International Landscape Architecture is a comprehensive and internationally oriented degree program offered by the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences. Designed for students who are passionate about creating sustainable, functional, and aesthetically compelling outdoor spaces, this programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare graduates for professional careers in landscape architecture, urban planning, and environmental design. The curricula integrate modern design principles, ecological sustainability, and innovative planning techniques, emphasizing the importance of ecological balance and social responsibility in landscape development.
Students will explore a diverse range of topics, including landscape design, site analysis, plant ecology, land use planning, and environmental engineering. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and cultural exchange, fostering an understanding of global environmental challenges and diverse regional contexts. Through a combination of lectures, studios, and project-based work, students gain hands-on experience in designing parks, gardens, urban plazas, and restoration projects that enhance communities and contribute to biodiversity and climate resilience. The program also offers opportunities for internships and international exchanges, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings across different countries and cultures.
Graduates of the International Landscape Architecture program will be equipped with the technical skills and conceptual understanding necessary to develop innovative landscape solutions that are environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive. They will be prepared to work in consulting firms, public authorities, or start their own practices, addressing complex landscape challenges in a globalized context. The program’s emphasis on practical application, cultural diversity, and environmental consciousness aims to cultivate professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the transformation and preservation of outdoor spaces worldwide. Graduating from this programme opens pathways to further academic research or careers dedicated to creating healthier, more resilient, and aesthetically harmonious environments for future generations.
Educational organisation
The international Master's programme in landscape architecture (known as the IMLA programme) is organised by two higher education institutions:- Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences, Bavaria, Germany
- Nürtingen-Geislingen University, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
The location of studies alternates each time the programme begins. Students joining the programme for the summer semester 2017 will study in Nürtingen (near Stuttgart).
Students joining the programme for the summer semester 2018 will study in Freising-Weihenstephan (near Munich).
Structure of Courses and Schedule:
Semester 1 (summer semester):
- Geographical Information Systems
- Landscape Concepts
- Planning and Design Methods
- Work Methodology
- Project Management in Spatial Planning
- Main Project I
Semester 2 (winter semester):
- Visualisation and Digital Terrain Modelling
- Strategic Project Management
- Public Participation
- Monitoring and Assessment of Landscape Architecture Projects
- Planning Systems
- International Approach to Planning and Design
- Main Project II
Semester 3 (summer semester):
- Elective: International seminar or international studio project
- Master's Thesis
- Preparatory assessments: Landscape Architecture Internship and International Online Seminar, Online Seminar "Cultural and Linguistic Concepts of Landscape Architecture"
The programme has a strong practical focus. Much of its teaching in the area of management, marketing, and digital planning methods is provided by external specialists, and experts are invited to act as guest critics on projects. The faculty members are highly qualified in their areas of specialisation and also in didactics.
Study abroad unit(s)
Theoretical courses will be held at one of the partner universities.Planning projects and design studios are carried out in various European countries - such as Romania, Belgium, Italy, Hungary, Turkey - requiring field trips of one to two weeks to the project areas. Some of the projects include cooperation with students from additional partner universities.
Internships
The third semester includes an internship in a design or planning office accompanied by online lectures (virtual classroom/virtual campus). Programme advisers will assist students in finding an appropriate internship. The internship is compulsory for students without previous studies in landscape architecture.Forms of assessment
Project work/design studios, oral examinations, research papers and presentations, thesisCourse objectives
IMLA enables its graduates to use modern methods and technical aids in taking a creative and interdisciplinary approach to the professional, legal, and management challenges emerging in the various fields of landscape architecture.Language requirements
English at level B2 of the Common European Reference Framework for Languages (CEFR) or equivalent.There is no German language requirement at the time of entry into the course.
Academic requirements
Successful completion of a degree course in landscape architecture, landscape planning, landscape construction, landscape management, architecture, town planning or physical planning at a German or Swiss university or "Berufsakademie" (University of Cooperative Education) or a comparable Bachelor's degree course in any of the above subjects at a foreign university. The degree must show evidence of above-average examination results.Enrolment fees
Approx. 150 EUR per semester (varies depending on the university)Costs of living
Approx. 800-900 EUR per month to cover personal expensesFunding opportunities within the university
Students can apply for scholarships after enrolment. Availability is limited.Services and support for international students
IMLA students are supported by the programme assistants at each university location.The International Office supports international students regarding their first steps in Germany and offers various excursions.
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