BSSD / MLA in Landscape Architecture: 4+2 Program
The BSSD/MLA 4+2 program allows students completing the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Design (BSSD) degree to complete the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) on an accelerated timeline. The 4+2 program is highly selective – the majority of successful applicants to the program have a 3.5 GPA or higher, and demonstrate evidence of preparedness for the MLA program. BSSD students must plan early to complete prerequisites. Junior BSSD students may apply to participate in the program.
LA Course Requirements Prior to BSSD Senior Year
To apply for the BSSD/MLA 4+2 program, BSSD students should take the following LA courses prior to senior year:
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| LA 101 | Introduction to Landscape Architecture | 2 |
| LA 222 | Islamic Gardens and Architecture | 3 |
| LA 280 | Design Communication 1 | 3 |
| LA 281 | Design Communication 2 | 3 |
| LA 314 | History of World Landscapes | 4 |
| LA 300/400 | Choose one (distinct from BSSD Major Required or Elective Courses) | 3-4 |
Admissions Process to begin the 4+2 Program of Study
- Applications for the 4+2 Program are due from BSSD students by December 15th of their Junior year.
- Applicants will prepare a packet containing the following items:
- Cover Letter: Please prepare a cover letter that includes your name, UIN, and University of Illinois email address, and that clearly states that you are applying to the BSSD/MLA 4+2 program.
- Statement of Purpose: Please provide a statement of purpose (SOP) addressed to the Chair of the MLA Program (Professor Elizabeth Scott, scottea@illinois.edu) by December 15. The SOP (1,500 words maximum) should convey information about the student’s background, academic and personal experiences, and motivation for pursuing an MLA degree at the University of Illinois. Please discuss any special topics of interest within landscape architecture.
- Resume: Please attach a current resume of no more than 2 pages in length.
- Work Examples: Please include a portfolio of your creative work. This may include drawings, sketches, photographs, website design, craftwork, furniture, garden design, or other creative/design projects. These products may have been produced by you as part of class assignments undertaken as part of your BSSD coursework, an internship, or other professional engagement. The portfolio should be reflective of your preparedness to undertake graduate-level study in landscape architecture during the senior year of your BSSD degree.
Students will be notified by the Chair of the MLA Program by January 15th of their junior year if they have been accepted into the 4+2 program. Admission to the 4+2 program does not guarantee admission to the MLA program, although applicants are accepted into the 4+2 program based on the high likelihood that they would be admitted to the MLA program.
BSSD / MLA Senior Year
The LA core courses taken in Senior Year meet the BSSD requirements as major electives and/or LA studies minor courses. In the fall and spring semesters of the senior year, the BSSD Program Coordinator will collect feedback on 4+2 student performance from their course instructors and will make a determination regarding adequate progress in the program.
BSSD Senior Year
The LA core courses taken in Senior Year meet the BSSD requirements as major electives and/or LA studies minor courses. In the fall and spring semesters of the senior year, the BSSD Program Coordinator will collect feedback on 4+2 student performance from their course instructors and will make a determination regarding adequate progress in the program.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| LA 250 (Fall) | Environmental Site Analysis | 3 |
| LA 433 (Fall) | Grad Foundation Studio | 5 |
| LA 501 (Fall) | Landscape Theory | 4 |
| LA 241 (Spring) | Landsform Design & Construction | 3 |
| LA 434 (Spring) | Grad Site Design Studio | 5 |
| Additional MLA course or Undergrad Elective | 4 | |
| Total credit hours | 24 |
MFA program years
At the end of the senior year, the 4+2 student is qualified to graduate with the BSSD degree, having met all the requirements of that program. In the senior year, 4+2 students wishing to complete the MLA degree will formally apply to the MLA program, by submitting a full application package including a personal statement, a portfolio, letters of recommendations, and transcripts. Students who follow this program will be eligible for a minor in Landscape Studies regardless of their admission to the MLA program as a 4+2 student.
MLA program years
Once admitted to the MLA program, a 4+2 student must take the remaining required MLA graduate Curriculum of approximately 50 credits (depending on electives). All information can be found on the Master of Landscape Architecture page on the Landscape Architecture website.