Lincoln University

What you'll study

The programme combines intensive design studios with theoretical and technical coursework to build capabilities in landscape design, ecological planning and professional practice. Students engage with complex projects that span urban regeneration, rural land use, ecological restoration, and cultural landscapes.

Typical modules and subjects

• Design Studios: studio projects emphasising iterative design, site analysis, community engagement and presentation. Projects range from neighbourhood-scale interventions to large landscape infrastructure.
• Landscape Theory and History: critical study of landscape thought, cultural values, heritage and the historical development of landscape practice.
• Ecological and Environmental Design: ecology for designers, restoration ecology, stormwater and green infrastructure design, and climate-resilient landscape strategies.
• Planting Design and Horticulture: plant selection, planting design principles, remnant vegetation management and species suited to Aotearoa New Zealand contexts.
• Technical and Digital Skills: GIS and spatial analysis, site modelling, CAD and visual communication, and digital representation techniques.
• Professional Practice and Ethics: project management, contract documentation, standards, codes, regulatory processes and working with tangata whenua and communities.
• Research Methods and Dissertation/Capstone: methods for design research and a major independent project or thesis that demonstrates advanced synthesis of design, theory and evidence.

Teaching methods emphasise design crits, field-based investigation, workshops, seminars and industry engagement. The programme often includes opportunities for site visits across Canterbury and collaboration with local councils, iwi and industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree such as a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, bachelor degree in design, planning, architecture, horticulture or another related discipline. Applicants without a professional landscape architecture degree may be considered if they have a strong portfolio demonstrating design capability and relevant professional experience.

• Academic background: an undergraduate degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience.
• Portfolio: a portfolio of design work, site analyses or project-based work is required to demonstrate design thinking and technical skills.
• Interview or supporting statement: some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a statement outlining their aims and suitability for advanced study in landscape architecture.
• English language: evidence of English proficiency if your prior study was not in English; specific test requirements are set by the university.

Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee admission; selection takes into account the strength of portfolio, academic record and fit with the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for professional roles in landscape architecture and related fields. Common career paths include:

• Registered landscape architect or landscape designer in private practice
• Urban designer or public realm specialist working with local and regional councils
• Environmental and ecological consultant focusing on restoration, biodiversity and water-sensitive design
• Parks and open space manager, recreational planning or public landscape delivery
• Infrastructure design teams integrating green infrastructure and stormwater management
• Policy and planning roles in government agencies, iwi organisations and conservation bodies
• Research and academic careers, or further doctoral study

The degree is structured to support graduates seeking professional registration pathways and to meet the competencies expected by professional bodies through practice-based learning and a strong focus on New Zealand legislative and cultural context.

Why study at Lincoln University

Lincoln University offers a distinctive setting for studying landscape architecture, located within a region that provides ready access to diverse urban, rural and coastal landscapes for teaching and fieldwork. The university has an established reputation for applied environmental and land-based research and strong links with industry, local government and iwi, which supports real-world learning and project opportunities.

The programme emphasises ecological sustainability, indigenous perspectives and resilient design, and is delivered through small, studio-focused cohorts that provide close supervision and personalised feedback. Students benefit from access to specialised facilities, technical workshops and research centres, and from connections across Canterbury’s planning and landscape professions.