Marywood University

What you'll study

This programme is driven by design studio work and supplemented by technical and theoretical courses that address site design, ecological systems, and planning frameworks. Typical modules cover site analysis and context; landscape design studio; urban design and planning principles; ecological systems and sustainable regional planning; stormwater management and green infrastructure; planting design and horticulture; materials, detailing and construction methods for exterior spaces; GIS, mapping and digital modelling; professional practice, ethics and law; and a culminating thesis or capstone design project that integrates research and applied design.

Instruction emphasises a balance of hands-on design, research methods and technical proficiency. Studios progress from small-scale site interventions to larger-scale planning and landscape strategies, and students often undertake collaborative projects with community partners or local agencies. Coursework also develops skills in representation (hand and digital drawing), parametric modelling, site construction documentation, environmental assessment and grant- or project-proposal writing.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, environmental design, horticulture or a closely related field. Candidates from other disciplines with relevant professional experience or a strong portfolio of design and visual work may also be considered.

• A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A portfolio demonstrating design work, visual communication skills and an ability to think spatially.
• A personal statement outlining academic and professional goals and reasons for pursuing landscape architecture and planning.
• Academic transcripts and at least two academic or professional references.
• Some programmes request a resume/CV and may interview shortlisted applicants; GRE is not routinely required but applicants should check the specific school requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for professional roles in landscape architecture, urban design and planning across private consultancy, public sector and non-profit contexts. Common job titles include landscape architect, site planner, urban designer, environmental planner, green infrastructure specialist, ecological restoration designer, GIS analyst for planning projects, and project manager for community or municipal initiatives.

Career pathways often involve working for landscape architecture and engineering firms, municipal planning departments, conservation organisations, design-build firms and developer-led design teams. The degree also provides a strong basis for further professional licensure where required, or for doctoral research and teaching in design and environmental disciplines.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a small, studio-centred learning environment that supports close mentoring and interdisciplinary collaboration. The university’s emphasis on community engagement and regional projects gives students opportunities to work on real-world sites and to build professional networks with local agencies and practices. Facilities and resources typically supporting the programme include dedicated design studios, digital labs for GIS and modelling, and access to faculty with practice and research experience in landscape and environmental design.

Studying at Marywood is suitable for students who value a personalised learning environment, applied studio practice, and a curriculum that integrates ecological thinking with practical planning and construction knowledge. Prospective students should contact the department for detailed information on portfolio expectations, course sequencing and pathways to professional certification.