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Master of Landscape Architecture

Master of Landscape Architecture

The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) is a 6 semester, first-professional graduate degree accredited by the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB) which prepares students to earn professional licensure. Design concepts are supported by media and technology courses, providing representation skills and construction means and methods. Through studio explorations in urban design, planning, and site design, students gain knowledge of the natural and constructed systems that shape sustainable urban spaces.

Candidates with a bachelor's degree in design or architecture-related fields may complete the MLA program with advanced standing in just 4 semesters, pending transfer review and Dean’s Approval.

Lillian Cryan, MLA'22, thesis project: Solar Energy Park.
Lillian Cryan, MLA'22 | Solar Energy Park

The BAC Difference

  • Study with working professionals: Our faculty are leaders in the field and bring current perspectives on landscape architecture into the classroom.
  • Network across the College: During your first semester (known as Foundation), you will learn the fundamentals of design through an interdisciplinary studio and media courses with students from across the BAC's four academic areas.
  • Explore the world of landscape architecture: You will have multiple opportunities to learn through travel studios, guest lectures, collaborative projects, and professional student groups.
Tianliang Shaun Wu, MLA'21, thesis project: To Clothe.
Tianliang Shaun Wu, MLA'21 | To Clothe

Comprehensive Curriculum

  • Engage creatively in a wide range of contemporary design opportunities —adapting to climate change, preparing cities for sea-level rise, promoting the use of renewable energy, accommodating global density, providing social equity, and living in connection to the landscape while restoring ecological balance
  • Learn through travel studios, guest lectures, collaborative projects, and professional student groups, such as the student chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (SASLA, ASLA) 
  • Finish your program with a comprehensive, practical thesis project of professional relevance and value to the discipline of landscape architecture
  • The BAC partners with over 350 design firms and community constituents, allowing students to work while conducting academic studies.
Program Details
Kun An, MLA'21
2022 Graduate Exhibit
Kun An, MLA'21
Kun An, MLA'21.
2022 Graduate Exhibit
Kun An, MLA'21

STEM-OPT for International Students

International students in the Master of  Landscape Architecture program may be able to extend their time in the United States to pursue degree-related work experience for up to three years. To learn more contact International Student Services at ISS@the-bac.edu.

Immaculada Gil Cerezo, MLA'21.
2022 Graduate Exhibit
Immaculada Gil Cerezo, MLA'21
Immaculada Gil Cerezo, MLA'21.
2022 Graduate Exhibit
Immaculada Gil Cerezo, MLA'21

Career Options

The MLA prepares you for professional licensure in Landscape Architecture, and also to pursue advanced careers areas such as:

  • Landscape architecture
  • City planning
  • Ecological design
  • Landscape urbanism
  • Natural resource conservation
  • Wildlife habitat preservation
Huyen Quinn Nguyen, MLA'22.
2022 Graduate Exhibit
Huyen Quinn Nguyen, MLA'22
Huyen Quinn Nguyen, MLA'22.
2022 Graduate Exhibit
Huyen Quinn Nguyen, MLA'22
The BAC offered me opportunities to find and build a profession that feels needed, relevant to today's challenges, and fulfilling. My successes are rooted in the support and community I have found there.

Jonathan Cave

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