and techniques as responses to challenges and opportunities in creating a green and ecologically balanced urban environment, explains their scientific underpinnings, and illustrates with examples of real-life applications. It emphasizes the role of R&D in a continual process to improve the performance of greening in areas of sustainability, ecological health, and liveability of the built environment. Topics covered include metrics used to measure greenery, technologies used to integrate greenery with the grey and blue elements of the built environment, and plants as the basic
building blocks of functional landscapes. The course is conducted through lectures, class discussions, and site visits demonstrating real-life applications as well as R&D in progress.
LA5222
URBAN ECOLOGY AND DESIGN
4 Units
Offered in Semester 1
Urban ecology is the study of ecosystems that include humans living in cities and urbanizing landscapes. It is an emerging, interdisciplinary field that aims to understand how human and ecological processes can coexist in human-dominated systems and help societies with their efforts to become more sustainable. It has deep roots in many disciplines including sociology, geography, urban planning, landscape architecture, engineering, economics, anthropology, climatology, public health and ecology.
LA5201
THEORY OF LANDSCAPE
4 Units
Offered in Semester 2
This course presents a review of current topics in landscape architecture theory considering urbanisation, infrastructure, and environmental and nature conservation issues through lectures, readings, and discussion. A broad sweep of design issues is provided, and students are challenged to critique current practice and to reflect on the relevance of landscape theory to society.
AR5301
INTRODUCTION TO GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS
4 Units
Offered in Semester 1
Introduction to GIS provides an introduction to geospatial analysis for landscape architecture, urban design, and urban planning with a focus on utilizing empirical data to inform evidence-based decision-making. Through a combination of theoretical concepts, hands-on exercises, and real-world case studies, students will develop the skills necessary to identify use cases for geospatial analysis, analyse spatial data using open-source tools (QGIS), and synthesize the results to make targeted design recommendations.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT CREDITS
Students holding relevant polytechnic diplomas will be granted Advanced Placement Credits (APCs) allowing them to be automatically exempted from taking some of the BLA curriculum courses. Students are not required to submit any application as the APCs will be updated in their academic records within first two weeks of the first semester of study.
The granting of APCs is subject to the following:
• Must not have been used to count towards the award of any other degree
• Must have been completed within the last 5 years prior to the date of admission to the University
• Transfer of credits for courses will take place without transfer of grades
Depending on the institution, the type of diploma held, and the year of admission into the BLA, students will be granted either 40, 36, or 20 APCs as per the following tables: For Students admitted in AY2025/26 and after:
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
LAD1005 Design 2 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4) 5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4) EG1311
(4)
(20)
(4)
(4)
Interior Architecture & Design
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
LAD1005 Design 2 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001A Design 1 (8)
and
DTK2234 Advanced Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
For students admitted in AY2024/25 and before:
Ngee Ann Poly
Landscape Design and Horticulture
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Design (Specialization in Landscape Architecture)
LAD1001ADesign 1 (4)
LAD1005 Design 2 (8)
LAD2003 Landscape Construction 1 (4)
LAD2004 Planting Design and Horticulture (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
3 Unrestricted Electives (12)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
LAD1005 Design 2 (8)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
LAD1005 Design 2 (8)
LAD2003 Landscape Construction 1 (4)
Landscape Architecture
LAD2004 Planting Design and Horticulture (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
3 Unrestricted Electives (12)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
Singapore Poly
Architecture Technology
Interior Design
Temasek Poly Environmental Design
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
LAD1005 Design 2 (8)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
4 Unrestricted Electives (16)
Interior Architecture & Design
Retail and Hospitality Design
Poly Architecture
Space and Interior Design
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20)
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
Spatial Design
Experiential Product and Interior Design
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20) 36
LAD1001 Design 1 (4)
CDE2000 Creating Narratives (4)
DTK2234A Design Thinking (4)
EG1311 Design and Make (4)
5 Unrestricted Electives (20) 36 Holders of other Polytechnic Diplomas admitted into the BLA Programme
Eligible polytechnic diploma holders may opt to give up the 20 Units of APCs granted towards Unrestricted Electives, via the APC option exercise conducted in the second semester of study. More information can be found on the Ofce of the University Registrar's website.
More information on the APCs and exemptions can be found: https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/academic-information-policies/undergraduatestudents/continuation-and-graduation-requirements#APCExe
About the BLA Advanced Placement Credits, please consult the following PDF: https://cde.nus.edu.sg/arch/programmes/bachelor-of-arts-in-architecture/advancedplacement-credits-apcs-for-baarchitecture-programme/
STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMME
NUS extensive Student Exchange Programme (SEP) allows students to enhance their academic experience and cultural exposure with leading architecture and landscape architecture schools, preparing graduates to engage in the global practice of design through student exchanges.
For more information about the Student Exchange Programme please consult: https://www.nus.edu.sg/gro/global-programmes/student-exchange
And https://cde.nus.edu.sg/undergraduate/outgoing-exchange/
List of Partner Universities
Over the years, University or Department level agreements have been established with the following partner universities:
Cornell University
Nanjing University
Pennsylvania State University
Purdue University
Technion-Israel Institute of Technology
Texas A & M University
The University of Auckland
The University of British Columbia
The University of Edinburgh
The University of Hong Kong
The University of Melbourne
The University of New South Wales
The University of Shefeld
Tongi University
Tsinghua University
University of California
University of Connecticut
University of Hawaii, Manoa
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
University of Toronto
University of Virginia
Victoria University of Wellington
Waseda University
Zhejiang University
This list of partner universities is subject to change. Please refer to the latest SEP communications from the Department nearer to next round of application deadline for an upto-date list of places available to BLA students.
SEP
A decision to go on SEP requires careful research and planning and should not be taken lightly. Before you decide to apply for SEP, there are some important steps to consider:
Step 1: Eligibility
To be eligible for the NUS Student Exchange Programme (SEP), undergraduate students should:
- be enrolled at the National University of Singapore (NUS) as a full-time student;
- have completed at least two semesters of study before embarking on the exchange programme;
- have a sound academic record, i.e. minimum GPA of 3.0, and should not have any grade below grade ‘C’ (grade point of 2.0) in any course;
- have sufcient financial means to cover the necessary expenses for the duration of the SEP (if receiving any scholarship, ensure there are no restrictions involving overseas study);
- satisfy partner institution and host country entry requirements (do not apply for SEP to your home country);
- have a clean disciplinary record and be a strong ambassador for NUS and the BLA Programme.
The following students are not eligible for overseas SEP:
- students in their final semester of degree; or
- students scheduled for final year projects, internships or industrial attachments.
Step 2: Application
Due to the specificities of the BLA curriculum, the duration of SEP should be of ONE semester only and take place in either Year 3 Semester 1 or 2 or in Year 4 Semester 1. Therefore, each year, SEP applications are open to BLA Year 2 and 3 students who are interested in going on exchange during the following academic year, either in Semester 1 or 2.
Students who have:
- confirmed to be eligible to apply for SEP;
- researched and found suitable courses to read at the chosen five SEP partner universities;
- adequate funds to cover the cost of SEP (including regular NUS semester fees payable);
- and completed the Travel Preparedness Course on Canvas are ready to begin the SEP application procedure.
Placement in exchange programme requires successful application and acceptance by BLA Programme Director and host universities (such as language requirements for courses not taught in English). Students will be able to view places available and submit their applications via EduRec, Academics > Global Education > External Study Application. Late applications will not be accepted.
There are 2 rounds of applications at DOA:
• Round 1*
o August: Call for applications
o September: Application deadline
o October: Interviews with BLA Programme Director
o November: Offers sent to students for acceptance through EduRec
• Round 2 (only if places remain available after Round 1)
o December: Application deadline
o January: Interviews with BLA Programme Director
o February: Offers sent to students for acceptance through EduRec
*All students who are planning to embark on SEP in Semester 1 of the following year must apply during the first round.
Application requirements:
On top of the EduRec requirements, all BLA students’ applications should include:
- A statement of motivation for studying abroad
- A portfolio of creative and design works
Applications will be reviewed by Programme Director based on the following criteria:
- academic performance (including GPA but not limited to)
- motivation for studying abroad
- interview performance
Step 3: Accept the offer
Students selected for SEP will be notified (by email) of an SEP ‘internal offer’ and be given approximately a week to decide whether or not to accept the offer. Offers not accepted will be rescinded and given to another student on the waiting list. Students are advised to think carefully before accepting the internal offer, since there is a considerable monetary penalty for withdrawing from SEP after accepting the internal offer. Withdrawing from SEP after accepting the internal offer will also prevent another student from utilising the SEP place resulting in an unused SEP place.
Step 4: Course Mapping
Only credits from courses pre-approved for mapping by the BLA Programme Director and passed at partner universities (with Overseas Satisfactory) will be transferred back to NUS. Mapping approval for all courses intended to read at the partner university should be obtained prior to the start of the SEP semester to ensure that students have enough credits and meet relevant requirements during the exchange. The timeline for course mapping is May to July.
To ensure smooth approval of course mapping applications BLA students should:
1. Submit a proposed course mapping (template provided by Neesha) with proper justifications, full course syllabus, and/or links for approval by the BLA Programme Director at least 3 weeks before the EduRec deadline.
2. Revise the proposed course mapping based on the Programme Director ’s feedback.
3. Once the proposed course mapping is approved, then submit the ofcial course mapping requests via EduRec. The outcome of the mapping request is final. No appeal is allowed. Any revisions after approval (e.g. due to changes in course offerings or add/drop process at PU) should be resubmitted through EduRec before the end of the SEP semester.
Please refer to the CDE Course Mapping Guide
GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
BLA Overseas Travel Grant
The BLA Overseas Travel Award supports students in exploring landscape architecture through travel and direct observation, cultivating a foundation for student-led design research. It is founded on the belief that some of the most valuable lessons in landscape architecture are learned outside the classroom. Funding up to S$2,500 per student may be granted on a competitive basis. Applications are due end of August, and results are announced in September.
Gardens by the Bay Scholarship
Offered to candidates who are passionate about Horticulture and possess a keen interest in pursuing a long-term career in this field. The Gardens will support our Scholars in embarking on their tertiary journey, with challenging and rewarding career paths and job rotations.
Design Singapore Scholarship
Design Singapore Scholarship is for individuals with creativity, drive and passion for design. The scholarship will groom designers to become designer leaders who will use strategy and innovation to make things better by design.
NParks Scholarship
NParks Scholarship is for individuals who look forward to an exciting and challenging career, with opportunities to be exposed to various professional portfolios in NParks.
NParks Peter Lim Awards
Philanthropist, entrepreneur, and investor, Mr Peter Lim in partnership with NParks has pledged $10 million to enable deserving youths from less privileged backgrounds to pursue their interest, support their skills development and build capability in the landscaping, horticulture, ecology, veterinary and animal science sectors.
iBuildSG Scholarship
BCA has a range of scholarship and sponsorship opportunities to cater to students at any career stage, with a focus on the Built Environment sector.
Refer to this page for more details: https://cde.nus.edu.sg/arch/programmes/bachelor-of-landscape-architecture/scholarshipsand-grants/
STUDIO RULES AND REGULATIONS
For fire safety, health and security:
Studio safety:
• Keep clear all:
o Exits and doors,
o Corridors and aisles,
o Individual desk access, and
o Emergency fire and first aid equipment.
• No space heaters.
• Secure all cables to prevent tripping hazards.
Studio health:
• Wear a mask if you are sick.
• No smoking:
o The studio, stairwells and mechanical rooms are all non-smoking area
• No toxic materials:
o No spraying of aerosols (e.g., spray paint or spray glue) in studio.
o No resins or epoxies that contain VOCs.
o No cutting of plastics or foams in studio.
o Freshly laser cut items, including chipboard, should be de-gassed before entering the studio.
• No eating in studio
• Do not store anything (e.g., models) overhead
• All areas, including sinks, must remain clean and of any chemicals, plasters, paints, stains or residue:
o Clean up spills immediately.
Studio security
• Take care if your personal belongings:
o Desk locks and CCTV deter but do not prevent access or theft.
o Maintain collective supervision of the studio.
For respect and convenience:
Studio behaviour
• All students must maintain orderly and sanitary working and personal areas:
o Walls and floors must be kept clean, orderly, and free of rubbish and debris.
o Use trash cans and recycling bins.
• No shouting or loud behaviour.
• Audio equipment must only be used with personal earphones
• Students shall maintain a mutually respectful environment and avoid posting images or language of a sexist, racist, or other profane nature that is not suitable in a professional environment.
Studio care
• Do not cut directly on any desk, table, floor or other furnishing. Use plastic cutting mats for both safety and to prevent damage to the studio and furnishings.
• Students may not use common areas such as meeting rooms, crit rooms, stairwells or doorways as personal workspace or display area.
• Common workspaces must not be used for storage.
• Common workspaces must be cleared when finished.
• After projects are completed, all related project materials should be removed from the building, unless otherwise directed. Direct questions to your instructors if additional storage should be considered.
• Extra furniture or personal belongings are not permitted beyond your personal workspace, and any use must be mindful of others’ safety and convenience.
USEFUL LINKS
On campus accommodation
https://osa.nus.edu.sg/accommodation/
Singapore-related information
https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/
An online information portal featuring plants and animals found in Singapore.
https://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/
Historical research, large repository of old maps and photos.
Landscape architecture-related information
https://www.asla.org/
A professional association for landscape architects in the United States. The website includes recent projects and awards
https://www.landscapeinstitute.org/
The Landscape Institute (LI) is the chartered body for the landscape profession in UK. The website includes recent projects and awards.
https://www.iflaworld.com/ifla-asia-pacific
IFLA Asia Pacific Region (IFLA APR) is a sub-group of the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) organization. The website includes recent news and awards.
https://www.toposmagazine.com/
Landscape Architecture Magazine for an international and interdisciplinary review for landscape architecture, urban design and urban development.
SILA / Accreditation
https://www.sila.org.sg
Professional association for landscape architects in Singapore - Singapore Institute of Landscape Architects (SILA), website includes updates on Industry events and CPD courses.
https://www.sila.org.sg/la-future
Webpage of LA Future, a community of SILA Graduates and Student members, for mentoring of young professionals.
https://www.la-accreditation.org.sg
Information on accreditation process and requirement.
Software/Database/Tools
https://academy.archistar.ai/login
An online library of tutorials on digital design skills. Learn all the different software needed in this course in your own time.
https://miro.com/app/board/uXjVJXMuiDQ=/?share_link_id=60962013170
Publicly accessible Miro page prepared by Prof. Ervine Lin with multiple videos/scripts/etc.
MY STUDY PLAN
The BLA curriculum is flexible; therefore, it is the responsibility of each student to plan and enrol in the courses they want to take based on their own interests and professional goals. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create your own study plan and keep updating it each year as you progress in your studies.
There are 2 documents included at the end of this handbook:
1. A checklist of courses required to graduate
2. A roadmap template for you to plan which courses to take when
To create your study plan, follow these steps:
Step 1: Update your graduation checklist
1. Get a sense of how many courses you need to take
a. If you do not hold any Diploma, skip this part.
b. If you hold a Diploma, consult page 34 to find out how many Advanced Placement Credits (APCs) you are entitled to (either 40, 36, or 20 units) and which courses you do not need to take. For each of these courses, write down the number of units gained through APCs in the “Units earned” column of the graduation checklist below. To help you, courses eligible for APCs have their units marked with *. However, you may not be entitled to all of them.
2. Keep a record of the course you’ve taken so far
a. If this is your first year at NUS, skip this part.
b. Otherwise, in the graduation checklist below, write down the units earned for the courses you have already passed so far.
3. Choose your BLA Recognise Elective
a. Check on page 17 the list of BLA Recognised Elective that applied to your cohort.
b. Write down choice after “BLA Recognized elective: LAD” in the checklist below.
c. If you are not sure which one to choose yet, write it down in pencil and decide later.
4. Choose your General Education Courses
a. Choose 3 or 4 General Education Courses from the list here
b. Write down the course codes and titles after “Other GE 1 to 4” in the graduation checklist below.
c. If you’re not sure yet, write it down in pencil, and change it later.
5. Plan how to use your Unrestricted Electives
a. Check how many units of Unrestricted Elective you must complete: generally, it is either 20 units if you are granted APCs (see page 34), or 40 units if you are not.
b. Choose one or combine two of the following options:
i. Take one of the two landscape specializations in Landscape Practice or Landscape Studies using 20 units of Unrestricted Electives (see page 20).
ii. Declare a Minor of your choice using 20 units (see page 22). Note that some of the courses you have already taken or plan to take for your Major can also count towards your Minor requirements. However:
1. Only up to 8 units can be double counted and used to meet the Minor requirement and another requirement.
2. At least 12 units for any Minor must be taken from outside the entire set of courses that are listed for the major(s) or another minor that the student is taking or has taken.
iii. Declare a Second Major of your choice using 40 units (see page 22). Note that some of the courses you have already taken or plan to take can also count towards your Second Major requirements. However:
1. Only up to 16 units may be double counted and used to meet the Second Major requirement and another requirement. Meaning that at least 24 units of the Second Major must be distinct and not overlapping
2. At least 12 units must be at Level 3000 or above.
iv. Obtain MLA Advanced Placement Credits using 40 units of Unrestricted Electives to enter MLA at NUS in Year 2 (see page 21).
c. Based on your choices, write down the codes and titles of the courses you plan to take under “Unrestricted Elective 1 to 10” If you are taking more than 10 Unrestricted Electives, please add them to the “Additional Courses” list.
Step 2: Plan your academic roadmap semester by semester
Now that you have decided which courses you need to take to graduate, you should plan your academic roadmap semester by semester using the template provided below. Before you start, write which Academic Year (AY) is Year 1, 2, 3, and 4 for you depending on when you were admitted to NUS (for example, Year 1: AY2026/2027). Please note that you should enrol for a minimum of 20 units per semester. If you need to take less than 20 units in one given semester, you will need to make a request in EduRec and provide justification for approval.
1. Write down all the courses taken so far
a. If this is your first semester at NUS, skip this part.
b. If not, write down in each semester which courses you have already passed, and how many units you have earned for each of them so far.
c. Calculate the total for each semester.
2. Plan your mandatory courses
a. Based on both your graduation checklist and the Recommended Roadmap provided on page 14, fill-in the list of courses to be taken each semester in the following order:
i. Design Studios: to be taken in order
ii. Core courses, excluding the BLA Recognised Elective
iii. Common Curriculum courses
iv. General Education, excluding those you choose
b. If you are not sure which courses are offered which semester, check the List of Courses offered in AY26/27 on page 24 Check NUSMods for the latest updates on course timetabling.
At this point, calculate the total number of units for each semester and identify which one have less units. During their first semester at NUS, students can only read up to a maximum of 23 units. Please note that the minimum number of units for each semester is 20 and it is highly recommended not to overload beyond 24 units per semester.
3. Plan your elective courses
a. BLA Elective:
i. Check on NUSMods which semester your chosen BLA elective is offered and mark it down in either Semester 1 or Semester 2 of Year 3 (or Year 2 if you have 40 APCs). If you chose LAD3005 Internship Programme, then write it in Semester 2, but note that it will take place in Special Terms 1 and 2.
b. General Education Electives:
i. Check on NUSMods which semesters your chosen GE courses are offered and mark them down in either Semester 1 or Semester 2 of Year 3 (or Year 2 if you have 40 APCs).
c. Unrestricted Electives:
i. If you chose to obtain a Landscape Specialization or MLA Advanced Placement Credits, mark down the necessary Unrestricted Electives in Semester 1 and 2 of Year 4 (of Year 3 if you have 40 APCs). If you are not sure which courses are offered which semester, check the List of Courses offered in AY26/27 on page 31.
ii. If you choose a Minor or a Second Major, plan to take the necessary courses every semester following the course level (Level 1000 in Year 1, Level 2000 in Year 2, Level 3000 in Year 3, etc.). Check on NUSMods and EduRec which courses are offered which semester and if any prerequisite courses are required before you can enrol.
My Graduation Checklist
For students admitted in AY2024-25 and before
Unrestricted elective 1:
Unrestricted elective 2: ________________________________
Unrestricted elective 3: ________________________________
Unrestricted elective 4: ________________________________
Unrestricted elective 5: ________________________________
Unrestricted elective 6:
Unrestricted elective 7:
Unrestricted elective 8:
Unrestricted elective 9:
My Academic Roadmap
Year 1: AY __ __ /___
Semester 1
Semester 2
Total (max. 23)
Year 2: AY __ __ /___
Semester 1 Semester 2 Total
Year 3: AY _ ___ /__
Semester 1 Semester 2 Total
Year 4: AY __ __ /__
Semester 1 Semester 2