A bachelor's or master's degree in landscape architecture is usually necessary for entry into the profession. There are two undergraduate landscape architect degrees: a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) and a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA). These programs usually require 4 to 5 years of study. Accredited programs are approved by theu00a0Landscape Architectural Accreditation Boardu00a0(LAAB). Prospective landscape architects whose undergraduate degree is in another field may enroll in a Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) graduate degree program, which typically takes 3 years of full-time study.u00a0Accredited programs are approved by theu00a0Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB). Courses typically include landscape design and construction, landscape ecology, site engineering, history of architecture, computer-aided design, graphic communications and site design. Other relevant coursework may include the history of landscape architecture, plant and soil science, urban and regional planning, and professional practice and general management. The design studio is a key component of any curriculum. While working on real-world projects, students become proficient in the use of computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), model building, and other design software. Important skills include creativity, visualization, analytical, technical, communication (written and oral) and problem-solving. All states require landscape architects to be licensed. Licensing requirements vary by state but usually include at least a bacheloru2019s degree or master's degree in landscape architecture from an accredited school, internship experience, and passing theu00a0Landscape Architect Registration Examination. Stay up to date on the latest developments in green building through access tou00a0online coursesu00a0with an annual subscription to theu00a0USGBC course catalog.