The Dual Degree Option (MLA/MRP)

A growing number of students have recognized the overlap between policy and
design and have seen the importance of a strong link between the process and product of land development. The dual degree option in Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning combines the design and analysis of urban and rural landscapes with a concern for the social, political, regulatory and economic factors that shape those landscapes. This option, which normally requires one less year of study than doing the degrees one after the other, confers two separate degrees upon completion. The versatility that results from the blending of these two related fields can be a valuable asset for the student. Public agencies, such as the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and private consulting firms, e.g. EDAW, Inc. have preferred employing those students who
have the dual skills this option offers.

Admission

It is anticipated that most students interested in the dual degree program will
identify their interest before beginning graduate study. However, for those who
decide to apply for the second degree after beginning an initial course of study,
we encourage you to investigate the option as early as possible. An early decision may alleviate scheduling conflicts between the required courses of both programs.

Curriculum

The student will be expected to complete the required courses of both degrees. Electives will be selected by the students with guidance from their advisors according to a clearly defined direction of study. In Regional Planning, dual degree students are not
required to select an area of concentration.

Credit Hour Requirement

Students who choose the dual degree option are expected to complete 78 credit hours. These can be roughly divided between landscape architecture and regional planning courses. The usual departmental course load is 12 credits per semester.
Dual degree students take an additional 6 credits over the period of the two
degrees.

Students must complete a Master’s thesis or project in at least one area of study.
In the regional planning program students may also choose the three-course option
in one degree program, a series of three rigorous, linked, courses.

Students entering the dual degree program without preparatory landscape architecture studies will take those prerequisite courses that make them eligible to enter the second year Landscape Architecture Program. These credits generally
do not count toward the 78 credit hours. Detailed guidelines about specific
exceptions to this rule are available from the Program Director.

Residency Requirements

Candidates for the dual degree will be required to spend a minimum of three
years in the program. In special circumstances this requirement may be modified
with the approval of the dual degree program administrator and the program directors.