Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)

Program Overview

Arizona State University's Landscape Architecture, MLA program prepares students for professional practice and advanced study through a focus on systems thinking, transdisciplinary knowledge, and community collaboration. The program offers a modular curriculum with core courses, research electives, design professional electives, and a culminating experience, equipping graduates for careers in landscape architecture, urban design, and related fields. The program's unique approach emphasizes sustainability, social equity, and environmental justice.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Objectives:
• Prepare students for professional practice, advanced study, and leadership in landscape architecture.
• Integrate knowledge from arts, science, and technology.
• Train students to design the built environment through systems thinking, transdisciplinary knowledge, and skills.
• Cultivate the capacity to work with communities on crucial issues like climate change and environmental justice.
• Offer three pathways to accommodate applicants with diverse backgrounds.
• Description:
• Accredited graduate professional degree.
• Master's program focusing on designing sustainable, resilient, and just communities through integrated systems thinking, transdisciplinary knowledge, and community collaboration.
• Equips graduates for professional practice and advanced research study.

Outline:

• Components:
• Required core (15 credit hours): LAP 513, LAP 571, LAP 572, LAP 613, LDE 521, LDE 522, LDE 621
• Research (9 credit hours): LAP 514 and 6 research area electives
• Electives (18 credit hours): Design professional electives
• Culminating experience (6 credit hours): LDE 593, LDE 599, or LDE 622
• Modular breakdown:
• Core courses provide foundational knowledge and skills in landscape architecture theory, research, professional practice, and design studios.
• Research area electives allow students to specialize in areas of interest.
• Design professional electives offer further exploration and specialization in specific design fields.
• Culminating experiences present opportunities to apply learned knowledge and skills to a capstone project or applied project.

Assessment:

• Methods:
• Coursework: assignments, presentations, exams
• Studio projects: evaluations based on design criteria, creativity, and technical proficiency
• Culminating experience: comprehensive evaluation by faculty committee
• Criteria:
• Mastery of theoretical concepts and research skills
• Proficiency in design thinking, problem-solving, and communication
• Capacity for independent research and critical analysis
• Ability to integrate knowledge across disciplines
• Ability to design sustainable, resilient, and just environments

Teaching:

• Methods:
• Project-based learning
• Collaborative studio environment
• Interdisciplinary coursework
• Guest lectures and workshops
• Travel opportunities for experiential learning
• Personalized feedback from dedicated faculty
• Faculty:
• Experienced professionals and academics in landscape architecture and related fields
• Committed to providing high-quality instruction, mentorship, and guidance
• Unique approach:
• Emphasis on systems thinking, transdisciplinary knowledge, and community engagement
• Focus on designing for social, ecological, and cultural sustainability
• Opportunities for international study and research collaborations

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Landscape architect
• Urban designer
• Park planner
• Environmental consultant
• Landscape researcher
• Educator
• Career opportunities:
• Work in public, private, and non-profit sectors
• Contribute to diverse projects, from parks and open spaces to urban redevelopment and infrastructure
• Address pressing global challenges, including climate change mitigation, community development, and environmental justice

Other: