In a positive move for Texas Tech University’s Department of Landscape Architecture and the profession of landscape architecture, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has designated landscape architecture as a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) discipline. The move is expected to further enhance recognition of the high degree of STEM inherent in the research, education and practice of landscape architecture, according to The Dirt website. 

“The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) has advocated for this designation for many years. We’re thankful for the efforts of everyone at the ASLA that helped make this happen. Recognition of landscape architecture as a STEM discipline reflects the complexity of the research and creative activity conducted by landscape architects,” said Leehu Loon, professor and chair of Tech’s, Department of Landscape Architecture.

“With this designation, our students will be able to expand their professional training, scholarly research, interdisciplinary collaboration, project-based education, and increase their employment possibilities after graduation," he said. "Our award-winning faculty will be provided with expanded opportunities to conduct innovative research.” 

Contact: Leehu Loon, Professor and Chair, Department of Landscape Architecture, Texas Tech University at (806) 834-5215 or Leehu.Loon@ttu.edu

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