Landscape Architecture at Cornell University

Landscape architecture is one of the most exciting fields of study for those interested in addressing issues of critical importance to the future of our planet and its inhabitants. Through development of projects ranging from intimate gardens to parks, towns, cities and broader regions, landscape architects are poised to intervene at a wide range of scales, in myriad contexts and for multiple constituencies. As one of the oldest and most renowned landscape architecture departments in the United States, we are committed to preparing our students to become designers, researchers and future leaders who will direct teams of experts as they address issues of infrastructure, water management, sea-level rise, flooding, cultural heritage and environmental justice.

Degree Programs

Undergraduate programs

The department offers the only accredited Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture in the Ivy League and a minor in landscape studies for students across the university.

Graduate programs

Graduate programs include the Master of Landscape Architecture, Master of Professional Studies and a dual master’s degree track with the Department of City and Regional Planning.

Study abroad programs

The department partners with the CALS Exchange Program to provide unique opportunities for students to study landscape architecture in another cultural context at reputable partner institutions around the globe. Past destinations include Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands and Singapore.

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Student Projects

As a Land-Grant college, students and faculty explore diverse landscapes across New York and sites globally through studios and research.

News & Events

Students in the Climate-adaptive Design studio, a class in the Department of Landscape Architecture, take a break from their research survey last fall at Tarrytown, New York in front of the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge – which spans the Hudson River.

News

Cornell students help Tarrytown envision waterfront future

As sea levels rise over the next decades for low-lying Hudson River towns, Cornell landscape architecture students offered ideas for coping with climate change and embracing the water.

  • New York State Water Resources Institute
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Climate Change
Photo of homes by a small body of water.

News

Cornell researchers compared federal floodplain home buyout policies with regional programs, showing that local strategies may make these acquisitions more equitable and effective.

  • Cornell Atkinson
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Climate Change
Susan Riley and Caroline Williams pictured in front of a large red banner with the Cornell seal, holding the plaque for the Cornell New York State Hometown Alumni Award.

News

The 10th recipient of the Hometown Alumni Award, Caroline Williams '01 has spent the last 15 years working to improve living conditions in Utica, New York, and her nearby hometown of Remsen.

  • Cornell Cooperative Extension
  • Landscape Architecture
A scientist looks at berries growing on a bush

Lecture

Engaged Teaching Join us for a catered lunch as we learn about Professor Marvin Pritts' approach to engaged teaching and how he is connecting his students to the community through plant-based projects and collaborations with local berry growers...
  • Department of Global Development
  • global development
  • Global Development
graphic of man in grayscale photo with red and gray arches hovering

Lecture

The Department of Landscape Architecture is proud to welcome Walter Hood, who will deliver the 2021 Professor Marvin I. Adleman Memorial Lecture. This virtual lecture is open to the public. Speaker Bio: Walter Hood is the Founder and Creative...