University of Tromsø

What you'll study

This two-year master's programme integrates design studios, theoretical courses and a substantial master’s thesis to prepare you for professional practice and research. Teaching emphasises the interplay between landscape design, ecological systems and technical construction, with particular attention to cold-climate, coastal and Arctic conditions.

• Design studios — iterative, project-based studio courses that progress from conceptual strategy to detailed design and construction documentation; projects range from neighbourhood-scale public spaces to landscape strategies for infrastructure and coastline.
• Landscape ecology and ecosystem services — courses that cover ecological processes, biodiversity, soil and hydrology considerations relevant to site design and management.
• Technical construction and detailing — materials, drainage and surface engineering, planting technology, accessibility, and maintenance planning.
• Planning and policy — landscape planning methods, land-use regulation, landscape heritage and governance, including municipal planning procedures.
• GIS and digital methods — spatial analysis, mapping, remote sensing and digital modelling tools used to inform design decisions.
• Climate adaptation and resilience — strategies for designing in response to climate change, coastal and permafrost dynamics, and stormwater management.
• Research methods and thesis — methodological training in qualitative and quantitative approaches, culminating in an independent master’s project that combines research and design.
• Fieldwork and interdisciplinary collaboration — practical site work, excursions in northern landscapes and opportunities to work with departments such as architecture, planning, ecology and indigenous studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in landscape architecture, architecture, urban planning, horticulture, environmental design or a closely related subject. Selection typically considers academic record, a portfolio of design work or project documentation, and a statement of purpose describing relevant experience and motivation.

International applicants must meet university requirements for documentation of previous education and for English language proficiency. Specific prerequisites may include prior study in design and landscape-related courses; applicants without a specialised bachelor’s may be considered if they demonstrate relevant coursework or professional experience. Applicants should consult UiT's admissions pages for exact documentation and programme-specific guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme pursue careers across the public and private sectors. Typical roles include:

• Landscape architect in design studios and consultancy firms, producing concept and technical designs for parks, urban public spaces and infrastructure.
• Urban and regional planner working on green infrastructure, public realm improvement and landscape-sensitive development.
• Environmental consultant focusing on ecological assessment, restoration and coastal management.
• Municipal or state planner responsible for open-space planning, park management and regulatory implementation.
• Project manager or specialist in climate adaptation, ecosystem services and sustainable urban drainage systems.
• Researcher or academic, when paired with further research training or doctoral study.

Why study at University of Tromsø

UiT offers a distinct Arctic and northern perspective on landscape architecture, giving students exposure to cold-climate, coastal and indigenous landscape issues that are increasingly relevant globally. The university’s interdisciplinary environment enables collaboration with experts in ecology, planning, architecture and indigenous studies, and provides access to fieldwork opportunities in a range of northern landscapes.

Students benefit from links with regional municipalities, industry partners and research centres, which can facilitate practical projects, internships and knowledge exchange. The programme emphasises sustainability, resilience and context-sensitive design, preparing graduates to work with complex environmental, cultural and technical challenges in Norway and internationally.