MSc Landscape Architecture

The MSc Landscape Architecture at the Estonian University of Life Sciences in Tartu, Estonia, is a 2-year, full-time postgraduate programme taught entirely in English. The programme is designed for students who want to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in landscape architecture, with a focus on the planning, design and management of landscapes. The field covers landscapes of different types and scales, including urban and rural environments, from small open spaces to larger regional areas. Landscape Architecture also examines the relationships between people and the spaces, environments and places in which they live and interact.

The programme combines individual study with group project work. Students learn through formal lectures, seminars, field trips and studio-based design projects, while research activities range from library-based research to fieldwork. A significant part of the curriculum is dedicated to design studios, field visits and research, allowing students to address realistic planning, design and management problems. Assessment can include written examinations, essays, reports, hand-drawn plans, digital graphics and images. Students also participate in public presentations and critical discussions of their design projects.

The programme comprises 120 ECTS credits. These include 62 ECTS credits for speciality modules, 20 ECTS for elective subjects, 8 ECTS for optional subjects, and 30 ECTS for a Master’s thesis or research-based design project. The degree awarded upon successful completion is MSc.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized and accredited university. To qualify for admission, applicants are required to have achieved at least 60% of the highest possible CGPA during their previous studies. Students coming from neighbouring disciplines, such as forestry, architecture or planning, who wish to undertake a conversion Master’s degree must demonstrate a basic range of landscape architecture-related skills and be prepared to complete additional self-learning courses.

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at B2 level and provide the required proof of English language proficiency according to the university’s requirements. Required application documents include the completed application form, certified educational documents and transcripts, a relevant portfolio, proof of English proficiency, passport identification page and confirmation of application-fee payment where applicable.

A motivation letter is also required. Applicants are expected to explain why they are suitable candidates, why they have chosen landscape architecture, what they expect to gain from the programme, how their previous education or work experience supports their study goals, and how they see their future in the field.

Portfolio and Interview

A relevant portfolio is mandatory. It should demonstrate projects completed at different scales during previous studies and may also include professional work completed in offices or municipalities. Applicants are expected to show plans, details and visual materials that demonstrate their approach to landscape architecture. The portfolio should be submitted as a PDF booklet.

An additional interview, usually conducted through BigBlueButton, is also required. The interview time is arranged individually with applicants by email.

Tuition and Scholarship

The tuition fee for the programme is €4,000 per year. The source also states that there is one targeted scholarship for candidates who are not Estonian citizens and two targeted scholarships for candidates with Ukrainian citizenship. A targeted scholarship provides a tuition-fee-free study place, but does not include additional financial support for living or travel expenses.

The application fee is €100 per applicant, paid once. This fee allows an applicant to apply for up to two programmes, while PhD applicants may apply for one programme. The fee is non-refundable, and applications are reviewed only after the university has received the payment. Applicants who completed their previous study level in Estonia or who have Estonian citizenship are exempt from the application fee.

Programme Start

The programme is scheduled to commence on 1 September. However, the source explicitly states that the application period has ended.