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Master of Landscape Architecture

Master of Landscape Architecture

The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA), available both on-campus and fully online, 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 landscape design at multiple scales, from the site to the region, students gain knowledge of the natural and constructed systems that shape sustainable landscapes.

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

Mustafa Kaplan, MLA'24, thesis work titled: Ecocide Suicide.
Mustafa Kaplan, MLA'24

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 year (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 desgin studios, experiential learning outside of the classroom (Practice), guest lectures, collaborative projects, and professional student groups, such as the student chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (SASLA).
Rajeev Pandey, MLA'22, thesis work titled: Landscape of the Future: Incorporation of Future mobility into a Central Park Typology.
Rajeev Pandey, MLA'22

Comprehensive Curriculum

  • Engage creatively in a wide range of contemporary design opportunities —adapting to climate change, making cities more livable, accommodating global density, promoting healthy environments, and living in connection to the landscape while restoring ecological balance
  • Finish your program with a comprehensive, thesis project, supported by practice-based research 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

Fully Online Available

In addition to the traditional on-campus approach, the BAC offers two modalities for obtaining your Master of Landscape Architecture: Onsite or Online.

Both the onsite and online paths are available to all accepted graduate students, regardless of your transfer placement. The curriculum can be pursued at its full length for those without a background in design or expedited to completion in as little as two years for individuals with an undergraduate degree in design, making them eligible for maximum transfer credits.

Li Chen, MLA'23, thesis work titled: Community Spontageous Huangpu Floating Wetland.
2024 Graduate Exhibit
Li Chen, MLA'23
Li Chen, MLA'23, thesis work titled: Community Spontageous Huangpu Floating Wetland.
2024 Graduate Exhibit
Li Chen, MLA'23

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.
2024 Graduate Exhibit
Immaculada Gil Cerezo, MLA'21
IMustafa Kaplan, MLA'24, thesis work titled: Ecocide Suicide.
2024 Graduate Exhibit
Mustafa Kaplan, MLA'24

Career Options

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

  • Landscape architecture
  • City and regional planning
  • Urban design
  • Ecological amd climate research
  • Historic landscape preservation
  • Natural resource conservation
  • Wildlife habitat preservation
  • Plant and nursery management
  • Environmental stewardship
Huyen Quinn Nguyen, MLA'22.
2024 Graduate Exhibit
Huyen Quinn Nguyen, MLA'22
Guobin Pan, MLA'23, thesis work titled: Rainwater Community Redevelopment along Mystic River.
2024 Graduate Exhibit
Guobin Pan, MLA'23
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, MLA Alum

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