As the only accredited program in the state, we provide excellent foundational knowledge and skills for students who wish to become licensed landscape architects. In particular, we focus on engaging communities in our design work, bringing social equity into practice, and approaching systems with ecological thinking. Through these initiatives we aim to create more resilient landscapes that address contemporary challenges such as climate change, water conservation, and sustainable building practices.
The first year of the program focuses on core knowledge and skill sets, with the theme of designing sustainable and artful solutions to modern challenges. Throughout the second and third years, the curriculum addresses real-world problems of increasing scale and complexity, exposing you to community partners through studio projects, workshops, and guest critics. Beyond the core curriculum, you will be encouraged to pursue electives that interest you personally to develop an individual focus. The final studio will offer you an opportunity to pursue this focus through an independent design project.
Programs that are accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB) are required to provide reliable information to the public. Programs must report on accreditation status and performance. This information is to help potential students make informed decisions.
We also offer an advanced standing MLA, which may be completed in two years instead of three. Students are admitted to this program on a case-by-case basis by the director of graduate studies for a customized two-year plan. Applicants must have an accredited undergraduate landscape architecture degree to be considered. Applicants with non-accredited or related degrees may be considered for partial advanced standing at the discretion of the director of graduate studies.
Master of Landscape Architecture Degree
The MLA degree offers standard pacing for the majority of graduate students and accelerated pacing for students who are granted Advanced Standing.
| MLA Overview | Advanced Standing |
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Owing to an agreement with the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, students may concurrently pursue their MLA with a Master of Urban and Regional Planning. Students interested in pursuing this option should reach out to their advisor or the Landscape Architecture Graduate Program Coordinator for details.
