About the programme
The Master of Landscape Architecture is an NZQF level 9 programme at Lincoln University in New Zealand, which the university describes as the international standard for landscape architecture education. It comes in two versions: 240 credits over two years or 120 credits over one year, depending on prior study.
The two-year version is for people with a degree in any other discipline and no accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA); it leads to a degree accredited by the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects (NZILA). The one-year version is for accredited BLA graduates who want more advanced or specialised study, such as evidence-based design. Graduates are eligible to become registered professionals.
The programme builds a solid foundation in landscape design and planning and develops critical thinking through real-world experience. Specialist topics include landscape and urban ecology, resilient landscape design, sustainable communities, structure planning, urban and rural landscapes and indigenous Māori landscape design. Students learn site inventory and analysis, landscape assessment, site engineering and stormwater management, plant and material selection, specification writing and contract administration, and how to work within public policy and statutory processes. Teaching is by the School of Landscape Architecture, New Zealand's longest-established training institution in the field, with an international reputation.
The two-year version has ten 20-credit courses and a 40-credit dissertation (a small research project); the one-year version has four courses and the same 40-credit dissertation. Graduates may go on to PhD study. Study is on the Lincoln University campus.
The degree suits both career changers who want to become landscape architects and BLA graduates seeking specialisation.
Entry requirements
- 240-credit version: at least 2nd class division 1 honours, or a 70% average in 300-level and higher courses and in the final year overall
- A portfolio showing design skills and creativity (landscape, representational or technical drawings, paintings, photography or computer graphics)
- Basic Vectorworks or AutoCAD skills, shown through the portfolio or a certificate from an online course
- 120-credit version: BLA graduates with first class or second class division one honours are eligible for direct entry
- Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements
What you study
- Advanced Design Project
- Advanced Site Design
- Advanced Practice in Landscape Architecture
- Advanced Theory in Landscape Architecture
- Advanced Design Study
- Landscape Assessment
- Advanced Site Engineering and Design Detailing
- Research Issues, Research Essay, Research Placement
- DESN 602 — Design Process and Critique; LASC 615 — Advanced Landscape Planning and Policy (options in the 120-credit version)
- Dissertation (small research project) — 40 credits
Careers after graduation
- Landscape architect
- Running your own practice
- Working for a landscape architecture firm
- Roles in government organisations
- Collaboration with ecologists, architects, planners and engineers
- Progression to PhD study
Post-study work visa
Up to 3 years
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Lincoln University website