Master of Science in Landscape Architecture

The Master of Science in Landscape Architecture is a two-year program that provides research expertise to individuals who already hold a professionally-accredited degree in landscape architecture or architecture. The M.S. degree program is a great opportunity for those who seek to gain research skills for success in professional practice or academic positions.
In this research-focused degree, you team up with outstanding faculty across Penn State on a targeted research agenda that may range from developing an app for participatory resilient landscape design to studying the impact of socio-cultural context on environmentally responsive behavior. You and your adviser develop your topic and a tailored curricular path to meet your goals.

Students in this program have the opportunity to participate in sponsored research within our school's centers, as well as in centers and institutes across the University.
Our M.S. program also offers opportunities to expand your education by earning a certificate in Geodesign or by pursuing a dual-title degree in landscape architecture and human dimensions of natural resources and the environment.

To be admitted to the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
For admission to the M.S. in Landscape Architecture, applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture or a closely related discipline.
All submissions for admission must include:

Evidence of creativity (portfolio or other), evidence of analytical ability (research paper or other), and an essay explaining why the individual seeks to study landscape architecture at Penn State
Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
GRE scores
3 letters of recommendation Scores from the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE), or from a comparable substitute examination, are required for admission.

Students with a 3.00 junior/senior average (on a 4.00 scale) will be considered for admission. The best-qualified applicants will be accepted up to the number of spaces available for new students. Exceptions to the minimum 3.00 grade-point average may be made for students with special backgrounds, abilities, and interests, at the discretion of the program. International applicants must take and submit scores for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), with the exceptions noted below. The minimum acceptable score for the TOEFL is 550 for the paper-based test, 213 for the computer-based test, or a total score of 80 with a 19 on the speaking section for the Internet-based test (iBT). Applicants with iBT speaking scores between 15 and 18 may be considered for provisaaional admission, enrollment, and, if necessary, remedial course work. The minimum composite score for the IELTS is 6.5. Revised TOEFL PBT July 2017 and later 60