Announcement: CU Denver is Celebrating 50 Years
Whether you’re an alumnus, current student, member of the faculty and staff, donor, or neighbor, you’re a valuable part of the CU Denver community. Help us celebrate the last 50 years and a future that works for all.
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Explore CU Denver Programs
Use the search tool below to discover degree and certificate programs offered by CU Denver. If you are unable to find a program that is right for you, please contact Admissions or a school or college for more information.
Program Overview
Prepares students to design healthy and ethical environments. Globalization, population growth, heritage loss, and environmental decay factors all come into account. A bachelor's degree in any subject required. Advance standing available for those with a landscape architecture or undergraduate architecture degree.
The Master of Landscape Architecture program thoughtfully integrates theory and practice. The program is a sequence of design studios supported by core and seminar classes. Our curriculum provides the fundamental knowledge, creative mindset, and critical thinking necessary to succeed. Several opportunities to focus on particular areas of interest are available. The curriculum promotes an ethic of responsibility grounded in natural systems and processes. This is coupled with an understanding of cultural and community values.
Students gain skills by working on relevant urban and rural projects. These are often directly engaged with diverse communities and places. Studios and courses address current issues, define future trends, and explore the role of landscape architecture in a changing world. Throughout the program, our students learn to:
-
apply design and planning skills that use established and new technologies and design approaches to enhance community
-
foster equity
- remediate environmental balance
-
conserve and regenerate resources
-
create places that hold value for current and future generations
Denver’s vibrant professional design and planning community supports our students. The program features guest lectures, participation in design reviews, internships, and mentorship opportunities. Students also have opportunities to visit offices and meet leading practitioners in our field.
Why Master of Architecture at CU Denver?
Civic Engagement & Hands-On Learning
Students have extensive opportunity for civic engagement, such as paid internships at the college’s Colorado Center for Community Development (CCCD). It provides diverse opportunities to work with and in communities across the state.
Interdisciplinary Studios
The Integral Studio allows graduate students to work as interdisciplinary teams with public agencies on real projects in our city. Facilitated by faculty across disciplines, the studio emulates a real-world office environment. It allows students to gain insight into the role of other parties involved in the planning and design process.
International Study
The practice of landscape architecture is now global. This department is a leader in providing international study opportunities. Students are encourage to develop international partnerships with our diverse body of students and travel study courses offered.
Independent Research
Our students engage in research with faculty and on their own through optional independent studies and theses. They have presented at local, national, and international conferences and symposia. Examples include the National Park Service Western Region CESU Conference, Environmental Design Research Association, Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture, and International Green Roof Conference.
Program Description
The Master of Landscape Architecture program thoughtfully integrates theory and practice. The program is a sequence of design studios supported by core and seminar classes. Our curriculum provides the fundamental knowledge, creative mindset, and critical thinking necessary to succeed. Several opportunities to focus on particular areas of interest are available. The curriculum promotes an ethic of responsibility grounded in natural systems and processes. This is coupled with an understanding of cultural and community values.
Students gain skills by working on relevant urban and rural projects. These are often directly engaged with diverse communities and places. Studios and courses address current issues, define future trends, and explore the role of landscape architecture in a changing world. Throughout the program, our students learn to:
-
apply design and planning skills that use established and new technologies and design approaches to enhance community
-
foster equity
- remediate environmental balance
-
conserve and regenerate resources
-
create places that hold value for current and future generations
Denver’s vibrant professional design and planning community supports our students. The program features guest lectures, participation in design reviews, internships, and mentorship opportunities. Students also have opportunities to visit offices and meet leading practitioners in our field.
Why Master of Architecture at CU Denver?
Civic Engagement & Hands-On Learning
Students have extensive opportunity for civic engagement, such as paid internships at the college’s Colorado Center for Community Development (CCCD). It provides diverse opportunities to work with and in communities across the state.
Interdisciplinary Studios
The Integral Studio allows graduate students to work as interdisciplinary teams with public agencies on real projects in our city. Facilitated by faculty across disciplines, the studio emulates a real-world office environment. It allows students to gain insight into the role of other parties involved in the planning and design process.
International Study
The practice of landscape architecture is now global. This department is a leader in providing international study opportunities. Students are encourage to develop international partnerships with our diverse body of students and travel study courses offered.
Independent Research
Our students engage in research with faculty and on their own through optional independent studies and theses. They have presented at local, national, and international conferences and symposia. Examples include the National Park Service Western Region CESU Conference, Environmental Design Research Association, Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture, and International Green Roof Conference.
Program Features
90
number of credit hours
GMAT/GRE
not required, but recommended if your GRP is below 3.0.
STEM
designated
3 Years
program duration
Fall or Spring
starting semesters
LAAB
accreditation
Useful Links
Attend an Information Session
If you are interested in learning more about our MLA program, please attend our in-person and virtual information sessions.
Curriculum
The academic curriculum consists of sequential and integrated design studios, core lecture and seminar courses, research and elective opportunities, including professional internships and theses.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees for College of Architecture and Planning programs.
Admission Process & Requirements
The MLA program welcomes applications from students with a variety of professional and educational backgrounds. Learn more about the MLA's admission process and requirements.
Student Testimonials
To me, landscape architecture combines a love of art, a desire to heal ecosystems, and a mission to connect people to each other. It offers the opportunity to create something beautiful, and the fulfillment of having the outcome be a shared vision, rich with meaning and utility.
Derek Updegrove
Dual Master of Landscape Architecture and Master of Urban and Regional Planning
Through the MLA program, I have had the opportunity to expand on my prior experience to weave together deep research, advocacy, and supportive designs that address social inequities, enhance climate resiliency, and benefit communities through design. Landscape architecture is truly where my passions, experience, and creative talents intersect.
Katie Finnigan
Master of Landscape Architecture (2023)Alumni Success Stories
Chandi Aldena grew up in Denver, where she spent her childhood riding her bike and playing in the fountain at Denver City Park. Chandi has traveled the world and witnessed the juxtapositions of architecture and communities across the globe. She melded a lifetime of love and knowledge of the outdoors, architecture, and community involvement into a successful career in landscape architecture.
Read Full Story
Chandi Aldena
MLA
(2013)
Colorado Community Schoolyards Director, Trust for Public Land
CU Denver graduates earn more, build community, and make connections. Take the first step toward your future and join an inclusive community of learners while gaining the skills of tomorrow, today.