Honours Bachelor of Environmental Design and Planning BED

Holland Code: A (Artistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy Strong writing and reading skills are essential. Grade 12 U level geography is an asset and could serve as one of the required courses for admission. Courses in visual arts, design and media arts are assets and are recommended.

Math & Science Grade 12 U level math: math skills needed for statistical and economic analysis and geometry. Grade 12 U level biology, chemistry and physics are assets and each could serve as one of the required courses for admission.

Technology Advanced computer skills would be an asset: Geographic information systems (GIS) skills and computer-aided design (CAD) and visualization skills would be assets.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Creativity, imagination and problem-solving skills
• The ability to do concentrated precise work
• An interest in computers and their application in design and planning
• Enjoy using instruments and equipment to perform precision tasks such as surveying or design visualization
• Enjoy analyzing information and taking a methodical approach to problem-solving
• Enjoy supporting and assisting more experienced professionals
• The ability to express ideas effectively, verbally and visually
• The ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Sensitivity to the needs of people and their relationship with their environment

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Landscape Architect or Designer, Urban Planner or Urban Designer, GIS Technician or Analyst.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Generally office-based with field work at times depending on the nature of the work and firm

Places you may find yourself employed include

Architectural and landscape architectural firms; urban planning and design firms; engineering firms, environmental services firms; geographic information science firms; multi-disciplinary consulting firms such as Stantec, MMM, IBI; public sector departments in planning, engineering, recreation, parks; public sector agencies such as agriculture, parks, environment; or self-employment.

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

Under the supervision of a more senior employee, any activity associated with environmental planning and design such as:

• Field work -  site surveys and the collection of environmental information
• Analysis of field information
• Conceptualization of design and planning solutions using manual and digital techniques
• Soliciting feedback on proposed projects
• Preparing written and graphic documentation in support of projects such as conceptual designs, planning reports and audiovisual presentations
• Assisting with public meetings
• Estimating project costs
• Overseeing, documenting and reviewing project implementation
• Meeting and working with professional associates, clients and citizens

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

Professional Credentials and Affiliations associated with this program

• The Honours Bachelor of Environmental Design and Planning is a first step toward professional certification in landscape architecture and urban planning. Certification in any associated field requires a combination of education and experience.
• Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA)
• Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA)
• American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
• Council of Landscape Architect Registration Boards (CLARB)
• Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI)
• Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP)
• Urban Design Institute (UDI)
• Urban and Regional Information Systems Association (URISA)

Opportunities for further development or education

• Following completion of the BED degree, a student is qualified to pursue graduate study in an allied field such as architecture, landscape architecture, planning, urban design and geographic information systems.

Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024