Landscape architecture rankings 2009
Correction: This story has been modified from its original version. — The headline was modified to reflect the story. Additionally, DesignIntelligence is an annual report, not bi-monthly. The Collegiate Times regrets these errors.
The landscape architecture program at Virginia Tech has beaten out hundreds of competitors to secure a No. 1 nationwide ranking in the eleventh annual America’s Best Architecture and Design Schools.
Other than Tech, which earned the highest distinction, 381 programs were examined. Additionally, Tech’s graduate program was ranked second in the US.
“We are obviously very pleased,” said Brian Katen, associate professor and chair of the landscape architecture program.
The rankings are based on experience in a range of vital areas, including communication, computer application, design, and sustainable design concepts and principles. Tech overall ranked No. 1 in communications and computer applications, No. 2 in design concepts and No. 3 in sustainable design concepts and principles, Katen said.
This ranking was given by DesignIntelligence, an annual report from the Design Futures Council, a Washington, D.C., based think tank exploring trends in design and architecture.
Last year, DesignIntelligence initiated a classification system for architecture programs that would look beyond a one-year ranking to a more multi-dimensional standard of comparison. The new system looks at a longer history of performance than comparable school ranking systems.
A study was administered to participants in the programs that questioned them regarding issues of preparedness for practice, admired educators, how programs rated in teaching various skill sets and sustainability education trends.
All of the Tech students that were surveyed claimed that after completing their studies, they would be prepared to go out in the real world and take on a professional job.
Among the “25 Most Admired Educators in North America” for 2010 were Tech’s Brian Katen, associate professor and chair of the landscape architecture program; Ronald Kemnitzer, professor and program chair of industrial design; Patrick Miller, professor and associate dean for graduate studies and outreach; and Lisa Tucker, assistant professor of architecture.
“We are very pleased for alumni and all of our students and faculty as well,” Katen said.
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