Study Abroad / Off-Campus Programs

Upcoming opportunities:

"I found myself reminiscing about Cal Poly and the incredible experiences I had there...particularly with the department itself. And a huge aspect of my experience was the study abroad programs that were offered. I participated on the first one to Japan and China...This trip began my desire to live and work in foreign lands. I then spent a year studying in the program in Florence...and then joined the LA trip through Spain and Portugal. So, as you can see, I took advantage of all that was offered and to this day I value every minute of those experiences. For students who desire similar things and can save up and afford such opportunities, I encourage each and every one of them."

--Kirkwood Hale, class of 1988

The Landscape Architecture Department encourages students to consider study abroad and off-campus study as opportunities to expand their professional education, experience different landscapes and cultures, and develop greater personal and global awareness.

Landscape Architecture students typically participate in these programs during their fourth year. Students are encouraged to begin exploring options and discussing their academic plans during their second year. Starting early provides time to compare programs, plan coursework, understand costs and financial aid, and meet application deadlines.

Through study abroad and off-campus study, students can:

Extend Learn by Doing beyond the Cal Poly campus through academic, professional, and travel experiences.
Develop a deeper understanding of landscapes, communities, and cultures through direct experience.
Strengthen their independence, adaptability, communication skills, and ability to work across cultural contexts.
Explore new approaches to landscape architecture, planning, design, and professional practice.

Study abroad allows students to explore different educational approaches, landscapes, cultures, and professional contexts. When selecting a program, students should consider their academic and professional goals, degree requirements, program schedule, costs, financial aid, and personal readiness.

All programs and proposed coursework must be reviewed in advance by the Landscape Architecture Department. With advance approval and careful planning, an off-campus experience can support continued progress toward graduation. Academic credit and course substitutions are not automatic and must be approved before participation.

Students should consult a Landscape Architecture faculty advisor about their interest in studying abroad or participating in another off-campus program. The advisor can help identify appropriate opportunities and review eligibility, degree progress, proposed coursework, and potential course substitutions.

To receive academic credit, students must receive pre-departure approval from the department and complete the requirements established by the Landscape Architecture Department and the Cal Poly International Center.