Make an Impact
At the College of Environment + Design (CED), we prepare our students to shape the world around them. Preservation, planning, and landscape architecture aren’t just growing disciplines that require a diverse and robust force, they’re the tools we use to shape a better tomorrow.
Our students have a direct influence on the design and preservation of the communities and spaces that surround them through challenging real-world studio projects, hands-on service learning courses, and engaging community design charrettes.
“The broad skillset learned in the landscape architecture program allowed me to work on projects ranging from planning college campuses to designing urban environments to crafting intricate site details. The breadth of the field allowed me to find my interest in historic and cultural site conservation.” – Tom Jones, BLA ’00, MHP ’13
Elevate Your Education
The CED’s lofty studio spaces, bathed in natural light and buzzing with creativity, were designed to inspire. In our engaging studio classes, feedback is shared in collaborative discussions among professors, students, and industry professionals, preparing students for the real world.
Through our small class sizes and tight-knit studio culture, students cultivate meaningful connections with experienced faculty, passionate alumni, and a diverse student body. At CED, we provide the guidance and support necessary for students to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
All CED buildings are on or adjacent to UGA’s North Campus, close to historic downtown Athens’ coffee shops, restaurants, and legendary music venues.
“The success I’ve had throughout my career is fully credited to my time and experience while in the CED programs at UGA. The knowledge, principles, and skillsets obtained while in the program have been paramount to my career this far, and many future endeavors to come.” – Tyler Johnson, BLA ’12
Learn from Experience
Our commitment to student success extends far beyond the classroom. From rugged mountains to lush forests, vibrant canyons, and breathtaking coasts, the diverse landscapes of Georgia become a “living classroom” for our students to immerse themselves in. At CED, we believe in learning by doing, which is why we emphasize hands-on experiences through service-learning courses, design charrettes, and research labs. These opportunities equip students with invaluable skills that set them apart in the competitive landscape of post-graduation.
“My time at the CED has been invaluable in preparing me for the challenges that have been presented to me in my career with developing my knowledge in irrigation, plants, and hardscapes. Without this foundation, I would not have developed the keen sense of design foundation that has been required to excel in this industry.” – Mark Sanford, BLA ’08
Find Your Success
The CED welcomes students at all stages of life and professional development. Faculty mentorship is a cornerstone of our curriculum. Our professors are committed to fostering curiosity and helping students discover their unique niche. With our favorable student-to-faculty ratio and collaborative studio settings, students at CED build meaningful connections that extend far beyond graduation.
Students also have many opportunities and resources to form connections with industry leaders and national organizations. In addition to faculty connections, student-led groups like GSLA and SPA host meet and greets, special lectures, and lunch-and-learn sessions with students and professionals from across the country. UGA boasts a massive network of alumni, and the CED has an active chapter committed to student engagement. Our alumni are dedicated to helping current students succeed, offering mentorship, career advice, and job placement support.
“The CED furthered my understanding of landscape architecture through hands-on design studios and fieldwork, networking and building relationships with professionals in the field, and appreciating the different avenues of the profession.” – Olivia Lemieux, BLA ’18
