BSU master of landscape architecture (MLA) degree is fully accredited by the Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board of the American Society of Landscape Architects, and it qualifies graduates to sit for the professional examination required to practice landscape architecture.

This degree pairs wonderfully with a bachelor’s degree in humanities, environmental studies, natural resources, fine arts, social work, interior design, urban planning, or architecture.

You have the opportunity to study and complete thesis work in the following areas of strength:

• Design: The tools of landscape architects are the core of the program - understanding landform and the movement of water, building with appropriate materials in resource - conservative ways, working with plants, and ecosystems for low maintenance and meaningful aesthetics.
• Cultural Landscapes: Architecture has a very long global history, which our students examine to understand how cultures used their landscapes, made places, and imbued them with meaning.
• Environmental Issues : Sustainable design affects community and regional planning, visualizing a future in which our environments encourage healthy living.

Degree Overview: Three types of master’s degrees are offered:

Second Professional Degree (39 credits) for students who earned a bachelor of landscape architecture (BLA)

First Professional Degree (64 credits) for students with a bachelor's degree in the environmental design field

First Professional Degree (79 credits) for students from other disciplines

To apply to the graduate program in Landscape Architecture, you must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university. You must also meet the requirements of the Ball State Graduate School or the Rinker Center for International Programs.

Your admission is based on your individual qualifications and satisfactory performance on all required materials. We require an undergraduate cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) or 3.0 for the second half of your baccalaureate education.