Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)

Programme Structure

The structure of the Master of Landscape Architecture follows the IFLA (International Federation of Landscape Architects) accreditation requirements. It is divided into four semesters. Each semester comprises one studio course and three taught courses that are related to the studio. Studio courses are successively becoming of larger scale and complexity. The final semester consists of a landscape workshop and a combined research and design thesis assignment. The Master of Landscape Architecture is oriented to local and regional contexts of landscape design in the Mediterranean area within the confines imposed by IFLA Europe requirements, and focuses on:

• The landscape design process; site analysis through to the final design
• Theory and History of Landscape Architecture
• Contemporary Issues in Landscape Architecture
• Ecology, environment and community (sustainable development and landscape conservation)
• Planting approaches and materiality (planting design and landscaping technology)
• Landscape restoration and conservation
• Culture and heritage of the built and natural environment

The areas of knowledge that are provided in the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) are:

• Landscape Design
• Theory and History of Landscape
• Ecology and Sustainability
• Techniques of Construction Landscape
• Techniques of Representation-Landscape Design
• Professional Practices

First semester

The First Semester in the Master of Landscape Architecture is an intensive introduction period where students are acquainted with the principals of landscape design, landscape history and theory, landscape construction and planting technology. The design studio plays an important role in the teaching and learning of Landscape Architecture with students working on projects individually and in groups with guidance from faculty staff.  The design projects are in conjunction with tutorials, workshops, lectures, seminars and site visits. The design studio concerns the design of small scale interventions in the natural and man-made environment.

Second semester

The Master of Landscape Architecture continues with advanced studio-based teaching and learning, building on the foundation of knowledge gained in the first semester.  The design studio deals with the design of large-scale sites: urban, suburban and rural sites, waterfront areas and water-edge developments, national wetlands, marine habitats, river sites etc. Students are introduced to environmental design, ecology, environment and community courses. Particular emphasis is given to Mediterranean conditions.

Third semester

The Master of Landscape Architecture consists of the research and design thesis proposed by the student to explore a subject of special interest. A prerequisite tutorial seminar aims to aid students in the preparation of their research thesis on a subject relating directly to their design thesis. Students will be assigned a supervisor who will offer guidance on their proposal and at each stage of the development of their final design. Visiting professors/distinguished professionals and students from other universities will be invited to participate in the International Landscape Workshop which consists of a series of lectures, field study trips, group tutorials and studio work. The range of themes to be examined during the International Landscape Workshop covers the most challenging concerns for the landscape of Cyprus and the Mediterranean (e.g. cultural landscapes, waterfront residential or touristic areas, natural coastal and in-land environments).

Fourth semester

The principal activity of the last semester of the Master of Landscape Architecture is the research and a dissertation on a subject of interest among students. It is the opportunity for each student to synthesize knowledge in the field of Landscape Architecture and investigate new issues, presenting liberal ideas. The workshop this semester covers the most sensitive landscapes of Cyprus, such as cultural landscapes, touristic coastal areas, natural landscapes, coastal and inland.

Career Prospects

The graduates of the Master of Landscape Architecture can be employed in consulting offices, educational institutions and other public and private entities. The Master in Landscape Architecture follows the standards of the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) of European Schools of Landscape Architecture (ECLAS) and the British Institute of Landscape Architecture and Pan-Hellenic Association of Landscape Architects, where graduates are qualified to register as Landscape Architects and work internationally.

Duration of studies

The Master of Landscape Architecture lasts four semesters (120 ECTS). Courses are taught in Greek and English.