Landscape Architecture (MFA)

Aerial view of a park with water feature, circular pathways, and landscaped areas.

The Landscape Architecture MFA program provides advanced study for students pursuing a career in Landscape Architecture. Coursework emphasizes theories of open urban spaces, collaborative and interdisciplinary methods of design and implementation, sustainability, and advanced digital rendering techniques

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree
Major Classes

This program is available online and on campus

School of Landscape Architecture

IAD 608

Digital Imaging Major/3

Immerse yourself in the world of imaging software. You will develop skills to enhance presentations, create graphic layouts, and integrate various media into your design projects.

LAN 605

Drawing as Process Major/3

Communicating ideas through accurate plans, sections, elevations and other drawings is a fundamental skill for any designer. Students will develop strong foundations in mechanical and freehand drawing by applying professional graphic conventions to a variety of projects. Connecting information on 2D drawings to 3D spaces will be developed.

LAN 609

Ecological Foundations of Design 1 Major/3

All life depends on soil, water, and plants. You'll gain mapping, observation, and recording skills while exploring the scientific characteristics, ecological relationships, and the tolerances for human development on natural systems.

LAN 617

Site Engineering Major/3

This course focuses on strategies and calculations for controlling stormwater. Students will create accurate grading plans and models in a variety of scales to test their designs. Students will be challenged to incorporate both functionality and aesthetics. Topics will include stormwater calculations, innovative sustainable technologies, road alignments and construction details. (This course is cross-listed with LAN 260.)

LAN 619

Site Inventory and Analysis Major/3

This course focuses on the process of conducting site inventories and site analyses that generate relevant and effective site plans and master plans which will guide subsequent design decisions. Information gained through observing and analyzing any site will result in planning and design decisions that truly reflect its unique nature.(This course is cross-listed with LAN 235.)

LAN 640

Planting Design Major/3

Plants create space, drama and visual interest in the landscape throughout the seasons. Learn how to select the right plant to achieve the desired effect. You'll apply your drafting and rendering skills to present planting plans and planting details.

LAN 665

Digital Graphics for Landscape Architecture Major/3

You'll learn to digitally draft plans, sections, elevations, axonometrics and renderings. You'll become proficient in the same software that today's design professionals use to produce legible, accurate, and well organized digital documents.

LAN 679

Advanced Landscape Graphics Major/3

Landscape architects use digital renderings to communicate with everyone involved in a project. You'll learn to use the same state-of-the-art modeling and rendering software that the pros use to explore and communicate ideas at any scale. (This course is cross-listed with LAN 323.)

LAN 683

Landscape Architectural Construction Documents Major/3

Learn what it takes to put together an accurate set of construction documents. You'll create plans, details, schedules and specifications to communicate your design intent and provide the detailed information required to permit, build and install a project. Strategies for sustainable construction and installation will be emphasized. (This course is cross-listed with LAN 360.)

Degree Requirements

Unit Requirements	Units
Major Coursework	54
Directed Study	3
Electives	6
Total	63

MFA LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Successful completion of Final Thesis Project.
Minimum grade of C in all required 63 units.
Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA.

Additional Information

Graduate Liberal Arts

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

MFA Thesis Project

Present an original thesis concept worthy of the MFA degree
Demonstrate the feasibility and relevance of the thesis project
Produce a comprehensive project that contributes to the design community, demonstrating advanced landscape architecture planning and design skills

Design Proposals

Demonstrate command of the key principles, systems, and elements of design that inform two- and three- dimensional planning and design as well as composition
Make effective and appropriate planning and design choices at a variety of scales
Produce defensible planning and design proposals

Research and Design Process

Produce comprehensive site inventory research and analysis
Integrate findings from the site inventory and analysis to develop appropriate planning and design proposals
Display a working knowledge of the historical influences and theoretical principles of landscape planning and design
Incorporate appropriate public policy, law, codes and standards in the planning and design process
Natural Systems: Identify the indigenous natural systems, components and processes found on a given site and incorporate findings into planning and design proposals
Human & Social Factors: Demonstrate understanding of the diverse needs, values and customs of the communities and individuals active at the site by incorporating findings into planning and design proposals

Design Development

Evaluate and select materials that will enhance the qualities of a given site as well as provide for the programmatic requirements
Demonstrate an understanding of site development and site engineering as appropriate to the site design (grading, drainage, planting design and hardscape development)
Apply principles and strategies of sustainability to planning and design decisions

Communication Skills

Consolidate research and present ideas in concise and convincing verbal, written and graphic presentations
Utilize appropriate media, including computer graphics and freehand drawing to communicate thinking process and planning and design proposals

Professional Readiness

Produce a professional portfolio demonstrating technical and problem-solving skills that reflect professional expectations
Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of landscape architecture on the stewardship of the environment
Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical issues involved in landscape architectural planning, design and practice

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

1. Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
2. Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
3. Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
4. Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
5. Use professional terminology to evaluate their work and work in the field.
6. Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
7. Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.
8. Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, student interest clubs, and participation in collaborative, civic, and pro bono projects.

*Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admissions or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details at: https://catalog.academyart.edu