2026 Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Background Information Form

The Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) at the University of Guelph is the only professionally accredited undergraduate landscape architecture program in Canada. It is a design-focused degree centered on studio-based learning, where students work collaboratively, develop creative and critical thinking skills, and engage deeply with real-world environmental and community challenges.

Our program welcomes applicants from a wide diversity of backgrounds and experiences. We are known for our strong, supportive community and our close connections with practitioners across Canada and beyond, who contribute to teaching, mentorship, and experiential learning.

In reviewing applications, we look for students who are driven and passionate about design and the environment; who are curious, observant, and eager to learn; and who bring unique interests, perspectives, and lived experiences to enrich our studio culture. The Background Information Form is your opportunity to share what motivates you and how you see yourself contributing to—and growing within—our community.

Brendan Stewart, Associate Professor
BLA Program Coordinator

Instructions

THIS FORM SHOULD BE SUBMITTED ONCE.

We strongly recommend copy-and-pasting the questions below and crafting your responses in a word processing document if you intend to complete the form in more than one sitting. You cannot save your responses and come back to revise the form later.

If you have difficulty in completing and submitting the form, please contact Admission Services at admission@uoguelph.ca. We will work to provide you with a solution or a PDF version of the form that you can complete and e-mail to us.

In addition to filling out the BIF, you must also complete an application for admission to the BLA degree program. Please refer to Admission Services at admission.uoguelph.ca.

Submission Deadlines

Secondary school applicants: March 1, 2026
College and University transfer applicants: March 1, 2026

Applicant Information

First Name:

Middle Name:

Last Name:

Birthdate:

Address:

Country

Street

City

Region

Postal Code

E-mail Address:

Phone Number:

U of G ID Number:

You can find your University of Guelph ID Number in the acknowledgment e-mail you received after you applied.

Educational Background

High School:

Location:

From (Year/Month):

To (Year/Month):

Have you attended a post-secondary school (College or University)?

Yes

Post-Secondary School (College or University):

From (Year/Month):

To (Year/Month):

Additional Post-Secondary School (College or University) (if applicable):

From (Year/Month):

To (Year/Month):

Background Information Form

Please respond to each of the following questions listed below. Extended answers to each question should not be necessary if the answer is well thought through. Please use only the space provided.

Describe a place, landscape, or outdoor space that has been meaningful to you. What did you notice about how it was designed or how people use it?

Tell us about a time when you first realized that landscapes are designed — not just natural. What made you notice?

Everyone’s path to this program is different, and prior exposure to landscape architecture varies. What opportunities and experiences have you created for yourself to gain exposure to the profession and build preparedness for the BLA program?

Describe a problem in your community, city, or environment that you think landscape architects could help address. Why does this issue matter to you personally?

Imagine it’s ten years after graduation. Describe a project you’re working on — who is it for, and why does it matter?