Cornell University

Graduate SchoolGraduate School

Graduate SchoolFields of Study

Landscape Architecture M.P.S. (Ithaca)

Field of Study

Landscape Architecture

Program Description

The Landscape Architecture MPS program offers a STEM-designated curriculum that advances technical knowledge, analytical skills, and professional development. This program is ideal for career-focused students interested in the thorough study of issues and advancements in the fields of life, social, and environmental sciences and agriculture.

A hallmark of the MPS program is the balanced portfolio of technical knowledge, analytical skills, and professional development built into the curriculum, designed to equip students with the skill set and knowledge necessary for careers in industry, government, or non-profit agencies.

Though similar to a Master of Science (MS) degree in its academic rigor, the MPS degree differs from a traditional MS degree in its structure and focus. An MS prepares students for a research-based career, with students developing an original research thesis over the course of two or three years. In contrast, the MPS degree is a one-year, course-based program, designed to impact knowledge and skills in a given area of concentration. Instead of a thesis or research project, MPS students complete a capstone project which allows them to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical manner.

The Landscape Architecture MPS program has two main components:

  • Coursework (24-28 credit hours): Students work with a faculty advisor to map out their individualized course of study based on their areas of interest. The majority of courses (20 credits) will be within CALS; however, students have the opportunity to take courses across Cornell.
  • Capstone Project (2-6 credit hours): With the guidance of a faculty advisor, students work on solving a real-world problem.

 

Contact Information

Website: https://cals.cornell.edu/landscape-architecture/programs/master-professional-studies-mps-landscape-architecture
Email: LAfield@cornell.edu
Phone: 607-255-2215

440 Kennedy Hall
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY  14853

Concentrations by Subject

  • designing the city (M.L.A./M.R.P. only)
  • economic development planning: communities and regions (M.L.A./M.R.P. only)
  • international studies in planning (M.L.A./M.R.P. only)
  • land use and environmental planning (M.L.A./M.R.P. only)
  • landscape architecture (M.L.A., M.P.S.)

Tuition

Visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadlines:

Fall, March 15

Requirements Summary:

All applicants are required to submit a design portfolio. The portfolio may include a wide variety of media, including freehand drawings, painting, photography, graphic design and renderings, garden design, and other creative endeavors.

Portfolios are digitally submitted along with the MPS application. There is no page limit; however, your file size should be less than twenty (20) megabytes total to be able to upload onto the Cornell Graduate School Application site.

  1. Complete Cornell’s Online Graduate School Application. Get started by setting up an ApplyWeb account.  Once you have an account, you can go to the online application to begin the process
  2. Submit unofficial copies of your college and university transcripts. An official paper transcript is required for all admitted students
  3. Submit your résumé or CV and two letters of recommendation
  4. All applicants must meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement 
  5. Submit a Statement of Purpose.
  6. Portfolio

Learning Outcomes

  • Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills
  • Specialized Subject Matter Competence
  • Writing Skills
  • Group Work, Management and Leadership Skills
  • Communication and Presentation Skills