Fairmont State University

What you'll study

This master’s programme emphasises studio-based design and applied planning. Students progress through a sequence of core studios that develop concept generation, technical documentation and implementation strategies, supported by coursework in theory, ecology and professional practice.

• Design studios: progressive design studios focused on site analysis, conceptual design, detailed design development and an integrated capstone or thesis project.
• Landscape systems & ecology: courses on landscape ecology, habitat restoration, native planting design and ecosystem services.
• Technical skills: site engineering basics, grading and drainage, stormwater management, construction detailing and materials for landscape architecture.
• Digital tools & mapping: GIS and spatial analysis, CAD, 3D modelling, visualisation and digital presentation techniques.
• Planning & policy: urban and regional planning principles, land-use policy, community engagement and sustainable development strategies.
• Professional practice & ethics: project management, contracts, regulatory frameworks and practice administration.
• Research & elective options: research methods, independent study and electives that allow deeper focus on subjects such as green infrastructure, historic landscapes or community design.

Programme structure typically combines core required courses, elective options and a culminating studio thesis or capstone project. Fieldwork, community-based projects and collaborations with regional agencies are commonly integrated into coursework.

Entry requirements

• Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, preferably in landscape architecture, architecture, planning, horticulture, environmental science or a related field. Applicants with other backgrounds may be considered if they demonstrate relevant experience or coursework.
• Academic transcripts showing satisfactory performance; many programmes expect a minimum cumulative GPA (institution policies vary).
• Portfolio of design work or related project work demonstrating visual, analytical and creative skills. Non-portfolio applicants may be asked to submit supplementary materials or complete prescriptive preparatory work.
• Statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals, and how the programme supports them.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two) from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s readiness for graduate study.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé detailing relevant education, work and project experience.
• Demonstrated English language proficiency where applicable (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) for international applicants; specific score requirements follow institutional policy.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers across public, private and non‑profit sectors. Typical roles include:

• Landscape architect in design firms, specialising in parks, urban plazas, residential and commercial landscapes.
• Urban and regional planner working on land-use policy, community development and resilience planning.
• Environmental planner or consultant focusing on ecological restoration, stormwater and green infrastructure.
• GIS and spatial analyst for municipal agencies, utilities or environmental consultancies.
• Parks and recreation manager, greenspace planner or landscape maintenance strategist for public agencies and non-profits.
• Independent designer, project manager or entrepreneur offering specialised services in planting design, site detailing or community design facilitation.
• Academic or research pathways for those who pursue further study or teaching roles.

Why study at Fairmont State University

Fairmont State offers a personalised learning environment with small studio cohorts and close faculty mentorship, enabling sustained critique and hands‑on skills development. The university’s regional setting provides varied fieldwork opportunities across Appalachian landscapes, urbanising corridors and municipal greenways, which are well suited to applied studio projects and community partnerships.

Students benefit from an applied curriculum that balances technical competence (GIS, grading, drainage and detailing) with broader planning and ecological perspectives. Collaborative projects with local governments, non-profit groups and regional agencies give practical experience in community engagement and implementation, preparing graduates to move directly into professional roles or further research.