MLA Master of Landscape Architecture

The MLA emphasises understanding landscape as a dynamic and adaptive phenomenon. Projects promote a focus on the interfaces between the landscape as a human, cultural construct and as a reflection of underlying natural and environmental processes. Design ateliers explore globally relevant themes by studying specific landscapes, starting from a regional scale and narrowing down to detailed material and technological resolutions. The curriculum emphasises applying contemporary theoretical ideas and technologies to address the challenges of the landscapes studied.

The course maintains strong ties to professional practice. Students interact with various practitioners and live projects throughout the programme, gaining individual experience through direct professional engagement, complemented by theoretical lectures and seminars.

Part 1 Entry

Students eligible for the MLA will normally have a minimum of a second class degree in a closely related subject area. The following disciplines are typical although this is not an exhaustive list and the suitability of all applicants will be assessed via a combination of portfolio and interview:

• Design for the built environment including: architecture, urban design and planning, interior design, garden design
• Other design or arts related disciplines may also be considered, including: fashion, film, graphics, product design, etc
• Land or plant-based sciences including: geography, horticulture, forestry or agriculture, ecology, environmental science and management
• Engineering, including especially: civil, hydrological and structural engineering

In most cases, international students with a closely related qualification from their home country are eligible for the 2-year course, which helps them adapt to the specific professional and cultural context of the discipline in the UK. In exceptional circumstances, where considerable work experience in landscape architecture is demonstrated, students are eligible for Part 2 entry.

Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.

Direct Part 2 Entry

Candidates with a minimum of a second-class degree in an accredited UK undergraduate Landscape Architecture course will normally be accepted directly into Part 2 of the MLA. Candidates from other countries with an IFLA recognised undergraduate qualification of an equivalent standard may also be eligible for direct entry at year 2.

Candidates from other very closely related disciplines (principally Architecture and Urban Design) may be considered, subject to providing evidence of a Level 6 understanding and knowledge of additional subject areas specific to landscape architecture.

Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.