Landscape Architecture

Landscape Architecture at the University of New Mexico offers a comprehensive educational experience designed to prepare students for innovative and sustainable practice in the field of landscape architecture. This program emphasizes the integration of ecological principles, cultural understanding, and creative design to shape environments that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally responsible. Students will engage with a diverse curriculum that covers site analysis, master planning, environmental graphics, historic preservation, landscape technology, and digital design tools. The program fosters critical thinking, technical competence, and ethical responsibility, equipping graduates to address complex challenges such as urbanization, climate change, and ecological preservation.

Throughout their studies, students will undertake studio projects, collaborative design charrettes, and internships that provide real-world experience working with community stakeholders, governmental agencies, and private clients. The curriculum is designed to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating knowledge from architecture, ecology, and urban planning. Faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and supporting innovative research initiatives in sustainable landscape design, landscape restoration, and green infrastructure.

The Landscape Architecture program prepares students for licensure and professional practice, emphasizing design excellence, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue careers in landscape architecture firms, planning agencies, environmental consulting, and conservation organizations, or to continue with graduate studies for further specialization. The program also encourages participation in local, national, and international design competitions, conferences, and community projects, fostering a commitment to lifelong learning and public service. With its strong focus on sustainability and community engagement, the Landscape Architecture program at the University of New Mexico aims to shape future leaders who will create resilient, innovative landscapes that enhance quality of life for communities and the environment.

Three-Year Program of Study

This track is designed for students whose previous degree is not design related. The program is normally 87 credit hours in length, and takes approximately three years to complete. For students entering with undergraduate or graduate degrees in areas of study that have some content overlap with the Landscape Architecture curriculum, the Director may allow a program of study shorter than 87 credit hours, but not fewer than 75 credit hours.

Two-Year Program of Study

This track is designed for students who have already earned a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture degree, but have not had extensive professional experience and are not licensed (minimum of 48 credit hours required), or a degree in Architecture or Environment, Planning and Design (minimum of 57 credit hours required). Exact program requirements are determined on a case-by-case basis by the LA Program Director. 

Post-Professional Program of Study

Applicants for the Post-Professional program must be licensed, practicing landscape architects, with a minimum of five years experience in the field. The student's program of study is developed in consultation with the LA Program Director and requires thirty credit hours. Contact the Program Director for information and requirements. 

Required Courses

Typical Sequence for Three-year Program of Study

Master’s Examination

The Master’s Examination occurs at the time of the Master’s thesis/project public presentation and defense, when the student’s committee evaluates the scope and quality of the work, mastery of the field and the emphasis, and the student’s research accomplishment.

The student’s program of study is developed in consultation with the major advisor. It may be altered if needed with the consent of the advisor. The M.L.A. degree is granted upon successful completion of an approved program of study.

Students are expected to demonstrate a mastery of readings in the field.

• The University of New Mexico on-line application. 
• A $50 application fee payable on-line or by phone at (505) 277-5363. Keep the reference number for fee payment. 
• A letter of intent outlining the applicant's interest in the discipline of landscape architecture and the reasons for seeking admission to the program in either PDF or Word format.
• Email contact information for three references with whom the applicant has worked and/or studied. References are contacted via email with a link for them to submit digital letters of reference in a PDF or Word format. Two letters would typically come from teachers or academic advisors who can comment on the applicant's prior undergraduate and/or graduate performance.
• A resume (curriculum vitae) in either PDF or Word format.
• A digital portfolio of creative work in a PDF, Word or PowerPoint format. The portfolio should provide high quality examples of creative thinking, writing and problem solving or communication approaches in their prior studies, work or personal interests. The digital portfolio layout should not exceed an 11x17 page layout. Applicants are encouraged to think about graphic design and presentation of the portfolio. All images and all graphics should be of a resolution to effectively communicate appropriate detail. Note that all applicants are required to submit a portfolio and encourage to submit a writing sample therein. Applicants with a non-design background are encouraged to communicate prior creative thinking, writing, problem solving and/or personal images or illustrations of landscapes and landscape designs which have led to pursuit of landscape architecture.
• Transcripts for each institution attended.

International Students also need to submit the following:

• An attested copy of your diploma.
• Official TOEFL scores that must meet the University of New Mexico minimum of 79 on the IBT TOEFL.

Scholarships

Students entering the LA program from out-of-state, and international students, are eligible for Graduate Project Assistantships.  The Assistantships allow students to pay tuition at in-state rates, provide student health insurance, and involve a stipend based on 10 hours of work per week.

International students are eligible for Amigo Scholarships from the Office of Graduate Studies. These scholarships allow students to pay tuition at in-state rates for the duration of their program. Normally international students who do not receive an Amigo Scholarship will maintain a project assistantship for the duration of their program. Assistantships may also be available depending on the opportunities through grants and contracts being carried out by faculty.

Each year there are a number of awards and scholarships awarded to students based on academic achievement, design excellence and leadership.

The Bachelor of Arts in Landscape Architecture at the University of New Mexico is designed to prepare students for a career in the planning, design, and management of outdoor spaces. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of ecological, aesthetic, cultural, and technical aspects of landscape architecture, ensuring graduates are equipped to create sustainable and innovative outdoor environments. Students engage in coursework that includes landscape design, environmental planning, plant sciences, and urbanism, fostering interdisciplinary skills essential for addressing contemporary environmental and societal challenges. The program combines studio-based learning with theoretical and applied studies, allowing students to develop practical skills through hands-on projects and real-world applications. Additionally, students have opportunities for internships and collaborations with local communities, government agencies, and private firms, offering valuable industry experience. The curriculum is supported by faculty who are experts in areas such as ecological design, site planning, and historic preservation, providing mentorship and advancing research. State-of-the-art facilities and resources, including advanced design software and landscape analysis tools, enhance the learning experience. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for licensure as landscape architects and can pursue careers in urban planning, environmental consulting, parks and recreation management, or start their own practices. The program also encourages students to engage with sustainable and resilient design practices, reflecting the university's commitment to environmental stewardship. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Landscape Architecture at UNM combines academic excellence, practical experience, and a focus on sustainability to cultivate landscape architects capable of shaping resilient and vibrant outdoor spaces across diverse environments.