University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This master’s programme blends intensive design studios with coursework in landscape ecology, planning theory and technical skills. Core study areas typically include site analysis and design, history and theory of landscape architecture, planting design, landscape construction and materials, stormwater and ecological systems, GIS and spatial analysis, and urban design and policy.

• Design studio — progressive studio sequence that emphasises concept development, technical detailing and presentation skills applied at a range of scales from residential sites to regional landscapes.
• Landscape ecology & systems — courses on hydrology, soils, native plant communities and resilient landscape systems.
• Technical skills — digital design, CAD, GIS, modelling, and construction documentation.
• Planning & policy — urban and regional planning methods, land-use regulation, community engagement and ethics in practice.
• Professional practice — project management, practice standards, contract and specification writing, and preparation for licensure/registration pathways where applicable.
• Research or capstone — a substantial thesis, design-build project or professional practicum that demonstrates synthesis of design, technical and planning knowledge.

Programme delivery usually combines studio critique, seminars, fieldwork and lab-based instruction. Students commonly engage with community partners on real-world projects and may take elective courses in allied areas such as public policy, ecology, or landscape construction.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, architecture, planning, environmental design, horticulture, geography, or another relevant discipline. Applicants from other academic backgrounds with strong portfolios and demonstrated interest in landscape work may also be considered.

• Academic transcripts — official records from prior postsecondary study.
• Portfolio — a curated selection of design work, research or relevant projects demonstrating visual communication, design thinking or technical competence.
• Personal statement — outlining academic and professional goals, reasons for pursuing the programme and areas of interest.
• References — academic and/or professional letters of recommendation.
• English language proficiency — for international applicants, acceptable scores from recognised tests or institutional exemptions are required.

Some applicants may be asked for an interview. Standardised tests (such as the GRE) are not universally required and requirements should be confirmed with the department. Professional experience in design, planning or landscape projects strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates from this field follow diverse career paths across public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include:

• Landscape architect or designer in private practice, design firms and multidisciplinary studios
• Urban and regional planner in municipal, regional or state agencies
• Site planner or urban designer working on parks, streetscapes and public realm projects
• Environmental and ecological consultant focusing on restoration, stormwater management and sustainable site design
• GIS analyst, research associate or project manager in organisations addressing land-use, conservation and community resilience
• Roles in non-governmental organisations, park and recreation departments, or tribal and regional planning bodies

The programme also supports students pursuing further academic research or teaching in design, landscape ecology and planning fields. Graduates typically leave with a portfolio and practical experience that help meet the competencies required for professional licensure or registration where relevant.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers an interdisciplinary approach that combines design studio culture with applied research and community engagement. Students benefit from small-studio learning, access to faculty with practice and research experience, and laboratory and GIS facilities that support ecological and technical work.

• Regional context — the university’s location provides diverse site types and climatic conditions for hands-on learning in cold-climate landscape systems and rural–urban relationships.
• Community partnerships — opportunities to work with local governments, parks agencies and tribal entities on real projects that inform both learning and civic outcomes.
• Research and resources — interdisciplinary research centres and technical resources support study in restoration, sustainable infrastructure and landscape resilience.

Prospective students should contact the department to discuss specific programme options, studio topics and any professional accreditation considerations relevant to their career goals.