by Megan Janssen, Student ASLA, and Ashley Steffens, ASLA, FCELA
Why It Matters
Landscape architecture shapes so many aspects of our daily lives: parks, campuses, plazas, stormwater systems, trails, streetscapes, and more. And yet, it often goes unrecognized—or misunderstood—by the public.
This lack of awareness begins early. According to Niche’s 2022 college survey data, just 0.05% of high school seniors planned to major in landscape architecture. For comparison, 1.4% intended to major in architecture, and 0.55% in interior design. A 2014 ASLA Professional Practice Network (PPN) survey similarly found that only 12% of landscape architecture professionals discovered the field before college.
These numbers point to a gap—not in potential, but in awareness. Without early exposure, many creative, curious students never realize this path exists.
And even when students don’t pursue the profession directly, early exposure still has lasting value: they may become future clients, advocates, planners, or decision-makers who understand and appreciate the importance of landscape architecture. This broader awareness strengthens the profession’s reach, influence, and long-term growth—creating a ripple effect across industries and communities.