In the first year, students focus on abstract design thinking as well as building knowledge and skills needed for landscape architectural design studios and technical courses. 

A study of landscape architecture graphics including freehand sketching, plan, section, and perspective drawing. Rendering techniques in both black and white and color will be explored with a variety of media including pencils and markers.

Introduction to the fundamental elements and principles of design. Emphasis is on the application of design thinking and creative process to a variety of design problems. Observation, communication, and critique are stressed as components of process.