Landscape Architecture
Entry requirements
Part 1 Entry
Students eligible for the MLA will normally have a minimum of a second class degree in a closely related subject area. The following disciplines are typical although this is not an exhaustive list and the suitability of all applicants will be assessed via a combination of portfolio and interview:
- Design for the built environment including: architecture, urban design and planning, interior design, garden design
- Other design or arts related disciplines may also be considered, including: fashion, film, graphics, product design, etc
- Land or plant-based sciences including: geography, horticulture, forestry or agriculture, ecology, environmental science and management
- Engineering, including especially: civil, hydrological and structural engineering
In most cases, international students with a closely related qualification from their home country are eligible for the 2-year course, which helps them adapt to the specific professional and cultural context of the discipline in the UK. In exceptional circumstances, where considerable work experience in landscape architecture is demonstrated, students are eligible for Part 2 entry.
Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.
Direct Part 2 Entry
Candidates with a minimum of a second-class degree in an accredited UK undergraduate Landscape Architecture course will normally be accepted directly into Part 2 of the MLA. Candidates from other countries with an IFLA recognised undergraduate qualification of an equivalent standard may also be eligible for direct entry at year 2.
Candidates from other very closely related disciplines (principally Architecture and Urban Design) may be considered, subject to providing evidence of a Level 6 understanding and knowledge of additional subject areas specific to landscape architecture.
Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.
Find out about English language requirements.
If you are an international student, you will usually need to get a student visa before you can study in the UK.
Months of entry
September
Course content
As global awareness of biodiversity loss and the climate crisis intensifies, the demand for skilled landscape architects has never been greater. The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) at Manchester School of Architecture is a future focused programme that equips you to design inclusive, climate resilient places where social needs, ecological integrity, and imagination meet. Through a dynamic combination of hands-on design exploration, critical engagement with theory and research, and real world site-based investigations, you'll develop the expertise needed to shape meaningful, sustainable landscapes in a rapidly changing world.
You will have opportunities to learn from industry partners, collaborate across disciplines with architects and urbanists, and conduct ambitious academic research, preparing you for a future in practice or further academic studies. You’ll explore themes of environmental and social justice, designing landscapes that serve both people and planet. Joining one of our internationally recognised ‘Ateliers’, you will pursue a research-led design project, alongside developing an individual dissertation topic.
Delivered jointly by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, the programme provides a unique dual qualification and learning experience. As a student, you will benefit from the combined expertise of staff across both universities and enjoy access to specialist workshops, studios, libraries, and comprehensive support services.
There are three routes into studying the Master of Landscape Architecture. MLA Year 1 offers a transformative education in the core skills essential to landscape architecture, designed for those changing careers or joining from related disciplines. The Architect Conversion Route is designed for undergraduate architecture graduates, building on the shared foundations of landscape architecture and architecture, while introducing the ecological, environmental, and cultural factors that shape the discipline of landscape architecture. Those who have previously studied or worked in landscape architecture can join MLA Year 2 directly and will develop specialist expertise, design excellence, and academic research whilst working in the atelier system.
Graduates of the MLA programme have broad employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors, in areas such as urban design, environmental conservation, sustainable development, landscape planning, policy and placemaking, and the creation of innovative green spaces.
The Master of Landscape Architecture programme is currently accredited by the Landscape Institute. Following changes for 2026 entry, the revised programme will undergo a full accreditation review in early 2026. Please check back for updates.
Features and benefits:
- A top ranked school of architecture - Manchester School of Architecture is placed 5th in the world in the QS 2025 Architecture rankings.
- Joint degree and world-class resources - You will study a programme jointly delivered by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Graduates receive a degree certificate that carries both institutions’ crests and titles.
- Industry networks - You will benefit from MSA’s strong industry connections and employer network. Practitioner-tutors contribute directly to the studio curriculum, supported by international visiting speakers, practice visits, and building studies.
- Accredited learning - The MLA is recognised by International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) giving your qualification global recognition.
- Flexible pathways - Choose from three distinct pathways designed around your academic and professional background, ensuring a flexible and personalised route into landscape architecture.
- Collaborate on real-world design - Participate in MSA Live, our annual programme of student-led, real-world design projects in MLA Part 1. In MLA Part 2, become a member of one of our research-led ateliers and work collaboratively with architecture students from other disciplines.
Information for international students
Please visit the international page.
Fees and funding
For further information please see the fees and funding page.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- MLA
- part time36 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- full time24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Course Enquiries Team
- courses@mmu.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44 (0)161 247 6969