The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
College of Architecture + Design

Dual Master of Architecture and Master of Landscape Architecture, M.Arch-MLA

The College of Architecture and Design offers a Dual Degree of Master of Architecture — Master of Landscape Architecture (M.Arch—MLA), which earns the graduate both the NAAB-accredited professional Master of Architecture degree and the LAAB-accredited professional Master of Landscape Architecture.

This integrated program addresses the increasing demand for professionals proficient in both disciplines, preparing graduates to navigate the complex challenges of contemporary design environments.

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Program Details

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Earn two post-graduate degrees in four years at UT!

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Program Overview

The dual-degree program provides an accelerated pathway to earn both M.Arch and MLA degrees. It is open to students in both the 2G, two-year, and 3G, three-year, Master of Architecture tracks, requiring an additional year of study beyond the standard curriculum. This structure allows students to delve deeply into both fields, fostering a comprehensive understanding of architectural and landscape design principles. 

Master of Architecture – 3G 

The 3G track admits students from all backgrounds including design, architecture, engineering, sciences, as well as humanities and the arts. This program typically takes three-and-a-half years to complete, and it begins in July. Prospective students should apply for summer second-session enrollment.  

Master of Architecture – 2G 

The 2G track admits students looking to complete a 4+2 pathway, including those holding a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree from a NAAB-accredited institution. This program typically takes two years to complete, and it starts in August. Prospective students should apply for fall enrollment. 

An architecture degree from a NAAB-accredited school of architecture is required to be admitted to this track. All other prospective students must apply to the 3G program. 

Why obtain a dual degree?

 

student work pinned up for critique and presentation

Design Across the Built and Natural Environment

The dual degree program prepares students to think across disciplines, designing environments that balance human experience, environmental stewardship, and the evolving needs of communities. Through advanced design studios, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research, students will explore topics such as sustainable design, urbanism, building technology, and ecological systems while developing innovative solutions to complex design challenges. This comprehensive approach equips graduates to create places that are functional, resilient, and responsive to the needs of communities.
student presenting project to guest reviewer

Professional Leadership and Real-World Experience

Success in today's design professions requires collaboration, leadership, and practical experience. Throughout the dual degree program, you'll engage with practicing architects, landscape architects, community partners, and multidisciplinary project teams while gaining hands-on experience through internships, externships, and industry collaborations. These opportunities strengthen your communication, project management, and professional practice skills while expanding your network and preparing you to lead integrated design projects across the built and natural environment.

What you can do with dual master’s degrees in architecture and landscape architecture after graduation.

Integrated Design Professional

Lead projects that seamlessly unite buildings and landscapes into cohesive, high-performing environments. Graduates can work with multidisciplinary design firms on campuses, mixed-use developments, healthcare facilities, cultural institutions, parks, and other projects where architecture and landscape architecture are developed together from concept through construction.

Urban Design and Community Development

Help shape cities and neighborhoods by designing public spaces, streetscapes, waterfronts, and civic environments that enhance quality of life. This career path combines architectural design with landscape planning to create resilient, people-centered communities while addressing issues such as growth, mobility, and sustainability.

Sustainable Design and Resilience Specialist

Develop innovative solutions that address climate adaptation, environmental stewardship, and resilient infrastructure. Working with public agencies, private firms, or nonprofit organizations, graduates help design projects that integrate ecological systems, green infrastructure, sustainable buildings, and regional planning strategies to create healthier communities and more resilient landscapes.

Featured Courses

The academic plan integrates coursework and studio experiences from both architecture and landscape architecture, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and holistic design approaches. Curriculum is dependent on students’ track.

ARCH 511

History and Theory of Architecture I

LAR 587

Contemporary Landscape Architecture

ARCH 557

Structural Principles in Architecture 

LAR 530

Plants in the Landscape I 

Course Catalog

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