Marywood University

What you'll study

The programme centres on design studios integrated with courses in environmental systems, site technology and planning. Year-by-year students progress from foundational drawing, graphic communication and site analysis to more complex design projects addressing sustainability, stormwater management, and community planning.

• Design Studio — iterative studio projects that develop conceptual thinking, site design and presentation skills.
• Planting Design & Horticulture — plant identification, ecology, and design for resilient planting schemes.
• Site Engineering & Construction — grading, drainage, materials, and detailing for outdoor construction.
• GIS, CAD & Digital Tools — spatial analysis, mapping, and drawing using GIS, CAD and 3D modelling software.
• Landscape Ecology & Environmental Systems — ecological principles, native landscapes, and green infrastructure design.
• History & Theory — landscape history, urbanism and contemporary theory that inform design decisions.
• Professional Practice & Ethics — project management, client relationships, codes, and the business of practice.
• Studio Electives & Special Topics — options such as urban design, waterfront planning, historic landscapes, or community-engaged projects.
• Capstone / Portfolio — a comprehensive senior project synthesising technical, ecological and design knowledge, and preparation of a professional portfolio.
• Internship — practical work experience with landscape firms, municipal planning departments, or conservation organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in mathematics, science and visual arts or design where available. Typical admissions materials include a completed application, transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in landscape architecture and planning, and letters of recommendation.

Because studio work is central to the curriculum, applicants are usually asked to submit a design portfolio or examples of creative work; if a portfolio is not possible, schools often accept alternative evidence of creative or problem-solving ability. Standardised tests may be optional; check Marywood University's admissions guidance for current policy. Successful candidates demonstrate spatial thinking, visual communication skills and an interest in environmental stewardship.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in landscape architecture firms, municipal and regional planning agencies, parks and recreation departments, environmental consultancies, site design and construction companies, and nonprofit conservation organisations. Typical entry-level positions include landscape designer, land planner, GIS technician, project assistant, and site analyst.

With additional supervised professional experience and, where applicable, licensing exams, graduates can pursue registration as professional landscape architects. Many alumni also continue into graduate studies in landscape architecture, urban planning, environmental design or related disciplines.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a small, studio-focused learning environment with close faculty mentorship and a strong liberal arts foundation to support creative and critical thinking. The university’s location provides access to a range of urban, suburban and rural sites suitable for hands-on projects and internships in the region.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across art, environmental science and planning, access to digital design and GIS facilities, and opportunities for community-engaged design work. The programme emphasises sustainable design practices, practical technical skills and professional development to help graduates transition into the workplace or advanced study.