Prospective Students

Information for First-time Freshmen

It is recommended that students take Advanced Placement (AP) tests while in high school. A counselor or advisor should be able to tell you whether there is a testing opportunity at your school or in your geographic area. Students who obtain AP credit for certain support and general education courses needed to fulfill Landscape Architecture degree requirements may be able to take a reduced unit load for one or more semesters and still complete the program in the prescribed time - which can be a great benefit, since landscape architecture is a very demanding program. Learn more about AP test credit from the Office of the Registrar.

Applying to the Landscape Architecture Department as a Transfer Student

Visit the Cal Poly Admissions Office for information about the transfer student application process. In addition to the general transfer selection criteria, every major identifies required and recommended coursework considered during the application process. The Transfer Selection Criteria for Landscape Architecture lists this coursework. Use ASSIST to identify course equivalents at California Community Colleges. Prospective transfer students with questions about the Landscape Architecture program, curriculum, or preparation for transfer are encouraged to contact the Department Head for general guidance.

Coursework for Advanced Standing for Fall 2027 Applicants

Although not required for admission, prospective transfer students are encouraged to complete articulated equivalents of LA 1110 - Landscape Representation I, LA 1112 - Landscape Representation II, and LA 1120 - Studio I Beginning Design. Completion of equivalent coursework may allow students to receive advanced standing and reduce their time to graduation.

Portfolio Review for Major Course Credit

Students attending community colleges that don't have articulation agreements in place may pursue credit for 1000- and 2000-level Landscape Architecture courses through a portfolio review. This process may allow students who have completed equivalent coursework to receive advanced standing and reduce their time to graduation.

Students should use ASSIST and the Cal Poly Catalog to identify possible equivalents for first- and second-year Landscape Architecture courses. After admission to Cal Poly, contact landscapearchitecture@calpoly.edu to request a review with the Department Head or a faculty advisor. Be prepared to show course syllabi, assignment descriptions, a portfolio with representative examples of completed work, and your transcript.