Master of Landscape Architecture

The University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability's (SEAS) Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) program is one of the best in the United States. U-M is one of the nation’s first universities to offer a degree in landscape architecture and is among the very few programs in the world that employ ecological principles authentically in environmentally responsible design. The interdisciplinary graduate program provides the ideal setting and opportunities for you to pursue a career in landscape architecture to become one of the field’s next change-driven leaders.

The Master of Landscape Architecture degree is STEM-designated at U-M, recognized as such because of its focus on ecological design and its location within an innovative and action-oriented school where sustainability underlies all that we do.

Two programs offered:

• A three-year accredited program for students without prior education in landscape architecture
• A two-year option for those already possessing an accredited degree in landscape architecture or a closely related field

Why Landscape Architecture?

Our Master of Landscape Architecture program addresses placemaking, integrating art and design with the latest knowledge in the environmental sciences — producing future leaders that will play key roles at the forefront of the field. Through hands-on experience and collaboration with U-M faculty experts, students, and practitioners from multiple disciplines, you will be prepared to successfully work in the field of landscape architecture by learning how to: 

• Employ ecological principles authentically in a wide range of environments — from the center of redeveloping cities to changing rural landscapes
• Synthesize information about ecological processes and systems, human behavior, cultural/political institutions, and urban patterns
• Utilize design precedent and research as a tool that actively informs design process and ideation
• Visualize your proposals utilizing technologies ranging from sketching and model-making to virtual reality simulations, all of which inform design decision-making
• Create sustainable landscapes that are deep, inspiring, and just, and that work aesthetically, ecologically, socially, technically, and economically

What do Landscape Architects do?

Landscape architects work in a variety of contexts and at a wide range of scales, from backyards and neighborhood playgrounds to streetscapes, parks, plazas, golf courses, greenways, watersheds, rural landscapes and national parks and forests. They work with professionals from many different professions, such as architects, engineers, planners, ecologists, biologists, economists and health professionals to create places that are ecologically sound, sustainable, safe, inspiring and beautiful. Landscape architects use their design, visualization and technical skills to help make places that meet a particular need or that heal a damaged landscape, that support human use and interaction, or that heal a person’s spirit. For more information on the field itself, please visit the American Society of Landscape Architects website.

Student Chapter American Society of Landscape Architects

The purpose of the Student Chapter American Society of Landscape Architects is the advancement of education and skill in the art of Landscape Architecture and the promotion of the profession as an instrument of service in the public welfare.

The Student Chapter provides networking opportunities for members by facilitating contact with professionals. The chapter also facilitates student input regarding academic programs in landscape architecture at the School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS). The chapter seeks to increase the visibility of the practice of landscape architecture across campus and promote interdepartmental cooperation.

Learn more about SASLA