Landscape Architecture & Historic Preservation (MLA/MD)

Ethan Carr Coordinator

Historic preservation and landscape architecture have always been linked since historic places have often been preserved by making them into parks. Cultural landscape research is also inherent in the site-based design processes of landscape architects today. Government agencies, non-profits, and others engaged in the field of historic preservation also are increasingly concerned with managing historic resources as elements of the cultural landscape that is their setting. Cultural landscape documentation, analysis, and treatment are therefore increasingly a basis for heritage studies and management all over the world. This dual degree combines thorough training in the discipline of landscape architecture with a comprehensive study of the theory and practice of historic preservation today. Completing both courses of study prepares professionals to work in landscape architecture offices, national parks and protected areas, historic landscapes of all types, and for a wide variety of clients and institutions, particularly where the fields of cultural landscape research and landscape design and interpretation intersect. Typically a four-year curriculum (three-years for those with a previous and approved design degree), this option reduces the time to receive two master’s degrees by one or two years.

Admission

Students apply for admission to each program separately, but will indicate in their application their intent to do the dual degree. 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.  

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.