Dual MArch-MLA Program, Architecture - Landscape Architecture

Options Available

Thesis Option
Project Option

Campus Code

Knoxville Campus

Admissions Standards/Procedures

Applications are accepted for summer semester only (fall semester if admitted to the MArch 2G track, see below). Applicants for the dual MArch—MLA program must make separate applications to and be accepted by the Schools of Architecture and Landscape Architecture. Students should indicate on both applications the intent to pursue the dual MArch—MLA program. Students accepted for both the MLA and MArch degree programs will be assigned an advisor from each School. These advisors will be responsible for course approval and supervision of the students’ progress through the dual program.

• The following must be submitted by all applicants directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions:
  • A completed online Graduate Application for Admission. Visit the website for the online application process.
  • For applicants whose native language is not English, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• In addition to meeting the Graduate School’s minimum requirements, the following specific admission requirements must be submitted to the Graduate Program in Architecture:
  • An essay addressing the applicant’s intent and expectations for study in the program.
  • A portfolio illustrating evidence of visual creativity and/or graphic capabilities.
  • Three letters of recommendation.

A minimum 3.00 undergraduate GPA, and minimum 3.25 graduate GPA. Standardized test scores can be weighted differently in the admissions process depending on an applicant’s strengths.

After the MArch application deadline of February 1, applications by United States citizens and permanent residents will still be considered as space allows. Additional information is required and different application dates are established by Graduate and International Admissions for international students. Students are encouraged to contact the Director of the School of Architecture or Gale Fulton (gfulton@utk.edu), Director of the School of Landscape Architecture, with any questions.

Academic Standards

The dual degree candidate must satisfy the curriculum and graduation requirements of the dual degree curriculum path. Students withdrawing from the dual degree program before completing both degrees will not receive credit toward graduation in either degree program for courses taken in the other degree program, except as such courses qualify for credit without regard to the dual degree program. The MArch and the MLA degrees will be awarded upon successful completion of the requirements of the dual program.

MArch 3G—MLA Dual Degree, Thesis or Project

For students who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than architecture. Typically, four academic years plus one summer in length, the MArch 3G/MLA program is designed to accommodate students who come from a variety of backgrounds, including those with no previous formal study in architecture. This academic plan culminates in either a written- or design-based Master of Architecture Project (MAP).

Learning objectives for the MArch 3G—MLA Dual Degree:

• Graduating students must demonstrate the ability to build abstract relationships and understand the impact of architectural design based on research and analysis of multiple theoretical, social, political, economic, cultural and environmental contexts.
• Graduating students will be able to demonstrate that they have the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to enter the profession and to become licensed architects.
• Graduating students must demonstrate a comprehension of the technical aspects of design, systems and materials, and be able to apply that comprehension in their coursework.
• Graduating students must have an understanding of the architect’s role in managing and advocating for legal, ethical, and critical action for the good of the client, society and the public.

MArch 2G—MLA Dual Degree, Thesis or Project

Learning objectives for the MArch 2G/MLA Dual Degree

• Graduating students must demonstrate the ability to build abstract relationships and understand the impact of architectural design based on research and analysis of multiple theoretical, social, political, economic, cultural and environmental contexts.
• Graduating students will be able to demonstrate that they have the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to enter the profession and to become licensed architects.
• Graduating students must demonstrate a comprehension of the technical aspects of design, systems and materials, and be able to apply that comprehension in their coursework.
• Graduating students must have an understanding of the architect’s role in managing and advocating for legal, ethical, and critical action for the good of the client, society and the public.