Program Overview

MLA Master of Landscape Architecture

The Master of Landscape Architecture offers an academic qualification leading towards professional registration as a landscape architect. The MLA is accredited by the UK Landscape Institute and recognised worldwide by the International Federation of Landscape Architects, preparing students for the final stage of professional accreditation as a landscape architect.

Course Overview

The Master of Landscape Architecture is a postgraduate degree that develops students' understanding of the landscape as a dynamic and adaptive phenomenon. The course explores globally relevant themes and the challenges facing the sector, with a focus on the interfaces between the landscape as a human, cultural construct and as a reflection of underlying natural and environmental processes.

Course Structure

The MLA consists of two parts: Part 1 and Part 2. Part 1 provides a broad foundation of knowledge and skills in landscape architecture, while Part 2 encourages a greater degree of autonomy and the opportunity to develop personal practice through both design and research-based work.

Part 1

Part 1 of the MLA consists of 6 units, totalling 120 credits. The core modules include:

• Landscape Atelier 1a: Introduction to the multi-faceted idea of 'landscape'
• Landscape Atelier 1b: Process of intervention in a landscape
• Landscape Studies 1a: Introduction to the core areas of history and theory underpinning the study and practice of landscape architecture
• Landscape Studies 1b: Key concepts and writings in a range of fields that have contributed to contemporary discourse in the field
• Landscape Studies 2a: Characteristics and applications of a range of materials and processes of relevance to the discipline of landscape architecture
• Landscape Studies 2b: Use and application of materials and processes in the planning, design, and management of landscapes

Part 2

Part 2 of the MLA consists of 5 units, totalling 180 credits. The core modules include:

• Landscape Atelier 2a: Exploration of central ideas relevant to contemporary discourse in landscape architecture
• Landscape Atelier 2b: Identification of a specific location to test and develop design proposals
• Landscape Atelier 2c: Detailed resolution of proposals
• Landscape Profession and Practice: Introduction to landscape architecture as a profession and practice
• Dissertation and Exhibition: Research-based dissertation and preparation of an exhibition and portfolio

Entry Requirements

Students eligible for the MLA will normally have a minimum of a second-class degree in a closely related subject area. The following disciplines are typical, although this is not an exhaustive list:

• Design for the built environment, including architecture, urban design, and planning
• Land or plant-based sciences, including geography, horticulture, forestry, or agriculture
• Engineering, including civil, hydrological, and structural engineering

Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification.

Fees and Funding

The full-time fee for UK and Channel Island students is £2000 per 30 credits. The full-time fee for EU and non-EU international students is £4667 per 30 credits.

Careers Support and Prospects

The vast majority of graduates go on to find employment in the profession, either in the UK or abroad. Opportunities exist in a wide range of organisations, from small private practices to international, multi-disciplinary firms. Alternatively, landscape architects are also employed in the public sector or non-profit making organisations.

Additional Information

• All students will be required to attend a three-day induction visit and a 4-day study tour later in the year.
• The course is a taught postgraduate programme and includes a substantial amount of sophisticated readings and written work, as well as regular verbal and visual presentations.
• Students can choose to become a student member of the Landscape Institute.
• The course has a very close relationship to practice, and students are exposed to practitioners in a wide range of ways throughout the syllabus.