Course Overview

About This Course

Launch a career shaping spaces that benefit people and the planet with UNSW's Master of Landscape Architecture. You'll explore landscape architecture through theory and practice, combining art and science to plan, design and manage landscapes that underpin vibrant communities and transform creative thinking into action.

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.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

Have achieved a credit average (Weighted Average Mark 65+) in your bachelor's degree
Submit a portfolio (submitted in a clear, digital format; 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)
Provide a personal statement

Stream B – for students who have studied a closely related discipline:

Undergraduate degree in a discipline closely related to landscape architecture (Architecture, Urban design, Urban planning, Interior architecture, Interior design, Landscape design)
May apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL); if recognised, up to 48 UOC can be counted, allowing completion in two years

Stream C – for students who have completed a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture:

A four-year, accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
May apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL); if recognised, up to 96 UOC can be counted, allowing completion in one year

English Language Requirements:

Evidence of English proficiency may be required depending on educational background and citizenship
Acceptable evidence includes: English language tests and university English courses, prior study in the medium of English, or other qualifications
If completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), no additional proof is required

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

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). Potential careers include: 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.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA)

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

AACA

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the UNSW Master of Landscape Architecture professionally accredited?

Yes. 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. Graduates will be eligible for professional accreditation with AILA.

What are the different entry streams and how do they affect the duration of the degree?

There are two entry streams. Stream B is for students who have studied a closely related discipline (such as Architecture, Urban design, Urban planning, Interior architecture, Interior design, or Landscape design). With Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), up to 48 UOC can be credited, allowing completion in two years (16 courses, 96 UOC). Stream C is for students who have completed a four-year, accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. With RPL, up to 96 UOC can be credited, allowing completion in one year (8 courses, 48 UOC). Without RPL, the full program is three years.

What does the program structure look like and what will I study?

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. Elective courses provide opportunities to pursue interdisciplinary, specialised interests across Arts, Design & Architecture, particularly in Urban Design and City Analytics. Stream B includes 9 core landscape architecture courses, 4 elective courses, and 3 landscape studio courses. Stream C includes 3 core landscape architecture courses, 2 elective courses, and 3 landscape studio courses related to a final independent research (capstone) project. The program culminates in a final-year capstone studio sequence.

What are the indicative fees for the Master of Landscape Architecture?

For domestic students, the 2026 indicative first year full fee is $39,000, and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $123,000. For international students, the 2026 indicative first year full fee is $49,000, and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $157,500. Fees are subject to annual review and may vary; these figures are a guide only based on typical enrolment patterns.

What career prospects can I expect after completing this degree?

The Master of Landscape Architecture prepares you to become a registered landscape architect and pursue other careers shaping how people experience cities, public spaces and natural environments. Demand for landscape architects in Australia is projected to grow by 16.8% over the next five years, with a typical salary of around $85,000 to $105,000 depending on experience. Potential careers include Registered landscape architect, Urban designer, Environmental manager, Heritage consultant, Strategic planner, Sustainability specialist in government agencies, Project manager, Public domain manager, and more.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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