NEW PROGRAM BACHELOR IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE STARTING FALL Prepared by A. Professor Hassãn Bitar, chair of landscape architecture program

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1 NEW PROGRAM BACHELOR IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE STARTING FALL 2012 Prepared by A. Professor Hassãn Bitar, chair of landscape architecture program

2 NEW PROGRAM BACHELOR IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Department: Institut d Urbanisme de l ALBA - established in 1994 Director: Mr Ziad Akl Program: Landscape Architecture - established in 2005 Chair: Hassãn Bitar, PhD WHAT IS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE? Landscape Architecture is an environmental design discipline of broad scope whose central concern is the wise use of land. It is the design profession responsible for the creation of enjoyable and environmentally sustainable outdoor places. As a profession it includes the detailed development of land and sites of all sizes and uses, as well as planning activities, both of which rest on a foundation of ecological understanding which views human value systems as a major force in landscape change. Landscape architects design, plan and manage both natural and urban environments, including small, intimate outdoor spaces and entire bio-geographical regions. The work of landscape architects can be seen in many of the most valued and interesting places, such as city and town centres, living and working environments, and recreational settings. As an academic discipline, Landscape Architecture provides a unique opportunity for personal development through environmental problem solving and project-oriented study. Landscape architects study the entire range of ecological, cultural and social processes that occur on the land. The ways in which landscape architects shape and manage the environment are informed by understanding how evolution and human activities have changed the landscape over time. Sometimes this means creating new places and at other times it entails healing places that have been abused in the past, such as polluted or degraded environments. Above all, the profession of landscape architecture is committed to making the environment more sustainable through the development of creative design and management solutions. Since 2005 the Urban Planning Institute (IUA) of ALBA has been offering courses in landscape architecture at the graduate level (Masters in Landscape Architecture). Acknowledging the need and opportunities for more landscape architecture professionals, and building on the success of the Master program, IUA aims at extending the masters in landscape architecture (MLA) program by establishing a new curriculum for a bachelor in landscape architecture (BLA) as elaborated below. Landscape architects design and plan outdoor spaces. They are responsible for the overall design and detailed plans for a wide range of projects ranging from residential gardens, to green open spaces including industrial or office parks, recreational sites, cultural or natural parks as well as master plans for planning and management of whole landscape domains. Their work cover a wide range of expertise from site design and planning, to environmental planning, to land management and resource analysis

3 Graduates from the Bachelor in LA program will be prepared for employment with private practice firms in landscape architecture, engineering, architecture, or planning; and with local government agencies and local authorities. Upon graduation students are qualified to pursue licensure in the profession or postgraduate education in landscape architecture or a related field. STATEMENT OF VALUES OBJECTIVES In line with the core objectives set forth by the IUA, its commitment to the protection of the natural environment and the advancement of ethical and sound environmental practices, the course aims to: 1. Teach landscape architecture as an intellectual and professional endeavour which embodies a commitment to the continuing health and well-being of the environment and of human life alike; 2. Offer education which equip students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed for the implementation of landscape design at site, urban and regional scales and enable them to become specialists in emerging areas of professional endeavour; 3. Enable students to explore the interdisciplinary practice in an educational environment; 4. Offer academic opportunities which give access to excellence in education, research, design and theory in landscape architecture and related disciplines; 5. Provide expert services for government institutions and other bodies and contribute to the professional understanding of related professional domains in the environment, technology, urban planning and urban design; and 6. Provide a vehicle to meet the continuing professional development requirements of the landscape architecture profession in Lebanon and worldwide. CURRICULUM With the aim of achieving a common and mutual ground for a standardized and globally recognized education in landscape architecture, the new bachelor program builds upon the recommendations and general requirement set forth by the American Society of Landscape Architecture (ASLA), the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA), The Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (CELA) and the European Council of Landscape Architecture Schools (ECLAS) while fully respecting the ETCS model for first cycle qualifications ( ECTS credits). Four years of full time education in landscape architecture encouraging the acquisition of skills in the following areas and associated expertise: History of cultural form and an understanding of design as a social art; Cultural and natural systems; Plant material and horticultural applications; Site engineering including materials, methods, technologies, construction documentation and administration, and applications; - 3 -

4 Theory and methodologies in design and planning; Landscape planning, design, and management at all scales and off all applications; Information technology and computer applications; Public policies and local regulations; Communications and public facilitation; Ethics and values related to the profession. Degree Title: English title Bachelor in Landscape Architecture French title Diplôme en Architecture du Paysage ا إجاززةة في هھھھنددسة االمناظظرر االططبيیعيیة title Arabic Duration: 4 years, 8 semesters Credit System: European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) 1 credit = contact hours Program Structure: Total number of ECTS credits 207 Foundation 6 Landscape Graphics, Communication and 51 Technology Ecology, History, Theory 66 Landscape Design and Conception 50 Electives 10 Final year project 24 duration 1 year Number of subjects 35 Number of credits per year Year 1 60 Year 2 60 Year 3 49 Year 4 37 Subject load coefficient Electives 1.5 Technical, Theoretical 2 Design studio 3 Final project 4-4 -

5 BACHELOR IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE Unit Subject Credit hours Work load Total hours ECTS 1 Basic English or French Calculus Landscape Construction S1 4 Landscape Graphics- 1 (Croquis, Esquisse) Design Communication Digital Design Modeling: CAD- 2D Plant Biology and Protection Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Soil, Water and Plants S History of Landscape Architecture Introduction to Landscape Design Readings in Landscape Theories Landscape Technology Landscape Graphics- 2 (Perspective and Rendering) S Digital Design Modeling: CAD- 3D, 3D Max Geomatics and Landscape Planning Plants Identification and Selection History and Theories of Urbanism Landscape Ecology S Cities and Landscapes Landscape Design Studio- 1: Garden Scale Introduction to Urban Planning Landscape Design Studio- 2: Community Scale Professional Practice S Environmental Impact Assessment Landscape Studio- 3: Sustainable Landscapes Landscape Studio- 4: Regional Scale Digital photography and Media ( E ) Environmental Laws and Regulations S Environmental Perceptions Research and Essays in Landscape Architecture Final Design Project (1) Knowing and Working with Colors ( E ) Landscape Studio- 5: Designing with Plants S Advanced 3D graphics ( E ) History of Arts ( E ) Final Design Project (2) S Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year Total

6 ADMISSION Admission to all undergraduate degree programs at ALBA is awarded on a competitive basis. As part of the application process for the Landscape Architecture program, students must sit for a common entrance examination including drawing, written, oral and aptitude tests usually carried out around March 30 of every year. Admission is competitive and is based on entrance examination score and academic performance. The number of places is limited to 30 students each year so that to offer the best teaching and learning environment. Candidates must submit an application form and an official transcript. Thereafter, candidates will be shortly interviewed by the course coordinator in order to determine their motivation, examine their educational backgrounds, discuss subject selection and answer any concern they might have a priori regarding education at ALBA or any matter concerning the landscape architecture profession and careers opportunities in Lebanon and elsewhere. TEACHING LANGUAGE The primary teaching language at ALBA is French. However since 2005 some teaching is also conducted in English. To be admitted students should have acquired either French or English as a secondary language. To this end, a levelling English/French course will be required from students with language difficulties. SUBJECTS Foundation 6 credits ENGL100 English or FREN100 French 3 ECTS credits Since teaching is conducted in both French and English language, this unit will help students to pass any linguistic challenges be them English or French. Students will learn all new technical, theoretical and scientific vocabularies and terms as well as tips on scientific and essay writings. CALC100 Calculus 3 ECTS credits This course is a college level introductory calculus course designed to help students brush up on elementary mathematics in order to pass those subjects that require computation skills such landscape construction, site topography and surveys, irrigation and drainage and geographic information systems focusing mostly on trigonometry and basic functions. Landscape Graphics, Communication and Technology 55 credits LACO100 Landscape Construction and LATE200 Landscape Technology 12 ECTS credits over two semesters S1, S3 Prerequisites: Calculus An introduction to and development of the fundamental skills to model sites and landform including the fundamentals of surveying and levelling with an emphasis on integrated 3D resolution of natural surfaces, built forms (structures, roads, paths and pavements), and substrates (foundations and - 6 -

7 sub-grades) and earthworks computation. Student will also learn about landscape technologies from lighting to sustainable landscape technologies and green infrastructures such as green roof, constructed wetlands and water reuse, and so on. At the conclusion of the course students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of site services and engineering issues and their coordination. Students are also expected to have developed skills in the design, documentation and coordination of all aspects of site works. LAGR101-2 Landscape Graphics 12 ECTS credits over two semesters S1, S3 This course introduces manual graphic skills useful to the representation of landscapes. These skills are taught through a series of freehand and constructed drawing exercises and assignments. Techniques used to develop illustrative landscape plans, cross-sections, elevations and perspective graphics will be introduced. Graphic skills appropriate to the design and representation of a range of actual and imagined landscape settings are explored both in the field and the studio. The focus in this course will be on learning all hand drawing and computed aided techniques used in developing and rendering free-hand, sketches and perspectives of landscape objects and vistas be them rural or urban. DECO100 Design Communication 6 ECTS credits This course introduces communication skills appropriate to landscape design. A variety of skills are addressed including photographic representation, composition with computer graphics, freehand drawing, verbal presentation skills and conceptual drawing. These are taught through a series of assignments held both outdoors and in the studio. DDM101-2 Digital Design Modelling 10 ECTS credits over two semesters S1, S3 Students will undertake a series of tutorials and exercises to develop an understanding of the use of 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) to enable design and documentation. GIS100 Geographical Information Systems 5 ECTS credits This course will provide students with an understanding of the principles of geographic information system and remote sensing technologies and their application to urban and natural resources management. The course will include an introduction to database management systems; an introduction to geographic information systems; global position systems and automatic data acquisition; integration of conventional data analysis tools with GIS; passive and active sensing systems; image processing and interpretation; and remote sensing for improved resource management

8 Ecology, History and Conception 66 credits PBP100 Plants biology and Protection 6 ECTS credits The goal of this course is to understand how plants in general grow and function in populations and ecosystems and adapt to continuously changing and often unsuitable environments. Students will learn about the fundamental life processes of plants, their physiology origins and taxonomy, stressing factors and natural enemies such as pests and diseases. SWP100 Soil, Water and Plants 6 ECTS credits Prerequisites: Calculus This course introduces student to the soil-plant-water relationships and methods to calculate plants water requirements. Students will learn about the various soil structures, textures and water retention capacity. The concept of water zoning and techniques of xeriscaping and zero-scaping appropriate for arid and sub-arid regions will be also addressed. The course will also include topics such as surface water drainage, management and disposal of run-offs. At the conclusion of the course students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of site water services and drainage, and their coordination as they will be also expected to have acquired knowledge of emerging technologies in these areas and demonstrate the skills to critically assess landscape plants water-needs and requirements and have developed skills in the design, documentation and coordination of all aspects of irrigation and drainage works. ILD100 Introduction to Landscape Design 6 ECTS credits Prerequisites: Landscape Graphic, Design Communication This design studio introduces basic concepts in landscape design through a series of short design exercises. The exercises will begin with site inventory and analysis, followed by studies on external spaces, scale, planning and layout. Students will learn how to develop design solutions for sites in ways that harmoniously and responsibly respond to the landscape. HLA100 History of Landscape Architecture 6 ECTS credits A critical examination of the historical development of landscape architecture, including the events, social influences and personalities involved and the philosophies and theories that were developed. Included in this course is a review of the historical theories, the formative evolutionary influences of natural and cultural factors as they shaped contemporary landscape architecture and the legacies of landscape design that are relevant to the practice of landscape architecture. RLT200 Readings in Landscape Theories 6 ECTS credits This course is based on a review of recent theoretical developments in the areas of landscape architecture, landscape perceptions and landscape theory, and their application to the contemporary landscape architectural practice. This is introduced by lectures, critiques and case analyses linking theory to execute works

9 GLP200 Geomatics and Landscape Planning 7 ECTS credits Prerequisites: GIS Geomatics is the science and technology of gathering, analysing, interpreting, distributing and using geographic information. Geomatics encompasses a broad range of disciplines that can be brought together to create a detailed but understandable picture of the physical world and to evaluate the human influence on it. Throughout this design studio, students will learn to make use of geomatics to collect spatial and geographic information to conduct spatial analysis and present landscape plans and associated planning information. PIS200 Plants Identification and Selection 6 ECTS credits Prerequisites: Plants Biology and Botany This course will cover topics such as: Trees, shrubs, climbers and ground cover plants, lawns and factors influencing their growth and use. Ecological and botanical considerations in landscape design. The botanical and ecological context of indigenous and exotic plants commonly used in landscape design in Lebanon; cultural and aesthetic issues pertaining to the use of plants in landscape design; tree and plant growing industry in Lebanon. Students will prepare a simple landscape designs to acquire experience in synthesizing ecological, botanical, cultural and aesthetic factors in designing with nature, and will learn to match plants to site and design conditions. HTU200 History and Theories of Urbanism 6 ECTS credits The course will cover the history of the urban environment; its form, meaning, function, and representation. It will also address contemporary theories and modes of critique relating to the design of the urban public realm. Emphasis is on how urban physical form responds to the economic, cultural, political, social, aesthetic and natural forces of an urbanized area. Assignments and class papers require students to critically engage with a broad range of theoretical positions, and relate them to local conditions. LAEC 200 Landscape Ecology 6 ECTS credits Prerequisites: Plants Biology and Botany Landscape ecology involves the study of these landscape patterns, the interactions among the elements of this pattern, and how these patterns and interactions change over time. The issues of sustainability and their dynamics as they relate to the planning and design professions are explored. Students will be expected to demonstrate critical awareness of the ecological issues at the urban and rural level and pursue with rigour a strategy of design from the conceptual to the resolved, addressing the process of balancing resource use and conservation through time and the application of these principles in the formulation and solving of real-world problems. CILA200 Cities and Landscapes 3 ECTS credits Prerequisites: History and Theories of Urbanism This course will explore the role of landscapes in organizing the structure and fabrics of the city and enhancing the urban experience from a public health and environmental and sustainable point - 9 -

10 of view. Concepts such as landscape urbanism, green infrastructures, green ethics, and sustainable alternatives will be also explored. PRPR300 Professional Practice 3 ECTS credits This course conveys to students the requisite knowledge encompassing professional practice as it pertains to the practice of urban planning and landscape architecture in Lebanon. Major topics covered are the environmental, planning and construction legislation in Lebanon, organisation of the industry: major actors, syndicates, associations, their mandates and role, major local and national construction and planning policies, local authorities and process of obtaining permits, specification writing, and biding and contract administration. EIA300 Environment Impact Assessment 3 ECTS credits This subject prepares students for environmental management roles by providing them with the principles of how human impacts on the environment might be detected and managed. The principles will be placed within the legal and social contexts of environmental impact assessment. At the completion of the subject, students should understand three aspects: prediction of the kind of changes that might occur with human activities; the design and implementation of proper monitoring programs that can detect changes; and assessment of those changes. Additionally, a strong emphasis is placed on the theories and practical implementation of visual impact assessment approaches. EPR300 Environmental and Planning Regulations 3 ECTS credits This course enhances students knowledge, understanding and due respect of the statutory aspects of environmental design and urban planning in Lebanon. ENPR300 Environmental Perceptions 3 ECTS credits The environment, be it natural or man-made, has a profound effect on feelings, behaviours, and productivity of humans who live and interact in it. Starting with foundational theories on environmental perceptions and cognition, the course will cover classic issues that help inform urban and landscape design such as relationships to nature, landscape preferences, environmental aesthetics, place attachment and all associated paradigms and approaches. The course will conclude with a closer look at design processes and the ways that they can be enriched through an environmental perceptions perspective. RELA300 Research and Essays in Landscape Architecture 3 ECTS credits This course introduces students to the skills necessary to conduct rigorous and original research, and to effectively communicate their research findings in a clear and systematic manner. The subject concentrates on how to select and refine a research topic, develop appropriate research questions/hypotheses and select and use appropriate research methods and statistical tests to

11 validate and report their findings. Research methodologies ranging from the scientific method and empiricism through to phenomenology will be introduced. Landscape Design and Conception 50 credits LDS200, LDS301, LDS302, LDS303 Landscape Design Studios 1,2,3,4 32 ECTS credits over Year 2 and Year 3 Prerequisites: Landscape Graphics; Design Communication; Introduction to Landscape Design Through 4 design studios students will explore the process of design at all scales from residential or garden scale, to neighbourhood, to city, to regional and national scale. Students will learn how to perform site inventory and analysis then utilizing this inventory and analysis students will undertake a design exercise at small, medium and large scale and a set of inter-related open spaces. Creativity, sustainability and innovation will be the three pillars that will drive the design process of each of the four landscape design studio. Studio will be structured around different themes each year with particular focus on critical design thinking, conceptualization, visualization and landscape detailing. Issues like ecological design, resources conservation, designing with the land, designing with people in mind, sustainable aesthetics; social, cultural and ecological contribution of open spaces to the broader natural landscape and to the formulation of local and regional strategies among many design and ecological concept will be considered. LDS400 Landscape Design Studio 5: Designing with Plants 8 ECTS credits Prerequisites: Plants Identification Students will undertake a number of design assignments to prepare various landscape and ornamental arrangements using a selection of woody, herbaceous, evergreen, perennial or seasonal flower, shrubs and trees and their associated formal, ecological and biological characteristics while synthesizing cultural and aesthetic factors in designing with nature, and will learn to match plants to site and design conditions. Electives 12 credits Students are required to undertake 12 credits worth of elective courses with particular attention on the history of arts; the knowledge of and techniques to working with colours; representation of landscape through photography and 3D visualization techniques. Final Design Project 20 credits At the conclusion of courses students are required to undertake a final design project, which will extend over two semesters. Students will explore, via design projects, ways and means of intervention in various landscape case studies, question the process and likely outcomes of their

12 design intervention and, situate the practice of their design intervention amidst broader professional aims and aspirations. The final design project will be an opportunity for students to advance their skills and techniques of landscape design, site evaluation, site planning and design. Emphasis will be placed on the conceptual rigour of design propositions and the development of designs of technical resolution and creativity. DISCLAIMER Should it be deemed necessary in the interest of the student or of the University, the chair of the landscape architecture program at the Urban Planning Institute reserves the right to modify, alter, or change course information, regulations, requirements and procedures announced in this catalogue; to change the requirements for admission, graduation or degrees; and to change the arrangements, scheduling, credit or content of courses without prior written consent