Master of Landscape Architecture
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1 & 3
- Duration
- 3 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
-
Kensington
- Codes
- Program code 8136
- CRICOS code 094952G
-
2026 Indicative first year full fee
- $39,000*
-
2026 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $123,000*
-
2026 Indicative first year full fee
- $49,000*
-
2026 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $157,500*
Entry Requirements
Fees
Fees
-
Design studios
-
Professional accreditation
-
Research project
Admissions update for international students
Some programs are at capacity for 2026 intakes and new applications are closed to New Overseas Student Commencement (NOSC). Applications to all 2027 intakes are open.
Click to find our latest updates for international student admissions.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
Shape open spaces that benefit people and the planet with the UNSW Master of Landscape Architecture – Australia’s longest-running accredited program of its kind. In this hands-on postgraduate degree, you’ll explore design principles, graphic techniques, ecological processes and the ways people shape the environment.
In your final year, you’ll bring these ideas together through a capstone studio sequence and complete an independent research-based project. Graduate with the skills and experience to become a registered landscape architect and lead landscape architecture projects in local, regional and global contexts.
As a registered landscape architect, you’ll combine art and science to plan, design and manage environments that protect ecology and celebrate cultural values. You could work with cities and communities around the world, designing open spaces in response to challenges such as urbanisation, sustainability and climate change.
Key features
Hands-on studio learning
Build practical skills through a studio-based learning environment that mirrors professional practice. You’ll explore landscape architecture through both theory and design projects, developing expertise in landscape technology, systems thinking and spatial design.
Design for people, place and ecology
Learn how landscapes connect people, culture and the natural environment. Through subject areas such as urban ecology, planting design and landscape heritage, you’ll develop strategies that support biodiversity, climate resilience and meaningful public spaces.
Accredited pathway to professional practice
The UNSW Master of Landscape Architecture is recognised by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA), supporting your pathway toward professional registration and practice in Australia.
Why study at UNSW?
Learn at a globally recognised design faculty
Ranked #23 globally for Architecture & Built Environment (QS World Rankings by Subject, 2025), UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture is known for design innovation, research excellence and real-world impact. Study in a faculty shaping the future of cities, landscapes and the built environment.
Benefit from strong industry links and partnerships
UNSW has been recognised for producing Australia’s most employable students for seven years in a row (AFR Top100 Future Leaders & Graduate Employers Awards, 2020–2026). Through strong industry partnerships, research-informed teaching and a global alumni network, you’ll have opportunities to engage with industry and explore potential career pathways.
Develop an adaptive, future-focused mindset
At UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture, you’ll learn to approach landscape architecture with ethical, environmental and cultural awareness. Through real-world practice and collaboration with leading academics and practitioners, you’ll develop innovative ways to address complex challenges and contribute to more sustainable and socially responsible landscapes.
Want to see more from UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture?
Entry requirements
There are two different entry pathways to the Master of Landscape Architecture. The stream you apply for will depend on the depth of your prior experience, and how closely it relates to landscape architecture.
You may be eligible to have your study recognised via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). If your prior study is recognised, credit points can be counted towards the Master of Landscape Architecture, and you would then be able to complete the coursework undertaking fewer subjects.
For all streams, you will need to meet the following admission requirements to be considered for entry into the program:
- Have achieved a credit average (Weighted Average Mark 65+) in your bachelor’s degree
- Submit a portfolio*
- Provide a personal statement
Stream B - for students who have studied a closely related discipline
You apply for this stream if you studied an undergraduate degree in a discipline closely related to landscape architecture**. You can apply to have your study recognised via RPL. If your prior study is recognised, up to 48 units of credit (UOC) can be counted towards the Master of Landscape Architecture. You would then be able to complete the degree in two years, undertaking fewer subjects.
Stream C - for students who have completed a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
You apply for this stream if you studied a four-year, accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. You can apply to have your study recognised via RPL. If your prior study is recognised, up to 96 units of credit (UOC) can be counted towards the Master of Landscape Architecture. You would then be able to complete the degree in one year.
*Portfolio
Your portfolio needs to be submitted in a clear, digital format. It should include sample works from your previous experience and written explanations of all projects. Work from your previous degree may form part of the portfolio, but you need to clearly state what your role and contribution was. Other creative work can also be included.
**Related disciplines
Disciplines that are considered a ‘closely related discipline’ are:
- Architecture
- Urban design
- Urban planning
- Interior architecture
- Interior design
- Landscape design
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
There are two different entry pathways to the Master of Landscape Architecture. The stream you apply for will depend on the depth of your prior experience, and how closely it relates to landscape architecture.
You may be eligible to have your study recognised via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). If your prior study is recognised, credit points can be counted towards the Master of Landscape Architecture, and you would then be able to complete the coursework undertaking fewer subjects.
For all streams, you will need to meet the following admission requirements to be considered for entry into the program:
- Have achieved a credit average (Weighted Average Mark 65+) in your bachelor’s degree
- Submit a portfolio*
- Provide a personal statement
Stream B - for students who have studied a closely related discipline
You apply for this stream if you studied an undergraduate degree in a discipline closely related to landscape architecture**. You can apply to have your study recognised via RPL. If your prior study is recognised, up to 48 units of credit (UOC) can be counted towards the Master of Landscape Architecture. You would then be able to complete the degree in two years, undertaking fewer subjects.
Stream C - for students who have completed a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
You apply for this stream if you studied a four-year, accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. You can apply to have your study recognised via RPL. If your prior study is recognised, up to 96 units of credit (UOC) can be counted towards the Master of Landscape Architecture. You would then be able to complete the degree in one year.
*Portfolio
Your portfolio needs to be submitted in a clear, digital format. It should include sample works from your previous experience and written explanations of all projects. Work from your previous degree may form part of the portfolio, but you need to clearly state what your role and contribution was. Other creative work can also be included.
**Related disciplines
Disciplines that are considered a ‘closely related discipline’ are:
- Architecture
- Urban design
- Urban planning
- Interior architecture
- Interior design
- Landscape design
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
What will I study?
UNSW is introducing a new academic calendar from 2028.
We are moving to a new flex-semester calendar. What does this mean for your studies?
Program structure
The UNSW Master of Landscape Architecture is a hands-on postgraduate program that engages with the Sydney region as its landscape laboratory. The core of the program is the design studio sequence, with each studio supported by a skill and/or knowledge-based course.
In addition, elective courses provide opportunities to pursue interdisciplinary, specialised interests across Arts, Design & Architecture, particularly in the areas of Urban Design and City Analytics. The program culminates in a final-year capstone studio sequence, where you will undertake an independent research-based design project.
Full program structure
Please note that from Term 1, 2027, there will be two ways to complete the Master of Landscape Architecture. The current stream A will be discontinued.
Stream B is for students who have studied a closely related discipline, while Stream C is for students who have completed a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture.
Below is a summary of what you will study in each available stream of the program.
Stream B – for students who have studied a closely related discipline
Two years | 16 courses | 96 units of credit (UOC)
- 9x core landscape architecture courses
- 4x elective courses
- 3x landscape studio courses
You may take one of the following specialisations instead of 24 UOC of Elective courses. Refer to 8136 Landscape Architecture for specialisation requirements.
- Urban Design
- City Analytics
Stream C – for students who have completed a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
One year | 8 courses | 48 units of credit (UOC)
- 3x core landscape architecture courses
- 2x elective courses across five areas of focus:
- Urban History and Theory
- Urban Design and Planning
- Communications and Visualisation
- Social Agency and Equity
- Performance: environmental and social
- 3x landscape studio courses: These are practice based and related to your final independent research project, also known as your capstone project.
For more information on the different streams, please visit the Handbook.
Future careers
As urbanisation, population growth and climate change continue to shape cities and communities, there’s growing demand for professionals who work at the intersection of sustainable design, ecology and social policy. Demand for landscape architects in Australia is projected to grow by 16.8% over the next five years, with the role attracting a typical salary of around $85,000 to $105,000 depending on experience (Seek, 2026).
The Master of Landscape Architecture prepares you to become a registered landscape architect and pursue other careers that shape how people experience cities, public spaces and natural environments.
Potential careers
- Academic
- Artist
- Environmental manager
- Heritage consultant
- Landscape project officer and/or manager
- Project manager
- Public domain manager
- Recreation manager
- Registered landscape architect
- Strategic planner
- Sustainability specialist in government agencies
- Urban designer
- Urban landscape designer
Accreditation
You will be eligible for professional accreditation with the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For details, visit the international admissions information page.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the degree/program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Commonwealth Study Assistance such as Ausstudy, and Youth Allowance is available for some Masters degrees. For the most up-to-date information and list of degrees visit UNSW Current Student Financial Support.
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average using historical student enrolment patterns for each program, which may change every year. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year you enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative first year fees are for tuition only. Indicative fees to complete the degree/program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year and have been calculated based on percentage increase for every year of the degree/program, noting that actual fee increase may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Other fees and charges are not included. To find out more about other costs for international students, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Progress starts here – at a world-leading university
Top 20 Worldwide
UNSW is ranked #20 university in the world
QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026
Most Employable Graduates
Winner of the AFR Most Employable University Award seven years in a row
AFR Top100 Future Leaders & Graduate Employers Awards, 2020–2026
Australia's #1 for Innovation
Highest number of startups and spinouts from university-developed tech
SCOPR report, 2024
