MLA | Master of Landscape Architecture
Providence, USA
Master degree
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
STUDY FORMAT
Key Summary
About: RISD's Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) is the only US-based art and design school with an accredited programme that places landscape architecture in studio-based, cross-disciplinary practice and research. Students and faculty blend intuitive and analytical thinking, hands-on research, material practice and critical making. The programme teaches models addressing climate change, urbanization, ecological degradation, social equity and public access, and trains students to develop site- and material-scale design solutions.
Career Outcomes: Graduates pursue roles as landscape architects, urban designers, ecological designers, landscape planners, environmental consultants, and sustainable-design consultants. They work in design firms, planning agencies, non-profits, academia, construction and stewardship.
As the only US-based art and design school with an accredited Master of Landscape Architecture degree program, RISD offers an exceptional opportunity to study the discipline as part of a community of makers engaged in a wide range of media and critical practices. Students and faculty in the department take a unique approach that bridges intuitive and analytical thinking, encourages hands-on research into material practices and explores opportunities for cross-disciplinary experimentation. With a deep emphasis on the practices of critical making, students use and hybridize a range of methods across artistic and design practices.
In responding to the social, cultural and ecological challenges of the 21st century, MLA candidates learn models for research and practice that reflect a commitment to humanity and the environment. Throughout the program, students explore how design can address landscapes affected by climate change, urbanization and environmental degradation as well as improve social equity and public access to open space and resources. Working closely with faculty, students acquire the design and critical thinking skills needed to address these complex issues with action-based solutions at the site and material scale.
