Is LEED AP BD+C valued in landarch firms?

This topic has 1 reply, 4 voices, and was last updated 12 years, 10 months ago by Dennis J. Jarrard, PLA, CLARB.

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January 16, 2012 at 8:49 pm #158781

Suzan Hampton
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I graduated with an M.Arch and have been practicing architectural design for three years. However, I started my studies in landscape architecture (my true passion, with urban design) and want to move back into it instead of continuing in architecture.

I have the LEED AP BD+C, focused on building construction. I have to decide whether to re-up the credential by paying $400 and doing 30 hours of coursework by March 30, but am on the fence due to my changing priorities. I would just go ahead and do it but time is a huge issue.

Is the LEED AP BD+C of any value whatsoever in the landscape architecture world? Would having it help me land a junior LA position? Or should I not put any more time and money into it and go for the LEED ND later on?

Thanks for your help,

Suzan

January 16, 2012 at 9:22 pm #158787

Dennis J. Jarrard, PLA, CLARB
Participant

If you are looking to work in a Landscape Architecture only firm, I would say it is not important to them. However, having a specific credential can only add to your resume’ and give a firm a bigger picture of who you are and your ablitlities. Having those credentials would probalby be more valued at a Multi disciplinary firm. Too bad the cost is so high, but I would maintain it if it was me.

January 16, 2012 at 10:22 pm #158786

Suzan Hampton
Participant

Thanks for the feedback-much appreciated. I agree w/the overall value of maintaining it, just time/$ are the real issues. Will see what others say. Thanks again.

January 16, 2012 at 11:10 pm #158785

Andrew Garulay, RLA
Participant

The fact that you had it is proof that you had the qualifications.

January 17, 2012 at 12:08 am #158784

Suzan Hampton
Participant

Thanks for the feedback.

January 17, 2012 at 1:40 pm #158783

Jason T. Radice
Participant

BD+C is fine, as it has a landscape component with the WE credits and many of the concepts of ND are already there. If you want to get ahead and go into an LA firm, familiarize yourself with the Sustainable Sites Initiative, which is like LEED for site work. There is no exam, and the download is free.

I have BD+C and don’t feel the need to go back for ND just yet. I don’t think it is refined enough in its current form. For the type of work I do, ND is not really applicable, but BD+C is.

January 17, 2012 at 6:21 pm #158782

Suzan Hampton
Participant

Thank you, Jason-that’s very helpful!
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