Landscape Architecture, M.L.Arch.

About
Admission
Program Requirements
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Courses

About the Program

The Master of Landscape Architecture has an emphasis in ecological landscape restoration. Program objectives are to educate students to become capable practitioners with knowledge of a specialty area of the discipline; to educate practitioners who are trained to think critically and creatively about each ecological situation; and to develop a body of knowledge through research, long-term monitoring of restored landscapes, and comparison of methods upon which current and future professionals can draw.

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) describes landscape architecture as a profession encompassing “the analysis, planning, design, management, and stewardship of the natural and built environments.” Landscape architecture is a professional discipline focused on the promotion of environmental balance and human well-being through sustainable design. Ecological landscape restoration, the emphasis of this M.L.Arch. degree, has emerged as a critical dimension of landscape architecture over the past few decades. Landscape restoration increases local and regional biodiversity and mitigates potentially dangerous consequences of degradation through projects such as stream bank stabilization, created wetlands to help infiltrate stormwater, mine reclamation, industrial brownfield remediation, and reforestation of urban land. Understanding the ecological processes and natural history that constitute a site is fundamental to the design process.

Time Limit for Degree Completion: 6 years

Campus Location: Temple University Ambler, with some courses offered at the Main and Center City campuses

Full-Time/Part-Time Status: The degree program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis.

Interdisciplinary Study: The program is interdisciplinary and allows students to enroll in classes from allied disciplines. In addition to the courses in Landscape Architecture, the program builds on the field courses in Horticulture related to the woodland and riparian habitats at the Ambler campus. The program can also draw from the repository of local ecological landscape restoration examples and practitioners in the Philadelphia region.

Affiliation(s): The Department of Architecture and Environmental Design is a member of the American Society of Horticultural Science (ASHS), the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture (CELA), and the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER).

Accreditation: The Department of Architecture and Environmental Design offers two accredited programs in Landscape Architecture. The first professional Master of Landscape Architecture (M.L.Arch.) degree and the undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (B.S.) are both accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB) of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

Areas of Specialization: The focus of the M.L.Arch. degree program is ecological landscape restoration, which emphasizes understanding of ecological processes and plant communities. This understanding is applied in a sequence of design studios. The design application results in connecting theory and scientific principles to creative application in the natural setting. The program educates practitioners skilled at designing beautiful landscapes that are also ecologically appropriate to their locale.

Job Prospects: Prepared with the knowledge to make informed and creative environmental design decisions, graduates are highly marketable and have the skills required of professional landscape architects, including design, computer graphics, horticultural knowledge, technical competence, and knowledge of restoration. While the U.S. Department of Labor cited landscape architecture as a top growth profession through 2016, projecting a needed increase of 16%, organizations related to the profession indicate that the number of graduates from professional degree programs is insufficient to meet current or projected demand. Temple University's location in the tri-state region supports professional opportunities for graduates. This area has a very high concentration of prominent landscape architecture firms, public agencies, and ecological restoration professionals.

Licensure: Graduation from an accredited program is a requirement for taking the licensure exam and practice as a landscape architect.

Non-Matriculated Student Policy: A maximum of 9 graduate credits can be taken at Temple University prior to applying to the program.

Financing Opportunities: Inquiries about funding should be directed to the Department of Architecture and Environmental Design.

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadline:

Fall: January 6
Spring: November 1

Applications are reviewed as they are received up through the deadline. Applicants must meet the January 6 priority deadline to be considered for financial assistance. After January 6, applications may be considered on a rolling basis. See the Tyler School of Art and Architecture website for the most up-to-date application information.

APPLY ONLINE to this graduate program.

Letters of Reference:
Number Required: 3

From Whom: Letters of recommendation should be obtained from college/university faculty members, employers, and others who can evaluate the applicant's past work and/or ability to do graduate work. The letters should be submitted with the application at https://apply.temple.edu/Tyler/, along with the statement of goals.

Coursework Required for Admission Consideration: All applicants apply directly to the M.L.Arch. program, not to a specific curricular track. Admitted students are placed in the appropriate track based on a thorough review of all application materials.

For students who have an undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture, this program is a 44-credit post-professional degree. The program is also open to students without a degree in Landscape Architecture, but students without the appropriate prerequisite coursework need a maximum of 26 additional credits.

Bachelor's Degree in Discipline/Related Discipline: All applicants must present credentials that are the equivalent of the appropriate baccalaureate degree at Temple University. Official transcripts from all universities/colleges attended, whether or not a degree was awarded, must be sent to the Tyler School of Art and Architecture, Graduate Admissions Office, 2001 N. 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6016.

Statement of Goals: Approximately 500 to 1,000 words include your reason for pursuing an advanced degree in Landscape Architecture; your interest in Temple's program in particular; and your aspirations and future career goals.

Standardized Test Scores:
GRE/GMAT: Due to testing limitations related to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, the Tyler School of Art and Architecture is temporarily waiving submission of GRE scores for applicants to the M.L.Arch. in Landscape Architecture degree program for Spring 2021 and Fall 2021 admissions. Applicants may still voluntarily submit GRE test scores, but scores will only be used as a supplement to required application materials. All other admission requirements, including submission of scores for a standardized test of English, if applicable, still need to be met. In some circumstances, the Graduate Admissions Committee may request additional supplemental application materials or an interview as part of the admissions process.

Applicants who earned their baccalaureate degree from an institution where the language of instruction was other than English, with the exception of those who subsequently earned a master’s degree at a U.S. institution, must report scores for a standardized test of English that meet these minimums:

TOEFL iBT: 79
IELTS Academic: 6.5
PTE Academic: 53

Resume: Current resume required.

Portfolio: Applicants have the option of submitting a portfolio. Portfolios from students with prior academic experience in Landscape Architecture should include design work done in academic settings. Portfolios may also include work in the visual arts or in visual communication. In addition, work completed in practice may be included but should clearly articulate the applicant’s role in the project. Papers, research, or other materials (preferably dealing with the built environment) are invited as evidence of scholarly, academic, or creative work. Work chosen for inclusion in a portfolio should best represent the applicant's knowledge, aptitudes, interests, creative ability, and experience relative to the discipline of Landscape Architecture. The portfolio may include up to 20 images or other items.

Portfolios are to be uploaded at https://temple.slideroom.com, as instructed on the website. SlideRoom requires an additional fee for this service. Original work, slides, CD-ROMs, catalogs, photographs, books, and/or binders are not acceptable substitutes for the SlideRoom portfolio and will not be reviewed or returned.

Transfer Credit: The Landscape Architecture Admissions Committee recommends the awarding of transfer credits on a case-by-case basis as applications are reviewed. The student may not receive transfer credit for coursework taken as part of any other awarded graduate degree. The maximum number of transfer credits a student may receive is 9.

Program Requirements

General Program Requirements:
Number of Credits Required to Earn the Degree: 44 for students with an undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture seeking a post-professional degree; 44-70 for students without an undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture seeking a first professional degree

Required Courses:

Post-Professional Degree (for students WITH an undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture)

Year 1
Summer I		Credit Hours
LARC 8789	Landscape Restoration Workshop	3
	Term Credit Hours	3
Fall
WOODLANDS
LARC 5551	Landscape Architecture Computer Technology II	3
LARC 8151	Woodland Design Studio¹	4
LARC 8351	Aesthetics of Ecological Design Seminar¹	1
LARC 8751	Northeastern Woodland Ecosystems¹	3
	Term Credit Hours	11
Spring
WETLANDS
LARC 8152	Wetland/Riparian Design Studio²	4
LARC 8552	Research Design Methods	3
LARC 8752	Wetland Ecology²	3
Elective³		3
	Term Credit Hours	13
Year 2
Fall
PUBLIC LANDS
LARC 8153	Public Lands Design Studio	4
LARC 8355	Capstone Seminar	1
LARC 8755	Native Plant Communities	3
LARC 8889	Invasive Species Management and Restoration Monitoring	3
	Term Credit Hours	11
Spring
LARC 9995	Capstone Restoration Design Project	3
Elective³		3
	Term Credit Hours	6
	Total Credit Hours:	44

These three courses (8 credits) are co-requisites and must be taken together.

These two courses (7 credits) are co-requisites and must be taken together.

Students working toward the post-professional degree select two 3-credit electives in consultation with a Landscape Architecture advisor.

First Professional Degree (for students WITHOUT an undergraduate degree in Landscape Architecture)

Year 1
Fall		Credit Hours
PREREQUISITES
HORT 8261	Native Woody Plant Identification	3
LARC 8141	Design Communications/Introductory Design Studio I	4
LARC 8241	Landscape Engineering I	3
LARC 8496	Landscape Traditions	3
	Term Credit Hours	13
Spring
PREREQUISITES
HORT 8514	Landscape Restoration	3
LARC 5544	Landscape Architecture Computer Technology I	3
LARC 8144	Landscape Design Studio II	4
LARC 8242	Landscape Engineering II	3
	Term Credit Hours	13
Summer
LARC 8789	Landscape Restoration Workshop	3
	Term Credit Hours	3
Year 2
Fall
WOODLANDS
LARC 5551	Landscape Architecture Computer Technology II	3
LARC 8151	Woodland Design Studio¹	4
LARC 8351	Aesthetics of Ecological Design Seminar¹	1
LARC 8751	Northeastern Woodland Ecosystems¹	3
	Term Credit Hours	11
Spring
WETLANDS
LARC 8152	Wetland/Riparian Design Studio²	4
LARC 8552	Research Design Methods	3
LARC 8752	Wetland Ecology²	3
Elective³		3
	Term Credit Hours	13
Year 3
Fall
PUBLIC LANDS
LARC 8153	Public Lands Design Studio	4
LARC 8355	Capstone Seminar	1
LARC 8755	Native Plant Communities	3
LARC 8889	Invasive Species Management and Restoration Monitoring	3
	Term Credit Hours	11
Spring
LARC 8644	Professional Practice	3
LARC 9995	Capstone Restoration Design Project	3
	Term Credit Hours	6
	Total Credit Hours:	70

These three courses (8 credits) are co-requisites and must be taken together.

These two courses (7 credits) are co-requisites and must be taken together.

Students working toward the first professional degree select one 3-credit elective in consultation with a Landscape Architecture advisor.

Internship: All students work with a local or regional client as part of the Capstone Course (LARC 9995 Capstone Restoration Design Project).

Culminating Events:
Capstone Course:
All students must complete LARC 9995 Capstone Restoration Design Project, which involves undertaking a project in cooperation with a local or regional client. Students synthesize the knowledge gained from previous courses in developing an integrated approach appropriate to their project.

Courses

LARC 5085. Landscape Architecture Internship. 1 to 3 Credit Hour.

This course expands students' knowledge and professional experience through internships in landscape design, ecological restoration, horticulture, or a related field. Students will be exposed to methods of practice and design thinking and have the opportunity to integrate academic learning with practical work experience, thereby broadening his or her skills and perspectives. The course requires that the student prepare a report in a format agreed upon with the course coordinator.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.
Degree Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Degrees: Master of Landscape Arch.

Repeatability: This course may be repeated for additional credit.

LARC 5544. Landscape Architecture Computer Technology I. 3 Credit Hours.

An introduction to Computer Aided Drafting using AutoCAD. Focuses on learning the basic commands for drawing in two dimensions including: absolute and relative coordinates, working in layers, paper and model space, manipulation of text, and plotting.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 5551. Landscape Architecture Computer Technology II. 3 Credit Hours.

Builds upon computer knowledge introduced in Design Communications/Introductory Design Studio I or equivalent. Introduction to Geographic Information System (GIS), intermediate level computer-aided design (CAD), and Photoshop applications to aid in developing and presenting designs. How to select the most useful software for a particular design problem. Note: Prior to fall 2016, the course title was "Intermediate Computer Graphics."

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 5564. Landscape Architecture Computer Technology III. 3 Credit Hours.

Addresses more advanced concepts in two-dimensional AutoCAD and introduces CAD applications as three-dimensional tools in the generation of perspective drawings. Includes plotting in color and integration with other graphic applications. NOTE: Prior to enrolling, students are expected to have introductory level skills in AutoCAD: basic commands for drawing in two dimensions including absolute and relative coordinates, working in layers, paper and model space, manipulation of text, and plotting. Prior to fall 2016, the course title was "Advanced CAD."

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

Pre-requisites:
LARC 1544|Minimum Grade of D|May not be taken concurrently
OR LARC 5544|Minimum Grade of C-|May not be taken concurrently.

LARC 5665. Grant Writing. 3 Credit Hours.

Develop skills in researching grant funding possibilities, identifying and developing appropriate restoration projects with potential for grant funding, and writing grant proposals.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8141. Design Communications/Introductory Design Studio I. 4 Credit Hours.

This studio course explores the development of graphic techniques and introduces students to the design process commonly used in landscape architecture and horticulture. Students develop a small-scale design project using a variety of graphic skills. Plans, sections, and elevations are drawn, and their functions are understood in design representation.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8144. Landscape Design Studio II. 4 Credit Hours.

This course focuses on the development of mixed use and sustainable communities within the natural, social, cultural, and economic context of development or redevelopment. Large-scale land-use and community planning projects in the urban or rural context are investigated. Real world projects range from preparing community-based revitalization plans and designs for inner-city neighborhoods, to the creation of a new town development set in a bucolic landscape. Students learn to develop creative ideas through illustrative techniques. They engage in a complete design process, including analysis, conceptual, and finished design of an outdoor space.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

Pre-requisites:
LARC 8141|Minimum Grade of C-|May not be taken concurrently.

LARC 8151. Woodland Design Studio. 4 Credit Hours.

Students apply the knowledge and methodologies presented in LARC 8751: Northeastern Woodland Ecosystems. Projects, varying in size and location, allow students to synthesize and advance their understanding of the ecosystem. Finished design projects are presented in graphic, written, and verbal forms and may be implemented in the field. Students develop the analytical and technical skills necessary for the inventory, analysis, programming, and design of a woodland landscape. Fieldwork, site inventory and analysis, identification of opportunities and constraints, and program development, as well as hand and computer drawing, are included.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Co-requisites: LARC 8351, LARC 8751.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8152. Wetland/Riparian Design Studio. 4 Credit Hours.

This studio course complements material introduced in LARC 8752: Wetland Ecology. Students are required to draw on and implement knowledge about wetland ecosystems to develop a site design. Field visits, inventory, analysis, and monitoring are used to gain a thorough knowledge of the site for use as the basis for a design. Identification of opportunities and constraints, program development, and hand and computer drawing are extensively used. Students learn the critical thinking and artistic judgment necessary for developing a design for wetland habitat restoration.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Co-requisites: LARC 8752.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8153. Public Lands Design Studio. 4 Credit Hours.

Material presented in LARC 8352: Policies of Public Design Seminar is addressed in this design studio, which focuses on a public project, such as a metropolitan park or regional or state conservation area. Students are required to understand and integrate the diverse values and views held by various stakeholders. In addition to typical design studio components such as site inventory and analysis, projects may require students to interview, confer, and present to public audiences to seek feedback and approval of designs. By the end of the course, students have attended and/or presented at public meetings and have developed a design for the public realm.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8241. Landscape Engineering I. 3 Credit Hours.

The course emphasis is on the basic concepts, ideas, and techniques that deal with the visual, functional, and ecological aspects of grading and landform manipulation. Students learn the technical skills necessary for grading a landscape to ensure proper drainage.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8242. Landscape Engineering II. 3 Credit Hours.

This course is an introduction to the principles, processes, and techniques of site engineering for the land forms of landscape architecture. Based on the understanding and appreciation of ecological principles, functional requirements, and aesthetic considerations, students learn elements of design/engineering such as advanced grading, storm water management, and road alignment. Different approaches to grading and water management are studied, and a set of grading plans is developed.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

Pre-requisites:
LARC 8241|Minimum Grade of C-|May not be taken concurrently.

LARC 8351. Aesthetics of Ecological Design Seminar. 1 Credit Hour.

Students learn about the emerging aesthetic associated with ecological design. Form and psychological experience of design are presented through readings and discussion. Students understand the importance of peer-reviewed research as it relates to design and aesthetics.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Co-requisites: LARC 8151, LARC 8751.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8355. Capstone Seminar. 1 Credit Hour.

The LARC 8355 Capstone Seminar is an introduction to, and preparation for LARC 9995, Capstone Restoration Design Project. The Capstone Seminar objectives include defining the research topic and specific project site, in addition to establishing the scope and goals of the proposed project. Students conduct a thorough site inventory and analysis, identify research resources and precedents, contact site stakeholders and formulate a design program. All these components are further developed in LARC 9995 in the following spring semester.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.
Degree Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Degrees: Master of Landscape Arch.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8496. Landscape Traditions. 3 Credit Hours.

A comprehensive overview of Western civilization's efforts to create useful, beautiful, and symbolic spaces from ancient times until the modern day is presented. Students learn to critically assess landscapes through written research papers and oral presentations.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8552. Research Design Methods. 3 Credit Hours.

Master of Landscape Architecture students gain an understanding of research design methods. Students conduct a research project and write a paper that summarizes their research study and findings.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may be repeated for additional credit.

LARC 8644. Professional Practice. 3 Credit Hours.

This course focuses on the study of ethics, current business practices, contract documentation, bids, cost estimates, specifications, and interdisciplinary relationships. It seeks to teach the student how to set priorities, manage people, and execute landscape projects. Students gain an understanding of different professional avenues and opportunities and develop a case study/interview of a firm or public agency.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

Pre-requisites:
(LARC 8141|Minimum Grade of C-|May not be taken concurrently
AND LARC 8241|Minimum Grade of C-|May not be taken concurrently)

LARC 8751. Northeastern Woodland Ecosystems. 3 Credit Hours.

The course presents terrestrial forest ecosystems and the biotic and abiotic factors that affect them. Students learn the components of forest ecosystems, including degradation factors and restoration concepts. Field trips allow students to observe and document a local forest ecosystem.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Co-requisites: LARC 8151, LARC 8351.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8752. Wetland Ecology. 3 Credit Hours.

The course introduces the ecology of traditional wetlands, such as salt marshes and bogs. Students gain an understanding of riparian edges and shorelines and the measures necessary for protecting and/or restoring them. Site visits are required.

Co-requisites: LARC 8152.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8755. Native Plant Communities. 3 Credit Hours.

The course examines native and naturalized tree, shrub, and/or herbaceous plant community structure. Restoration processes are explored relevant to maintaining healthy plant communities. Discussion centers around growth, habit, and on-site propagation during restoration. Students learn to distinguish between native and non-native plant communities and vital characteristics associated with plant community health.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8789. Landscape Restoration Workshop. 3 Credit Hours.

Students learn principles and practices of ecological restoration through hands-on experience. They visit restored landscapes, conduct field measurements in an old growth forest, and contribute to a restoration project on the Ambler Campus. An overnight camping trip is required. By the end of the course, students understand various technical strategies involved in restoration through drawing and writing their field observations, assessing proper techniques for restoration, and then implementing those techniques on a real site.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 8860. Topics in Landscape Architecture. 3 Credit Hours.

Variable offerings from semester to semester of selected topics not part of the regular listing of courses. The topic can be in an area of specialization of a faculty member or an examination of a current development in the field. NOTE: Students may obtain a description of the current version at the department office and in the schedule of classes. This course may be repeated for credit.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may be repeated for additional credit.

LARC 8870. Topics in Landscape Architecture. 1 to 3 Credit Hour.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may be repeated for additional credit.

LARC 8889. Invasive Species Management and Restoration Monitoring. 3 Credit Hours.

This field course introduces methods for monitoring the process of a restoration project and the corrective actions needed to ensure a positive restoration. It includes strategies for pre- and post-installation monitoring. By the end of the semester, students understand issues associated with monitoring and maintaining the health of a restored ecosystem.

Field of Study Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Majors: Landscape Architecture.
Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.
Degree Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Degrees: Master of Landscape Arch.

Repeatability: This course may not be repeated for additional credits.

LARC 9883. Directed Reading/Study. 1 to 3 Credit Hour.

Advanced reading/study tutorial is arranged between the student and a faculty member. NOTE: A written contract with the faculty member and approval from the Chair of the Department are required.

Level Registration Restrictions: Must be enrolled in one of the following Levels: Graduate.

Repeatability: This course may be repeated for additional credit.

LARC 9995. Capstone Restoration Design Project. 3 Credit Hours.

Students develop an independent restoration design project requiring synthesis of all previous coursework, including methodologies, seminars, ecological knowledge, and design projects. Every project must incorporate research in three ways: (1) accomplishing a literature review;(2) selecting and applying a methodology; and (3) advancing the knowledge base in ecological restoration. Research is used to both guide and test the design project. Students develop a comprehensive report. The capstone project concludes with a verbal and graphic presentation as well as a report summarizing the implications of the design, including strategies for monitoring and adjusting the restoration over time. Note: Students must obtain the instructor's approval of a project site and type no later than the first week of the semester, and must select a capstone committee comprised of three full-time instructors, one of which must be a member of the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture.

Repeatability: This course may be repeated for additional credit.