Landscape Architecture & Architecture (MLA/MArch)

Ethan Carr Coordinator

Overview

The Master of Landscape Architecture Program in the Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning and the Master of Architecture Program in the Department of Art, Architecture, and Art History offer a dual degree program for students to earn a dual Master of Landscape Architecture /Master of Architecture degree within three years of full-time study.

Many positions in the municipal as well as private sector can best be filled by persons who possess the knowledge and skills of landscape and building design.  It permits the mastery of core knowledge and skills in both areas in three years for students with a previous degree in one of the two disciplines or after the completion of a preparatory year. This is a reduction from the four years or more that would otherwise be required to complete each of the degrees individually. It does so by eliminating duplicative coursework in analytical methods and general concentration electives.

Curriculum

Students will spend two semesters of full-time study in each department, then divide remaining coursework between the two programs, including a joint research thesis or project. The MArch core curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong technical foundation and intensive studio and skill training, applicable to a wide variety of design issues. The MLA core is based on combining theoretical, historical, cultural, environmental, and technical dimensions of landscape architecture with emphasis on practice through studio and service to nearby communities. The three-year dual degree program would offer its students a rich educational experience in many areas of design and planning, including sustainable development, site plan analysis and implementation, community-based design and planning, information technology and other new tools and techniques (e.g., GIS, LEED, etc.).

Admission

The MLA/MArch dual degree program will provide graduates with comprehensive education for professional careers in ecological design and development in the public, nonprofit and private sectors.  Students must apply to, and be admitted to both programs, and must meet satisfactory academic progress requirements for each program.  Prior to admission, students are encouraged to complete introductory courses in design skills and techniques to prepare for the MArch and MLA curricula.