Master of Landscape Architecture - MLA

Summary

Develop your expertise so you can become a professional landscape architect with postgraduate study of landscape architecture.

The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) gives you the knowledge and skills to create innovative design solutions for outdoor spaces. Your designs will address pressing challenges related to climate change, urbanisation, and sustainability.

Learn to design the landscape

Combining science with the creative design process, you’ll learn how to influence human interaction with the landscape. You’ll envision new possibilities for what an outdoor space can become and learn how to bring your vision to life.

Through this research-based Master’s programme, you’ll develop an expert understanding of key design practices and strategies. You’ll learn to be critically objective and environmentally mindful in your approach to landscape architecture.

Professional accreditation

The University’s MLA is one of only three programmes in New Zealand that meets the standards for accreditation with the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects (NZILA). After you graduate you’ll need to work as a landscape architect for around three years before you can become registered with the NZILA. Your qualification and registration will be recognised throughout New Zealand and internationally.

Careers

You'll graduate prepared to work as a landscape architect. You might start your own practice or work in a firm or government organisation. You're likely to collaborate with artists, ecologists, architects, planners and engineers to design a wide range of projects.

Other careers for graduates include parks and recreation planner, site designer and planner or urban designer. You could also work as a civil designer, public infrastructure consultant, sustainable development consultant or landscape assessor.

What you'll study

In your first year (Part 1), you’ll complete seven taught courses—six are compulsory and one elected. You’ll study advanced landscape design and the technology used in urban infrastructure. Examine history, theory, and criticism in Landscape Architecture and learn about professional practice.

You'll also study advanced research techniques and complete a studio-based investigation into an area of interest that can be further developed in your thesis year. You'll develop and test your ideas through writing and design.