University of Michigan

Master of Landscape Architecture

University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability

Application Deadlines

• April 1, 2026: Application deadline for International master's applicants
• April 30, 2026*: Application deadline for Domestic master's applicants

Fall 2026 Start Date

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026

Program Overview

The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) prepares future leaders to address complex environmental and societal challenges through innovative, ecologically grounded design. One of the nation’s earliest landscape architecture programs, SEAS’ MLA remains among the few worldwide to authentically integrate ecological principles into environmentally responsible landscape design.

Housed within an interdisciplinary school, the program emphasizes creative design thinking, scientific inquiry, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Students learn to navigate the intersection of environmental systems, human behavior and cultural and political contexts, developing solutions that are resilient, equitable and responsive to changing landscapes.

Why Landscape Architecture at U-M

The MLA program equips students to design across a wide range of contexts—from dense urban environments and redeveloping cities to rural and natural landscapes. Students develop the ability to synthesize ecological processes, social dynamics and spatial patterns into cohesive design strategies that are aesthetically compelling and technically sound, and leave prepared to engage with real-world challenges at multiple scales. The program’s STEM designation reflects its strong foundation in science and systems thinking, led by world-renowned faculty who are known as groundbreaking landscape architects. 

Degree Pathways

The MLA offers two distinct program tracks to accommodate diverse educational backgrounds:

Three-Year Accredited MLA

• A three-year accredited Master of Landscape Architecture program for students without prior education in landscape architecture.
  Note: International students who hold a degree in a closely related field from a reputable university may complete the accredited MLA program in less time, contingent upon review and approval by Landscape Architecture faculty.

Two-Year MLA

• A two-year non-accredited program is available for students who hold a Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture (BLA) from an accredited North American institution.

Both pathways support interdisciplinary study and encourage students to tailor their coursework through electives, certificates and collaborative projects. Students also have the opportunity to pursue a dual degree, and because SEAS is one of the schools and colleges at one of the greatest research universities in the world, there are many options to choose from.

Experiential Learning and Master’s Projects

A defining feature of the MLA program is its emphasis on applied, real-world experience. As part of the culminating experience, students complete a master’s project or thesis that addresses contemporary landscape challenges in collaboration with external partners. These projects require students to integrate research, design and stakeholder engagement while developing implementable solutions.

Here is just one example of how master’s projects provide real-world experiences and make real-world impacts:

SEAS Detroit Sustainability Clinic, Eliza Howell Park project featured in President Domenico Grasso’s State of the University address

Career Preparation and Outcomes

Graduates of the MLA program are prepared for purpose-driven careers across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Alumni work as park and urban designers, residential designers, campus planners, watershed managers and environmental consultants, among many other roles. SEAS supports students through career advising, professional development, and employer connections, helping graduates translate their design education into meaningful professional impact.

The following organizations represent a partial list of featured MLA employers.

• AECom
• Biohabitats
• Environmental Consulting & Technology, Inc.
• Gibbs Planning Group
• H.T. Harvey & Associates Ecological Consultants
• Michael van Valkenburg (MVVA)
• National Park Service
• Sasaki Associates
• Smithgroup JJR
• The Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio