Master of Landscape Architecture - Two-Year Program

The two-year Master of Landscape Architecture program is designed for students who already hold an accredited landscape architecture degree and are interested in obtaining a second degree to specialize at the master’s level in a specific area, or who wish to pursue research that addresses specific topics or ideas within the field of landscape architecture and ecological design.  Others that pursue this degree include, practicing landscape architects seeking advanced education and training, and those who might be interested in pursuing a doctoral degree.

Aesthetic theory, cultural engagement, ecological function, and environmental justice all figure prominently in the curriculum. Being part of the School for Environment and Sustainability, our program also provides many unique and enriching opportunities for interaction and collaboration with faculty and students specializing in conservation biology, aquatic and terrestrial ecology, industrial ecology, environmental engineering, environmental justice, environmental psychology, environmental policy, and environmental economics.

Hone Your Expertise

Building upon your previous educational and professional experiences, the two-year MLA will equip you with new knowledge and specialized skills required to meet the demands of an expanding, ever-changing profession.

Most students use the two-year program to hone their expertise in a cutting-edge area of landscape architecture, such as spatial analysis, policy and scenario design, industrial ecology and green design, environmental justice, landscape ecology, ecological restoration, real estate, or brownfield development. 

View the two-year program Requirements + Courses.

Create Your Path

Our program offers several options to create your own path based on specific interests. Dual degree programs are available in urban planning and architecture, and certificate programs are offered in spatial analysis, industrial ecology and real estate. In lieu of a traditional thesis, you may participate in an interdisciplinary, team-based master’s project.

Build Your Career

Graduates of the two-year program use their specialized knowledge to bring new ideas in design and planning to their workplaces and communities. Some choose to continue their work as scholars and enter a doctoral program. They often pursue academic positions, work in federal, state, and local planning arenas, or nongovernmental or conservation agencies. Opportunities are also plentiful in the private sector, depending upon the area of specialization.

Basic statistics on salaries and employment of recent graduates can be found in the MLA Career Website.

Learn More

For more information on the two-year MLA program, contact seas-admissions@umich.edu.

Landscape Architecture Scholarships and Fellowships