Catalogue 2007-08

• The Schools
• USC School of Architecture
  • Undergraduate Degrees
    • Bachelor of Architecture
    • Bachelor of Science, Architectural Studies
    • Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
    • Minors in Architecture
    • International and Other Programs
  • Graduate Programs
    • Master of Architecture
    • Master of Landscape Architecture
    • Master of Historic Preservation
    • Master of Building Science
    • Dual Degrees
  • Courses of Instruction
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Graduate Programs

Master of Landscape Architecture

Degree Requirements

Admission to the Master of Landscape Architecture program requires a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture or the equivalent, such as a bachelor of environmental design with a major in landscape architecture. Applicants are encouraged to have completed 6 units in the history of landscape architecture (ARCH 465, ARCH 466 or equivalent) and 6 units in materials and methods for landscape architecture (ARCH 363, ARCH 463 or equivalent) prior to beginning graduate study.

Thesis or Directed Research Option

In addition to the opportunity to initiate an independent thesis, students are provided the option to undertake independent design research related to important urban projects already in progress within the school. Whichever option is taken, students are supported in their work by a three-member faculty advisory team including a principal critic.

Course Requirements

Completion of the degree program requires 48 units, including 20 units of specified courses, 16 units of approved electives and 12 units of thesis option I or option II.

Degree Requirements

48-Unit Program

Required courses include: ARCH 532 (2), ARCH 533 (2), ARCH 542aL (6), ARCH 561 (2), ARCH 563 (2). A total of 22 elective units are required. Students must take at least two elective courses from the following selection: ARCH 407 (4), ARCH 418 (3), ARCH 507 (3), ARCH 599 (4). In addition, two semesters of thesis option or directed research are required, ARCH 697abzL (4-8-0) or ARCH 698abzL (4-8-0).

48-Unit Sample Curriculum

First Year, First Semester		Units
ARCH 532	Elements of the Urban Landscape	2
ARCH 561	Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Projects and Places	2
ARCH 542aL	Landscape Architecture Design	6
Electives		6
		16

First Year, Second Semester		Units
ARCH 533	Urban Landscape Case Studies	2
ARCH 563	Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Comparative Theories	2
ARCH 697aL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option II, or
ARCH 698aL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option I	4
Electives		8
		16

Second Year, First Semester		Units
ARCH 697bL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option II, or
ARCH 698aL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option I	8
Electives		8
		16

Advanced Standing

Applicants with exceptional qualifications including a professional degree in landscape architecture or architecture and professional experience may be admitted with advanced standing. Students must request such consideration when applying for admission. Students with advanced standing must complete 32 units.

32-Unit Advanced Standing Sample Curriculum

first year, first semester		units
ARCH 532	Elements of the Urban Landscape	2
ARCH 533	Urban Landscape Case Studies	2
ARCH 697aL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option II, or
ARCH 698aL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option I	4
Electives		8
		16

first year, second semester		units
ARCH 561	Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Projects and Places	2
ARCH 563	Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Comparative Theories	2
ARCH 697bL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option II, or
ARCH 698bL	M.L.Arch. Thesis, Option I	8
Electives		4
		16

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