NUS Bachelor of Landscape Architecture 2023- FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

BACHELOR OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Admission Requisites

Admission Interview

NUS Landscape Architecture Education

Minor Programme, Further Studies & Career Opportunities

Financial Assistance

Admission Requisites

1.1a. What are the subject requisites for admission to Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) programme (GCE A’Levels holder)?

1.1b. What are the subject requisites for admission to Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) programme (other qualifications)?

1.2. Who is eligible to be considered under Aptitude Based Admissions?

1.3. I would like to transfer to NUS from an overseas university. What are the admission criteria and application process?

1.4. I am currently pursuing another degree in a different institution, can I apply for a course transfer?

1.5. Is CCA important in the BLA enrolment selection process?

1.6. I enrolled into a polytechnic via PFP, so do not have any O’ Levels. How will this affect my eligibility for BLA?

1.7. Are exemptions granted to diploma holders?

1.1a. What are the subject requisites for admission to Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA)

programme (GCE A’Levels holder)

I) A levels (New Curriculum):

H1 pass in Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics; OR pass in 'O' level Additional Mathematics.

II) A levels (Old Curriculum):

Minimum ‘O’ grade attained at the GCE ‘A’-Level exam for the following subjects: Mathematics, Physics, Physical Science or Chemistry; OR

A pass in 'AO' Mathematics attained at the GCE 'A' Level exam; OR

A pass in Additional Maths attained at the GCE 'O' Level exam.

*Indicative Grade Profile: Grade Profiles of A-Level Applicants offered places for courses at NUS in Academic Year

2020/2021: 90th percentile (AAA/B)

For detailed admission requirements, please refer to www.nus.edu.sg/oam for more information.

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Admission Requisites

1.1b. What are the subject requisites for admission to Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA)

programme (other qualifications)

III) Diplomas (excluding Advanced Diplomas/ Specialist Diplomas/ Certificate Courses) from local Polytechnics: A pass in E Maths attained at the GCE ‘O’ Level exam

Applicants who do not fulfil the minimum GCE 'O' Level Elementary Mathematics requirement but have obtained the relevant Graduate DDP Transcripts / Certificate in University Preparatory Mathematics depending on the Polytechnics would be deemed as having met the Mathematics requirement.

*Indicative Grade Profile: Polytechnic GPAs of Polytechnic Applicants offered places for courses at NUS in Academic Year 2020/2021: 90th percentile (3.84)

IV) Other Academic Qualifications

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

- IBDP Examination Session November 2020 and earlier: Pass in SL Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics

- IBDP Examination Session May 2021 and beyond: Pass in SL Chemistry or MAA (Mathematics: analysis and approaches) or Physics; or HL MAI (Mathematics: applications and interpretation)

ii. NUS High School: A good major CAP in either Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics

iii. International Students: Year 12 or Higher Level pass in Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics or Physical Science.

For detailed admission requirements, please refer to www.nus.edu.sg/oam for more information. Admission

1.2. Who is eligible to be considered under Aptitude Based Admissions?

For Aptitude Based Admissions, other factors besides academic grades will be taken into consideration. The following are some samples of exceptional achievements that the University may take into consideration:

• Medal winner at the International Olympiads (Biology, Chemistry, Informatics, Mathematics and Physics)

• Winner in the National Science & Talent Search

• Represented Singapore in Arts and/or Sports

• Active participation in community service and volunteer programmes.

• Work experience relevant to the course applied for (supporting document/s is/are required)

• Key leadership positions in community organisations, sports and athletic clubs, etc (outside school)

• Other relevant supporting documents related to the course applying for

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Admission Requisites

1.3. I would like to transfer to NUS from an overseas university. What are the admission criteria and application process?

You may refer to office of admission website http://www.nus.edu.sg/oam/ for admission procedures through the International Candidates category. The requisite for the course is Year 12 or higher level pass in Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics or Physical Science. Information on the financial resources, tuition fees etc can also be accessed from the above website.

Applicants who are shortlisted would be required to attend an interview that would be held in April at our Department. Credit transfer from applicant’s previous course will only be considered after the applicant has been offered a place in the programme and it is not guaranteed. We would need to review the programme syllabus and the results of the candidate for any exemption consideration.

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Admission Requisites

1.4. I am currently pursuing another degree in a different institution in Singapore, can I apply for a course transfer?

Yes, interested applicant can apply for transfer under http://www.nus.edu.sg/oam/apply-to-nus/transferapplicants under the Current students in NUS/Yale-NUS/NTU/SMU/SUTD/SUSS/SIT seeking a change of course section.

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Admission Requisites

1.5. Is CCA important in the BLA enrolment selection process?

CCA may be considered under Aptitude Based Admissions. See Question 1.2.

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Admission Requisites

1.6. I enrolled into a polytechnic via PFP, so do not have any O’ Levels. How will this affect my eligibility for BLA?

Applicants who do not fulfil the minimum GCE 'O' Level Elementary Mathematics requirement and do not have the Graduate DDP Transcript mentioned may still submit an application. They will be assessed based on their polytechnic results and other results/ certificates presented under the Outstanding Achievements section.

The University may evaluate these applicants on a case-by-case basis. Shortlisted applicants may be required to attend an admissions interview under the discretion of the School of Design and Environment

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Admission Requisites

1.7. Are exemptions granted to diploma holders?

Please refer to the list of Advanced Placement Credits (APCs) granted to diploma holders from local polytechnics here.

It is possible for diploma holders who are given APC in two design modules (LA1001 and LA1005) and two lecture modules (LAD2004 and LAD 2003) to complete the BLA course in 3 years.

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Admission Requisites

Admission Interview

2.1. Do I need to attend any admission test and interview?

2.2. Do I need to submit a portfolio together with my application?

2.3. What do I need to include in the portfolio?

2.4. Is drawing a requisite skill in order to be considered for admission?

2.5. How would I know if I have the aptitude for landscape architecture?

2.6. How can I prepare for an education in landscape architecture?

2.1. Do I need to attend any admission test and interview?

There is no admission test for the shortlisting process for BLA. However, shortlisted candidates will be required to attend an interview as part of the selection process in order to be considered for admission. Candidate with Diploma in Landscape Architecture / Landscape Design & Horticulture from local Polytechnics will be required to present their portfolio during the interview.

Other candidates are strongly encouraged to present their drawings and other creative work that demonstrate their design sensitivity during the interview. See Question 2.3-2.6.

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2.2. Do I need to submit a portfolio together with my application?

You need not submit the portfolio at the point of application. However, should you be selected to attend the interview, you are strongly encouraged to bring along your portfolio as evidence of your interest in design.

Candidate with Diploma in Landscape Architecture / Landscape Design & Horticulture from local Polytechnics will be required to present their portfolio during the interview.

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2.3. What do I need to include in the portfolio?

The portfolio should show the candidate’s creative work.

If possible, this should document an accumulation of work over several years. The content may include (but should not be restricted to) drawings, paintings, graphic design, magazine layouts, posters, stage design, web design etc.

As far as possible, the portfolio should be neatly arranged, bound and indexed in a suitable format, determined by the applicant.

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2.4. Is drawing a requisite skill in order to be considered for admission?

Although it is beneficial for applicants to know how to draw, it is not a prerequisite. Drawing is only one of many components needed in the course. It is also a skill which can be picked up if you are diligent and determined. Back to Admission Interview FAQ

2.5. How would I know if I have the aptitude for landscape architecture?

You should show an interest in design and a curiosity in how things work. You should also have keen observation skills, and an ability to express and describe ideas in visual and verbal formats. For landscape architecture, you should also have an interest in the outdoor environment.

2.6. How can I prepare for an education in landscape architecture?

You should talk to people who are working as landscape architects and senior students to understand the professional and student life. It would be helpful to acquaint yourself with basic landscape architecture knowledge through books and the internet and have an appreciation of landscape architecture development, locally and internationally. You can also start to learn basic skills such as drawing and use of modelling software such as Auto Cad, Adobe graphic programmes, and SketchUp.

NUS Landscape Architecture Education

3.1. Why pick NUS BLA?

3.2. What does the merger with the College of Design and Engineering meant for me?

3.3. What is the BLA programme about?

3.4. What is the difference between the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and the BA(Architecture) programme in NUS?

3.5. Is the BLA programme offered on part-time basis?

3.6. Is BLA programme a licensed programme?

3.7. What are the exchange and overseas enrichment opportunities available for landscape architecture students?

3.8. Are students able to take part in internships to gain practical exposure?

3.9. How long does overseas studio last for and are the expenses included in the school fees?

3.10. Are students enrolled into BLA provided with the design softwares (e.g. Autocad, Adobe photoshop, Sketchup, Revit etc.) required for the course?

3.1. Why pick NUS BLA?

First, we are a leading Asia-centred programme.

NUS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE is distinctively Asian and pan-tropical in geographic attention with an urban emphasis. Centrally located in Singapore, one of the most dynamic, diverse, and rapidly urbanizing regions of the world, we aim to provide a landscape architecture education that is sensitive to the myriad challenges facing Asian cities, as well as opportunities inspired by the rich heritage and cultural, socio-economic, and ecological elements of the region. Singapore provides an enriching backdrop to our training of landscape architects with its diversity of culture and cosmopolitan outlook, and where greening and ecology of the built environment is a cornerstone of urban development.

Second, we train design professionals who will shape the environment.

Landscape architecture as a professional practice is constantly evolving, and landscape architects’ roles are expanding into new frontiers of practice. Foundational years give students a head start to better engage the diverse issues of designing the environment. In senior years, students choose from a variety of design paths to develop interests, strengths and potentials. These paths provide career opportunities beyond landscape architecture whereby students might venture into architecture, urban design, regional planning, integrated sustainable design, and environmental studies.

Third, we provide a rich, interdisciplinary design education.

NUS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE environment is enriched by its affiliation to a full-fledged university built on world-class arts, humanities, and STEM programmes. Hosted by the Department of Architecture, with a long-standing reputation as the top Asian Architecture School and one of the top ten schools in the world, we leverage the close partnership across design disciplines through joint studios, cross-discipline electives, and networking guided by a world-class team of academics and practitioners. When students join the NUS LA programme, they will have access to a variety of cross disciplinary courses and specialised programmes, a broad range of overseas student exchanges, and excellent campus resources.

3.2. What does the merger with the College of Design and Engineering meant for me?

CDE takes advantage of the natural synergies and growing convergence between the fields of Engineering and Design to offer a distinctive, interdisciplinary education. Exposure to real-world scenarios, broad domain expertise and cutting-edge research in your university education will empower you to thrive in your future professional roles

The Future-focused Common Curriculum allow you to have greater control of your educational experience at NUS - whether you want to go broad, deep or both, in the fields of Design and Engineering. You can craft your own learning journey based on how broad, deep or integrated you want your education to be. More info here

3.3. What is the BLA programme about?

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture 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 programme provides core foundation training in skills and knowledge that equips our graduates for professional practice or entry into advanced Master degree programmes.

Relevant topics including tropicality, site specificity, boundaries and scales, densification, multifunctionality, and placemaking are played out in the programme through integrated learning platforms in design studios and lectures. The programme is taught in unique education settings that concurrently promote speculation in design and produce grounded, action-oriented design outcomes relevant to real life issues.

3.4. What is the difference between the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and the BA(Architecture) programme in NUS?

The key difference between an architect and a landscape architect is the scale of design work each focuses on.

An architect typically works at a building scale but can also work at smaller scales including interiors and objects; a landscape architect designs outdoor environment that surrounds us, buildings and all built infrastructure.

The BA (Arch) programme primarily focus on architectural formations of various scales and context. The study of Landscape Architecture spans the local, micro and mesoscales, covering spaces from gardens and parks, to towns and cities (green infrastructure systems, green space planning and design), to urban agglomeration (biodiversity corridors, peri-urban and rural areas), with a special focus in Asia.

The primary remit of a landscape architect is to create environments that protect and conserve nature, and of which foster connection with human connection to nature. Modules which are unique to the BLA programme include, History & Theory of Landscape Architecture, Planting Design, Geo design, and Landscape Construction.

3.5. Is the BLA programme offered on part-time basis?

No. The 4-year BLA programme is only offered on a full-time basis.

3.6. Is BLA programme a licensed programme?

There is currently no professional licensing/ Qualified Person certification required for Landscape Architects in Singapore. However, graduates are encouraged to pursue accredited landscape architects status.

NUS Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) and Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) is not a licenced program but it is a professional programme that is recognised by the Singapore Institute of Landscape Architects (SILA) Landscape Architects Accreditation.

In order to qualify for the professional exam conducted by SILA, BLA graduates need to undertake at least 3 years of practical experience after completion of the BLA programme.

MLA graduates need to undertake at least 2 years of practical experience in order to qualify for the professional exam conducted by SILA.

In short, a student of the BLA programme may apply for his/her Accredited Landscape Architect status after 4 years of education plus 3 years of practical experience. For details on professional registration, please refer to https://www.la-accreditation.org.sg

3.7. What are the exchange and overseas enrichment opportunities available for landscape architecture students?

In its emphasis to engage the opportunities and challenges of globalisation, NUS has implemented Student Exchange Programmes (SEP) to more than 150 universities. Landscape Architecture students have the opportunity to participate in SEPs for one semester, with partner universities (at Departmental and University Level) in Asia, Europe and USA.

In addition to the student exchange programme, the Department creates opportunities and sponsors numerous overseas field trips, overseas enrichment programmes and design workshops conducted abroad. These activities enhance our students’ academic experience and enrich their exposure to design conditions under myriad social-cultural milieus.

(The above information is subject to change based on prevailing COVID-19 restrictions, including any border control measures of overseas enrichment and SEP host countries at the point of application and commencement of the programme.)

3.8. Are students able to take part in internships to gain practical exposure? The majority of students obtain practical experience through internship with landscape architecture practices during the semester break.

As a part of BLA elective modules, students have the opportunity to participate in a structured 12-week Landscape Architecture Internship Programme during the May to August vacation upon completion of the third year of study to gain practical experience in the profession.

3.9. How long does overseas studio last for and are the expenses included in the school fees?

Students may have one overseas studio in the fourth year of the programme. Overseas studio tend to span over a period of 7-10 days. Expenses required for the overseas trip are not included in the school fees. (The above information is subject to change based on prevailing COVID- 19 restrictions, including any border control measures of overseas host countries.)

3.10. Are students enrolled into BLA provided with the design softwares (e.g. Autocad, Adobe photoshop, Sketchup, Revit) required for the course?

NUS provides Adobe software for students to use in the campus computer clusters. Students who require to have the design software on their laptop, will have to purchase the software on their own from https://www.adobe.com/sea/creativecloud/buy/students.htmlGoogle .

SketchUp is provided for students’ use in the lab clusters in NUS.

Design software is not provided for installation into personal laptops/computers. Students can make use of student’s version of required software for installation into their personal devices. Such software might be free version of Sketchup, student license for Autodesk and GIS software.

There are also online tutorials for students via Archstar.

Minor Programme, Further Studies & Career Opportunities

4.1. What are the job prospects and types of jobs for a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture graduate from NUS? Is it difficult to get a job? What is the approximate average starting salary expected?

4.2. Are BLA graduates eligible for direct admission into the MLA programme?

4.3. Can I apply for a Minor programme while pursing my undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture?

4.1. What are the job prospects and types of jobs for a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture graduate from NUS? Is it difficult to get a job? What is the approximate average starting salary expected?

With your NUS landscape architecture training, you can work in government agencies, architectural or landscape architectural firms or in other related fields as project managers, landscape architects, designers, urban designers, and researchers etc. You may continue your studies up to master level offered in the Department: Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA, See Question 6.1.), further leading to a PhD degree. Alternatively, you may also continue your education with other masters programs in and across a variety of fields.

Approximate starting salaries vary depending on several factors including type of company and prevailing economic situations at the time of graduation and job application.

4.2. Are BLA graduates eligible for direct admission into the MLA programme?

No. Upon completion of the four-year programme, students are eligible to apply for the MLA programme.

Successful applications who meet the eligibility criteria may be exempted from the first year of the MLA programme. It may be possible for these students to graduate with an MLA upon completion of the second year of the MLA programme.

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4.3. Can I apply for a Minor programme while pursing my undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture?

Yes. We have put together a list of recommended Minor programmes that will facilitate a greater appreciation for design and the environment for undergraduates of the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture course. More details can be found here.

BLA students are also eligible to apply for a ‘restricted’ minor in Architectural Studies. Students are required to apply to the Host Faculty/Department and obtain approval to read a restricted minor.

For more information on the Minor programmes available in NUS, please visit http://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/academic-information-policies/undergraduate-students/specialprogrammes/minor-programmes Minor Programme, Further Studies & Career

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Financial Assistance

5.1. Are there any scholarships available?

5.1. Are there any scholarships available?

The following scholarships are available for BLA students: Gardens by the Bay scholarship

Design Singapore Scholarship

NParks Scholarship

NParks Prize (with effect from BLA’23)

Nparks Peter Lim Awards

For more details of the above scholarships/awards, you can refer to this link

There are also various NUS scholarships and financial aid available.

Please refer to the following links for more details:

http://www.nus.edu.sg//oam/scholarships.html

http://www.nus.edu.sg/oam/financial-aid