University of Memphis

What you'll study

The programme is organised around design studio work supported by technical and theoretical courses. Core studio sequences emphasise site-based design, landscape systems, and urban integration. Typical study areas include:

• Design studios addressing site analysis, conceptual design, and detailed landscape proposals at a range of scales (from parks and streetscapes to regional open‑space systems).
• Ecological and environmental design covering stormwater management, sustainable site planning, habitat restoration and landscape performance.
• Urban planning and policy introducing land use planning, zoning, community engagement and strategies for urban redevelopment and equity.
• Technical skills including construction detailing, grading and drainage, planting design, and digital tools such as GIS, CAD and BIM workflows relevant to landscape projects.
• Materials and construction examining hardscape materials, site systems and implementation processes for built landscapes.
• Research, theory and professional practice with courses in design history/theory, project management, ethics and the business of practice; students often undertake a capstone design project or thesis.

The programme typically balances collaborative, community‑engaged projects with technical coursework and electives that allow specialisation in areas such as ecological design, urban regeneration, or advanced GIS and modelling.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in architecture, landscape architecture, planning, or a related discipline; applicants with other backgrounds may be considered if they demonstrate relevant experience and a strong portfolio. Typical application materials include:

• A portfolio of design work or professional projects that demonstrates design thinking and technical skills.
• A statement of purpose outlining research and professional goals and how the programme fits those aims.
• Academic transcripts and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A current CV or résumé.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide supporting documentation as required.

Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional work samples. Candidates without a design undergraduate degree may be required to take preparatory coursework or demonstrate equivalent experience.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers across design, planning and environmental sectors. Typical roles include:

• Landscape architect or designer in private practice or design firms
• Urban planner, community development practitioner or municipal planning staff
• Site and environmental planner for public agencies, non‑profits or landscape contractors
• Consultant in stormwater/green infrastructure, ecological restoration or landscape performance analysis
• GIS and spatial analysis specialist supporting planning and design projects
• Researcher or educator in higher education or applied research settings

Graduates are prepared for licensure pathways where applicable and for roles that require interdisciplinary collaboration between designers, engineers, ecologists and policymakers.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a programme grounded in the region's distinctive urban and natural contexts, providing hands‑on learning opportunities in an active mid‑sized city undergoing revitalisation. Students benefit from close engagement with local planning agencies, community organisations and design firms, which supports practicum placements and real‑world project experience.

Facilities and strengths include design studios that encourage collaborative and community‑engaged projects, access to mapping and GIS resources, and faculty who combine professional practice with teaching and applied research. The programme’s location gives students direct exposure to issues such as riverfront planning, historic neighbourhood revitalisation and green infrastructure implementation, linking studio work to local clients and stakeholders.

Overall, the University of Memphis programme is suited to students seeking a practical, context‑aware education in landscape architecture and planning, with opportunities to develop the technical, ecological and policy skills needed for contemporary practice.