Master of Landscape Architecture

I Want to Make a Difference

The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) will help prepare you for leadership and interdisciplinary teamwork that will sustain the urban, regional, and global landscape in a prosperous and dynamic equilibrium.

MLA Class of 2024 group photo in front of the DAAPworks branding outside the fifth floor of DAAP.

This STEM MLA program is an immersive experience with a curriculum that promotes the synthesis of art and science to balance human activity with natural systems.

The Master of Landscape Architecture is the only one in the nation to require a full semester of co-op study. The licensed profession of landscape architecture has led the way in sustainable, landscape design for more than 100 years. Our alumni are leading projects to implement urban design and green infrastructure, reclaim exhausted and damaged lands, revitalize neighborhoods, enhance community development, and advance projects of local significance.

A uniqueness to our MLA program is that it can be completed in two-years. Our program begins each summer followed by 5 consecutive semesters with one of those a Co-op semester.


Student Testimonials

DAAP prepares students for the practice of landscape architecture, not just the study of landscape architecture. I chose to study at UC to be a practitioner, not just a student.

Rachel Carr

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Rachel Carr

MLA '25, School of Planning

Bachelor of Political Science | University of Dayton | USA

I chose DAAP to be part of a large design college surrounded by creativity. There's a wide range of electives and certificates and access to fabrication labs that really enhance our education. These things, along with my program's mission to make a difference and its focus on urban environments, brought me here.

Jessica Frazier

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Jessica Frazier

MLA '24, School of Planning

Bachelor of International Relations & Bachelor of Asian Studies | Berea College | USA

I was always inclined toward designing, especially outdoor spaces. Landscape Architecture is a unique field as it is a perfect blend of urban planning and architecture. DAAP offers a concise two-year program that includes a Co-op experience, drawing me here.

Ayesha Syed

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Ayesha Syed

MLA '24, School of Planning

Bachelor of Engineering, Civil | Gujarat Technological University | India

After moving through the horticulture industry from urban agriculture to landscape design and build, I decided that I needed to further my education if I wanted to refine my creative abilities and apply them to large-scaled, complex, social and environmental projects. After numerous hours of research and outreach, it was an easy decision to pursue my MLA at the University of Cincinnati.

Taft Marsh

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Taft Marsh

MLA '24, School of Planning

Bachelor of Arts in Botany with a Horticulture Minor | Miami University | USA.


Student Work


Curriculum, Accreditation & Licensure

The Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) degree is an accredited program recognized by the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB). The MLA program’s next scheduled accreditation review is Spring 2027.

The University of Cincinnati’s Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) degree is an accredited program recognized by the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB).   The Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) writes, administers, and grades the Landscape Architecture Registration Examination (LARE).

Many states now allow applicants to begin taking the exam following graduation – but not all.  CLARB provides the latest information on state rules regarding when

Applicants can begin taking the exam.  The Ohio Licensing Board provides information for applications for landscape architecture licensure.

The Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB; asla.org/accreditationlaab.aspx) requires public posting of this information about the Master of Landscape Architecture Program. 

The University of Cincinnati is ranked fourth in the nation for co-op and internships (U.S. News Best Colleges 2022).

  • Summer Co-ops: Our Master of Landscape Architecture students embark on a valuable co-op experience during summer, laying the foundation for practical skills and industry insights.
  • Triple Opportunity: Students have the chance to participate in up to three co-ops, creating a rich and varied resume before graduation.
  • Real-world Exposure: Early engagement in real-world projects ensures that our graduates are not just degreed but also well-prepared with hands-on experience.
  • Practical Skills: The emphasis is on building practical skills alongside academic knowledge, making our graduates highly equipped for the professional landscape architecture field.


Master of Landscape Architecture Admissions

The University of Cincinnati’s Master of Landscape Architecture program features an immersive experience and a proven curriculum. Interested in learning more? Check out our admissions requirements or request more information.

DAAP Graduate Admissions Staff:

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Lora D Alberto

Program Director for Graduate Studies and Research

513-556-1121


Connect with our MLA Graduate Program

MLA Program Director:

Headshot of Barry W. Kew, PLA, ASLA

Barry W. Kew, PLA, ASLA

MLA Program Staff:

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Andrea Jeffers

Program Coordinator

MLA Graduate Student Ambassador:

Headshot of Jessica Frazier

Jessica Frazier

Graduate Student


MLA Faculty

Headshot of Barry W Kew

Barry W Kew

Professor - Educator

513-556-0984

Headshot of Sangyong  Cho

Sangyong Cho

Asst Professor

513-556-4943

Headshot of Jane Bian

Jane Bian

Asst Professor

513-556-1135

Headshot of Leah M. Hollstein

Leah M. Hollstein

Assoc Professor

513-556-4823

Headshot of Frederick E. Lutt

Frederick E. Lutt

Assoc Professor - Educator

513-703-0249

Headshot of Stevie Famulari

Stevie Famulari

Asst Professor - Visiting

513-556-4943

Headshot of Hye Yeon Park

Hye Yeon Park

Asst Professor - Visiting

513-556-4943


Stay Connected with the School of Planning