Why Master of Architecture, Master of Landscape Architecture?
Design buildings, landscapes and spaces that respond to the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Architects and landscape architects work together to shape the buildings, places and environments where people live, work and connect. Combining creative, technical and environmental expertise, these professions help create sustainable, resilient and liveable communities.
In Adelaide University's Master of Architecture, Master of Landscape Architecture, you'll develop in-demand skills across both disciplines and graduate with two master's degrees in just three years.
Prepare to lead innovative projects that shape the future of our built and natural environments – from cities to rural locations, in Australia and across the world.
Overview
Our Master of Architecture, Master of Landscape Architecture equips you with expertise across two related fields, preparing you to shape the future of built and natural environments.
You'll develop the creative, technical and research skills to design buildings, landscapes and public spaces that enhance communities and respond to today’s challenges.
Through studio-based learning, you'll develop expertise in architectural and landscape design, site planning, ecological systems, landscape analysis, design and construction technologies, and professional practice. Using Adelaide as a living laboratory, you'll explore real urban and regional contexts, drawing on contemporary research to develop integrated, sustainable design solutions.
You'll learn in purpose-designed studios and workshops, engaging with industry professionals and stakeholders to address real-world challenges. As an Adelaide University student, you’ll also have access to unique resources, including Australia’s only Architecture Museum and the Waite Arboretum based at our Waite Campus – home to the largest concentration of expertise in agriculture in the Southern Hemisphere.
Graduating with two master's degrees in just three years, you'll be prepared for careers across architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, sustainability, government, urban and regional development, construction, environmental management, ecological design, and more.
What you'll learn
In this future-focused double degree, you'll develop knowledge and expertise across architecture and landscape architecture, while building the practical skills required for contemporary practice.
In your first year, you'll build a strong architectural foundation through advanced design studios, communication technologies, construction systems and research methods. You'll explore how social, cultural and environmental contexts influence the built environment, while developing skills in design communication, digital modelling, construction systems, materials, fabrication and professional practice. You'll also learn how design research informs creative and evidence-based architectural solutions.
In your second year, you'll focus on landscape architecture, developing expertise in ecological design, landscape urbanism and environmental systems. You'll learn how to analyse and shape landscapes, work with topography and landform modelling, and design places that respond to environmental, climate and community needs. Through contemporary case studies and a dedicated work-integrated learning experience, you'll examine landscape architecture practice while building practical skills for the profession.
In your final year, you'll bring together knowledge from both disciplines to address complex design challenges. You'll explore sustainable environments, environmental technologies, reflective professional practice and culturally responsive design approaches. Through advanced studio projects, you’ll develop solutions that consider buildings, landscapes and infrastructure as interconnected systems.
You’ll also complete a combined capstone project, where you'll apply research-led design, technical expertise and professional practice knowledge from both fields to investigate and develop a response to a real-world challenge. Throughout the degree, you'll learn through design studios, workshops, seminars and project work, guided by experienced academics and industry professionals.
Degree Structure: Master of Architecture, Master of Landscape Architecture
Program code: MAALA
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 138 units for Core courses, and
- 6 units for Work integrated learning
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 138 units for Core courses, and
- 6 units for Work integrated learning
Complete 138 units comprising:
- 138 units for all Program core
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Context and Culture)
|
Course code
ARCH5001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Communication Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Structures
|
Course code
ARCH5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Construction Technologies)
|
Course code
ARCH5004
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Architectural Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH5005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Landscape Architecture Creative Cultures Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5201
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Designed Ecologies
|
Course code
ARCH5202
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Landscape Architecture Nature by Design Studio
|
Course code
ARCH5203
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Landform Modelling
|
Course code
ARCH5204
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Sustainable Environments)
|
Course code
ARCH6001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Environments and Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Reflective Practices
|
Course code
ARCH6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Professional Practice in Architecture
|
Course code
ARCH6005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Landscape Architecture Urbanism Studio
|
Course code
ARCH6201
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Landscape Architecture Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH6202
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Combined Capstone Project
|
Course code
ARCH6025
|
Units
12
|
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
Complete 6 units comprising:
- 6 units for all Work integrated learning courses
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Case Studies in Landscape Architecture
|
Course code
ARCH6800
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
With qualifications in both architecture and landscape architecture, you'll be prepared for diverse career opportunities across public and private sectors. Your expertise across both fields will give you a competitive advantage when working on projects that require coordinated architectural and landscape outcomes.
You could help create climate-responsive neighbourhoods, contribute to public infrastructure projects, shape urban growth strategies, or design environments that enhance community wellbeing and environmental resilience.
Careers to consider include:
- Architect*
- Registered Landscape Architect*
- Urban designer
- Heritage consultant
- Project or construction manager
- Green infrastructure and sustainability specialist
- Environmental planner
- Landscape designer
- Public sector advisor (local/state/federal government)
- Private design consultant
- Academic/researcher (with further study).
Graduates may find opportunities in architectural and landscape architecture practices, engineering and design consultancies, local and state government, statutory authorities and private organisations.
*Graduates must complete the required period of supervised professional experience and pass the relevant registration examination to practice as a registered architect or landscape architect in Australia and New Zealand. Registration as an architect is subject to the requirements of the relevant jurisdiction Architect Registration Board.
Industry trends
The demand for professionals who can create sustainable, climate-responsive and liveable places continues to grow.
The Australian Government’s National Energy Performance Strategy (2024) identifies a need for industry professionals equipped to deliver high energy performance, liveable and sustainable outcomes in Australian cities and regions (Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, 2024).
Jobs and Skills Australia also notes that Australia’s net-zero goals are a source of jobs growth and creation, with professionals in sectors such as the built environment needed to adapt to climate change (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2023).
There is also a large appetite for landscape architecture internationally, with the World Economic Forum highlighting workforce demand across multiple continents (World Economic Forum, 2023).
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Architectural Practice Board of South Australia, endorsing the architecture qualifications of graduates required for entry to the Architectural Practice Examination and future registration as an architect in Australia. Accreditation demonstrates the achievement of relevant performance criteria in the National Standard of Competency for Architects published by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA)
This program is accredited by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA). Graduates are eligible for membership of AILA.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
