Conway School of Landscape Design Campuses

The Conway School of Landscape Design offers a specialized, intensive one-year Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) program focused on ecological and sustainable design principles. This graduate-level curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, integrating theory, design studios, and fieldwork to prepare students for professional practice in landscape architecture.

Core courses include Landscape Design Studio I and II, where students develop site-specific projects addressing environmental challenges, urban regeneration, and natural systems. These studios foster skills in site analysis, conceptual design, and presentation techniques using both analog and digital tools.

• Ecological Design Principles: Explores bioregional planning, habitat restoration, and climate-resilient landscapes, teaching students to incorporate biodiversity and ecosystem services into designs.
• Planting Design and Horticulture: Covers native plant selection, soil science, and sustainable planting strategies to create resilient green spaces.
• Landscape History and Theory: Examines the evolution of landscape architecture from historical gardens to contemporary sustainable practices, with readings from key theorists like Ian McHarg and Frederick Law Olmsted.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Landscape Architects: Introduces mapping and spatial analysis tools to support evidence-based design decisions.
• Professional Practice and Ethics: Addresses project management, codes, regulations, and ethical considerations in landscape architecture, including community engagement and social equity.
• Elective Workshops: Topics such as regenerative design, urban agriculture, and green infrastructure, often involving collaborations with local organizations.

The program culminates in a thesis project, allowing students to pursue independent research on pressing issues like stormwater management or public space equity. With a small cohort of about 18 students, the curriculum promotes collaborative learning and real-world application through field trips to regional sites and guest lectures from practicing professionals. This approach ensures graduates are equipped to tackle complex environmental problems with innovative, ecologically sound solutions. The school's location in the Pioneer Valley provides abundant opportunities for studying diverse landscapes, from river valleys to urban edges.

Overall, the courses blend creative design with scientific rigor, fostering a holistic understanding of how landscapes shape human and natural environments. Students emerge with a portfolio of work demonstrating proficiency in sustainable practices essential for licensure and career advancement in the field.