
Landscape Architecture MLA
Department of Landscape Architecture
Explore this course:
You are viewing this course for 2023-24 entry. 2024-25 entry is also available.
Key details
- A Levels ABB
Other entry requirements - UCAS code K310
- 5 years / Full-time
- September start
- Accredited
- Find out the course fee
Course description
Landscape Architecture embraces all aspects of the science, planning, design, creation and management of landscape, in both urban and rural environments. It covers all scales, from the smallest garden to the greatest wilderness.
This course is sometimes referred to as an undergraduate or integrated masters. It'll take you from year one to year five of your landscape architecture education: three years study equivalent to our BA/BSc undergraduate degrees, followed by a year in practice in a professional landscape practice and a final year of study. This is a single degree: you will end up with one MLA qualification.
You’ll receive broad foundational training in landscape theories and concepts and choose whether to specialise in ecology or planning. You'll work in a Landscape practice - as a paid employee - in year four, allowing you to experience life as a professional and start thinking about the type of practice you aspire to work in.
Your final year helps to consolidate your skills and knowledge and culminates with a design project, rather than a written dissertation.
MLA Landscape Architecture students remain registered with the University for all five years of the course, which means you’ll be eligible to apply for undergraduate funding, as well as enjoy any discounts and benefits associated with being a student, during these years.
If you wish, you can exit from the MLA with a BA/BSc at the end of the third year.
Accreditation allows graduates to become a licentiate Member of the Landscape Institute, ready to start their Pathway to Chartership and become a Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI).

Modules
A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.
Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:
UCAS code: K310
Years: 2022, 2023
Before the end of your first year of study you'll choose to take either the BA (planning) or BSc (ecology) specialism. The option you choose is not reflected in the MLA degree title but you can highlight your chosen option in your CV and portfolio.
Core modules:
- Reading the Contemporary Landscape
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This module introduces students to the full scope and diversity of landscape architecture and the role of landscape architects in tackling contemporary social and environmental issues, presenting and giving examples of the areas of practice known as planning, design and management, with particular reference to the Sheffield area. The role of the Landscape Institute is also introduced. The aim of this module is to familiarise students with the range of work undertaken by landscape architects and the challenges the profession faces.
20 credits - Space Making
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An understanding of the dynamic qualities of landscape and how space is formed, manipulated and communicated is central to the discipline of landscape architecture. This introductory module equips students with a range of skills and tools that enable them to evaluate existing designed landscapes and to present proposals for new landscapes. It will provide a basic introduction to materials of landscape and develop a theoretical understanding of the design process, use of precedent and different approaches to creating original and creative design solutions. The module will also introduce a limited pallet of native and non-native vegetation. This module is an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge developed in LSC115 - Current Challenges in Planning Design and Management, and digital skills developed in LSC117 Presentation Communication and Research Skills.
20 credits - Presentation, Communication and Research Skills
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This module is about introducing students to some of the skills and knowledge needed on this course in general, in this Department, at this University and in the world of work. Communication is central to the profession of Landscape architecture in general and to this course in particular. The bulk of this module is about giving students some of the digital communication skills needed when communicating ideas in the rest of this course and, later, in the workplace.
20 credits
The module will explain and help students to understand some of the different teaching methods used in the Department of Landscape Architecture and what is expected in terms of being a reflective and critical learner.The module will also introduce some of the tools needed for academic and professional life, including navigating and using the library, correctly referencing your work and avoiding plagiarism.
The aims of the module are to:
introduce a range of digital communication methods for design, digital modelling and working with digital resources and information
introduce the principles of feedback and assessment.
introduce the use of the University Library and other online resources;
introduce the principles of correct referencing and avoiding plagiarism. - Histories of Landscape Architecture
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This course is designed firstly to provide a broad introduction to the discipline of Landscape Architecture and develop an interest in the study of designed landscapes. In order to do this it aims to create awareness and promote a working knowledge of the theoretical context of the profession including: 1. A working knowledge of the terminology defining landscape architecture, garden design and place making. 2. A basic chronology of the history of the profession. 3. A basic understanding of how various theories which have influenced landscape design are related to social, cultural, ecological (environmental) and economical contexts.
20 credits - The Changing Landscape
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This module aims to: - Introduce landscape and environmental planning as a means of intervening in landscape at the large scale. - Provide an understanding of landscape formation, change and the drivers of change. - Introduce the toolkit available to landscape planners. - Introduce the theory and technique of Landscape Character Assessment. - Develop report writing skills and visual literacy. - Introduce students to GIS. By the end of the module, students will be able to demonstrate understanding of/proficiency in: - The influences and processes that shape landscape. - The relationship between landscape planning and landscape policy. - Sourcing and interpreting landscape information. - Appreciating the (sometimes controversial) nature of landscape change. - Landscape Character and Landscape Character Assessment at an introductory level. Communicating landscape data and analysis at a planning scale in a critical imaginative and creative manner.
20 credits - The Dynamic Landscape
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This unit is designed to further develop the landscape design skills and knowledge gained in the 1st semester. The module runs over 12 weeks and will be largely studio-based, but there will be field trips and visits. Based on one site students will work through all the stages of design development from site analysis through to final presentation. Precedent will be used to inform practice and students will undertake self-directed study to build knowledge of the theoretical basis of the design approach in such settings. Students will further develop their understanding of and use of landform manipulation, vegetation and other built structures to create a variety of space and experience. Studio exercises and seminars will be central to the learning process. Particular emphasis will be placed on the interaction with water and approaches to the 'water's edge' in the landscape. Graphic skills, freehand and technical, needed to convey ideas at both the design development and the presentation stage (essential to the landscape architect ) will be developed with further teaching in the area of digital design communication. Development of the knowledge of vegetation, particularly native trees, and its use and place in the landscape will take place through taught sessions, field study and individual research.
20 credits
Core modules:
- Exploration of Contemporary Landscapes
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This module aims to engage students in current practice in landscape architecture through inquiry based learning. Contemporary issues are introduced and critiqued primarily through participation in a staff-led Field study trip. Students undertake reading and case studies analysis prior to the trip, conduct on site observations of existing landscapes and make drawings. Afterwards this is used to develop a digital portfolio on their chosen area of inquiry.
20 credits - Ecological Processes, Design & Management
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This module introduces the principles and practice of landscape ecology and ecological design and their application in a variety of contexts. Key ecological concepts such as 'biodiversity' and 'ecosystems services' are introduced and the special nature of urban ecology and its relevance to the design of urban green spaces is explored. Through lectures and site visits the structure and functioning of key UK biotypes, their characteristics and application on the designed landscape are explained, and particular emphasis is placed on the creative application of these in order to deliver ecosystems services and biodiversity. Site based project work is used to allow students to develop their own ecologically inspired concepts and designs for multifunctional green infrastructure that benefits both people and wildlife and to demonstrate their ability to communicate their knowledge of ecological principles and design to different audiences.Knowledge and skills developed will build on modules taken at level 1.
20 credits - Materials of Landscape - Planting Design
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This module introduces students to plants used by landscape architects in urban and rural landscape and how these can be used to develop effective planting design. Knowledge and skills developed will be built on in modules the following year. By the end of the module students will be familiar with a basic palette of plants for use in design, their botanical names, visual and use characteristics familiar with key aesthetic, functional and ecological principles under pinning planting design: have practised the basic principles of plant selection according to site conditions: have developed stimulating, creative, attractive and easily interpreted planting plans and sections - elevations based on colour, textural and structural characteristics: have evaluated the structural role of plants in defining landscape spaces at a range of scales.
20 credits - Materials of Landscape - Construction Design
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This module introduces the basic principles of landscape construction. It will demonstrate that construction is an integral component of the designed landscape creating its own design opportunities and constraints. Students will study the functional, aesthetic and technical properties of a range of different landscape components. They will undertake on-site observations and produce a range of contractual drawings for a small scale design project. Computer aided design will form an integral part of the project and will be used to produce technical details. This module is closely integrated with LSC234 Landscape Design, Exploration and Intervention. Students are encouraged to take forward their detailed design proposals from this module and to develop a more comprehensive understanding of material selection and the relationship with design detailing.
20 credits - Landscape Design - Exploration and Intervention
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Successful design of shared places demands innovative thinking to respond to shifting contexts and actions in a world of increasing complexity and diversity. This module focuses on approaches for generating original site-specific concepts and resolving these at a range of planning and design scales. An urban area is thoroughly explored, critiqued and communicated through on-site and multi-media activities. Students research and adapt precedent studies in art practice, urban realm interventions and emergent placemaking, and actively reflect on their own design process. These inform aims for regeneration and public engagement, the design of an urban public open space, and detailed design integrating hard and soft landscape materials.
20 credits
Optional modules:
- Landscape Planning for a Changing World
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This module explores the relationship between landscape,planning, policy and governance at different scales and in different contexts. This ranges from international decision-making frameworks down to individual sites in different contexts. Students will learn about the impact of policy and ideas on landscape and vice versa, and explore the role of landscape planning tools, techniques and methodologies within the wider planning framework. The module will examine how decisions about landscape are made and the effects they have from the strategic to the site scale.
20 credits
- Landscape Ecology - Habitat Survey Techniques
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This module will allow student to:
20 credits
* Introduce students to a range of ecological survey techniques.
* Improve their identification skills and knowledge of UK flora and fauna.
* Provide an opportunity for students to synthesise field data, review published science data and formulate a professional report.
By the end of the unit students should be able to demonstrate the ability to: *apply basic ecological survey techniques: Phase 1 and Phase 2 habitat surveys: * understand the importance of plant, bird, badger and bat surveys, and the use of key indicators: *identify advantages/constraints of different surveying approaches: *develop field craft skills: *appraise the ecological value of a particular site: *provide a concise scientifically-documented report on the ecological value of one of the sites surveyed: *understand conservation measures and related management approaches.
Core modules:
- Sustainable Communities
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Sustainable communities is a module focusing on people and landscape. It introduces students to the theories and practice of the social nature of sustainable communities with a particular emphasis on vulnerable users. It provides the foundation to develop an understanding about planning, designing and managing landscapes for users needs and desires.
20 credits - Site Planning For Sustainable Housing
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This module will introduce the context and requirements of sustainable housing provision with a particular emphasis on how this might be achieved through a holistic landscape vision. It will provide the opportunity to explore different approaches to the sustainable development of a housing site, socially, ecologically and economically. By the end of this module students will be able to demonstrate 1. an understanding as to how different housing theories and typologies affect sustainability. 2. an awareness of the political and financial issues surrounding the provision of housing. 3. Their ability to challenge conventional ideas about living and housing. 4. How a specific layout contributes to social, economical and ecological sustainability. 5. An understanding of the design process from writing a brief to masterplanning, and skills in communicating design proposals.
20 credits - Integrated Urban Design Project
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The integrated urban design focuses on developing proposals for an area of urban greenspace regeneration from the initial planning strategies through to site masterplanning and detailed design. The module is closely integrated with the Materials of Landscape module LSC333, and also draws on and applies theoretical material delivered in specialist Ecology and Planning modules. The module requires students to develop their own design manifesto in response to the client brief and also in response to contemporary social and environmental challenges. The module looks to build on skills in landscape spatial design and communication through a reflective design research process which also draws on and applies critical analysis of relevant precedent studies.
20 credits - Materials of Landscape - Detailed Design
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This module further develops knowledge and skills in detailed landscape design. It is focussed on developing the ability in students to demonstrate appreciation and knowledge of landscape materiality and the integration of organic and inorganic elements. It enables students to: produce a range of working drawings which appropriately communicate the detailed design of soft and hard elements; select vegetation and hard materials in response to site conditions and design framework; demonstrate understanding of plant production and establishment techniques and appropriate construction techniques. It is integrated with LSC332 Integrated Urban Design Project, in that it follows the same overall development brief and site, and materiality exploration will feed into the design work you produce for that module (design strategy, masterplan, detail design).
20 credits
This module forms part of a programme of study accredited by the Landscape Institute.
Optional module:
- Landscape Planning Toolkits
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On completing this module students will:- have gained an overview of contemporary landscape planning tools- be aware of the legislative basis to environmental impact assessment and the circumstances in which it is likely to take place- understand the scope of the process and the steps that are involved, distinguishing between the assessment process itself and the environmental statement- have gained knowledge and understanding of the range of environmental topics covered in environmental impact assessment and the techniques involved- have understood the place that considerations of landscape and visual impact play in the process- have gained practical experience of assessing the landscape and visual impacts of a development scheme- understand some of the methods of presenting information on landscape and visual impacts in an environmental statement.
20 credits - Landscape Planning - Urban Regeneration
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This module addresses the patterns and processes of urban development, examining theories and typologies of urban form, the drivers of urban change and urban regeneration. It investigates the relationship between urban form and urban greenspace and the implications for green infrastructure. Students are expected to research and present understanding of a core component of relevant literature, and relate this to examples of urban form, and to devise a masterplan for a previously developed site in Sheffield, drawing on their understanding of history and theory of urban development and using precedent to inform their approach. The course uses a mixture of lectures, field work, workshops and studio based independent study to provide insight into planning and design approaches and languages relevant to successful urban regeneration. It aims to give students knowledge and understanding of the complex planning and design frameworks within which different aspects of urban regeneration take place.
20 credits - Green Infrastructure and Ecological Masterplanning
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This module aims, through a site-based project, to apply the principles of ecological design and sustainable landscape management to a medium-large unit of urban greenspace. The integration of scientific ecological knowledge with creative design skills is central to the module. Emphasis is placed on enhancing biodiversity and developing appropriate vegetation types, while at the same time catering for the needs of site users. The importance of urban green networks and green links is stressed. Emphasis is placed on the use of locally appropriate species and habitats. The module will introduce students to knowledge and techniques applicable to specified topics within landscape ecology, ecological design, and ecological landscape management and enable students to undertake independent research into specified topics and apply their findings to tightly defined design or management scenarios. Specific focus is given to environmental engineering topics such as green roofs and water sensitive design, and their relationship with urban biodiversity
20 credits - Landscape Ecology - Habitat Creation and Restoration
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This module will introduce students to the theory and practice of restoration ecology and vegetation management. It will provide the rationale as to why certain landscapes become degraded and require restoration. Students will develop an awareness of habitat creation and the appropriate design / management strategies that can be employed to enhance the value of a site for wildlife. It additionally aims to provide students with the practical knowledge and skills to optimise landscape management for biodiversity and provides experience in developing a fully integrated Management Plan.
20 credits
By the end of this module students will:
Understand and apply a range of appropriate restoration techniques to different habitat types.
Appreciate the historical legacy surrounding key landscape / habitat types.
Identify the factors that constitute a degraded landscape.
Identify key characteristics that define 'high-value biodiversity' habitats.
Implement designs that promote ecological function and habitat creation.
Devise restoration and management plans that complement the design objectives, and ensure the on-going improvement of the site/s for wildlife and other key agreed objectives.
Put into practice a number of important habitat management techniques.
Core modules:
- Landscape Architecture Integrated Masters Year in Practice
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This module enables students to spend their fourth year of the 5-year Integrated Masters working in a 'course relevant' role in industry. Students will secure their own, 9 months plus (fte), placement in a 'course relevant' organisation. This enables them to gain wide ranging experiences and opportunities that put their academic studies into context and improve their professional skills. Students will also benefit from experiencing the culture in industry, making contacts, and the placement will support them in their preparation for subsequent employment. Students will be expected to undertake at least 9 months in a relevant industry placement though the experience could be spread over 2 organisations or types of activity either simultaneously or consecutively. Students will complete a pre placement Skills and Knowledge self assessment. During the placement, they will maintain a Skills and Knowledge record, prepare a self-reflection document and also develop a visual portfolio, to be reviewed at 'checkpoints' during the year, and submitted at the end of the module.
120 credits
Core modules:
- Special Project: Research and Development Study
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The aim of the module is to produce a brief for the Special Project (LSC6005). The project brief: describes and defines the site/study area and proposed development or regeneration, its context and issues; establishes a clear design/planning/management brief; rationale and approach for the Special Project; and forms the basis for independent critique of the proposal. The brief requires to be underpinned by well-documented research - of (a) site/study area characteristics; (b) underlying science, social science and policy, and (c) precedent studies of comparable real-world projects. This unit aims to ensure that students a) have produced a viable proposal for their Special Project that is clear and comprehensible to an independent reviewer and b) have researched their Special Project in terms of relevant knowledge, policy and practice.
15 credits
This module forms part of a programme of study accredited by the Landscape Institute.
- Landscape Professional Practice
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The aim of this module is to provide students with an introduction to elements of the landscape profession that they will require to understand in order to become practising Landscape Architects and, in time, Chartered Members of the Landscape Institute. Three subject areas are covered; Professional Practice, Landscape and Environmental Law and Landscape Contracts. These will touch upon issues relating to being a professional landscape architect, relevant landscape and environmental law and contract law as it applies to the practice of landscape architecture and the nature, forms and use of contracts used in the landscape profession.
15 credits - Special Project
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The Special Project aims to test your readiness to enter the landscape profession. It requires you to complete an independent project from start to finish to a professional standard. You will select a project covering different strands of landscape architecture, including planning, design, or management, or combinations of these. Whatever your choice, the aim is to demonstrate that you can integrate the knowledge and skills that you have gained in the previous parts of your programme and can apply them in an appropriate way to address the issues posed by your chosen project. Working on your own initiative, with tutors acting as advisors and consultants, you are required to identify a site or study area, collect and evaluate relevant background information, carry out appropriate surveys, develop plans, strategies and/or designs at an appropriate level of detail and communicate your findings and proposals through appropriate outputs, including a public exhibition.
50 credits
Optional modules:
- Urban Futures
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This module speculates on the future of urban landscapes, examining the processes that underpin changes in the nature, materiality and experience of this growing area of landscape practice. It will provide students with advanced skills and introduce ways of interrogating current theories and practice while going beyond existing policy frameworks to develop creative and speculative propositions for landscape architecture in future cities.
20 credits
This module forms part of a programme of study accredited by the Landscape Institute. - Managing the Landscape
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This module aims to introduce students to landscape management, with particular focus on urban landscape management. It deals with the interactions between place, people and plants and how the function of open and green space is dependent on effective management and can be affected by who is involved and how decisions are made. The module highlights the social, political, cultural, economic, ecological, environmental and temporal dynamics that need to be considered when developing management strategies and plans for a given area. Students will explore how strategic approaches to greenspace management are made by considering who pays, who cares, who uses these spaces, and crucially, who makes the decisions and how. Students will develop their own management plans to improve one specific green space.
20 credits - Equity and Participation in Place Change
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This module enables students to explore cultural and social dimensions of place, histories of change and future interventions; with a particular focus on questioning issues of equity and inclusion in these processes. Areas of enquiry will typically include aspects of environmental access, race and representation of diversity including problematic histories, protest and gentrification, but will also in part be informed by current events. In discussing these 'problem spaces' students draw on decolonialised approaches to knowledge through learning from local and global exemplars, their own personal histories, and from guest contributors from diverse backgrounds who provide expertise outside of academia. The module also addresses the role of the Landscape Architect and ethical inclusive practice, giving an introduction to participatory methods and intercultural competencies. The module offers a standalone specialism, but additionally supports students who wish to develop and embed expertise in these areas either through spatial practice (Special Project) or research (Dissertation).
20 credits - Strategic Landscape Planning
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Landscape planning has become a major area of interest and activity for landscape professionals. This module aims to provide a good understanding of current issues in landscape planning in the context of the growing emphasis on sustainability and future landscapes. It introduces some of the big issues of the day including the future of peri-urban and rural landscapes, meeting the demand for new housing, the urban-rural divide, new measures for energy, new woodland strategies and industrial development. It also aims to develop familiarity with key organisations involved in landscape and to develop practical experience of some of the practical approaches to landscape planning in current use.
20 credits - Urban Design Project
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This module aims to provide an opportunity to further advance design skills within the built and open space context of urban design. Their practical application for landscape professionals will be studied. The project emphasises socially sustainable and user-orientated approaches to urban design and regeneration (responsive design). Building/landscape relationships and the role buildings play in shaping and influencing urban spaces and vice versa are studied through detailed and strategic design of landscapes that are primarily built (rather than planted). Opportunities to experience team work form an important part of the module as do the production of innovative visual presentations and portfolio development using digital and other media.
20 credits - Maintaining Green Infrastructure
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This module aims to develop student understanding of the maintenance and management of greenspace. The relationship between management and maintenance are discussed and the consequences of failure to integrate these. Current management approaches to care of landscapes are discussed, and how best value can be delivered on the ground through innovative practice. All of the major types of greenspace vegetation are discussed and their maintenance management reviewed from a contemporary needs perspective. The unit adopts a multidisciplinary approach and in addition to technical issues, also aims to address the underlying ideas and philosophies, which currently impinge, both positively and negatively upon the care and development of greenspace.
20 credits
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption. We are no longer offering unrestricted module choice. If your course included unrestricted modules, your department will provide a list of modules from their own and other subject areas that you can choose from.
Learning and assessment
Learning
The studio is the heart of learning and is where you’ll participate in workshops, small group seminars, tutorials and project reviews. Studio learning is supported by lectures, site visits and field trips.
Our world-renowned academics are regularly sought out to work on prestigious projects like London’s Olympic Park and through their research, contribute to influencing policy and shaping landscape practice.
We enjoy strong links with some of the best-known names in our profession and regularly welcome leading practitioners, including Piet Oudolf, Martha Schwartz and Charlie Burrell, to deliver guest lectures.
Assessment
You will be assessed through group and individual coursework, which may include design portfolios, written reports or presentations.
Feedback will be given throughout the semester via tutorials, interim and peer reviews.
The year in practice is assessed through a self-assessment of skills, a record of skills and knowledge gained and a portfolio.
You'll receive a graded mark (a first, 2:1, 2:2 etc) based on your grade point average of the type awarded in undergraduate degrees, including the BA/BSc that forms part of the modular route. The weighting of the different levels in the MLA is as follows:
- level 1 - not included
- level 2 - single weighting
- level 3 - double weighting
- level 4 (final year) - double weighting
Programme specification
This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.
Entry requirements
With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
ABB
A Levels + additional qualifications BBB + B in a relevant EPQ
International Baccalaureate 33
BTEC Extended Diploma DDD in a relevant subject
Scottish Highers AAABB
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels B + AB
Access to HE Diploma Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit
Other requirements-
Art and Design qualifications are not a requirement but evidence of potential in drawing and graphic communication is highly desirable
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Evidence of artistic ability in the form of a portfolio is also required
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
BBB
A Levels + additional qualifications BBB + B in a relevant EPQ
International Baccalaureate 32
BTEC Extended Diploma DDM in a relevant subject
Scottish Highers AABBB
Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels B + BB
Access to HE Diploma Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 at Distinction and 21 at Merit
Other requirements-
Art and Design qualifications are not a requirement but evidence of potential in drawing and graphic communication is highly desirable
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Evidence of artistic ability in the form of a portfolio is also required
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.
Department of Landscape Architecture

Landscape architecture is about the design, planning and management of places that benefit people and nature. Landscape architects create spaces between buildings that are both inspirational and functional. If you have a flair for creativity and a passion for improving the environment and people's lives, then landscape architecture could be for you.
You'll learn from experts who are involved in some of the most exciting landscape design work in the world today.
Sheffield is a dynamic city and an ideal place in which to study landscape architecture. Its changing face has been shaped by department-led initiatives like Grey to Green and Love Square, which give students the chance to be involved with live projects and see the difference landscape architecture can make. Sheffield combines the urban with awe-inspiring views of the neighbouring Peak District, making it a rich learning and research environment.
Department of Landscape Architecture students are based in the Arts Tower; an iconic building with panoramic views across Sheffield. You'll also attend lectures at venues across campus and travel further afield for site visits.
Facilities
Our studios facilitate digital and hands-on design practice and are equipped with everything you’ll need, including drawing boards, a wireless network and kitchen space.
Department computer suites come supplied with recently upgraded, high specification computers, a range of industry standard and specialist software and are supported by an in-house team of IT and graphics experts.
Why choose Sheffield?
The University of Sheffield
A top 100 university
QS World University Rankings 2023
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022
No 1 Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
A top 10 university targeted by employers
The Graduate Market in 2022, High Fliers report
Department of Landscape Architecture
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022
National Student Survey 2022
Complete University Guide 2022
Graduate careers
Department of Landscape Architecture
As a Landscape Architecture graduate you will find yourself in high demand. Regular employability support and networking activities during your time at Sheffield will prepare you well for these future opportunities. Leading industry figures attend our end-of-year exhibition and regularly advertise vacancies with us. Our graduates work all over the world and find employment in private practice, community development agencies, local authorities and national governments.
Alumni include a former President of the International Federation of Landscape Architects and multiple RHS medal winners.
My time in Sheffield changed my mind, and that which I learned in the Department shaped my career, allowing me to develop in different ways to undertake my professional practice
Gloria Aponte
Distinguished alumna of the Department of Landscape who was recently awarded the President’s Award from International Federation of Landscape Architects
Fees and funding
Fees
The MLA is charged at the undergraduate rate: four years of undergraduate fees, plus the fee for the year in practice which is equivalent to 13% of the undergraduate fee.
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Additional funding
The MLA allows Home fee status students to claim undergraduate funding from Student Finance for the full five years of their programme, including the year in practice.
If you are a Home fee paying student receiving funding from Student Finance on the MLA and are interested in doing more than one year out for the year in practice, you'll need to get permission from Student Finance if you want to continue to receive funding for the duration of the programme.
Past experience suggests that this is possible, but each application has to be considered by Student Finance on its own merits. It may be difficult to get permission to take more than two years out.
Visit us
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply for this course
Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.
How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
www.ucas.com
Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.
Contact us
Telephone: +44 114 222 0602
Email: landscape-admissions@sheffield.ac.uk
The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.