Birmingham City University

BA Landscape Architecture with a Foundation Year

Birmingham City University

Course overview

The Birmingham City University BA Landscape Architecture with a Foundation is a four-year degree course that begins with a preparatory foundation year, designed to prepare students for successful undergraduate study. 

The programme specifically focuses on the design of external spaces, thoughtfully blending artistic principles with practical utility and natural systems. In this course, students will learn how to approach real-world challenges, such as improving air quality and creating sustainable urban environments.

The course also places strong emphasis on hands-on learning within a design studio setting, replicating professional creative practice. Students will work on active local sites and respond to project briefs, enhancing their design creativity and professional abilities. 

The curriculum covers all aspects of landscape architecture, with support from a leading design team. Students’ progress will be assessed through project designs, discussions with tutors and peers, study trips, workshops, and skills training in essential software and visualisation techniques.

Entry requirements

Applicants need to submit a personal statement discussing reasons for applying for the course and provide other relevant information regarding their studies. They also need to submit a relevant academic and/or employer reference. Applicants can also submit their CVs to show their work experience.

Grade Requirements: 

  • Applicants typically need 80 UCAS Tariff points. Accepted qualifications include A-Levels, BTEC, T Levels, Access to HE Diplomas or International Baccalaureate. 
  • A-level equivalent international qualifications are also accepted.

English Proficiency: 

  • For applicants whose primary language is not English, an IELTS score of 6.0 overall is required, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component. 
  • PTE, TOEFL and other equivalent English language test scores are accepted.

Scholarships

  • Accelerate Scholarship

    If you come from a lower income family or household, you could receive an offer that is up to four grades below our normal entry requirements – and possibly claim a £1,000 scholarship too.

    Up to £1,000

  • Bowater Financial Assistance Award

  • Graduate Scholarship

    20% fee discount for BCU graduates undertaking Master’s or PhD study.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • International Postgraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a scholarship of £3,000 to all self-funding international postgraduate students joining BCU on a full-time postgraduate taught Master’s degree in 2026.

    Up to £3,000

  • International Undergraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a guaranteed scholarship of £5,000 to all self-funding international undergraduate students joining BCU on a full-time degree in September 2026.

    Up to £5,000

  • Sports Scholarship

    Enhanced performance support funding.

  • The High Achievers' Scholarship

    You will be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship to get your university life off to a flying start.

    Up to £1,000

Career opportunities

Graduates of the BA Landscape Architecture with a Foundation Year programme are well-prepared for roles as Landscape Architects and in related fields, and some roles they transition into include:

  • Landscape Architect
  • Urban Designer
  • Environmental Planner
  • Garden Designer
  • Landscape Manager
  • Site Designer

Cost of study

For international students, the full-time fee for the BA Landscape Architecture with a Foundation at Birmingham City University is £17,690.

Admission

You can apply using the university’s online application form. Our trained counsellors can help you through this process.

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