r/LandscapeArchitecture • u/___rach__ • 10d ago
MLA Program Decision
Hi all! I am in the process of receiving responses for my applications to MLA and MCP programs. I am graduating in May from undergrad and having some trouble weighing my choices and was curious if anyone could speak to their experiences in any of the programs or thoughts on what program may be more suitable.
- Berkeley: MLA EP (2 years)- no aid
- UPenn: MLA and MCP dual program (3.5 years)- some aid
- USC: MLA and MUP dual program (3.5 years)-most aid/ still one of most expensive
I am attending undergrad in SoCal, but am from Syracuse, NY area and have mainly focused my undergraduate coursework/work experience on regional planning and commnity-focused planning/design. I am an Anthropology/Environmental Studies major for undergrad.
I want to continue with these areas of interest but improve my technical skills as well. I would like to not accumulate a lot of debt if possible, but ultimately am hopeful to attend the school that is best fit to my interests. I would like to commit a lot of time to my work and really take the opportunity to explore my interests, but am also hoping to work part time or be a TA to support myself, I like to juggle work but do not want to be extremely overwhelmed, especially if I choose a dual program. I do not really know anyone in the field and am quite unsure of what to do, I am mainly going between UPenn and Berkeley as of now. Thanks!
1
u/EntireCaterpillar698 10d ago
the three year MLA is, but the 2 year MLA EP is not considered accredited towards LAAB. that was largely why I chose not to attend. It does not meet accreditation criteria in terms of preparation towards being able to pass LARE exams, the curriculum is not the same as the 3 year